Right Place, Right Time

Last week, the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission named 19 individuals as recipients for the Carnegie Medal. The medal is given throughout the United States and Canada for those who perform extreme acts of heroism. One of the recipients was an employee of the Resort at Port Ludlow, James (Jim) Kocker of Poulsbo, Washington.

The actions for which Jim is being honored took place on October 12, 2013 in Ellensburg, Washington. Jim was a motorist that witnessed Anthony S. Johnson’s four-door sedan go down an embankment after he suffered a medical issue. The vehicle entered a pond where it began to submerge in six-foot-deep murky water, roughly 50 feet from the bank. Kocker swam to the vehicle, but was unable to open the doors, the driver was unconscious. Therefore, Kocker returned to shore, grabbed tool, and met up with a state trooper who had responded to the scene. The two returned to the sinking vehicle and broke out the rear-window. The vehicle quickly sank to its roof. Kocker went to the driver side door, opened it and freed Johnson of his safety belt. With the help of the trooper, Kocker swam the victim to shore. Although, Johnson required hospitalization, he survived the accident and made a recovery.

Acts of bravery and selflessness are performed everyday - they are what give us hope for the future and perspective about the present. Often the acts go unnoticed to the masses, but they are no less important or impactful than the ones which are justifiably rewarded

We are honored to have Jim a part of the Port Ludlow team, he's a reminder of what is good around us. Congratulations, Jim!

http://www.kitsapsun.com/news/local-news/carnegieheroes_122314_36952991

Christmas on the Water

Have you done the Christmas Ship, yet?

The Holidays are here and whether you are in full Holiday swagger and skipping to work signing Deck the Halls, or if your …well…just not there yet – the Christmas Ship cruise is a great activity to enjoy. I took my family on last Wednesday's cruise from Poulsbo. We sailed the surrounding waterways which were lined with festively decorated homes and enthusiastic carolers. I must admit – it was a Wednesday night in what felt like a week that had lasted forever; the weather was downright terrible; my two young daughters were a bit sleepy and my other-half  had just completed a 2.5 hour commute home. Nevertheless, we quickly changed into dresses and a nice sweater (not necessary by any means, but suggested attire by my eight-year old) and headed for the dock. 

The ship was beautifully lined with Christmas lights and garland and you could hear the holiday music hum as you walked towards it. Once aboard, we were greeted by a few "elves", a warm boat, an unassuming caroler choir, and Christmas sweaters aplenty. Then it started to happen...we all started to feel just a bit jollier. As the fear of being stuck on a boat for 2 hours with constant festiveness started to leave my being, we settled onto one of the comfortable benches which lined the vessel. We all sat, talked and laughed about being there and it wasn't long before my girls were off looking at the gift shop for some sort of holiday fun item. It was amazing how the holiday mood just started to sink in – and no, it wasn't due to the glass of wine that I was enjoying - but it was due to my surroundings. Santa was there talking with the kids, young ones were dancing, and people were merry – everyone was happy. Not a typical sight with all the hustle that often surrounds the holidays.

So, whether I'm ready for it or not, the Holidays are here and this was two hours that was given to me to celebrate and enjoy them. Every year we do holiday things – gingerbread houses, cookies, looking at lights, shopping, and singing– but this 2 hour cruise felt like one of the best holiday things I've done in a very long time. It left me feeling full and grateful.

Upon departing, with a new Christmas ornament in hand and two giggling girls, I was so happy. Since then, I've settled in for the Holiday Season for what it is…a time to be with those you love and be thankful for the small things that bring us so much joy.

Port Ludlow – the Glacier Spirit is leaving the dock on Tuesday, December 16^th at 5:45, get your tickets here: http://www.pugetsoundexpress.com/whale-watching-and-wildlife-tours/christmas-tours-to-seattle/  or search other Argosy Christmas Cruises at http://www.argosycruises.com/dining-cruises/christmas-ship-festival/.

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!

French Toast - The Perfect Winter Breakfast

It's Sunday morning and you stir awake around the weekly alarm time, then doze back off with thoughts of spending the day in comfy clothes, doing whatever it is that makes you happy. Whether it's watching football, attending church service, playing with your little ones, meal planning for the week, visiting with friends, or reading a book, it's all done at your own pace - That's a perfect Sunday. 

