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Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Warm weather and sunshine...in December? In Minnesota?

To say the least, I have been soaking up the sun and warm weather! I can't believe it's December in Minnesota! Yesterday, the dogs and I wandered around on the trail and soaked up the sun! We even ran into some bikers! Here are some photos from our day.



Hope you are out enjoying the sunshine! Enjoy your day!

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Happy Holidays from Coffee Street Inn!

The Holiday Season is in full swing here in Lanesboro. The shops are open and offering some great deals! Shop local and support the local artists and shops!
 
The last show of the 2011 Commonweal Theatre season is tonight! They have also posted their 2012 schedule, so start planning your weekends now! The 2012 schedule can be found here: www.commonwealtheatre.org <http://www.commonwealtheatre.org>

Ring in the New Year in Lanesboro! Both the Riverside on the Root and the Old Village Hall are having special New Year’s Eve dinner. We still have some rooms available so call today to reserve your favorite room!

There are lot's of events planned over the winter, so dig out your snowpants and come play with us! In Whalen, you can bundle up and enjoy a Sleigh Ride through the Root River Valley. They have a warming cabin with bathrooms and heat where you can warm up half-way through the ride. Don't forget your thermos of hot chocolate and mittens!

Mark your calendars! February 4 the bike trail will be lit with candles for a cross country ski! There will be bonefires at each end of the ski trek and a soup supper is available at the Whalen Village Hall. Enjoy a warm and cozy room at the Coffee Street Inn after your adventure!

We've gone social! Be sure to follow us on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/coffeestreetinn

We are embracing the winter season and the many outdoor activities it provides! Call us to reserve your room and come play in the snow with us! 


Fun winter packages coming soon!!

Have a very Happy Holiday Season and we look forward to seeing you soon!

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Fall! It's the most wonderful time of the year!

I love Indian Summers.  It renews my soul and I get excited for the upcoming Holiday Season.  Most people dread the coming of Fall but I don't.  I love the crisp morning and hints of color in the trees.  I wait for the color like a kid on Christmas morning.

This time of year ushers in good things like snugly sweaters, cozy socks and of course Chili and Cinnamon Rolls... Why does that combination have so many memories tied up in it for people?  Is it the school days we remember fondly, or the awesome ladies in the school cafeteria that had big smiles on their faces knowing that all the kids were excited for lunch.  I grew up in California where this combination was not to be had (unless you were from the Midwest).  I remember when my family moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma and I had my first Chili Supper at church.  The Parrish hall was packed and all of the kids (of all ages) were so thrilled to be there and I remembered the wonderful fellowship they shared. 

Last night I made up a batch of my mom's chili and some rolls.  We had a cozy dinner and talked about our day, and school, and volleyball.  It was a perfect night and I felt blessed and remembered that it is the little moments in life like this that really make us thankful.

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

25th Anniversary of the Root River Trail


Join us this weekend in Bluff Country and celebrate 25 years of fun on the Trail!

Monday, August 15, 2011

Coffee Street Inn enjoyed hosting the Women's Ministry Board from Cornerstone Church in Litchfield, MN. Reports continue to come in about the marvelous time they had in Lanesboro, and our "beautiful, cozy Cappuccino Suite" they stayed. Hats off to Brett at The Lanesboro Pastry Shoppe,  reports are still coming in from the gals that the Scones "are the best they have ever eaten."


Retreat Weekends are Fun!  Get out of the city and come relax at the Coffee Street Inn...

Fresh Coffee and Juice, Breakfast Service, Snack Service and Evening Treats!

We can customize to meet the needs of your event or group. 

Coffee Street Inn can host group meetings!!  The Cappuccino Suite provides a great Small Group, Hospitality and Retreat space for all kinds of churches, organizations or business meetings.  Please contact Cheryl at info@coffeestreet.com for more information and planning services.

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Lanesboro Happenings for August 11-16, 2011

Hello and welcome to the Coffee Street blog. My name is Cheryl and I am the new Innkeeper. This past weekend was Buffalo Bill Days and boy was it fun. We enjoyed the fireworks from the balcony here at the Inn and everyone was wowed at the spectacular view and show.


Coming up this week Lanesboro has a lot to offer. There is Open Rock Climbing over at Eagle Bluff and the St. Mane has the "Over the Back Fence" community variety show scheduled for Friday at 7pm. The tickets are only $5 per person. Saturday, the 13th there is the Union Prairie Toy Show, and the Lanesboro Art Center has a free art receptions for the public celebrating the opening of "Everyday Icons" a mixed media exhibit featuring the work by artist Mary Catherine Solberg. Of course there will be live music nightly at the Riverside on the Root- Dirty Martini Lounge.


This weekend here at the Inn I plan on serving our guests some fresh Blueberry Nectarine Buckle for breakfast  and some yummy rolls from the Pastry Shop.  We have a great group of guests this weekend and the weather is mighty fine here in the Root River Valley.




Tuesday, August 9, 2011


Hi!

My name is Cheryl Sherry and I am the new Innkeeper for the Coffee Street Inn. I am very excited to be a part of the staff here in Lanesboro and look forward to meeting all of our Guests soon. This weekend we are celebrating Buffalo Bill Days here in Lanesboro and the weather couldn't be better!

While all of our guest are special I just wanted to mention a very special couple celebrating their anniversary with us. We love special occasions here at the Inn and can accommodate most small events and special occasions. Ask me about small group meetings, and Hunting, Bachelorette, Quilting, Scrapbooking and Reunion events we can help you with.

I wanted to share a recipe from my families native home Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. I grew up on these yummy little tarts but always thought the name was funny! They are really easy to make and keep well frozen too.

Cape Breton Pork Pies

1 Cup butter
4 Tablespoons icing sugar
2 Cups white flour
Pinch of nutmeg
Mix well and press into tiny muffin tins.
Bake at 450 for 10 minutes. Cool

On the stovetop cook the following until smooth:

2 Cups chopped dates
1 1/2 Cup brown sugar
1 Cup water
1 Teaspoon lemon juice
1 Teaspoon white vinegar

Add a spoonful of the date mixture onto each shell and top with Maple flavour butter icing.




Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Garlic Cheese Breadsticks!


These were delicious! Here's my recipe... very simple to make.

Ingredients:
1 Tbsp. yeast
1 c. very warm water
1 t. sugar
1 t. salt
2 T. olive oil
1 c. whole wheat flour
1 1/2 c. unbleached white flour
1-2 c. mozzarella cheese
garlic powder
1/3 c. melted butter

Directions:
*Combine yeast, water, and sugar. Let set a few minutes to activate yeast.
*Mix yeast mixture with salt, olive oil, and both flours.
*Knead into soft dough. Let rest 5-10 minutes.
*Separate dough into 12 balls. Roll balls into breadsticks.
*Flatten breadsticks with rolling pin.
*Cut cheese into small strips.
*Lay cheese on breadstick. Sprinkle with garlic powder.
*Fold dough around cheese. Seal well!
*Brush melted butter on each breadstick. Sprinkle with garlic powder (again).
*Allow to rise 5-10 minutes.
*Bake at 450° for 12 minutes.
*Brush on more melted butter. Serve warm.

Thursday, June 23, 2011

The Weekly

Lanesboro: A Minnesota Legacy Destination
Pick up the schedule of events at the Lanesboro Visitor Center

Lanesboro is named one of eleven Legacy
Destinations in Minnesota for 2011. The
community is drawing attention to and
celebrating their local resources and
organizations by offering Minnesota residents
and visitors an eclectic assortment of activities
demonstrating the impact of the Clean Water,
Land & Legacy Amendment approved by
Minnesota voters in 2008. Experience
Minnesota’s great outdoors, history and the arts.
June 18 -25
Lanesboro

Documentary Film - "Waste Land":
Presented by the Lanesboro Arts Center this film
follows renowned artist Vik Muniz as he
journeys from his home base in Brooklyn to his
native Brazil and the world’s largest garbage
dump. There he photographs an eclectic band
of “catadores” – self-designated pickers of
recyclable materials. Free-will donations.
June 24; 7:30 pm
St. Mane Theatre
467-2446
Free-will Donations

Stringwood Summer Chamber Music Festival
June 26; 1 pm
Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center
467-2437

Riverside on the Root: Dave Williams
Live Entertainment
June 26; 5 - 9 pm
Riverside on The Root
467-3663

Wednesday Walk About :
Visit nearby Duschee Hills Dairy and the DNR’s Fish
Hatchery! Brought to you by Summer Reading,
Lanesboro Summer Rec., and a generous gift
of time by all local participants Wear walking
shoes. Please have an adult accompany
children under 6 years of age. Advance sign-up
on rosters at the library, appreciated, group
size limited to first 25 participants.
June 29; 1 – 4 pm
Meet at the Lanesboro Library
467-2649

Riverside on the Root: Steve Fessler
Mix of Irish folk, blues, rock etc...
June 29; 5 – 9 pm
Riverside on the Root & Dirty Martini Lounge
467-3663

Little Shop of Horrors:
Seymour is a lonely flower shop clerk
living on Skid Row when an
unusual talking plant – with a very unusual
appetite – promises him fortune and fame…at
a price. Don’t miss this smash hit musical
comedy!
PREVIEWS
June 23, 24; 7:30 pm
$20
SHOW OPENS
June 25, 30; 7:30 pm
June 26; 1:30 pm
$30

Sylvia:
This outrageous comedy challenges
everything we know about love, relationships,
and the meaning of life. A financial trader
facing career burn-out adopts a stray dog who
turns his home, life, and marriage upside-
down. You’ll be “howling” for more!
June 27; 7:30 pm
$30
Commonweal Theatre
467-2525

Friday, June 17, 2011

Guest comments from May! (a bit late...)


