Enter With A Happy Heart

Reminder of Mali...and those precious babies!

2012-02-14T10:51:00.000-08:00

Whew! What a week and what a privilege to serve! Ron and I were blessed to be serving a family all last week who were staying at The Mill House in preparation for their son's wedding day. Jacob's parents are missionaries to Mali, West Africa with the Bozo Tribe. One set of grand parents were from New York and had been missionaries in Ecuador, one set of grand parents were from Colorado, and an Uncle and Aunt from New Jersey made The Mill House their home away from home! To say the least it was a very exciting and busy time for them and for us.

What made it even more wonderful was that the bride is a special young lady I have known since she was in first grade. I was her Sunday School Teacher and she also attended a teen girl's Bible Study I led years ago. Sarah is now a nurse midwife and is also going into the mission field along with her new husband, Jacob.

It's interesting how God has orchestrated all of this! You may remember from my previous blogs that I have a special place in my heart for the babies in Mali. I give a portion of all my proceeds from Joyful Confections sales to Koutiala Hospital , http://koutialahospital.blogspot.com/. Koutiala Hospital is supported by CAMA services, a part of the Christian and Missionary Alliance. So not only has my friend, Sarah, the bride, served a summer at Koutiala Hospital, her in-laws are missionaries in Mali!

God keeps on bringing reminders into my life of the babies and the country of Mali. Jacob's parents, Joe and Maria, gave me these bracelets made by the Bozo Tribe in Mali. I have decided to keep them on all the time to remind me to pray for the people in Mali, the babies in Mali, and for people all over the world who do not know Jesus. It is a reminder that we have more than enough here in the United States. We have freedom to worship, we have clean running water and plumbing, we have more food than we need, we have doctors, and medications, and cars, and phones, and television and......I could go on and on!

If God puts a passion in your heart for something or someone, don't dismiss the call of the Holy Spirit. You may not be called to the mission field in Africa or even in the United States, but we all can give and we all can do the most important thing... We can pray!

Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to every people!!

Making a Mess!

2012-02-03T14:50:00.000-08:00

I thought you all might enjoy seeing my two sweet friends decorate their butterfly sugar cookies. It was so much fun just to sit and watch them stir, shake, lick their fingers, mix, spill, shake, and make a mess. Being a preschool teacher for 20 years, I quickly learned that making messes was a great way to learn. If you use too much icing it drips everywhere, if you don't use enough icing the sugar and sprinkles won't stick, and if you make a mess you gotta clean it up!

Isn't that what life is like? We all make messes, we all make mistakes, and we all goof up, but sometimes you have to make a mess to get yourself cleaned up! You learn what not to do. and what you have to do in order to fix it!

Thank God for his forgiveness. We make a mistake, and it can be a huge one, we tell God we are sorry and He automatically forgives. We might have to live with some consequences....like the weight I will gain when I eat one too many of these tasty cookies, but He loves us enough to let us make a mistake and learn not to do it again!

At least I try a little harder not to repeat it again!!

And if I feel bad, I just eat another cookie!

Butterflies and Sugar Cookies

2012-01-31T10:34:00.000-08:00

As I sit here on this unseasonably warm February day, my mind begins to wander to warm spring days with it's brand new flowers and God's little creatures which seem to "spring" to life.

I have 2 sweet little friends who will be coming to visit tomorrow. J and C are our pastor's sons and I was blessed to have them stay overnight last week when their furnace quit working. J loves butterflies and I promised him we would get together soon to decorate butterfly shaped sugar cookies.

So not only am I enjoying this warm weather ( I actually have my windows open), but also get to enjoy the sweet smell of sugar cookies baking!!

It took me quiet a while to find a sugar cookie recipe that I am really happy with. Being a sugar cookie connoisseur, nothing but a soft, lightly browned, buttery sugar cookie will do! After becoming an innkeeper, I actually ran across this recipe from Pillsbury and it is a real keeper!

Rolled Sugar Cookies

1 cup sugar

1 cup butter or margarine ( sometimes I use one stick of each)

3 tablespoons of milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 egg

3 cups all purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

Mix together the sugar, butter, milk, vanilla, and egg until well blended. Stir in baking powder,salt, and flour until mixed. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour.

Heat oven to 400 degrees, Roll 1/3 of the dough out at a time on lightly floured surface. Cut with floured cookie cutters, 1/4 ish inch thick, place 1" apart on ungreased cookie sheet ( I use parchment paper or my silpat)

Bake 5-9 minutes or until edges are light golden brown. ( I usually set the timer for 4 minutes, open the oven and rotate my pan, then cook the additional time- you may have to adjust for your own oven.) Immediately remove from pan onto wire racks for cooling. Make sure your cookie sheet is not too warm before placing your next batch on the sheet. A warm cookie sheet will cause your cookies to spread too quickly and not cook evenly.

Use your favorite glaze or frosting, or just eat them plain!!

J has such a love for butterflies....it reminds me of our transformation as we come to know Jesus and how he changes our lives...

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!!

If anyone can tell you the process of a caterpillar becoming a butterfly it is my friend J.

Oh, he wants to make caterpillar cookies too.. I have an idea so maybe I'll post that next time!

I also think I'll freeze a few of these cookies because by next week this warm weather will be gone and some new snowy cold February weather will have come. Hot cocoa and a sugar cookie, now that's a great idea!!

Hi, I'm.........

2012-01-25T17:10:00.000-08:00

Ding Dong, my front door bell rings, it's 3:00 and my first guests are arriving. Checking my book to make sure I remember their first name and what room, I rush down the steps to answer the door. "Welcome to the Mill House, I'm Kathy" I say with a big smile. They step inside to introduce themselves by name. Showing them around we make small talk, I answer questions and make sure they feel at home.

Once they are all settled in, I make the trek back up the stairs only to realize I have forgotten one of their names. I don't have any trouble remembering the half of the couple that made the reservation, it's the spouse's name I tend to forget. If I do remember, I quickly jot it in my reservation book. If I don't, I carefully listen to see if their name is mentioned or I just have to ask them a second time!

If Ron happens to be home to help me welcome guests, one of us usually remembers. I've even had weekends where I call someone the wrong name all weekend, they don't correct me and Ron ends up telling me once they leave that I have called them by the wrong name...talk about embarrassing.

I was thinking about names today. People like to be addressed by their name. I think they like to hear their name. Someone speaking your name can evoke different emotions, depending on the other's tone of voice or situation. Your name may be yelled out as someone sees you across Wal-Mart while you are shopping, maybe your name is whispered in church, your parent might yell your name if it is time to come to dinner or if you are disobeying. Personally, I love it when people use my name. If I call to order something, make a reservation, or call the doctor's office, it makes me feel like they care. Names have power, power to change our emotions in a moment. Can you imagine if you were at "The Price is Right" and they yelled, "Kathy, Come on down!" Now that would evoke some major emotion in me!!