For us foodies, these kind of days scream for GREAT FOOD! A freshly brewed cup of coffee enjoyed in a favorite mug as opposed to a travel mug on the go feels like a gift. Pair it with a delightful and slightly fancy breakfast...now Sunday is off to an amazing start. Enjoy your weekend!

Fireside French Toast 

Chef Dan

2 slices Challah bread

Egg batter

1 each Banana

2 each Strawberry 1/4

2 Tbls Brown sugar

3 Tbls Brandy

2 Tbls Butter

2 oz. Cream

Powdered sugar

1 oz. Toasted Oregon Hazelnuts

1 oz. Crème Fraîche

Dip challah bread into egg batter and sauté in a pre-warmed pan.

Add Butter and brown sugar in a sauté pan over medium high heat until brown sugar is dissolved.

Add sliced banana and strawberries, flame with brandy, add cream and reduce until caramel in color.

Slice finished French toast diagonally, top with caramelized banana and strawberries, crème fraîche, toasted hazelnuts, and powdered sugar. 

Tide Course, 2nd Hole

If you've ever wondered where the most scenic and challenging golf holes are in Washington, Oregon or Idaho - wonder no more. Spectacular Golf of Pacific Northwest has printed a beautiful book that is full of unique and picturesque courses from around the region. We're honored to be on the list with the 2nd hole on Tide Course. Take a look and get inspired to Golf...

View full book 

Is it Summer Yet?

The view from my office is beautiful. I'm fortunate enough to be able to look out the window and see the water, the new development of Ludlow Cove Cottages and bit more than the occasional deer wander past. Being at the very tail end of the Washington state banana belt (or at least we feel like we are), it's sunny and bright here more often than not. Being from Colorado (although I've lived in the PNW most of my life) to say that I love bright blue sky, is an understatement.

There is nothing better than blue sky here on the peninsula. It's November and we've experienced one of the nicest autumns I can remember. However, I'm already longing for the lengthy days of summer. Days where I can enjoy the magnificent mountain and water views that come together like a breathtaking puzzle; take long hikes on endless miles of trails; ride my bike at 8:00 PM in shorts; and most all change my daily attire from boots, jeans and sweaters to capri's, tee-shirts and flip-flops. Doesn't that sound amazing?

OK - if you're wondering what it is that has me on this "I'm ready for summer" rant in November? Well, it comes from watching this video of Port Ludlow over and over again. Watch it - I bet you'll find yourself dreaming about the long warm days, too. Enjoy...

Port Ludlow - It's This Good. from Shannon Meyers on Vimeo.

A Little Reminder I Received While at the Office Today...

Someone shared this video with us this week and I have to admit that I didn't watch it until now, when I'm working feverishly to get the November Newsletter together. This was too good not to pass along...

Busy in my own daily life with kids, pets, family, work, and friends I make it a priority everyday to find ways to stay healthy, active and as appreciative of life as I can. It's not always easy, but I've experienced a couple of events in my life that have left me with a deep appreciation for being able to walk, for being able to coach basketball and for being able to do anything I put my mind and heart into. I saw a NIKE t-shirt once that said "I RUN...because I can". Such a simple phrase that carried so much weight for me. Staring down the path of my 40th birthday - I plan on running there all the way.

Aging and getting older is something that happens, but how we age, how we change is up to us. This sweet and inspirational lady is a reminder that the our desires in life shouldn't end until our heart stop beating.

This video warmed my heart and welled up my eyes with a reminder that life is what you make it and if you find your happiness and willingness within first...you will shine and be beautiful forever. Enjoy!

Read the November Resort Newsletter here

The Knitters are Coming...

If you're into knitting, spinning and laughter this might be a group for you....