I love reading these! So many people stay and say nice things to me, but it's great to get them posted on here or even better--TripAdvisor! Anyway, here is what people had to say in May.

"Great place for a mother/daughter getaway. Excited for the Amish Tour in the morning. Thanks for recommending Rhino's-- great pizza! Great room; very clean and comfortable. Thanks for the hospitality. Hope to be back again some day." -- A mother and daughter in out Double Espresso room 5/18, separated by a few states-- AL and WI

"We had a great time! The bike trail and weather were phenomenal! The Legion has great late-night food, and the Pastry Shoppe has the best breakfast around!" -- A family in our Double Espresso room, 5/11

"We really enjoyed the drive here-- the turkey smashing into our windshield, not so much. Beautiful area, wonderful bike trail, comfortable room, nice breakfast, thoughtful hosts. Went canoeing-- very relaxing!" -- A couple from Prairie du Sac, WI in our Latte room 5/30

"Your Cappuccino Suite was wonderful; Kate was so great. The weather was not so great, but we very much enjoyed our stay in Lanesboro. We will back and stay at Coffee Street Inn!" --A family in our Cappuccino Suite, 5/15

"This place brings back so many memories from when we were here last year! I didn't do any workshops or anything. I spent most of my time out in town. The weather was ok, but it was cold all morning. I hope we can come back next year. It was an awesome trip!" --A family from Iowa City, IA in our Cappuccino Suite 5/21 for the Bluff Country Gathering.

The Weekly...Garden Tour

The Garden Tour is new to Lanesboro! This weekend, B&Bs around town will be opening up their garden to the public. Walk through and enjoy! See this and other events...

Lanesboro Inn Garden Tour:
STOP AT THE VISITOR CENTER for a list of
participating inns, descriptions, and map. This
is a low key self-guided tour of the beauty that
is showcased at participating inns through their
various gardens.
June 17 - 19
Lanesboro

Lanesboro: A Minnesota Legacy Destination:
Pick up the schedule of
events at the Lanesboro Visitor Center.
Lanesboro is named one of eleven Legacy
Destinations in Minnesota for 2011. The
community is drawing attention to and
celebrating their local resources and
organizations by offering Minnesota residents
and visitors an eclectic assortment of activities
demonstrating the impact of the Clean Water,
Land & Legacy Amendment approved by
Minnesota voters in 2008. Experience
Minnesota’s great outdoors, history and the arts.
June 18 -25 Lanesboro

Eagle Bluff: Becoming an Outdoor Family Summer Weekend:
Families will be
introduced to a wide variety of outdoor
activities in a safe, fun environment! Activity
options include: archery, fishing, shooting, rock
climbing, and high ropes courses! This event is
co-sponsored by the Minnesota DNR.
June 18 - 19
Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center
467-2437
$80/ person
OR $300 for a family of four &
$75 for each additional person.

"A Girl Named Vincent"
featuring Prudence Johnson: Prudence Johnson and other
musicians will perform "A Girl Named Vincent,"
with the poetry of Edna St. Vincent Millay set to
music by Minnesota composers. Millay (1892 -
1950), was an American lyrical poetry,
playwright and feminist. She was the second
woman to receive the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry,
and was known for her activism and many love affairs.
June 18; 8 pm
St. Mane Theatre
467-2446
$18 / $15 LAC members

Art in the Park Annual Father's Day Celebration:
Lanesboro Arts Center hosts
the Annual "Art in the Park" Father's Day
Celebration, with 80+ arts and crafts booths,
local food vendors, music--New Riverside
Ramblers, and Patchouli--and theater
entertainment by the Commonweal Theatre
Company, and kids activities including a
petting zoo and the 'Make a Tie for Dad' Kids
Create! booth. Sylvan Park is a beautiful
setting, with mature trees, a pond and a
playground.
June 19
10 am – 5 pm
Sylvan Park
Lanesboro
467-2446

Riverside on the Root Beef Slough Boys:
Beef Slough Boys and other vagrant musicians
join in playing a rich gumbo of pan-fried blues,
river bottom rags, organic originals and
heirloom classics.
June 19
5 - 9 pm
Riverside on The Root
467-3663

Wednesday Walk About :
Uncover local enterprise and community
service all in one block
of Coffee St. Visit Scenic Valley Winery plant,
neighboring Preston Specialties, and our
Volunteer Fire Dept. Brought to you by Summer
Reading, Lanesboro Summer Rec., and a
generous gift of time by all local participants.
Wear walking shoes. Please have an adult
accompany children under 6 years of age.
Advance sign-up on rosters at the library,
appreciated, group size limited to first 25
participants.
June 22
1 – 4 pm
Meet at the Lanesboro Library
467-2649

Riverside on the Root:
Michelle Lynn - From Decorah, IA,
folk singer, songwriter, and guitarist.
June 22
5 – 9 pm
Riverside on the Root & Dirty Martinini Lounge
467-3663

Riverside on the Root: Steve Fessler
Mix of Irish folk, blues, rock etc...
June 15
5 – 9 pm
Riverside on the Root & Dirty Martini Lounge 467-3663

Little Shop of Horrors:
Seymour is a lonely flower shop clerk
living on Skid Row when an
unusual talking plant – with a very unusual
appetite – promises him fortune and fame…at
a price. Don’t miss this smash hit musical
comedy!
PREVIEWS
June 17,18, 23; 7:30 pm
June 19; 1:30 pm
Commonweal Theatre
467-2525
$20

Thursday, June 9, 2011

It's summertime in Lanesboro!

Whew, lots to do again this weekend as we continue to have beautiful weather! Check out some of the upcoming events... (of course, I favor the musician from my hometown-- Owatonna-- playing at Riverside on the Root tomorrow night!)

Poetry Reading:
Through her life, Ann Schultz has experienced much, and now she
wishes to express much. “Message in a Bottle”
is a collection of poetry from ninety-two year
old Ms. Schultz as she shares her experiences
through fine verse. Ann’s son-in-law, Ken
Panger will accompany the poetry reading on
the mandolin.
June 10; 5 pm
Lanesboro Library
467-2649

"Over the Back Fence" Community Variety Show:
This month's "Over the Back Fence"
theme is 'Solstice,' featuring local talent and
musical & other guests. Ticket sales and pre-
show music begin at 7:00 pm. The show will be
broadcast on KFIL radio 103.1fm on Sunday
nine days following the live performance.
June 10; 7:30 – 9 pm
St. Mane Theatre
467-2446 $5

Riverside on the Root Dave Williams:
Owatonna musician with range of rock, country
etc..
June 10; 9:30 – 11:30 pm
Riverside on The Root
467-3663

Tube Race:
Sponsored by Eagle Cliff
Campground and Lodge. We will use Eagle
Cliff Campground tubes and launch from the
DNR landing on Hwy 16. Prizes will be
awarded for 1st and 2nd place, as well as Best
Costume! Sign up by calling Eagle Cliff.
June 11; 1 pm
Eagle Cliff Campground and DNR Landing Hwy 16
467-2598
$6

Lanesboro Youth Mission Group Car Wash:
2011 Mission Camp Destination –
Wadena, MN. This is our one and only
fundraiser- a car wash! This will help us pay for
the gas and van rental which we need to join with
what God is already doing in Wadena, MN
following last year's tornado.
June 12; 10 am – 3 pm
Across from the BP Gas Station