I've been reading the book of Acts during my devotional time this week. We speak the name of Jesus in church, at Bible study, during our prayers, and some even use the name of Jesus inappropriately in vain. But as I read the following verses the name of Jesus brought me a new respect for the name of my savior.

Remember the story in Acts 3 when Peter and John, on their way to the temple for the three o'clock prayer service encountered the lame man at the Temple Gate or the Beautiful Gate? He was carried there daily to beg. He asked Peter and John for money, but Peter told him they didn't have money but would give then what they had...and Peter said," In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, get up and walk!"

Of course we know what happened next, Peter helped the man up, his feet and ankles were healed! He began walking, leaping, and praising God!

Acts 3:16 "Through faith in the name of Jesus, this man was healed- and you know how crippled he was before. Faith in Jesus' name has healed him before your very eyes."

WOW! There is real power in the name of Jesus! Just speaking the name of Jesus is powerful. Sometimes when I don't know what to pray I just speak the name of Jesus!

Acts 4: 12 says; There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved"

There is no other name under heaven as powerful as Jesus' name. The power to save!

Back to the inn..I promise I will do my very best to remember your name! And if I call you by the wrong name, please correct me and I'm sorry!

Do you need a '"Sabbath"?

2012-01-17T08:50:00.000-08:00

Sabbath, the word can stir many meanings in our mind. Sunday, a religious day, an oldies rock group- "Black Sabbath", and last but not least rest. Recently a pastor guest and his wife recommended we read a book by Mark Batterson entitled Wild Goose Chase: Reclaim the Adventure of God. Basically it is a book about following the Holy Spirit and God's plan for your life.

Ron and I not only needed rest and relaxation after a very busy inn season, we needed to take some time to plan out what is next for the ministry here at The Mill House. God has provided and been faithful in sending many wonderful guests, he has enabled us to serve them well, he has provided physical needs for not only the building itself but for us as well. So our Sabbath was a combination of playing, laughing, sightseeing, eating, playing games, and most importantly praying, talking, planning, and reading.

God provided a really neat old historic place for us to stay, a chance to visit with past guests ( now friends ), and most importantly, growing closer to each other and to Him.

If you haven't planned a "sabbath" for yourself or know someone who needs a "sabbath" don't forget that we are here. We may be hours away or just around the corner...but you don't have to go far to benefit from taking a "sabbath". This winter is the perfect time to get away and visit The Mill House. We are offering a special to help make it more affordable....stay one night and get the second night half off...and you never know, I may send you home with some special treats too!!

Exodus 33:14 And He said, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest."

Matthew 11:28 "Come to me , all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

Even Jesus took a sabbath. He went away by himself to pray...He could have been healing and teaching people, but he knew the importance of taking a "sabbath" and time alone to be with The Father.

If Jesus can take a "sabbath" I think you can too!

Below are a few pictures from our recent "sabbath":

This is an historic picture of the Old Roscoe Hotel where we stayed. Of course it doesn't look quite like this! It houses a market, antique shops, and Dottie's Place ( the little apartment we stayed in).

Ron relaxing just after arriving, he was happy to have a flat screen TV to watch the National Football Championship!

Doesn't Ron look handsome in his top hat. The visitor center at Roscoe Village had lots of great information and fun activities for kids, and kids at heart!

I had to try on a hat too.... Not quite my style, but it did fit my big head! lol!!!

Because the weather was unseasonably warm, we were able to walk the towpath of the Ohio Erie Canal, this is the remainder of triple locks that the old canal boats used to make the journey!

So, remember to take your "sabbath"! It doesn't even have to be days, it can be one day, one afternoon, or one hour! Just take it!

News is Spreading!!!

2012-01-07T20:03:00.000-08:00

We are so blessed to serve so many pastors and wives!! Thank you Pastor Kirk and Heather for posting this on the Christian and Missionary Alliance Great Lake District Facebook Newsletter!!

http://www.greatlakesdistrict.com/the-mill-house-a-perfect-sabbath/

I was able to post this on my www.bbonline blog and we have already received a reservation from a pastor and wife.

It doesn't matter who walks through the doors of The Mill House, you are treated as a very special guest. Privacy or conversation is your choice. We are always happy to serve!!

Winter, Perfect for Visiting The Mill House!!!

2011-12-31T09:12:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year from your friendly innkeepers at The Mill House!

Our wish for you is a blessed and wonderful new year, filled with the joy and peace only Jesus can provide.

Come plan a stay with us this winter, we'll make sure you are warm and cozy and we may even have a few surprises and specials up our sleeves! Just mention you read "Enter With a Happy Heart" and you will be eligible for our winter special....

January through March, stay one night at regular price and get your second night half off!

Looking forward to hosting you in 2012!!

A Different Christmas......

2011-12-27T11:21:00.000-08:00

Just a few pictures of our Christmas! I was very proud of myself this year....Seasons of life change as your children grow. With our son, Brian, married and our daughter, Alicia, in Pittsburgh with a retail management job, Ron and I had to be flexible this year. It taught me a great lesson in what the true meaning of Christmas is. Not when or where you celebrate, but that you truly celebrate the birth of Christ with the important people in your life. We celebrated with Brian and his wife, Laurie, on the Friday before Christmas and then took off for Pittsburgh on Christmas Eve to spend Christmas with Alicia. Not only that but spending time with my dad and my family had special meaning this year. Dad suffered a massive heart attack last Christmas and was here to celebrate again with us this year. My brother had a bad accident and fractured his neck this past summer, and he is healed and back to work! Ron was saved by the protection of God when the steps to our deck fell out from underneath him, and my nephew was home!

My dad and I in front of my brother's tree on Christmas Day!

Brian and Laurie celebrating with us at The Mill House

                 Ron and Alicia opening gifts at her apartment on Christmas morning!

I've always been quite the traditionalist when it comes to Christmas Morning and having everyone home to celebrate together, but this year I actually learned that spreading it out over several days is kind of fun, and it isn't about the stuff, time, or place, but the magic of being together!

Christmas Greetings!!!

2011-12-19T08:59:00.000-08:00

Ron and Kathy want to wish you and yours a Merry and Blessed Christmas!!

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Has The Grinch Stole Your Christmas?

2011-12-09T10:42:00.001-08:00

Christmas.....what's your first thought when this word enters your mind, say around October when the stores discount all the Halloween stuff and display the lights, trees, and shiny ornaments of Christmas? Or when you see the first Christmas commercial of the season and the Thanksgiving turkey hasn't even been bought or defrosted!

My first thought is, "What will Christmas look like this year?" My children are grown and out of the house. Will everyone be able to come home to celebrate on Christmas Day? Will they be happy with their gifts? Will I be able to share them with their in-laws? What will I cook? Will I receive that special something that I have hinted about for the last few months? How will we ever fit in a trip to the parents who are 3-5 hours away?? Mix in my work here at The Mill House, Ron's other full time job, church, and other family issues and you have a formula for total anxiety, frustration and stress!!