Later this week, we are expecting one of our favorite groups here at the Resort at Port Ludlow. Our glorious knitters and spinners meet here three times a year for their Strung Along Retreat.  The best part is what they leave behind when they go - the Resort will be uniquely decorated with little touches of spectacular knitted items. Stay tuned for photos after their departure!

http://www.yarnharlot.ca/strung-along-retreats/

Best Holiday Dinner Wines for Any Budget

Recently, The Resort at Port Ludlow's sommelier, Anne Sackett gave her suggestions for the best wines to enjoy this holiday season, regardless of your wine budget. 

http://blog.stashrewards.com/2014/11/04/best-holiday-dinner-wines-for-any-budget/

Field Trip to Finnriver

A few weeks ago I took some time to visit Finnriver Farm & Cidery on a Sunday afternoon for their cider and wood-fire pizza event. This summer staple is a not-to-be-missed event and I would highly recommend you venture out for a delicious afternoon of food and beverage. This particular event takes place every Sunday during the summer months and begins at noon.

 

Finnriver is an organic family farm that produces handcrafted cider as well as a variety of vegetable and berry crops. The farm is a walking adventure and you are encouraged to roam throughout the land picking blueberries, peaking at the chickens and goats and just admiring the great outdoors. They’re also one of our partners here at The Fireside and we are proud to serve their ciders in our restaurant.

Located just 15 minutes from Port Ludlow this little slice of foodie heaven is the perfect place to explore when visiting with us. Their cider tasting room is open every day from 12pm-5pm and costs $5.

I was lucky enough to have attended their Summer Cider Soiree by happen-chance when I visited the farm. Live music, ice cream floats, chevre cheese samples from Mystery Bay Farm and delicious wood-fire pizza all in celebration of the release of their Lavender Black Currant. Here are a few snapshots from my visit:

  

Next time you’re visiting with us, or just looking to explore some gems on the Olympic Peninsula I would definitely recommend you make Finnriver a part of your adventure.

If you’re looking to elevate your farm-to-table experience we would love to have you join us for our annual Finnriver Farm Dinner on Friday, August 29^th. Held at their farm you’ll enjoy a six course tasting menu prepared with Finnriver's finest and freshest ingredients and enjoy an evening with the farmers. 

Tickets for this fun event can be found online at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/620065

Have you had the chance to explore Finnriver? If so, what was your favorite cider/fruit wine? 

Farm Dinner Series

The Fireside restaurant prides itself on working to provide its guests with seasonal and local ingredients plucked straight from our local family of farms. Daily deliveries of fresh produce, fish and poultry from our local farmers and fisheries allow us to provide our guests with a truly unique farm-to-table approach. 

What makes us unique is our commitment within our resort property as well as our surrounding community. We are contributing members of the Jefferson Land Trust and look forward to helping to preserve open space, working lands and habitat in Jefferson County. 

This summer we invite our guests to dine with one of our local farmers and enjoy a 
multi-course dinner prepared by our staff with ingredients brought in by the farmers themselves. In our second summer season we look forward to sharing our stories and those of our partners with all of you. 

Want to attend our first event with SpringRain Farm as our guest? Simply tell us what efforts you make in your home to support your local farms or perhaps what your favorite thing is to grow in your own garden.

Winners will be announced on Friday June 20th and will be given two tickets to the Friday, June 27th dinner and an inclusive wine pairing with each course. If in the event the first prize winner cannot attend we will do our best to find a suitable runner-up. 

Click here to purchase tickets to this event. 

BringFido Award

The Resort at Port Ludlow is pleased to announce that we have been honored as a 2014 Fido’s Favorite Award winner by the pet friendly travel website BringFido.com. This annual award recognizes hotels, inns and bed & breakfasts that attain superior pet-friendliness ratings from BringFido.com customers.  To recognize this award we wanted to share with you all a day in the life of post for our visiting pets. We look forward to seeing you and your best friend on a future visit.

   

Day 1

2:55 pm-  Arrive in Port Ludlow and immediately thinking, I can’t wait to be outside—there’s so many tress and very little “dog stations,” I hope this means Molly, my owner, can take me anywhere.

3:00 pm- The VIP welcome board says I’m royalty here. I mean I always knew that to be the case, I’m just excited someone else has chosen to recognize this. I hope they tell Molly, sometimes she forgets.