Riverside on the Root:
Irish Minstrels - Southeast Minnesotas Local
band with mix of Irish Folk, country, etc.....
June 12; 5 – 9 pm
Riverside on the Root & Dirty Martini Lounge
467-3663

Wednesday Walk About :
Go behind the
scenes at the Commonweal Theatre and
Lanesboro Art Center to expose our wide world
of Art! Brought to you by Summer Reading,
Lanesboro Summer Rec., and a generous gift
of time by all local participants. Wear walking
shoes. Please have an adult accompany
children under 6 years of age. Advance sign-up
on rosters at the library, appreciated, group
size limited to first 25 participants.
June 15; 1 – 4 pm
Meet at the Lanesboro Library
467-2649

Riverside on the Root:
Steve Fessler - Mix of Irish folk, blues, rock etc...
June 15; 5 – 9 pm
Riverside on the Root & Dirty Martini Lounge
467-3663

At the Commonweal

Sylvia: This outrageous comedy challenges
everything we know about love, relationships,
and the meaning of life. A financial trader
facing career burn-out adopts a stray dog who
turns his home, life, and marriage upside-
down. You’ll be “howling” for more!
June 11; 7:30 pm
June 12; 1:30 pm
Commonweal Theatre
467-2525
$30

An Enemy of the People:
Newly discovered health springs offer prosperity to a struggling
town, until a local doctor realizes the waters
are dangerously polluted. How far will a
community go to turn a blind eye when the
truth will bring about their personal ruin.
June 9,10; 7:30 pm

Rhubarb again!


A recipe, this time! I know I've been a bit lax on these blog posts... but I'll get better again! Let me know what you'd like to read about... and watch for the Weekly later today, and guest comments from May hopefully tomorrow!
Ingredients:
Coffee Cake

2 cup(s) all-purpose flour
1 cup(s) sugar
1 tablespoon(s) baking powder
1 teaspoon(s) baking soda
1/2 teaspoon(s) salt
4 tablespoon(s) (1/2 stick) margarine or butter
2 large eggs
1 cup(s) buttermilk
2 teaspoon(s) vanilla extract
1 1/4 pound(s) (4 cups) rhubarb, cut into 1-inch chunks

Streusel Topping
3/4 cup(s) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup(s) packed brown sugar
6 tablespoon(s) (3/4 stick) margarine or butter, slightly softened
1 teaspoon(s) ground cinnamon

Directions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease and flour 13- by 9-inch metal baking pan.
Make Streusel Topping: In medium bowl, with hand, mix flour, sugar, margarine or butter, and cinnamon until mixture comes together.
Make the Coffee Cake:In large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. With pastry blender or two knives used scissor-fashion, cut in margarine or butter until mixture resembles large crumbs
In small bowl, with fork or wire whisk, beat eggs with buttermilk and vanilla extract; stir into flour mixture just until flour is moistened. Spoon batter into baking pan.
Place rhubarb chunks evenly over batter in baking pan. Break Streusel Topping into large chunks and scatter over rhubarb.
Bake coffee cake 45 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool cake in pan on wire rack 15 minutes to serve warm. Or, cool to serve later.

Recipe courtesy of GoodHousekeeping.com

Thursday, June 2, 2011

The Weekly...Rhubarb Fest!


We're big into festivals here in Lanesboro-- and the Rhubarb Festival is one of the biggest! Come to hear the Rhubarb Sisters, taste-test rhubarb recipes, see some great artist displays, and watch enticing live theatre!

Riverside on the Root:
Steve Fessler: Live Entertainment,
Great mix of Irish, rock, blues, etc..
June 3; 9:30 – 11:30 pm
Riverside on The Root
467-3663

Rhubarb Festival Events:
Rhubarb Reading Run, Rhubarb Sisters,
Rhubarb Olympics, Rhubarb Tasting,
Farmers Market, Rhubarb Chopstick
Contest, Rhubarb Jugglers, Music,
Entertainment, Pie making contest, “The
Return of the Rhubarb” in concert
PICK UP YOUR BROCHURE AT THE
LANESBORO VISITORS CENTER OR AT
SYLVAN PARK
June 4;10 am – 4 pm,
Sylvan Park
7:30 pm Concert; St, Mane Theatre
467-2446

Artist Demonstration: Nancy Monsebroten
- Juried Sales Gallery Artist Demonstration:
Nancy Monsebroten will demonstrate hand
build procelain ceramics
June 4;1 – 4 pm
Lanesboro Arts Center
467-2446
FREE

Eagle Bluff: Discover Root River Canoeing
Paddle 3.5 miles of scenic waters
down the mighty Root River! Regardless of your
canoeing experience, you'll have an
unforgettable adventure. All equipment is provided. Ages 10 and up.
June 4; 3 – 6 pm Eagle Bluff
Environmental Learning Center
467-2437
$10

Opening Art Reception: “Boreal Aura”
Landscape Oil Painting by artist Mary Jo Van
Dell. Open to the public.
June 4; 6 – 8 pm
Lanesboro Arts Center
467-2446
FREE

BOOM! 2011 Tour:
An International Lost
and Found Family Marching Band ---
"Agreeably Ridiculous!" Comprised of reunited
sibling orphans from around the world. They've
magically converged in the Heartland where they
seek meaning and healing through mysterious
marches and geometrical formations. In their
hour-long theatrical show they tell their sad, sad
story of how each was lost and found. On the
street, or in clubs, the musical family dazzle with
their deadpan, yet wacky, concert.
June 4; 10 pm
Lanesboro American Legion
$10

Riverside on the Root:
Kozy Little Duo Live Entertainment

Riverside on the Root: Rhubarb Sisters -
Guest singers with Kozy Little Duo
June 5; 5 – 9 pm
and 7 – 7:30 pm
Riverside on the Root &
Dirty Martinini Lounge
467-3663

Summer Reading KICK-OFF:
The Lanesboro Public Library is the place to be this summer
with great books, programs, prize drawings,
story times and more. The Summer Reading
Program “One World, Many Stories,” begins
June 6th and runs through July 27th. For more
information, call (467-2649) or stop in at the
library. Participants can also pick up
information and register at the Kickoff Event.
June 6; 6:30 pm
Lanesboro Community Memorial Center
467-2649

Wednesday Walk About :
Meet City Administrator Bobbie Vickerman, learn about
running our town, and visit the hydro-electric
plant which helps provide our power. Please
have an adult accompany children under 6
years of age. Advance sign-up on rosters at
the library, appreciated, group size limited to
first 25 participants.
June 8 ; 1 – 4 pm Start at
Lanesboro Public Library
467-2649

Riverside on the Root:
Patchouli - Truly
delectable and original... they embody the best
of modern day folk music. Angelic Vocals....
Flawless guitars
June 8; 5 – 9 pm
Riverside on the Root &
Dirty Martini Lounge
467-3663

At the Commonweal

Sylvia: This outrageous comedy challenges
everything we know about love, relationships,
and the meaning of life. A financial trader
facing career burn-out adopts a stray dog who
turns his home, life, and marriage upside-
down. You’ll be “howling” for more!
June 4 ; 7:30 pm
June 5; 1:30 pm

An Enemy of the People: Newly discovered
health springs offer prosperity to a struggling
town, until a local doctor realizes the waters
are dangerously polluted. How far will a
community go to turn a blind eye when the
truth will bring about their personal ruin.
June 2, 3, 9; 7:30 pm
June 3; 10 am
Commonweal Theatre
467-2525
$30

Friday, May 27, 2011

The Weekly

A few rooms open in town yet... come stay and enjoy great theatre, arts, memorial celebrations, and Amish tours! I may even play violin at the tattoo shop for awhile...hmm...

Vietnam War Veteran Art Exhibit:
Ed will be at the Art Gallery on May 28th. Ed Gittens, very
prolific disabled artist and Vietnam war
veteran, will be presenting an art exhibit. A
fascinating person, Ed will share through his
exhibit his personal experiences in war, putting
together a very complicated puzzle of history,
and what war did to him and the importance of
his art, most of which has never been exhibited
before. He will share war memorabilia, a book
with excerpts of his feelings, and just plain
honesty that is rare for a veteran to speak
about. He will share what art means to him and
to other disabled persons.
May 28 – June 4 Valkyrie Ink &
Art Gallery 467-2444

Memorial Weekend Business Promotions

at the Root River Saloon:
Noon - free brats & dogs
2 pm meat raffle
8:30 - 12:30 Toad Runner Express
Open at Noon
Free juke box sunday nite
On & Off sale open at 10 am
1st drink free to all Veterans
Bar and Off Sale Specials all weekend!
May 28- 30
Root River Saloon
467-3355

at Tours & Treasures:
Store Wide Sale 20% off Fri – Mon: All Ladies
Fashions, All Jewelry, Patterns and Notions, Bike
Baskets and Bags, Entire Stock of Fabric, All
Soaps and Lotions
May 27 – 30
Tours & Treasures
467-4466

at R&M Amish Tours:
Memorial Weekend Special Friday only. $5.00 all
adults. Please mention Memorial Special when
making reservations. Call now as seats are
limited.
May 27
R&M Amish Tours
Depart from the Little River General Store
467-2128

Memorial Day Program:
Honoring our fallen comrades with a parade, a program of patriotic
music and speakers, and a gun salute with taps.
May 30;10 am
Lanesboro Community Memorial Center

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Healthy and Delicious!