Whoa! Hold on now! Was this really the way Christmas was supposed to be? What is this "Christmas" anyway? Who made it so hectic, so busy, so stressful, and even sad as some of us are grieving for a loss at this time of year?

It reminds me of the story of a green ugly grinch with a heart two sizes too small. He didn't love Christmas at all! So, I ask myself this question.." Who or What is my Grinch?" Is it the stress of trying to please the family, a financial stress that the busy gift giving season brings, the grieving of a loved one you will miss over the season, or just being tired, overworked, and feeling HumBug!

Movies, commercials, Christmas Television Specials, and Christmas Music keep telling us this is the happiest time of the year..... But all the hype and anticipation never lives up to the actual day. The gifts are given and the food is eaten and then what?

I wish we could stop and think, think of the small baby born in a stable, foretold by prophets long ago.

Micah 5:2,4,5 But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, are only a small village among all the people of Judah. Yet a ruler of Israel will come from you, one whose origins are from the distant past. And He will stand to lead his flock with the Lord's strength, in the majesty of the Lord his God. Then his people will live there undisturbed, for he will be highly honored around the world. And he will be the source of peace.

The Grinch thought he took everything that was Christmas from Who-Ville, the Who- gifts, the Who-pudding, and the roast beast!

The next morning instead of boohooing, "Every Who in Whoville, the tall and the small, was singing! Without any presents at all! He hadn't stopped Christmas from coming! IT CAME! Somehow or other it came just the same" "It came without ribbons, it came without tags! It came without packages, boxes, or bags! Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before! Maybe Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. Maybe Christmas perhaps means a little bit more!"*

I sure hope that if we woke up Christmas morning and all the glitz and gifts were gone that we could sing like the folks in WhoVille! We should be singing at the top of our lungs for the greatest gift ever given. Our savior, Jesus Christ. He came as a baby born a humble son of a carpenter to carry out God's plan and give us the gift of salvation!

Welcome Christmas, Christmas Day!

* Thank you Dr Seuss

More than Family....

2011-12-02T10:23:00.001-08:00

Here we go again. For the second time this year, the beautiful Maumee River overflowed her banks. Five times in five years we have dealt with this act of nature. Floods like so many other things in life can bring stress, frustration, and even questioning of God and why. This time was no exception. Soggy ground and multiple inches of rain in Northwest Ohio only lends itself to swollen rivers and ponds appearing in people's lawns.

At the first sign of possible flooding, being that we are now experienced in handling floods, we begin to prepare. Ron scurries to the basement to put up the little we have stored down there. We make sure our small electric pump is ready to roll and I make a call to the friend who owns a gas powered pump. Then I put out a preliminary post on my Facebook page, letting people know we may be needing some help

Here is the amazing part.....the phone starts ringing, my facebook gets full of messages, the doorbell rings and many offers of help pour in. It is very humbling for both Ron and I. It is hard to ask for help, you feel like you are bothering people or pressuring people, but the only way we can successfully fight the flood is to depend on others.

We live far from our biological families. They are not able to be here to help us. But we have built relationships with our friends and church family. We take care of each other. We offer help and we mean it. It is so humbling to know that friends give up a good nights sleep, having a job to go to in the morning to sit at our place all night and operate a gas pump.

I was walking the wet and soggy tow path and began to pray and think about the past few days. The stress at one moment and the joy at another when the phone would ring with a volunteer to run a night shift. I began to look at all the relationships Ron and I have made over the past years living away from family. How God has truly blessed us with a family, our family in Christ. We have developed relationships, we know each other with a deeper meaning, we love each other and care for each other. Sure, I could call on a neighbor or acquaintance who would probably help if I asked. But our close friends, who have taken the time to really know us, call, show up and offer help! They are there physically or with prayers on our behalf.

There is another relationship that is much like that. That is our relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. Maybe you know about Jesus. You went to Sunday school as a child, or you have a friend who is a believer. Maybe you read a book that talks about Jesus as a person in history. Or maybe you did ask Jesus into your life as your Lord many years ago. It could have been in Jr.High at a church camp, or at a woman's conference a friend took you to. But it didn't go any farther. You didn't develop that intimate relationship with Jesus that he so desires from you.

If you have asked him as Lord of your life, He is there whether you developed a relationship with Him or not. He desperately wants you to draw close to him. He has so much to show you, to give you , and His promises always hold true! You can have the same relationship with Jesus you have with close friends here on earth. Actually you will have a much closer relationship because Jesus loves you more than anyone in this world. He loves you so much that he died a criminal's death on a cross just for YOU!

Just like you may ask your worldly friends for help, Jesus offers so much more. So, if you don't know Jesus, get to know Him. Read the Gospels. Talk to a friend who is a Christian. Get to know the One who knows you, who loves you, who cares for you, who knows your every hurt, every concern, and every need!

We had a flood, you may be having financial, marriage, emotional, health , or family issues. Turn to the one who can do anything, who has experienced everything, and who loves you so much! Jesus is the One who can give you the peace that passes all understanding!

If you want to talk about it ......just ask, I love to talk about my Jesus!

Lights, Decorations, and The Grinch..Oh My!

2011-11-22T08:31:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving and The Grinch!

I know, I know, Thanksgiving isn't quite here yet.....but our lovely canal town of Grand Rapids always starts their Christmas Celebration the weekend before Thanksgiving. So for one week, put any thoughts of stuffed turkey and sweet potatoes away and start sorting through those decorations!

Taking two glorious days of shopping and decorating, throw in a wonderful bowl of soup from La Roe's Restaurant and my friend, Sue, and I had the adventure of dressing up The Mill House in her holiday finest!

First stop, Hobby Lobby! Now, I don't know if you are familiar with Hobby Lobby, but I would liken it to a kid in a candy store! Christmas Music playing, shiny decorations, and best of all 50% off signs....everywhere! As Sue and I wandered down the Christmas aisles, each of us with our own buggy...some brightly colored, sparkly decorations caught our eyes.

Both of us, frankly remembering our childhood Christmas' from the 1960's, couldn't resist these "Whoville" decorations. " Wahoo Wahoo, Welcome Chirstmas, Welcome Christmas, Christmas Day"....was wafting through my brain, across my lips, and out of my mouth! Hmmmm. It is time for a change of decorations in the common room!!! Into the cart went Whoville Trees and Gifts, Bright bulbs with lots of glitter, and thoughts of Cindy Lou Who!

After placing them in their new homes, we realized that we had something missing! Sue went on a mission and TADA..........found a copy of How The Grinch Stole Chirstmas . The creative friend that she is, Sue made copies of the cover and several pictures, framed them and now they are placed right behind the common room table. Just the touch this whimsical room needed!

But now, I am thinking I have discovered the reason I am having so much trouble with my strings of Christmas lights this year! I have had 2 brand new set of lights act up. How can one half of the same string of lights light, and the other half not light? I'm thinking that maybe that old Grinch is still at it!