3:00 pm- Check in to The Inn at Port Ludlow- Currently drooling over the homemade dog treats that the nice lady at the front desk keeps handing over to me. I hope this never ends. Nice lady = holder of  treats and goes by the name Julie—note to self to become best friends with Julie.

I spy a trail map—phew lots of walks on this trip—and not just on the busy sidewalk streets, it looks like 25+ miles of glorious grass!
Julie also hands Molly a beautiful collapsible water dish—she really understands that I must stay hydrated. A good night’s sleep and plenty of water keeps your highness looking so fit and young.

3:10 pm- We head to our room fit for a Queen (that’s me). Molly and I take a few moments to unpack, I take a quick nap and then it’s off to the beach for us!

4:00 pm- Sand between my paws, Frisbee in my mouth and nothing but blue skies—I always considered myself to be a city dog but I could get used to all of this freedom! I spot a lean, dark and quite yappy lab down the beach and decide to call him a friend for the next few chases of the Frisbee. Alas, I begin to grow tired from all of this excitement and I tell Molly we need to wrap it up and get some dinner.

                

7:00 pm- A full stomach lends itself nicely to a great night’s sleep so I leave Molly and curl up on my favorite doggie bed that she so graciously brought for me from home.

Day 2

7:00 am- I tug at Molly for a few moments before she musters up the strength to climb out of what looks to be a very comfortable bed. I think she’s gotten the hint that I am ready to play but then she throws me for a curve. Usually she’s quick to take me for my morning walk and then get ready for work but today she takes her time, makes herself a cup of coffee from the Keurig in our room and enjoys a few moments to watch the sun out on our balcony. I let her enjoy this moment for as long as I can stand it but I bark a few times to let her know she can’t neglect me forever, after all this is my vacation.

9 am-12 pm- I am in HEAVEN! Molly and I spend the morning exploring all of the trails in Port Ludlow. I get to see so many different things that we don’t normally see in the city and it feels so good to get all of this fresh air! I’m sad that we have to check out today but I can’t thank Molly enough for such a great weekend. I give her lots of kisses to let her know how much fun I am having and hope that it’s enough to bring us back here again one day.

              

Want to bring your dog for a weekend getaway? Be sure to check out all of our packages on our website.

Charlie decided to share a little. Comment below with your favorite outside activity to do with your dog and be entered for a chance to win the delicious homemade treats and water bowl Charlie mentioned in the post! Winner to be announced on our Facebook page on June 9th as well as in the comments section of this blog. 

Time for Tea

On the third Tuesday of each month from 2pm-4pm we host an afternoon tea at The Fireside. This three course meal includes fresh baked biscuits and homemade marmalade, an assortment of finger sandwiches and a delicious selection of bite-sized desserts, all served alongside locally sourced teas from Wild Sage, Port Townsend. Each course pairs perfectly with the chosen tea, and the selection rotates each month so you're sure to try something new.

Afternoon tea is the perfect excuse for a long lunch, a social meeting with your friends or a chance to enjoy small delicacies without feeling guilty. This month the marketing team (Jennifer and Tara) stepped away from our desks and enjoyed an afternoon full of conversation and stories with friends and visitors of Port Ludlow.


This month's first course included Chef Dave's orange marmalade and creme fraiche paired with a plum spiced tea (herbed tea of cinnamon, ginger and spices with a smooth plum finish). The flavors of both the tea and biscuit blended in unison to create a taste that reminded us all of fall. Chef even offered to share his recipe for the orange marmalade with our guests.

Our finger sandwiches included: lox and cream cheese croissants, cucumber and dill on white bread, caprese on a honey wheat bread and egg salad on a french bread. This course was paired with a Paris Gold Black Tea--the perfect balance of sweetness with four different black teas, a vanilla aroma and hints of caramel.

Green tea with lemongrass and coconut was our final tea of the afternoon. Desserts included mini creme brulee (our favorite), pineapple curd pastries with powdered sugar--the best one to pair with the tea, chocolate and hazelnut dipped strawberries and a lemon pudding tart. The best part was that you could sample each of these perfectly sized "tastings".

If you have had the opportunity to enjoy Wild Sage Tea what was your favorite blend? Perhaps we can add it to our next menu!