Tomato Basil Eggplant Parmesan

This is a "for two" recipe... an attempt on my end to not have so many leftovers that don't get eaten! I figured it would be best to start at the root of the problem and just not have any leftovers. But then there's the problem of trying to figure out how hungry my husband is, and always getting it wrong... Anyway, if you're hungry, you'd better double this one!

Ingredients:
1/2 of a large eggplant, sliced in 1/4 inch thick slices (or about 12 slices)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 can of tomato-basil bisque
one block (8 oz) mozzarella cheese, sliced
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup basil pesto

Directions:
1. Lay sliced eggplant on a baking sheet in a single layer, drizzle olive oil over it, and bake at 300 degrees for about 12 minutes, or until softened and dried a bit.
2. Layer the tomato soup and eggplant in a loaf pan so you have 5 layers of soup and 4 layers of eggplant...start and end with the soup.
3. Put on the mozzarella cheese and top with the parmesan.
4. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes
5. Garnish with a drizzle of the basil pesto before serving

Thursday, May 19, 2011

The Weekly

Eagle Bluff: She Is...Outdoors:
This weekend will offer over 20 classes in a variety
of venues, both for the outdoor and indoor
enthusiast. Class choices will include rock
climbing, fly fishing, shooting, treetops, high
ropes course, hiking, canoeing, food
dehydrating, crafting and much more. Come
and enjoy this beautiful spring weekend in the
valleys of Lanesboro! This is a great
opportunity to relax with your girlfriends. Grab
your friends, family and neighbors!
May 20 - 22
Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center
467-2437
$180

Bluff Country Gathering Weekend:
Both events will feature all our terrific staff/performers.
The legendary Tracy Schwarz and Ginny Hawker
from West Virginia, Ozark-style fiddler Liz Amos,
Mac Benford of the old Highwoods Stringband
from New York, Wisconsin fiddler Tim Foss,
western song purveyors Ron Kane and Meghan
Merker from Montana, multi-instrumentalist and
dance caller Paul Tyler from Chicago, and North
Carolina old time fiddler and singer Bruce
Greene. There will be lots of exciting fiddle, banjo
and guitar music, powerful singing, and traditional
dancing…entertaining, inspiring and educational
for the whole family.
Lanesboro Community Center
(507) 498-5452
Tickets are available only at the door!
Concert May 20; 8 pm
$10
Barn Dance May 21; 8 pm
$8

Whalan Stand Still Parade:
Stroll along and view the parade exhibits in Whalan. "The
Parade doesn't move, the spectators do!"
Parade from 11 am – 12 pm. Celebration
10 am – 5 pm. Visit Artists, Crafters,
Demonstrators, Petting Zoo, and all the
exhibits. Little Blue Choo Train Ride, Egg
McWhalans, Homeade Lefse & Rommegrot
May 21
Whalan MN
467-2446

At the Commonweal
Sylvia: This outrageous comedy challenges
everything we know about love, relationships,
and the meaning of life. A financial trader
facing career burn-out adopts a stray dog who
turns his home, life, and marriage upside-
down. You’ll be “howling” for more!
May 19,20; 7:30 pm (Previews) $20
May 21; 7:30 pm
May 22; 1:30 pm
$30
467-2525

An Enemy of the People:
Newly discovered
health springs offer prosperity to a struggling
town, until a local doctor realizes the waters
are dangerously polluted. How far will a
community go to turn a blind eye when the
truth will bring about their personal ruin.
May 26; 7:30 pm $30

Thursday, May 12, 2011

The Weekly

Beautiful weather and lots of fun planned in Lanesboro this weekend! Get out of the house, bring the kids, and be ready for a great time!

"Over the Back Fence" Community Variety Show:
Enjoy a Community Variety Show at
the St. Mane Theatre! The theme this month
for "Over the Back Fence" will be 'Syttende Mai
and Cinco de Mayo' with local talent and
musical and other guests. Ticket sales and pre-
show music will begin at 7:00 pm. Show will be
broadcast on KFIL Radio 103.1fm on Sunday
nine days following this live show.
May 13; 7:30 – 9 pm
St. Mane Theatre
467-2446
$5

FOOD & FILM event -
Food Tasting & Documentary film:
Lanesboro Arts Center partners
with Lanesboro Local to present a
Food Tasting at 6:30pm - at Lanesboro Local -
followed by the documentary film "Ingredients"
at 7:30pm at the St. Mane Theatre. Public
welcome!
May 14; 6:30 pm, 7:30 pm
Lanesboro Local
St. Mane Theatre
467-2446
(Lanesboro Local is located
across the street from
the St. Mane Theatre)

At the Commonweal
Sylvia: This outrageous comedy challenges
everything we know about love, relationships,
and the meaning of life. A financial trader
facing career burn-out adopts a stray dog who
turns his home, life, and marriage upside-
down. You’ll be “howling” for more!
PREVIEWS!
May 13,14,19; 7:30 pm
May 15; 1:30 pm
Commonweal Theatre
467-2525
$20

Friday, May 6, 2011

A Mother's Day Meatloaf



For some reason, meatloaf is always associated with mothers. Even in my family, where my dad was the main chef, that stereotype somehow spilled over. So, in honor of Mother's Day, I am posting the best meatloaf recipe ever. And its original, as far as I know... so give it a try! (It's my own, not my mom's! :)

Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
5 large mushrooms, VERY finally chopped
2 slices of toast, torn/ground into fine crumbs
1 large egg
2 cloves finely chopped garlic
A dash of salt
Oregano and basil (I tend to use about a teaspoon of each)
1/2 onion, finely chopped
2 green onions, finely chopped
1/2 cup pepper jack cheese
Ketchup

Directions:
Combine all ingredients except ketchup in a large bowl; mix well
Place is a meatloaf/bread pan and smooth the top
Pour a little bit of water over the top of the meatloaf
Bake at 375 degrees for 70-80 minutes
When the timer reaches 15 minutes, drain and add ketchup to the top

Thursday, May 5, 2011

The Weekly-- Celebrate Mother's Day!


Celebrate your mom/wife/grandmother/sister/aunt or any mother in Lanesboro this weekend! There are LOTS of fun things to do, and great meals planned. My pics would be antiquing, birding, and biking...but that's just me. Coffee Street Inn still has openings, so call and reserve and I can help you plan the perfect weekend!

Happy Mothers Day!
May 8

Mothers Day Brunch at Eagle Bluff:
Menu featuring local foods
Seatings Available between 10 am & 1:30 pm
Eagle Bluff
467-2437
$18/Adult
$12/6-12
Free 5 – under

Mother’s Day Special at Kari's Restaurant:
4 Course Scandinavian Menu Served Family Style
11 am – 3 pm
Kari’s
467-3381
$16.95/ Adult
$9.95/ 6 – 12
Free/5 – under

Mothers Day Buffet at the Old Barn Resort:
All items made from scratch
10:30 am – 2 pm
The Old Barn Resort
467-2512
$12.95/ Adult
$10.95/ Seniors
$7.95/ 5-12
$1 year/ 1 – 2

Mother’s Day Special at Pedal Pushers:
Apricot Glazed Ham or Braised Chicken Dinner & Full Menu
10:30 am – 2 pm
Pedal Pushers Café
467-1050
$9.95

Mothers Day at the Riverside:
Bring mom in for the meal she deserves.
Complimentary glass of wine w/meal for mom!
11 am – 8 pm
Riverside on the Root
467-3663

Commonweal Theatre:
AN ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE
Newly discovered health springs offer prosperity to a
struggling town, until a local doctor realizes the
waters are dangerously polluted. How far will a
community go to turn a blind eye when the
truth will bring about their personal ruin.
May 5,6,7; 7:30 pm
May 8; 1:30 pm
Commonweal Theatre
467-2525
$30

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

The Month in Review--April

I love reading all the notes I receive from guests! It's also been really fun to connect with them on Facebook and over Twitter. (What? You didn't know we had those? Friend Coffee street Inn now!! :) Anyway, here are a few guest comments from last month.