Anyway....Happy Thanksgiving! It may not look like pumpkin pie and pilgrims at The Mill House....but it sure is fun to relive our favorite Dr. Suess book and characters, plus the bright colors sure are cheery for the Happiest Season of All....

Exciting News....

2011-10-10T17:11:00.001-07:00

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A Reason for The Rush...

2011-09-27T11:39:00.000-07:00

Weekends at The Mill House are more like weekdays to innkeepers. Generally our rooms are filled with happy guests and we buzz around baking and serving breakfast, cleaning up dishes, checking out guests, cleaning rooms for new guests, checking in guests, doing laundry, and preparing for the next mornings breakfast.

This Saturday was no exception to the rule! After serving a full house breakfast and doing the normal routine, we had to cut 10 lbs of fudge and arrange 15 dz scones on trays for the open house of the newest store in Grand Rapids, "Library House Books."

Luckily our Saturday night guests checked in early and we delivered the fudge and scones to the book store in time for the open house. After the delivery I needed to do some baking for my guests and then we decided to go to "La Roe's" restaurant for a nice dinner before attending the open house.

La Roe's has such a nice relaxed atmosphere and we enjoy sitting on the tavern side in one of the old and comfortable booths. We always look forward to chatting with the waitress' and Dave, the owner. As we were enjoying our meal, Dave brought over an elderly gentleman to out table. He was from Michigan and was celebrating his 45th wedding anniversary with his lovely wife. Dave introduced us as the innkeepers at The Mill House and explained that the gentleman was interested in a room for the night. We were so excited to tell him we had one room available which he quickly decided he would like to reserve.

We rushed back to the inn, hoping to get the room ready check them in and still get to the open house. After the room was ready, we sat and waited. Finally, Ron decided to go down to the open house without me. We were hoping the couple had decided to visit the open house before checking in. Soon I received a phone call that Ron and our guests were on their way. Meeting them at the door, I had to chuckle at the gentleman's hat...He wore a baseball cap that said "Jesus"....is my boss!

Ron and I pray daily for God to send exactly who he wants us to serve so his hat was such a reminder of our prayers. What a sweet couple and so very in love even after 45 years. I told Ron, "Gee, we just celebrated 30 years, in only 15 years we'll be having our 45th! I sure hope we are still that in love!!"

God held that room empty for a special couple and we still were able to attend the open house. It was one of those moments I just had to smile and say..all the rushing around was worth giving this special couple a wonderful memory for their wedding anniversary!

It's a Small World!

2011-09-23T16:26:00.000-07:00

It's been a summer of international guests here at The Mill House! Some years we seem to have several groups of guests traveling the US from other countries. Some years very few. This year has been the exception!

We had a group of school teachers from Turkey...they left us Turkish Pistachios! Two weeks ago we welcomed a group of 4 men from Denmark. They were walk in guests and we were so happy we had rooms for them. They were traveling to Indiana to attend a muscle car auction. They would purchase classic muscle cars and then ship them overseas to Denmark. It cost then $5000 to ship 2 cars in one large crate.

This week 2 young ladies from Switzerland rang the doorbell. They were on their way to Chicago. I had a good laugh as one of the girls told me she used to work tourism in a place called "Heidi Land"!!

We have hosted guests from Australia, Germany, England, Brazil, Portugal, France, and Dominica in the Caribbean. We've hosted missionaries from Africa, Thailand, Mexico, Azerbaijan, France, and The Philippines.

I was thinking the other day how I would have never met so many people from so many places if it weren't for innkeeping. The best part is I have learned that people are people no matter where they are from! Everyone enjoys a good conversation and good food. The expression "mmmmmmmmmm....." means the same thing in every language!!

Sweetness......

2011-08-09T06:06:00.000-07:00

I just keep humming "There's a Sweet Sweet Spirit in this Place", after the wonderful conversation with our Garden Room guests yesterday morning. A pastor and his wife stayed the night in our Garden Room. They are actually pastors to missionaries and have served in the old Soviet Block countries.

I woke up yesterday morning just feeling "out of sorts". Didn't feel like cooking, serving, and smiling! But, because it is my "job", I quickly drank a cup of coffee, threw up a few quick prayers, kissed my hubby goodbye and got to work.

The Garden Room couple requested an in room breakfast and I also had a couple to serve in the common room, both at 9am. I had gotten up even earlier to serve breakfast to a cross country bicyclist who also stayed the night here to escape the heat and rain from the day before. Sure, it would have been easier to serve all at the same time in the common room...but as it says in 2 Corinthians 14...Christ's love compels us! So I was obedient and served in order to please our guests and God.

Thank God he knows exactly what he is doing! Because of the privacy of the Garden Room, a wonderful encouraging conversation took place between this tired innkeeper and this Godly couple. We shared stories and encouraged each other. What a blessing!

The pastor guest reminded me that there was a "sweetness" in this place....His beautiful wife left a very encouraging note in the room journal:

A Garden of Delights

Delightful Room- great bed!

Delightful Atmosphere- the Lord is here!

Delightful Garden- we are inspired!

Delightful Hospitality- because of you!

Delightful food- ahh! those scones!

"Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart!

We serve our guests with the best we have. If their needs are complete privacy we are very sensitive to that. We are here if they want to chat about the history of the inn, places to visit, or our story. We are thankful to be able to serve all in this place because His love compels us!

HELP!!! All Creative Friends!!

2011-08-05T13:37:00.000-07:00

Each spring we not only work on our garden out back, we add flowers to the front of The Mill House using flower boxes. I love the look of overflowing flower boxes and each year I try to do something a little different, still keeping in mind colors and cascading plants to draw attention.

Every year I worry that my boxes won't be as pretty as the year before. This year was no exception. They started out just great and kept growing through July, even with all the hot weather we have had. I water each day and use Miracle Grow one time a week.

With the hot summer and the afternoon sun, my poor flower boxes have struggled. I even had to remove some of the plants from the boxes. I love the colorful look of the flowers, they are a nice welcome as our guests arrive. But....

I am tired of watering them, tired of trying to keep them alive, and ready for some good ideas! I was thinking of purchasing some unique rod iron plant stands or holders, maybe moving the plants back closer to the front door so they are not always getting the hot afternoon sun. If anyone has any creative ideas for me, that would fit in with this old mill, let me know! I love reusing old things...giving something a new purpose all the while standing up to the outdoor weather!

Lets give The Mill House a unique look next summer!

Sewful Stiches...

2011-07-29T11:29:00.000-07:00

As a small business owner, and yes, The Mill House is a small business, we try hard to be loyal to other small businesses. We purchase our flower arrangements from a local florist, buy our yummy jams at one of the unique shops in our town, buy fresh produce whenever possible, and buy our handmade soaps from a local cottage industry.

We also purchase gifts for our guests as little take home surprises for new babies and pregnant moms. Sewful Stitches is a small cottage business owned by my close friend, Erin. She does machine embroidery and makes cute little bibs with The Mill House printed on them. It's a great reminder for our guests to come back and see us.

Check out her Facebook Page and give her a call! You can have her make something special and personalized just for you or for a special gift!