We love sharing these memories with our readers and hope that you'll join us for a future afternoon tea. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 360.437.7412. The next tea is Tuesday, June 17 and we hope to see you there. 

Easter Brunch at The Fireside

Sometimes we can tell a much better story with pictures than we can with words. Brunch at The Fireside, especially on Easter is one of those occasions where we wish there was such thing as scratch and sniff on our computer screens. The spread was phenomenal and we thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon with all of you!

Trust me, it was as good as it looks! The good news is that you don't have to wait until next year to join us for such a delicious afternoon. We're rolling out the red carpet for our Mother's Day brunch and can't wait to indulge again! Join us on Sunday May 11th from 11am to 3pm. 

Brunch will include your choice of entree: prime beef hash, eggs benedict, french toast, all american, steak au poivre, grilled steelhead, kobe beef prime rib and a FULL buffet including: fresh pastries, fruit, salads, Dungeness Crabs, fresh shucked oysters, Steelhead lox, Manila clams, Penn Cove Mussels AND if you save room a dessert station!

Reservations are highly encouraged-- 360.437.7412

Treat mom to a special afternoon with us! 

     

aMaurice Winemaker Dinner

     What an incredible event this was! We were thrilled to host aMaurice to The Resort for a fun-filled evening of wine and food. Six courses PERFECTLY paired with a delicious wine--what more could we ask for?

The tables were set with beautiful poems at every seat 

I miss the smell of your Viognier I long for a taste of your Toby I was caught with your Chardonnay on my lips I dream about your Syrah/Grenache I crave your Malbec I have been seduced By your Night Owl Love, Anne

The Menu:

Amuse Bouche

Country Natural Beef Tartar

Paned Amore Crostini, Mustard Vinaigrette

2008 Toby

Soup

DharmaRidge Yukon Gold Potato and

Nuskes Apple-wood Smoked Bacon

2009 Malbec

Fish

Wild White Shrimp Stuffed with Northwest Dungeness Crab

2009 Chardonnay

Meat

Kobe Beef NewYork

Vert d Madagascar, House Demi, Oregon Bleu Cheese

2009 Night Owl

Refresher

SpringRain Greens with Sherry Vinaigrette

2011 Viognier

Dessert

Theos Chocolate Souffle with Tart Fruit Coulis

2008 Syrah-Grenache

The event couldn't have been possible without our excellent team, pictured below

     We were proud to host such a great room full of people who genuinely enjoyed excellent wine, food and conversation and we can't wait to do it again! If you're feeling like you missed out there is still a chance to join us at our NEWLY announced winemaker dinner with Januik Winery on June 29th at 6pm! 

Tickets can be found online at  http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/660252

     Keep you eyes peeled for upcoming contest posts and you too could join us for FREE at our next event. 

Below is the photo of our winners from this event with their Doritos and Bottle of Wine: 

"Rosé surprisingly pairs well with Cool Ranch Doritos. 

Does wine always have to be with a fancy meal?." 

     We had to surprise them with a takeaway of their favorites!

Cheers!

#StrungAlong

       We're thrilled to be hosting the wonderful knitters for their #StrungAlong event here at The Resort. If you're not familiar with the event we encourage you to attend the community marketplace featured in the flyer above! This group does a great job of "yarn-bombing" The Inn each time and we can't wait to see the creative pieces that they come up with this year. 

       Be sure to follow their adventure by searching #StrungAlong on Twitter! And feel free to stop by early enough to enjoy happy hour at The Fireside from 4pm-6pm. 

A Different Perspective

This scenario doesn't happen very often but when it does I always think it’s the worst possible timing. I believe we've all been there.

I’m running late, I can’t find my keys, coffee is out of the question and by the time I’m finally on my way to work and making up some lost time I get this text, “The hood canal bridge is currently closed.”

Now I’m in a panic and annoyed at the fact that today I will just HAVE to be late.

But then I see a flock of people exit their cars, spouses hold banners welcoming home their submariners and the coast guard is the first vessel I spot. It’s on this occasion that I remember that while I may be late, our heroes and their loved ones are serving our country and THIS is worth stopping for.

