Hello!
It was just recently that I sent you a newsletter, so I hope you don’t mind receiving another one so soon. I just want to let you know about a great idea for Father’s Day before it’s too late! And because we have seen so many new faces at the inn over the past four years, I want to give you a little background about me, your innkeeper!
I love Father’s Day and it’s right around the corner. In my family, Father’s Day is a big deal. If your dad is as giving and loving as mine is, then you’re a lucky person. So, here’s an idea – show dad some love with a Willis Graves gift certificate!
A night or two where he and his special love (or even you) can get away and leave all the daily worries and cares at home. We’ll give your dad our famous special attention that will make him feel like a king. And, our gift certificates never expire, so he could use it any time, like for an anniversary, his birthday, or just to be immersed in luxury and enjoy the pastoral beauty of our area.
To purchase a Father’s Day gift certificate, click here or just give me a call at 859-689-5096.
A New York City Gal In Northern Kentucky?
If you’ve been reading my newsletters over the years, you know a bit about my dad. But you may not know much about me!
I was born and raised on Long Island, New York. Our frequent trips to New York City were a big thing for my family. We loved the museums, parks, restaurants and the culture the city has to offer. So, it didn’t come as a surprise that I was a bit lost when 24 years ago, I found myself living in Ohio. It took me a few years, but I finally slowed down and began to appreciate all the Cincinnati area had to offer.
The only time I ever thought about Kentucky was when I had to go to the airport!
As a young music publisher, my dad came to Cincinnati to plug records at WKRP. He always loved road trips. He would loop all around the region. After those trips, what did he talk about most? The beauty of Kentucky. It’s rolling hills, beautiful landscapes along the rivers, and especially how comfortable the local folks always made him feel.
All the while, I was raising my kids in Cincinnati, working full-time, and could barely find only a little bit of time to play tennis – my favorite sport. I was very immersed in all the daily activities of a busy life, and frankly, I did not give Kentucky a second thought.
When I bought Willis Graves, I was absolutely dumbfounded by the beauty and the wonders of the state. I discovered, and I’m still discovering, this area is utterly infused with history. Everywhere, there are quaint and charming towns to explore. There are hidden gems around every corner. And the landscape? Jaw-droppingly gorgeous. Not to mention the local people who are just as warm and welcoming as my dad described them those many years ago.
So, when guests ask me, “What’s there to do here if we stay an extra day?” I don’t even know where to begin!
I ask a few questions to narrow down their likes and dislikes; then, I start rattling off ideas and I can’t stop! Parks, museums, restaurants, culture – everything I loved about New York City, all here in the serenity and beauty of Kentucky.
This summer there is so much to do from a colossal gospel music event happening at The Ark Encounter and a ton of new restaurants to satisfy any palate and wallet.
This Month’s Recipe: Heavenly Cinnamon French Toast Bake
We started making this recipe last winter and it was immediately a huge hit. It’s become a guest favorite, sometimes even beating out our buttermilk pancakes! The recipe is perfect for a quiet weekend breakfast and it’s ideal for a big Sunday brunch with a crowd.
Heavenly Cinnamon French Toast Bake
(This recipe serves 2, but it can be easily adapted for up to 10.)
Step 1: The Bake
4 slices of thick cinnamon bread, cubed
4 large eggs
1/4 cup half-and-half
2 Tbsp. real maple syrup
1 Tbsp. light brown sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Except for the cubed bread, put all the ingredients into a small bowl and whisk until well combined. Then, add the cubed bread. Set aside for 30-minutes or overnight.
Step 2: The Streusel Topping
1/8 cup light brown sugar
1/8 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. salt
2 Tbsp. cold unsalted butter
1/2 cup chopped pecans (toast the pecans first for a more intense flavor)
Mix the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, salt together in a small bowl. Then, using your fingers, blend the butter into the dry mix until it’s crumbly. Add the pecans and give it a toss or two.
Step 3: Assembly
Butter an 8 to 10-inch cast-iron skillet or a small Pyrex baking pan. Add the bread which has been soaking. Cover the top with the streusel. Bake at 350- degrees for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and well-set. Serve with butter and real maple syrup.
Add-Ons: Add fresh blueberries, raspberries or strawberries to the top, especially while they are in season.
I hope this letter finds you in good health and enjoying the warmer days. We look forward to seeing you (and your dad) soon!
Jennifer
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