A Colorful View of The Mill House Garden

2011-07-23T10:27:00.000-07:00

Summer time at The Mill House means a colorful garden. Just a few pictures that don't need words! Thank you God for your glorious creations!

Blueberry Cobbler.....A Summertime Treat!

2011-07-16T11:00:00.000-07:00

It's "Blueberry Time" at The Mill House! We are fortunate to have an amazing local fruit farm near The Mill House. The owners have stayed with us in the past and they even worship at the same church we do!

Yesterday I picked up 40 pounds of this healthy, sweet, and yummy fruit. It's so easy to freeze them and you'll have "fresh" berries all year round. I have bought Michigan blueberries in the past, and they are known for them, but these Ohio grown are the best I think I have ever eaten! www.johnstonfruitfarms.com.

Here is my favorite recipe for Blueberry Cobbler...it was given to me by a guest who found it in the Farm and Dairy Magazine! Can't go wrong with those recipes from farmer's wives!!

Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
1 teas vanilla
1/2 lemon, juiced
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 teas all purpose flour
1 Tablespoons butter, melted
1 3/4 cups all purpose flour
4 teas baking powder
6 Tablespoons white sugar
5 Tablespoons butter
1 cup milk
1 pinch ground cinnamon
2 teas sugar

Directions:
Lightly grease an 8 inch square baking dish. Place blueberries in baking dish, and mix with vanilla and lemon juice. Sprinkle with the 1/2 cup sugar and flour, then stir in the melted butter. Set aside. In medium bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, and 6 tablespoons sugar. Rub in the 5 tablespoons of butter using your fingers, or cut in with pastry blender until it is in small pieces. Make well in center, and quickly stir in milk. Mix just until moistened. You should have a very thick batter, or very wet dough. You may need to add a little splash of milk. Cover, and let batter rest for 10 minutes. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spoon batter over blueberries, leaving only a few small holes for berries to peek through. Mix together cinnamon and 2 teaspoons sugar, sprinkle over the top. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until top is golden brown. A knife inserted into topping should come out clean- of course there will be blueberry syrup on the knife.

This recipe is well worth the time, and really isn't as time consuming as it sounds! It is great warmed up with ice cream or with a dab of freshly whipped cream! Our guests love it for breakfast...like eating dessert first!!

Enjoy the recipe and remember to buy local....it supports our local farmers and it is even more economical...you're not paying for trucks to deliver to large stores!!

Gluten Free Chocolate Cake...A Mill House Treat!

2011-07-09T10:20:00.000-07:00

Ok, here it is.....The requested recipe for Gluten Free Chocolate Cake!! This recipe was given to me by a frequent guest to The Mill House..It is more like a chewy chocolaty Brownie and is absolutely delicious!!

INGREDIENTS:
7 oz cocoa ( 2 tablespoons=1 oz)
3/4 cup butter
4 eggs separated
1 cup sugar

Melt butter with cocoa, add 4 egg yolks and 1/2 cup sugar
Beat egg whites with 1/2 cup sugar
Fold into chocolate mixture
Bake 300 degrees 40 minutes in 9 inch round cake pan

We make it a priority to serve our guests by catering to their dietary restrictions. It is actually fun to learn to bake in new and inventive ways..I like a challenge!!

Baby Shower Favors....

2011-06-11T11:57:00.000-07:00

The Mill House is the home of "Joyful Confections" and where Kathy's Soft Scones are made! Not only do all of our guests enjoy this tasty treat, but many locals stop by to purchase scones. This past week, I was blessed to be able to make 100 blueberry white chocolate scones as favors for a special baby shower! Cute blue and white ribbons wrap these scones with a sweet sticker on the back to seal them.
What an inexpensive and delicious treat for guests to take home!

We are so blessed to be able to not only give people something yummy to eat, but with each purchase a portion of the proceeds go to children's charities in the US and around the world!

If you visit The Mill House you just might want to purchase scones to take home or our new line of fudge that will be available soon. Remember it helps others and you can enjoy these scrumptious goodies!!

Peace Like A River......through the flood.....

2011-06-01T06:06:00.000-07:00

Even through the flood, we were able to have peace, to serve our guests, and to enjoy a little nature! Just like our walk with God...we may have floods, but He is there with us through it all. Thanks to all of our weekend guests for the encouragement!

Perfect Place for a Small Marraige Group Retreat

2011-05-13T12:42:00.000-07:00

As owners of The Mill House, and small group leaders at our church, we have been fortunate to be able to host small group marriage retreats. We lead a short term small group called "Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage". We have led over 90 individuals or 45 couples through this wonderful class.

We culminate the classes with an overnight retreat at The Mill House. It gives our couples a chance to reconnect and spend time together without their kids or hassles of everyday life.

The Mill House is the perfect spot for overnight retreats. Married couples get a romantic room with private bath and a homecooked breakfast. We have 4 guest rooms available.

Do you have a marriage small group at your church, or a small ladies group?? Contact us for information. www.themillhouse.com We offer a discounted rate to book the entire inn. We also provide beverages and snacks.

If you don't have a group we are still a great quiet getaway for married couples to relax and reconnect!

A Love Story...

2011-05-04T06:19:00.000-07:00

As innkeepers we sometimes get a quick peek into our guest's lives. We are privileged to provide a quiet comfortable atmosphere for those who need to reconnect, rest, pray, and enjoy times away from the world.

This past weekend we hosted a newlywed couple. George and Angela were married on Saturday and spent their first two nights as husband and wife in the Garden Room. As we served them breakfast and chatted I thought they seemed very familiar.

After they had checked out and I was cleaning their room, I found a gift they had left us. Favors from their wedding included a packet of 8 note cards. Angela had designed and drawn the places they had been that had meant a lot to them as a couple. Two of the cards were the above picture of The Mill House. They had stayed with us in 2009, and considered it one of their favorite romantic spots. Along with the Mill House was a card with where they had been engaged, and the historic canal in Grand Rapids where they had both been employed as guides on the canal boat.

We are so honored to be a favorite place for Angela and George, along with many other couples who come the first time and then return again and again!

God Bless you Angela and George..May your marriage be blessed!!

Breakfast at The Mill House

2011-03-07T10:46:00.000-08:00

MMMMM......Breakfast at The Mill House. I'm not a professional photographer and it is really hard to take good pics of food, but this is a sample of a yummy breakfast at The Mill House. Before this apple fritter french toast, mini oven omelet and sausage were served, guests enjoyed baked apples with fresh whipped cream.

But what you are served is not the only fun part about breakfast at The Mill House. It is the interesting people you meet over breakfast. Breaking bread together is a great way to get to know new people. Ron and I are amazed at how many folks have a connection, something in common, or are related somewhere way down the family lineage!

This past weekend, we had two awesome couples, very in love.

Marge and Ray celebrating their 3rd anniversary. This is their third stay with us and we always look forward to spending a few minutes at breakfast chatting and catching up.