"We so enjoyed the relaxing stay and would like to stay again! Enjoyed the Parkway Pub and the Winery too" --A couple from Cedar Rapids, IA in our Mini-Cappuccino Suite, April 3

"Our first stay at Coffee Street Inn. Have stayed at other places, but we like have the microwave and mini-fridge in our room." Very familiar with town--been coming here for 20+ years! A nice relaxing getaway." --A couple from Carleton, MN in our Java room, April 2

"This was a really wonderful stay. We came here at night with our dog Arthur-- he is a standard poodle. In the morning before breakfast we went around downtown. We really loved it. Loved the smell of the cows. Also, we loved the coffee here; it was delicious! Thank you so much! We really want to come back in the summer!" -- A family from Plymouth, MN in our Double Espresso room April 7

"We are back! Last year we stayed in the Java room. This time, we got the privelege of staying in the Latte room that is newly remodeled and it looks great! Even though it was a cold and yucky weekend we caught lots of fish. Be back next year! Had a great stay, thanks for the good service and brand new room to stay in! Trout opener in Lanesboro, MN was an awesome day!" -- A couple from Austin, MN in our Latte room, April 15-17

"Check out the Commonweal Theatre, EXCELLENT production! The Old Village Hall food is fabulous! Niagra Cave in Harmony was a blast!" --A couple from Buffalo, MN in our Latte room, April 24

"We will have to come back to this wonderful town when the weather is more accommodating. We really enjoyed the Commonweal Theatre and dinner at Old Village Hall. Thanks for letting us bring our dog! She loved Eagle Bluff." -- A couple from Winona, MN in our Latte room, April 30

Thursday, April 28, 2011

The Weekly

There is lots going on this weekend, and the weather looks promising, so head over here for some fun!

Bluff Country Studio Art Tour:
Travel scenic back roads to the studios of the area's
finest artists. PICK UP YOUR MAP AT THE
LANESBORO VISITOR CENTER!
April 29 – May 1
Bluff Country

Lanesboro United Methodist Church Rummage Sale:
Housewares, Books,
Childrens clothing and toys, furniture, the list is
endless.
April 29; 4 – 7 pm
April 30; 8 am - 12 pm
Lanesboro United Methodist Church
467-2646

2011 Earth Day Celebration -
Food Tasting &
Documentary, Earth Day Dinner & Speaker,
Activity Fair and Kids Crafts, Informational
Booths & Demos, Build your Own Rain Barrel,
Performances, Kids Treasure Hunt, Quest for
Local Loot, Sustainable House Tour.
PICK UP YOUR SCHEDULE OF EVENTS AT
THE LANESBORO VISITOR CENTER!
April 29 & 30
Lanesboro
• Eagle Bluff
• St. Mane Theatre
• Sylvan Park
• Lanesboro Local
• Commonweal Theatre
• Lanesboro Library

Lanesboro Farmers Market Opening Day
April 30; 9 am - Noon
Lanesboro
Sylvan Park

Artist Demonstration - Leisa Luis Grill:
Juried Sales Gallery Artist Demonstration:
Leisa Luis Grill will demonstrate acrylic
painting.
April 30; 1 – 4 pm
Lanesboro Art Center
467-2446

Artist Demonstration – Anna Loney:
Juried Sales Gallery Artist Demonstration: Anna
Loney will demonstrate forged silver jewelry.
May 1; 1 – 3 pm
Lanesboro Art Center
467-2446

A Red Wing you've never known:
The Victorian House of Lanesboro brings author
Marcy Doyle to entertain and to sign: "A Face
of Red Wing, MN from my perspective". Nearly
200 years of history, culture, architecture and
industry. Reservations suggested.
May 2 ; 1 & 7 pm
May 3; 1 pm
Victorian House B&B
467-3457

Commonweal Theatre:
AN ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE Newly
discovered health springs offer prosperity to a
struggling town, until a local doctor realizes the
waters are dangerously polluted. How far will a
community go to turn a blind eye when the
truth will bring about their personal ruin.
April; 28,29,30
May 5; 7:30 pm
May 1; 1:30 pm
Commonweal Theatre
467-2525
$30

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Biking Package Deals-- check them out!


Surprise your significant other with a fun-filled bike trip in the Lanesboro area! These three-night packages are available during weekdays, and allow plenty of time for relaxing as well as exploring and enjoying the area. Call our office at 507-467-2674 or email me at staff@coffeestreetinn.com for more details! I would love to help you set up your perfect package for a very memorable getaway!

Cycle and Stay: Package Deals for the Bicycle Enthusiast!
Stay a night with us, a night at the location of your choice, then ride back for
one more night at Coffee Street Inn

Rushford Trip (18 miles each way) includes:
Hotel fare for three nights (middle night at Windswept Inn)
Two dining vouchers for the Creamery in Rushford and Riverside on the Root in Lanesboro ($60)
Voucher for bowling in Rushford ($15)
An activity voucher for Potiche Pottery or to put towards a massage in Lanesboro ($25)
Total Cost= $320

Harmony Trip (23 miles each way) includes:
Hotel fare for three nights (middle night at Country Lodge Inn)
Voucher for an Amish tour for two through Amish Tours of Harmony ($50)
One dining voucher for the Sweet Stop and Sandwich Shoppe in Preston ($20)
An activity voucher for Potiche Pottery or to put towards a massage in Lanesboro ($25)
Total Cost= $350

Houston Trip (31 miles each way) includes:
Hotel fare for three nights (middle night at the Saw Mill Inn)
Voucher for mini-golf or pie in Whalan ($10)
Voucher for bowling in Rushford ($15)
Two dining vouchers for Cross Roads Cafe in Houston and
Riverside on the Root in Lanesboro ($50)
Total Cost= $320

Thursday, April 21, 2011

The Weekly

Not a whole lot going on this weekend, but the food served on Easter Sunday is bound to be great! These menus have my mouth watering... (I love scalloped potatoes!) Turns out I'm hosting Easter dinner this Sunday... any tips?

Easter Sunday:

Chat-n-Chew - Chat-n-Chew Easter Sunday
Brunch Special: ham, scalloped potatoes, corn,
fresh buns, dessert.
10 am – noon
$7.99

Old Barn Resort – Easter Buffet: Soup &
Tossed Salad, Honey Glazed Ham, Sirloin Steak,
Stuffed Pork Loin, Fresh Vegetables, Potatoe
Salad, Rice, Bread / Rolls, Desserts. Everything
made from scratch. Make reservations for any
size party.
10:30 am – 2 pm
$9.95 Adults/
$5.95 Child 5- 12 yrs+/
$1 per yr under 5

Riverside on the Root - Choice of Ham, Lamb,
or Prime Rib. Dinner includes Carrot Cake.
11:30 am – 5 pm

At the Commonweal

Commonweal Theatre: An Enemy of the
People - AN ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE Newly
discovered health springs offer prosperity to a
struggling town, until a local doctor realizes the
waters are dangerously polluted. How far will a
community go to turn a blind eye when the
truth will bring about their personal ruin.
April 21, 22, 23, 28; 7:30 pm
Commonweal Theatre
467-2525
$30

Thursday, April 14, 2011

The Weekly-- and Ibsen Fest!

Lanesboro Grocery Store Informational Meetings:
Hear more about the project. Learn
how to be a part of it. Come and listen. Open to ALL!
April 14; 2 & 7 pm
Lanesboro Community Center
467-2278

Artist Painting: Open Studio -
Lanesboro Arts Center's Artist in Residence Wendy Rouse
will be painting the "Lanesboro Still Life", using
objects lent by local community members to
represent Lanesboro. Open studio! FREE. Just
come in and watch her paint.
April 14; 5 – 7 pm
St. Mane Theatre:
Upstairs Studio
467-2446

Poet, Todd Boss:
Boss's debut poetry
collection, Yellowrocket, enjoyed widespread
critical and popular acclaim. Todd's poems have
been syndicated on NPR and in Ted Kooser's
American Life in Poetry column. To celebrate
National Poetry Month and the release of the
2011 Poetic Strokes Anthology, SELCO has
organized a "Poets at the Library" tour. This
project was funded in part or in whole with money
from Minnesota's Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.
April 14; 7 pm
Lanesboro Public Library

Troubled Waters:
Followed by a discussion
about the controversy at the University of
Minnesota over the showing of the film, led by
Loni Kemp.
Troubled Waters is a new documentary about the
Mississippi River, by the Emmy Award-winning
team that created Minnesota: A History of the
Land. Troubled Waters: A Mississippi River Story
traces the development of America's bountiful
agricultural heartland and its effect on the
legendary river. Through beautiful photography
and inspiring narrative, the film offers solutions to
the river's troubles through fresh ideas and
concrete solutions. The Root River watershed is
a part of this story.