It’s a matter of perspective because more so than not I’m really just waiting for a personal vessel to pass through—but to think that the text message that I received this morning could be a welcomed sigh of relief from the family of a returning sailor is enough to make me stop and think.

Our coast guard boats are the protectors of this fleet of service and they carry the responsibility of bringing the submarines in and out of The Puget Sound. The view (when lucky enough to be in line close to the bridge) is simply stunning.

I've caught myself wondering what it would be like to be on one of those boats as I watch them part the way for the oncoming subs.

This weekend is my chance and I am truly looking forward for the opportunity to meet with a few of the members that serve aboard these vessels as we welcome two Coast Guard boats to our Marina.  On Saturday, April 12^th from 11:30am-2:00pm I encourage you to join us for a tour of a 63’ and 33’ foot Coast Guard vessel and the opportunity to talk to the crews in charge of each.

Here’s to hoping that the next time I’m stuck in traffic on my way to work I pause to think, “This is worth it.” And I hope to see you this weekend!

Win Your Way In!

Want to attend this event for FREE? Simply comment below with your response to this question:

What is your favorite type of wine, and what food does it pair best with? 

Winner to be randomly selected Thursday at 10am PST. Winner will receive 2 tickets to this event (winner announced on social media pages), and must be able to attend this Friday at 6pm (no substitutions).

For Sale By Owner Boat Show

SAVE THE DATE!  The Port Ludlow Marina will host its 6^th annual For Sale by Owner (FSBO) boat show, on Saturday April 12^th from 9am to 4pm.  The event will feature privately owned boats both in the water and on trailers for individual boat buyers to view and explore. A Flea Market and Marine Swap will also held under in conjunction with the FSBO sale under the covered pavilion at the Marina.

The Port Ludlow Marina is currently looking for boat owners to showcase their boats at this FSBO event and participants should come to the show prepared to stay with their boats during the day to answer visitor’s questions. Although the “FSBO” show is not open to brokers; individual owners whose boats are listed with brokers are welcome to show their own boats. 

If you would like to show your vessel in the water or on a trailer, the fee is $20.00 for boats/dinghies/kayaks 20’ or smaller and $25.00 for boats over 20’.  Additionally, for individuals interested in participating in the Marine Swap, there is a $15.00 fee to reserve a 10 X 10 booth along with a picnic table to hold your belongings for sale. If you would like to show your vessel in the water or on a trailer, the fee is $20.00 for boats/dinghies/kayaks 20’ or smaller and $25.00 for boats over 20’. 

Admittance to the show is free to the public and there will be hot dogs and other goodies available for sale from 11am – 2pm.  For more information regarding the event or to register your vessel or a booth, contact the Port Ludlow Marina at 1-800-308-7991.  

Hope to see you there!

All Things LUDLOW

What’s in a name? Ours dates all the way back to 1841. Charles Wilkes entered our waters on a United States Exploring expedition and named our piece of paradise “Port Ludlow.” Our name is a nod to Augustus C. Ludlow, a war of 1812 naval hero and a friend of Mr. Wilkes. Fast forward almost 200 years later to see the name “Ludlow” appear in all sorts of different ways. We’re flattered really to share our name with these companies and wanted to share them with you.

The Ludlow Shop-  a men’s suit collection by J. Crew. This trendy and affordable men’s suit collection features the “Ludlow traveler Suit,” which promises to stay wrinkle free in and out of your suitcase.(https://www.jcrew.com/mens_feature/TheLudlowShop.jsp)

Ludlow Co. – This Seattle based furniture, art and jewelry store focuses on unique treasures and antiques. (http://ludlowco.com/)

Dinner on Ludlow- Classic comfort food restaurant located on the Lower East Side in New York City. Promising to keep “it” simple, this restaurants Executive Chef is none other than John Keller – previous Chopped contestant on Bravo TV.  (http://www.dinneronludlow.com/)

Ludlow Wines- This family-owned and operated store is located in Cincinnati Ohio and allows its customers the ability to sip and savor wines and craft beers at its popular Friday and Saturday tastings. (http://www.ludlowwines.com/_welcome) 

Who do you share your name with?