Brittany and Keith , celebrating their engagement one year ago. They were married, I believe 5 months ago and have a wonderful story of how God orchestrated their engagement!

Both couples instantly bonded and we all had a wonderful time getting to know each other over breakfast.

A stay at The Mill House can mean a breakfast where you meet new people, or if you want a private breakfast to reconnect we are happy to fulfill that request as well.

Come stay with us and let us serve and spoil you the best way we know how. We are happy to chat, happy to give you privacy , and happy to serve you a wonderful homecooked breakfast!

Ice, Ice....Baby!

2011-02-25T16:21:00.000-08:00

The Maumee River surprised us with a show of nature last weekend. The eagerly awaited "Ice Out"! The weather had been warming up all week until it reached the 50 degree mark on Friday. Everyone was anticipating that the ice would break at any time. It decided that very early on Saturday morning the ice would crack above the dam and then would fall over the dam in sheets, floating in large chunks down the river. Below are pictures taken at the dam the day before the break and pictures of the left over chunks of ice settled along the banks of the river on Saturday morning.

Chunk of ice along the river bank, probably about a foot thick!

The Canal before the ice broke. Even though it looks like it is melting there is still a thick layer of ice underneath.

The Grand Rapids Dam before the ice broke.

Ice chunks gathered just behind The Mill House near the Gilead Canal Spillway.

Saturday afternoon, smaller chunks of ice were still flowing down the river.

The ice chunks are so big and travel at such a fast speed they knock down small trees.

What an amazing sight and display. The power of nature is awe inspiring. Thank you God for your power and creation! You have blessed The Mill House with such interesting experiences for our guests! If you visit us in late February or early March you may just be lucky enough to catch the show!!

A Time To Give......

2011-02-18T08:39:00.000-08:00

http://djl.bbnow.org/index.php

Even though I wrote about Joe and Destiny Nicholson in my "Life at the Mill House" blog, I wanted to also make sure that the readers of "Enter With A Happy Heart" were given the same opportunity to help this special young couple and their new son, Logan.

Above is a link the their web site, telling their story. Their recently purchased home was on fire due to a gas leak and Destiny, expecting their first child, and her mother-in-law were severely burnt in the fire. Baby Logan was born the day after the fire. They have lost many material belongings and also need financial help.

As the community in Christ we are called to love and take care of each other. I am holding a special scone fund raiser during the month of March. A dozen mini "Buckeye" scones may be purchased for $7, $4 of which will go to their fund. Please take the time to read the web site and call 419-832-6455 or email me at sconekeeper@gmail.com. Also please be in prayer for this young family.

Just Like Grandma Used to Make

2011-02-07T17:10:00.000-08:00

Winter weather brings back memories of Grandma's house and her yummy baked goods. My dad's mom always kept a stash of cookies in tins. They stayed surprisingly fresh although we can remember biting into a few stale cookies on our long ride home on a Sunday night!

One of my favorite "old fashioned" treats was bread pudding. My mom would make a warm bread pudding full of brown sugar and raisins. Warm with a little milk was my favorite way to enjoy this comfort food.

Making all flavors of scones, I usually end up with a few "day old" scones that I don't feel comfortable serving to my guests. I decided to freeze them and pull them out later to make bread pudding. Instead of bread, I just break up my scones and used a basic bread pudding recipe. I make a variety of toppings to make the flavor just "pop".

Below is my basic recipe for bread pudding and a great fruit topping recipe.

Bread Pudding

2 slightly beaten eggs

2 cups milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 cups day old bread (I use my scones)

1/2 cup brown sugar

Combine eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon,and salt, and brown sugar. Pour over bread or scone cubes. Pour mixture in loaf pan or round cake dish. Bake 350 degrees for about one hour or until knife comes out fairly clean.

Blueberry Sauce

1/4 cup sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons corn starch

3 Tablespoons water

1 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

* I have also used frozen dark sweet cherries in place of the blueberries!

Mix ingredients in saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened.

Guess you just might have to order some scones, let them get a few days old and give it a try!

Like grandma used to make!

Winter Artistry on the Maumee

2011-02-03T10:16:00.000-08:00

Who said that Spring, Summer, or Fall were the perfect seasons to visit The Mill House? These beautiful pictures of The Maumee River were taken about 8:00am on February 3, the day after the big Groundhog Day Winter Storm! I had taken our dog out for her morning walk and after she finished I rushed outside with my camera before the sun changed it's position in the morning sky. Enjoy the pictures and come see us during the winter season...Oh, don't forget your boots, hat, gloves, and scarf for that walk on our tow path!!

Become a follower of "Enter With a Happy Heart" and tell others to come visit us at the coziest little B&B in Grand Rapids, Ohio.

Gluten Free.......

2011-01-24T12:19:00.000-08:00

Each time we have a guest reserve a room, we inquire about dietary restrictions. Becoming more and more of a concern is gluten free foods. Luckily for the cook (me) the selection of gluten free foods in supermarkets are becoming more and more available.

This morning I had the pleasure of serving two retired nuns, who had been school teachers. Sister Regina and Sister Margaret Ann. Sister Margaret Ann has a gluten free diet. They have visited before so requested my baked oatmeal. I also happened to have a box of gluten free bisquick mix. I found a recipe on the back for gluten free shortcakes so I whipped them up and they were yummy with butter and strawberry jam!

I have used Red Mills gluten free pancake mix, and Betty Crocker gluten free brownie mix, both very good!

If you come to The Mill House, we try very hard to cater to dietary restrictions so be sure to let us know! We want your experience to be pleasant and we are blessed to serve you a very yummy breakfast!!

Maggy's Creations...

2010-12-05T11:03:00.000-08:00

I just love fun things. I love whimsy and ways to show my personality. Because I am always baking, cooking, and making messes in the kitchen, I needed a way to keep my clothes presentable when answering my door so I started to wear aprons!

I have had friends embroider aprons for me and even embleshed them with flowers and jewelry!

As I was looking at my friend, Maggy Wheeland's, website, I got the great idea of seeing if she could make me some aprons for Christmas. Above is a picture of me in one of her creations! She does incredible work, is very creative, and believe me she does it with love!

Check out her new website at:

http://maggys-creations.weebly.com/

Seven in a Row!

2010-11-27T16:14:00.000-08:00

Whew! Seven Buckeye wins over the Wolverines in a row! It is a tradition each year to take celebratory pictures with our 8 foot Brutus Buckeye after each OSU vs Michigan game. This year our daughter, Alicia, and her boyfriend, Brian, were able to join us. Above from left to right is Alicia's boyfriend, Brian, our daughter, Alicia, our daughter in law, Laura, and our son, Brian.

The Mill House is always the fun place to be, whether celebrating with your family, spending quiet time together, or getting a respite away alone. Our home is open to all and we love it that way!

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like..........

2010-11-22T12:00:00.000-08:00

I've always been a holiday purist, and it goes against all that I am to write about Christmas before Thanksgiving! But with the village ushering in the holiday season with their annual Christmas Open House, I had no choice but to realize that if you can't beat 'em....join 'em!