The University of Minnesota’s Bell Museum of
Natural History produced the film over nearly four
years, telling the story of agriculture, pollution
and farming solutions to clean up the great river.
Learn about the turmoil caused at the University
of Minnesota when the film's scheduled premiere
and broadcast on Twin Cities Public Television
were abruptly cancelled and later reinstated.
April 15; 7:30 pm
St. Mane Theatre
875-2571
Free Will Donation

Artist Demonstration:
Fiber arts by Debra
Gangelhoff: Fibert artist Debra Gangelhoff
will demonstrate techniques of felting, applique
and stitchery in the gallery. In conjunction with
the Commonweal Theatre Company's Ibsen
Festival.
April 16; 1 – 4 pm
Lanesboro Arts Center
467-2446

Spring Luncheon & Bake Sale:
Hot Beef on a bun, BBQ on a Bun, Potato Salad, Baked Beans,
Rommegrat Sweet Soup, Choice of Pie or
Dessert, coffee, milk
April 16; 11am – 1pm
Sons of Norway Lodge

Pick up the schedule of events for Ibsen Fest at the
Commonweal Theatre or the Lanesboro Visitor Center

Commonweal Theatre:
An Enemy of the People - Newly
discovered health springs offer prosperity to a
struggling town, until a local doctor realizes the
waters are dangerously polluted. How far will a
community go to turn a blind eye when the
truth will bring about their personal ruin.
(Preview)
April 14, 15
7:30 pm

April 16, 21
7:30 pm

April 17
1:30 pm
Commonweal Theatre
467-2525
$20 preview
$30 show

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Innkeeper tasks


Winter overstayed its welcome this year, and that causes a lot more trouble for Innkeepers than it does for anyone else! Once spring comes, there is a huge push to have gardens and lawns looking perfect, and every bit of paint needs to be touched up. Items needs dusting and power washing, and we also have regular spring cleaning to do (see previous cleaning post). Anyway, my week began with a looooong task list. Yesterday, here is what Matt and I did...

Started at 8:00a.m. with some cleaning of the house and Inn office and checking emails with the owner.
Moved to the outdoor shed which needs to be primed and painted.
3 hours spent covering two sides of the shed before running out of primer.
Started to stain the fence in back, ran out of stain.
Helped Matt finish cleaning the garage which he had already been working o for 4 hours (he did a GREAT job!)
Around 2:00p.m., realized we were hungry.
Drove to Rushford to get more primer, a paintbrush, pads to fix a table, and pizza to go.
Matt went to a Kwik Trip meeting while I primed the rest of the shed.
We laid grass seed over almost the entire lawn, since burns from last year are still visible. This required the digging up of the lawn by hand in order to loosen the dirt.
Tried to fix a few burnt-out light, but ran out of light bulbs.
Cleaned out the shed.
Picked up the lawn and gardens area.
Put in patio umbrellas.
Touched up paint in 2 rooms.
Cleaned the Inn grill.

As you can see from the picture, I got really dirty working yesterday! The primer and fence stain won't come off... tips, anyone?

Monday, April 11, 2011

The Month in Review-- February and March

Comments from our guests! It's been a long winter, but people are finally starting to come to town for biking, walking, antiquing, and other fun hobbies. You should too! Remember to leave comments on our TripAdvisor account after you leave!

"In town on a beautiful weekend for a wedding. 40 degrees the day we left town! We loved our short stay here at Coffee Street Inn. Can't wait to come back this summer for a longer stay!" --A couple from Monticello, MN in our Double Espresso room, 2/13/11

"We enjoyed the coyotes yipping on the bluffs...made me realize we are so close to nature here in Lanesboro." --Friends visiting from Rochester, MN in our Double Espresso room, March

"Well, we had hoped for a bit of 'spring' during our spring break getaway, but if e had to have rain and snow this was a nice cozy place to watch it from! This visit has whet our appetite for another trip to this beautiful bluff country, thanks!" -- A couple from Minneapolis in our Mini-Cappuccino Suite, 3/15/11

"Nice new touches added to the Coffee Street Inn! Keep up the good work; it is appreciated!" --A couple in our Latte room, March

Still just a few notes for me... but I love receiving them and hope to share more of them soon! I am excited to move into the summer season... it's going to be busy, but we have made a lot of changes over the winter and it will be great to get comments! New carpet, new paint, and some tiling definitely kept me busy. Now, it's time for dusting, washing, mattress-flipping and finally-- gardening!! Just some of my many tasks for today...

Don't forget Ibsen Fest this weekend! We still have rooms available, so come on out to enjoy the great weather and great theatre!

Thursday, April 7, 2011

The Weekly

Beautiful weather today! I'll probably walk the dog twice, rollerblade, and run all my errands on foot. You should come visit! Plus, there are all these fun activities...

"Over the Back Fence" Community Variety Show:
Enjoy a Community Variety Show at
the St. Mane Theatre! This month's "Over the
Back Fence" theme is 'Vegetable, Animal,
Mineral,' with local talent, musical guests,
sponsor interviews, and more. Pre-show music
and ticket sales begin at 7:00 pm. Show
broadcast on KFIL radio 103.1fm on Sunday
nine days after the live show.
April 8; 7:30 – 9 pm
St. Mane Theatre
467-2446
$5

Fashions in Bloom Ladies Day
Fashions in Bloom: Mini-Sessions, Style
Show, Luncheon and Drawings
Sample some tasty local food items. Stop by
Lanesboro Local’s booth at the fashion
show. Register for our local gift basket
give-away and learn about the expanding
local food selection in our Marketplace.
April 9; 10 am
Commonweal Theatre
467-4466
$20

Artist Painting: Open Studio -
Lanesboro Arts Center's Artist in Residence Wendy Rouse
will be painting the "Lanesboro Still Life", using
objects lent by local community members to
represent Lanesboro. Open studio! FREE. Just
come in and watch her paint.
April 9; 10 am – 12 pm
April 14; 5 – 7 pm
St. Mane Theatre:
Upstairs Studio
467-2446

Eagle Bluff: Discover Geocaching -
On your mark, get set, geocache! Learning the basic
concepts behind GPS technology and how a
receiver works is just the beginning.
Participants will use a GPS receiver to
navigate through the woods in search of
hidden caches. All equipment is provided.
Ages 10 and up Class is also being offered on
October 15th
April 9; 3 – 5 pm Eagle Bluff
Environmental Learning Center
467-2437
$10

Art Reception: Fantasy Photography -
Lanesboro Arts Center presents an exhibit of
Fantasy Photography: "Photo Impressionisme
dans un monde numerique" with photography
by Ron Germundson, Jamie Heiden, Michael
Regnier.
April 9; 6 – 8 pm
Lanesboro Art Center
467-2446

Lanesboro Grocery Store Informational Meetings:
Hear more about the project. Learn
how to be a part of it. Come and listen. Open to
ALL!
April 14; 2 & 7 pm
Lanesboro Community Center
467-2278

Commonweal Theatre: An Enemy of the People (Preview) -
Newly discovered health springs offer
prosperity to a struggling town, until a local
doctor realizes the waters are dangerously
polluted. How far will a community go to turn a
blind eye when the truth will bring about their
personal ruin.
April 14; 7:30 pm
Commonweal Theatre
467-2525
$20

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Healthy Food #1



So, if you read a few posts ago, you would know that I mentioned a bunch of foods suggested by Mayo Clinic that we should be eating. As such, Matt and I went out and bought a few strange new fruits and vegetables (eggplant, artichokes, spinach, and a cantaloupe--ok, that one's not so strange) and we are dedicated to making them taste good! And finding out how to actually use them...