So with the help of my wonderful husband and co-innkeeper and my super duper friend, Sue, The Mill House is ready for Christmas.

The newest addition to the outdoor decorations are two Moravian Stars, greeting our guests at the front door. After several days of finding just the right extension cords and adaptors, we finally had the official lighting of The Mill House decorations.

Christmas Open House in Grand Rapids includes ice carving every day in Lincoln Park. Even with the warmer temperatures, "Good Ole St. Nick" made a chilly appearance.

My favorite part of Christmas Open House in Grand Rapids are the return guests. Breakfast is always an event at The Mill House and to reunite with "Old Friends" aka return guests, makes it a really special weekend for all.

In All Things......Give Thanks!

2010-11-16T07:42:00.000-08:00

Wow, the weather has been so warm it sure doesn't feel like November. I am always amazed at how beautiful the Maumee River is. Even though I walk it everyday, nature has a way of putting on a show no matter the season! The river pictures were taken early one morning as the Fall sun rises. It was breathtaking!

We are so lucky to be hosting a flock of Cardinals in our backgardens and in the trees right outside our kitchen window. I try my best to take pictures out the window but it is as if they know I am stealing a glimpse and quickly fly away! We have seen at least 3 pair of Cardinals at a time in the Hawthorne Tree outside our kitchen.

Helps me to remember that if God cares for even the sparrow ( or the cardinal) how much more does he care and provide for me!! In all things give thanks!

Not a Coincidence...

2010-11-06T10:11:00.000-07:00

As innkeepers, we never feel that our guests are just here by coincidence. This week proved that to be true. We were happy to host Tammy, a spur of the moment guest who called on Wednesday morning. She was working on an out of town job and was tired of staying at hotels. She found The Mill House on her GPS and gave us a call. From the moment I greeted her and showed her around, we had an instant connection. She even asked if I could make her a BLT for breakfast.

After she checked out and I was cleaning the room, I found this entry in the room journal:

I found myself working out of town,

Another hotel, Not liking the sound.

I looked up places, and then I found,

The best little place, in a small town.

Driving through Grand Rapids and the history,

Finding the inn wasn't a mystery.

Placing my feet on the front porch,

Looking around had me loving it more.

Being greeted with a smiling face,

Let me know I was in the right place.

Having some dinner across the street,

Lots of food and pretty cheap.

Waking to fruit, juice, and BLT,

with a blueberry scone was beautifully sweet.

Off to work in the frigid cold

Can't wait to get back to the warm cozy home.

The place where Kathy and Ron,

are keeping the history going strong.

They make you feel at home to the end,

But in your heart you feel them as friends.

So when you talk about where you've been,

Don't forget to mention:

The Mill House Inn

Thanks Tammy for touching my life. I will never forget our "breakfast chat".

"The Mill House Eight"

2010-10-31T12:44:00.000-07:00

The Mill House is the perfect setting for a ladies weekend. It is such a blessing to host a group of friends who have kept in touch for many years. Part of the fun of innkeeping is providing a great place for friends to gather for a few days, reminisce about the good old days, shop for special trinkets and treasures, and last but not least....eat lots of good food and forget about the calories!!

The Mill House hosted a group of eight ladies from the Columbus, Ohio area this weekend.
Saturday night happened to be "Trick or Treat" night in Grand Rapids, so the ladies enjoyed the parade of ghosts, goblins, princesses, and pirates as they marched up and down Front Street in Grand Rapids. The ladies enjoyed watching the parade as they had a wonderful dinner at La Roe's. ( Where the staff nicknamed them "The Mill House Eight")

Ron and I had to attend a wedding on Saturday night, so the ladies kept an eye out for any trick- or- treaters that may have knocked on our door. Good thing I had popcorn balls and bags of chips available in the common room. They made good treats and the ladies protected us from any "tricks"!!

Before departing on Sunday morning, they asked to have their picture taken on our front porch. They are holding the article on The Mill House that was published in the Columbus Dispatch in October of 2007. They are hoping to email it to the paper to see if they will publish their picture on the travel page!! We sure hope you get your picture in the paper and we can't wait to host you all again!!

A Fall Stroll....

2010-10-16T17:49:00.000-07:00

Fall along the Maumee River is my favorite time of year. The crisp fall air, smell of dried leaves, and migrating flocks of birds remind us that winter will soon be here. I just wanted to share what I get to enjoy as I walk Ruby, our dog, along the river. Here are a few "views" of Fall along the Maumee....

A "Taste" of Applebutter Festival..........

2010-10-11T11:02:00.000-07:00

Grand Rapids Applebutter Festival, 2010 is officially in the record books. Record temperature and crowds made for an eventful day. The Mill House was full and scones and cookies were purchased. The picture above is of the "Joyful Confections" crew. Lots of baking, packaging and selling for one day!

Open for business early in the morning, our favorite scone lovers from "Dandy's Lane" a unique gift shop in Grand Rapids, stop for their morning scone fix.

The local high school athletic boosters set up right outside The Mill House. They start their Bean Soup at 3:30am and sell buffalo burgers along with the soup.

Our friend and "handyman" around the inn, Will and his dog Auggie, stop to say hello! Our own inndog, Ruby, spends the Applebutter Fest at their house so she doesn't have to deal with the crowds!

Alongside The Mill House backyard is a display of old farm equipment, this picture just gives an idea of the early morning crowd. The Grand Rapids Applebutter Fest is held the second Sunday of October each year. Crowds swell to up to 50,000. We haven't heard the official count yet, but we have heard rumors is was a record. Next year The Applebutter Fest will be celebrating 35 years.

Applebutter Fest 2010

2010-10-04T11:05:00.000-07:00

Get ready Northwest Ohio, this Sunday is the annual Applebutter Festival in Grand Rapids! Over 50,000 people show up for this one day event which includes juried art, crafts, historical encampment and of course our "world famous" applebutter.

Another great reason to visit Grand Rapids on Applebutter Fest day is to eat some very delicious food. Stop by LaRoes for an apple dumpling, purchase some tasty kettle corn from Karen's ( she sets up right in front of The Mill House). Buy a Buffalo Burger and homemade bean soup from the local high school's athletic boosters, and last but not least.....you can't leave until you purchase scones and cookies from "Joyful Confections". These goodies are straight from The Mill House Kitchen and available to purchase right outside The Mill House front door.

This year's profits from scone and cookie sales will benefit a ministry right here in the Toledo area called GIFTS (God is Faithful to Supply) They help single moms and those in need set up housekeeping in their own homes or apartments. To learn more about GIFTS click here :www.toledogifts.org

"Follow the Blue Blazes"

2010-09-30T12:50:00.000-07:00

Some of our favorite guests at The Mill House are our "Walks Ins". They just show up with no reservations and are so excited to find a treasure like The Mill House for a night or two stay. We were honored to host Betsy and her friend O.T.. Betsy and O.T. were hiking "The Buckeye Trail".