Anyway, this is the first of several posts I will be making that will include these "healthy foods" in recipes. Upon getting home from the grocery store, Matt proceeded to attempt preparation of the artichokes for a sort of dip. They are very complicated! The best way to prepare them, which we may have the hang of after 2 tries, is to follow these directions:

1. Cut about one inch off of the top, "leafy" part of the artichoke.
2. Starting at the base of the artichoke, peel all outer leaves off of it
3. Cut one inch off of the stem
4. Cut all remaining leaf pieces/green part off of the base
5. Quarter the stem/heart piece you have left
6. rub edges with lemon if you are concerned about browning

After doing this, we put the stem and heart pieces of two artichokes into a food processor along with two avacodos. Add some hot sauce, salt and pepper, and lemon juice, and you have a great artichoke guacamole!

More recipes to come...I recently made a potato/leek soup that turned out great!

Thursday, March 31, 2011

Banana Bread!


Ok, so this isn't one of those healthy recipes I promised you...but it is sure delicious!







INGREDIENTS
3 or 4 ripe bananas, smashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 cup sugar (can easily reduce to 3/4 cup)
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour

METHOD
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). With a wooden spoon, mix butter into the mashed bananas in a large mixing bowl. Mix in the sugar, egg, and vanilla. Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and mix in. Add the flour last, mix. Pour mixture into a buttered 4x8 inch loaf pan. Bake for 1 hour. Cool on a rack. Remove from pan and slice to serve.
Yield: Makes one loaf.

Recipe courtesy of : http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/banana_bread/

The Weekly

A little light on the activities this weekend, but if the weather holds there will be plenty to do! I've been walking a lot and have been shocked to see the trails completely empty...c'mon, it's sweatshirt weather out there! At least for you native Minnesotans... anyway, the shops around town had their lights on today and I'm hopeful that they'll be open tomorrow! (that includes the ice cream shop...)

Commonweal Apprentice Company Presents:
Metamorphoses: Our apprentices showcase
their talents with their own feature production of
METAMORPHOSES by Mary Zimmerman. This
Tony-nominated adaptation of the epic poem by
Ovid explores the concept, possibilities, and
consequences of change.
March 31,April 1, 2; 7:30 pm
April 3; 1:30 pm
Commonweal Theatre
467-2525 $15

Old Barn Resort Karoke Joe:
Old Barn Resort Restaurant & Bar
opening for the season
April 1 at 3 pm. Karaoke Joe from 8 pm
- midnight.Check out our new menu!
Old Barn Resort
467-2152

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Spring Cleaning!


It's that time again--just when it starts to warm up, we all realize how much work we need to do indoors! Here's what we're working on at Coffee street Inn...

**Flipping mattresses
**Cleaning toilet plungers and all garbage cans (the best way to do this is to fill a bathtub with hot water and bleach, then soak your plungers and garbage cans for awhile. Eventually, they become clean enough to safely rinse and dry ;)
**Defrosting fridges and freezers, cleaning ice trays (ice should always appear clear!)
**Throwing out stained towels (a big thank you to those guests who did not use their towels for muddy shoes, dogs, or bikes last year :P)
**Touching up paint in all the rooms...some of it was chipped off when we got new carpets (you should come see all the changes-- I'll give you a tour!!
**Washing all comforters, pillow shams, and bedskirts (don't worrym we do this much more often than seasonally!)
**Shampooing carpets
**Polishing wood floors
**Taking down window treatments, washing, and IRONING (I HATE ironing...)
**Checking all smoke alarms, change lightbulbs
**Dusting all light fixtures
**Running vinegar or lemon juice through coffee pots
**Cleaning windows inside and out
**Using CLR to remove buildup from shower heads and sinks
**Washing the washing machine! Put 2 cups of white vinegar in the machine and run a stain cycle, or let it soak then run a regular cycle
**Getting rid of lost-and-found or mismatched items
**Tuning up our bikes for summer...
**Airing out and sealing our tent for summer...
**Creating a new calendar for 2011 to place in room binders (for all of you to use when you visit!)
**Thinking of new package deals (let me know what you'd like to see!)
**Trying out a few new recipes for summer! This includes use of the grill...
**Bringing the grill back outside, filling the propane tank, and cleaning the grill!
**Re-evaluating a budget for the year
**Packing up old, outdated files to make room for new ones!

Overall, this is exciting stuff! ...Or maybe I'm just an obsessive-compulsive neat freak? Either way, these are a few of the things I've been working on for myself and for the Inn. Post a few of your spring cleaning tips or tricks!

Here's a note from the Mayo Clinic about spring cleaning your diet:
"When you're spring cleaning your home, go one step further and spring clean your diet. Replace the not-so-great food choices you may have been making this winter with some fresh, tasty, and nutrient packed spring-season options.
Delicious and nutritious spring-season options include:
Apricots
Artichokes
Asparagus
Bananas
Broccoli
Cabbage
Cherries
Collard Greens
Green Beans
Green Onions
Honeydew Melon
Leeks
Lettuce
Mangoes
Mushrooms
Onions
Peas
Pineapple
Radishes
Rhubarb
Spinach
Strawberries"

I have been really good about this as of late! My persuasive sister convinced me--yes, me!!-- to give up sweets for lent. I started a week late but have now gone 2 WEEKS without sweets! Tea has replaced hot chocolate as my afternoon and nightly drink, and I now eat carrots and green beans as a snack. Watch for some healthy recipes involving the foods mentioned in this post!!

Thursday, March 24, 2011

The Weekly

Commonweal Apprentice Company Presents:
Metamorphoses: Our apprentices showcase
their talents with their own feature production of
METAMORPHOSES by Mary Zimmerman. This
Tony-nominated adaptation of the epic poem by
Ovid explores the concept, possibilities, and
consequences of change.
March 24, 25, 26, 31; 7:30 pm
March 27; 1:30 pm
Commonweal Theatre
467-2525 $15

Old Village Hall Spring Wine Dinner
March 25 & 26; 6:30 pm
Old Village Hall Restaurant and Pub
467-2962
$55

Lanesboro Barn Dance:
Live music and calling for square area and big circle
dances plus polka, waltz, and schottische. No Partner
needed. All Dances taught. Bring Friends.
March 26; 8 pm
Sons of Norway Hall
$7

Art of Cuisine Benefit Dinner for Lanesboro Arts Center:
with chef Stephen Larson, this
scrumptious four-course dinner will benefit arts
programming at Lanesboro Arts Center. Sealed
bid auction complements the evening.
March 27; 6:30 pm
Quarter/Quarter
Harmony, MN 467-2446 $65

Monday, March 21, 2011

Sourdough Bread: Take 2!


Ok--so over the course of the past 2 months or so I have been keeping a sourdough starter. I was spurred onto the idea after looking over another Innkeeper's website and seeing that she had kept one for 10 years! I had no idea such a thing existed (Yes, I do occasionally feel as if I've been living under a rock) and was shocked to find that this "starter" thing can be used for french toast, pancakes, and other breads! I have not tried the former yet, as I am still trying to get my starter just right. For my first attempt at homemade sourdough bread, a few weeks after I began the starter, I used this recipe:

2 Cups of sponge (proofed starter)
3 Cups of unbleached flour
2 tablespoons of olive oil or softened margarine
4 teaspoons of sugar
2 teaspoons of salt

Baked at 350 degrees for about 45 minutes after allowing 3 hours to rise.

My dough didn't rise! Sourdough bread made with a starter is not supposed to need yeast...so I decided I needed to feed the starter more often than once per week. Even though it didn't rise, I baked it anyway. It yielded two huge loaves which were very good but a pretty sweet for my taste. More like Amish friendship bread, perhaps? (I don't know...have to try that too!)

Currently baking is this simple recipe:

3 cups (375g) of all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (60g) of prepared starter
Up to 1-1/2 cups (325ml) of water (see text)
1 teaspoon (5ml) of salt
OPTIONAL: 1 tablespoon (15ml) of butter.

It needs to bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes.

The dough did rise this time! I was very excited. And it looks to be turning out great! I will let you know for sure later...

Starters are a great, easy way to start making your own bread. They ay take a little getting used to, but when made at home bread loaves will be cheaper and healthier. And you can make them however you want! So start experimenting today...it's fun and a great addition to breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Recipes courtesy of http://www.io.com/~sjohn/sour.htm
and
http://www.joejaworski.com/bread/bread2.htm

Friday, March 18, 2011

Finally... a recipe!


This is a pretty quick and simple recipe that Matt and I like to make. It's adapted from a Tiawanese cookbook, so enjoy!

Spring Rolls

Ingredients:
Cabbage (rolled and sliced)
carrots (grated)
mushrooms (finely chopped)
green onions
Chicken, pork, or shrimp
rice paper (tortilla-shaped rice sheets)

Directions:
This is very easy...simply cook your meat of choice and chop it into small pieces. Combine all the vegetables and green onions in a bowl. The rice aper needs to be soaked for about 10 seconds in order to soften, so find a pan with a lip or a deep plate and pour in some warm water. After swishing the rice paper around in the water, remove it and place on a separate plate to fill. Top it with the meat and vegetable like you would if it was a soft-shelled taco. Roll just like a tortilla, and let it sit for about a minute for the rice paper to dry. It's done!

Sauce: (If you want to try it!)
Soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame seed oil, ginger
--I never really measure out the ingredients, so you can experiment and season to taste.

*Rice noodles are a good addition to the spring rolls!

The Weekly

Bean Bag Tournament:
Sponsored by the Lanesboro Lions.
Money prizes for the top teams
based on the number of participants. Food and
beer/pop available for purchase.
March 19
11:30 am
Registration
12 pm Start
Lanesboro Community Hall
467-3722
$30 team

Eagle Bluff: Discover Maple Syruping:
Have you ever thought about making your own maple
syrup? This seminar is a great introduction to the
process of bringing homemade syrup to your
table. Ages 10 and up
March 19
3 – 5 pm
Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center
467-2437 $10

Smelt Fry:
All you can eat. Carry outs available.
March 19
5 pm - gone
American Legion Post 40

Commonweal Apprentice Company Presents:
Metamorphoses: Our apprentices showcase
their talents with their own feature production of
METAMORPHOSES by Mary Zimmerman. This
Tony-nominated adaptation of the epic poem by
Ovid explores the concept, possibilities, and
consequences of change.
March 24
7:30 pm
Commonweal Theatre
467-2525
$15

Thursday, March 10, 2011

The Weekly

Italian Fest: All Italian, All Weekend!
March 11 & 12
Old Village Hall Restaurant and Pub
467-2962

"Over the Back Fence" Community Variety Show:
The theme of "Over the Back Fence"
this month is 'Stormy Weather.' Featuring local
talent as well as musical guest John Smith, a
much-traveled and much-loved singer &
songwriter from Wisconsin. Show re-broadcast
on Sunday nine days later on KFIL 103.1fm.
March 11; 7:30 – 9
St. Mane Theatre
467-2446
$5

Songwriting Workshop with JohnSmith:
You will be encouraged to cultivate your own
unique voice as songwriters. Beginers welcome!
You do not even need to play a musical
instrument. JohnSmith will explore the technical
'nuts and bolts' of songwriting--verse, chorus,
bridge, melody, rhythm, rhymes, etc. Through
visualization exercises, group performances, and
personal demonstrations, we will coax and
cultivate each person's inner muse. While
creating a safe and supportive workshop climate,
we will be giving and receiving constructive
feedback as a group. JohnSmith will assist
individuals with experimenting and incorporating
this feedback into works, bridging inspiration and
craft. If there is interest, we may incorporate
issues involved with recording and live
performances. Feel free to bring samples of
songs/poems that inspire you. Bring an open
heart and a curious mind. You are also
encouraged to bring a simple recording device.
March 12; 10 am – 2 pm
St. Mane Theatre 467-2446
Fee is $20-$40
"whatever you can afford!"

Victorian House Green Tea
March 12; 1 – 3 pm
Victorian House B&B and Events
467-3457

Concert: John Smith:
John Smith performing
really excellent, upbeat, touching folk music:
vocals and guitar. "...What you should know
about JohnSmith is that he is the real deal. A
singer/songwriter who has found his voice and
his place and will take you there through his
music. I think it speaks for itself, directly from his
heart to yours. I promise you will be moved,"
says one of the most consistent writers of quality songs that I know.” Lydia Hutchinson, Editor,
March 12; 7:30 pm
Historic St. Mane Theatre
467-2446
$12/ $10 LAC Members

St. Patrick's Church Dinner:
The menu includes:
Chicken Breast Supreme, Dressing,
Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Peas & Yellow Squash,
Pistachio Salad, Coleslaw, Dinner Rolls, Dessert,
Coffee & Milk.
March 13; 11 am – 1:30 pm
St. Patrick’s Church Hall
Carryouts available,
467- 2480
$9 Adults/
$4 children (5-10)
Free 4 and under

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

You Might Be and Innkeeper If...

A fun email I received today from a lodging group member... enjoy!

You might be an innkeeper if...

If you have a 1.5 million dollar home and you live in ten thousand dollars of it...

If it's been six months since you opened a new roll of toilet paper for yourself... and you're happy about that...

If you tend to refer to folks by their room names instead of their given names...

If you make eggs every day, but you eat corn flakes...

If you've ever contemplated a piece of bacon on somebody else's plate, wondering if it's been touched...

If your partner can Name That Story as soon as you start it...

If people usually ask what you used to do... before you retired...

If all your free time falls between noon and three...

If you've ever found a pair of underwear in bed and it never even crossed your mind that they might be yours...

If finding someone else's lace panties isn't grounds for divorce...

If you're regularly asked to predict the weather three months in advance (and you don't have a fortune-teller sign out front)...

Jacuzzi rooms? If your water usage exceeds that of a small nation...

If you have an oversized whirlpool bathtub with a sign next to it that says, "Please reuse your towel to conserve water."

If your husband brings home flowers once a week, and they're not for you...

If your best washcloths have been used as makeup removers, carwash cloths, shoe shiners, and to clean the dog's feet...

If your house is pristine, but your bedroom is stacked to the ceiling... "Don't put that there! Put it in my room."

If you've ever washed chocolate out of your pillow cases...

If stain removal is actually interesting...

If there are written instructions anywhere in your rooms (and you don't have teenagers)...

If you consistently vacuum your way backwards out of a room...

If people pay you to put your picture in their scrapbooks...

If, when you're out for dinner, you order dessert and then find yourself figuring out how to duplicate it for a breakfast course...

If you have named or numbered your bedrooms...

If your house has a theme...

If pictures of your bedrooms are displayed on the internet (and there is no "X" in your domain name)...

If the recycling guy thinks you have an orange juice addiction...

If there are five copies of every magazine in your house...

If you have ever given instructions to anyone about how to use any plumbing fixture in your bathroom... and all your kids are potty-trained...

If you find yourself explaining, once a week, what a grit is, you might be a Southern innkeeper...

If you've ever had to give directions and you're used to 'talking them in' and you're not an air traffic controller...

If you have a backup bedspread...

If you have seven coffee pots...

If yours is the only house on the block where Sysco stops...

If people pay to sleep in your bed and your profession isn't THAT old...

If you can make three varieties of stuffed French toast in your sleep with one hand tied behind your back...

If your new Neptune is more exciting than your new car...

If you have a clue what a mangle is, and there is one in your bedroom...

If your favorite fantasies are about competent kitchen help and a good laundry service...

If "No Vacancy" can prevent your mother-in-law from visiting...

If people spend their honeymoons with you... you'd BETTER be an innkeeper...

And finally, things you don't want to hear:
I didn't know it would get stuck.
Was it expensive?
Is that price for a week?
Do you take rottweilers? How many?
I think that was already broken.

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Great Recipe Substitutions!


Every once in awhile I start making a recipe without checking to make sure I have all the ingredients. Or, I do try to stop at the grocery store in Fountain, MN but realize it closes at 5:30. (Yes, 5:30p.m. Who does that?? No wonder their vegetables are always a bit shriveled...) Anyway, I have found a lot of ingredient substitutions through the internet, and I just wanted to share a few with you!

1. Buttermilk--How many people keep this in their fridge? To make a substitute cup of buttermilk, pour just under one cup of milk and then add a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Stir the mixture and let it stand for 5 minutes, then it's ready to use!

2. Brown sugar--I discovered this one last night as I started making chocolate chunk cookies. I stopped at the store, but it was already 5:45 (imagine that...people cook around dinner-time). SO... it turns out that you can use regular sugar combined with 1-2 tablespoons of molasses. The cookies turned out great! I actually am starting to think that perhaps the substitution was part of my great-grandmother's secret cookie recipe...

3. Chocolate chips (puppy chow only)-- This one courtesy of my sister. If you don't have more chocolate, simply use extra peanut butter in its place! Yum...

4. Half-and-half-- There are a number of different substitutions that will work for this ingredient. For one cup of half-and-half combine: 7/8 cup whole milk plus 1/2 tablespoon butter or margarine, 3 tablespoons oil plus milk to equal one cup, or use 1 cup evaporated milk.

5. Sour cream-- Now this one I just found...it sounds a bit gross but I'm sure it works fine! 3 tablespoons butter plus 7/8 cup sour milk, OR 7/8 cup buttermilk plus 3 tablespoons butter.