The Buckeye Trail is a hiking trail that runs all around the borders of Ohio. Betsy is from the state of Oregon and drove across the country hiking in various states. She had been in Minnesota and decided that Ohio was just a "hop, skip, and a jump" away:)

Betsy stayed inside the inn and O.T. slept in her SUV, as The Mill House is not a pet friendly inn. But the weather was breezy and she was quite content to sleep in the SUV.

The Buckeye Trail includes the towpath directly behind The Mill House. If you see a "blue blaze" on a tree in Ohio, you know you are on the trail! To learn more about "following the blue blazes" click on the link below:

http://www.buckeyetrail.org/map-n-sections.html

2010-09-21T11:42:00.000-07:00

A very large part of my innkeeping duties is cooking and baking. About three years ago I found and tweaked a scone recipe that has become my "signature" goodie at The Mill House. Serving them to my guests as an evening treat along with other homemade cookies, many guests encouraged me to sell them.

I did a lot of research with the state of Ohio to make sure I was legal in all I was doing. Now, along with being an innkeeper, I have a cottage industry baking scones, chocolate chip cookies, sugar cookies, and biscotti. The fun part of the business is that the proceeds from the baked goods benefit children's missions. My goal is to help support a children's charity on every continent. So far those who have purchased scones have paid for over a years worth of days at a woman's and children's hospital in Mali, West Africa, helped the people of Haiti, and helped send workers to a girls orphanage in Chile. Octobers proceeds will benefit a charity right here in Northwest Ohio called, "GIFTS" God Is Faithful To Supply. They help single mom's and families set up housekeeping.

I have home baked goods available almost everyday from The Mill House front porch, or you can order them by calling 419-832-6455. Because I am an Ohio Cottage Industry the law does not permit me to ship out of state.

Not only will your heart be happy when it stays at The Mill House, your tummy will be too!!

"Views" of the dry Maumee River....September 2010

2010-09-10T16:58:00.001-07:00

Sunset on the dry Maumee River......

The river is so dry you can walk across without getting wet!

The old railroad bridge and people exploring the river bed..

Ron and Ruby walking the river..

The Maumee River bed.

Blessed Along the Riverbanks

2010-09-10T11:45:00.000-07:00

Living along the Maumee River has been such a blessing as innkeepers. It has to be the greatest "Perk" of owning and running The Mill House. The river has a life of it's own. The river can change by the hour, day, week, or month. Right now it is very low, as low as I have seen it in the 5 summers we have lived here. It seems to be the place to explore as we are seeing many people, young and old, having fun crossing the river on the rocks.

About two weeks ago on my morning walk, I sat down on a swing to take in the beautiful morning. It was like the birds were putting on a show for me!! I saw 18 Great White Egrets sitting high in a tree. I witnessed the fast flapping wings of a duck family that flew right overhead. The Herons were standing patiently still in the water waiting for breakfast, and the
"cherry on top" was the Bald Eagle which flew over the river to rest in a dead tree branch.

It is so hard to take the time to appreciate the little things in life. I hope you can take some time to appreciate God's creation. With Fall quickly approaching, we'll soon see nature's paintbrush in the trees and bushes in our gardens and backyard! I can't wait...How about you???

All creation declares His glory!

Hospitality Hint #1....Keep it Simple!

2010-08-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

This week is the birthday of a very special little boy!! Ethan is turning 3 years old and is the son of a very special lady who attends our church. Mom called asking if I could make star shaped sugar cookies and his favorite color was orange!!

I always worry a little that the cookies will not look special enough. I am not a decorator. I don't have the fancy tools to do special decorating. But I have fun baking and icing the cookies, especially for my young friends.

The hospitality hint of the week is, many times simple is better!! Seems if I try to get fancy, it never turns out the way I expect. If I keep it simple, it usually comes out just right plus I'm not stressed out!!

I just used a simple powdered sugar glaze and sprinkled coarse sugar all over the top. Ice your cookie, set it in a shallow container and sprinkle on the sugar. No mess to clean up and you can conserve all the sugar that falls off.

I buy all different colors of sugars by checking after the holidays. The specialty sugars and toppings are usually discounted.

So get out those cookie cutters, your favorite sugar cookie recipe and start baking!!!

Keep it simple!!!

Sunset Jazz and Arts Festival....

2010-08-24T13:46:00.000-07:00

There is nothing better than a beautiful day along the Maumee River, but add a little Jazz Music and it is heavenly! This past week, the Grand Rapids Arts Council sponsored the "Sunset Jazz and Arts Festival". Area Jazz groups performed all afternoon into the evening.

Local artists displayed and sold their work, in the most beautiful setting in the area.

A nice crowd sat along the tow path listening to music, sipping their favorite beverage and enjoying yummy food. The weather was just perfect, no humidity, a cool breeze and temperatures in the low 80's.

As I was snapping these pictures, I ran across some old friends from pre-innkeeper days. It was great seeing them enjoying this fabulous day!

Always something fun to do in Grand Rapids, Ohio....

Berry Cream Sauce

2010-08-15T14:20:00.000-07:00

Ron and I had the pleasure of serving such wonderful guests this past weekend. Ben and Kimberly were here for 3 nights celebrating their second wedding anniversary. As Ron helped serve breakfast on Saturday morning, Ben asked if I would adopt him so he could live here and try out new recipes. So I decided to try out a new recipe for Sunday morning breakfast. This berry cream sauce over Belgium waffles was a hit!! As Ron said, "The guests just scarfed it up!"

So I decided to share this with my blog followers!! Enjoy!!

Berry Cream Sauce

1 1/2 cups fresh raspberries, blackberries, blueberries or a mixture
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 carton (6 oz ) orange creme yogurt
1 tablespoon lime juice ( use fresh lime)
1/2 teas grated lime peel
1/2 teas vanilla extract
pinch of salt

In small bowl combine sour cream, and powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in yogurt, lime juice, lime peel, vanilla, and salt.

Spoon over waffles and add mixed berries on top.

I was also able to make a sugar free version for a guest. I used 2-3 tables splenda, and the sugar free yogurt. It was delicious!!

This sauce is also wonderful as a filling for crepes!!

I am pretty sure this will become one of future guests favorites at The Mill House breakfast table!!

Have a blessed week!
This is the day that the Lord has made...Let us rejoice and be glad in it!!

Welcome!

2010-08-11T14:11:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the first entry of "Enter With A Happy Heart", a blog that keeps you up to date on all the happenings at The Mill House Bed and Breakfast in Grand Rapids, Ohio. Whether you have been a guest, are a future guest, or just enjoy reading about interesting places, we welcome you to our little piece of heaven along the Maumee River.

Each week "Enter With A Happy Heart" will keep you up to date on events, interesting facts about the inn and the area, recipes, hospitality hints, and lots of pictures.

So don't forget to check back often and leave your comments. Once you visit The Mill House, whether in person, through social media, or email, you remain a friend!