A Short Hike to Ludlow Falls

Looking for something to do while you're visiting Port Ludlow? Here is just one of the many hikes you can take in the area. Just a two minute drive from the Marina or Inn, or even better - a 15 minute walk. This short trail can be an afternoon refresher or a couple hour wander through one of Port Ludlow's little gems. 

A Short Hike to Ludlow Falls

"Talking it Up" for the 12th Man

As a Marketing professional I spend countless hours poring over various social media sites and blog posts trying to find creative ways to reach out to our audience. I’m drawn to social media of all sorts, because…well, it works. There are various platforms with different options that range from fancy and pretty to edgy and informational, all of which can offer tremendous value. However, every once and while I have to step back from the collage of Facebook, Twitter, SnapChat, Instagram, Vine, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, Tumblr and Pintrest and go with a good old word-of-mouth tactic.

Last week I did just that, something so 1995 – I picked up the telephone to do a little “old school” marketing. I called my neighbor (who we’ll call Kim), who happens to be a very enthusiastic golfer, with A LOT of golfer friends, who love to find good deals. With a quick explanation of our 12^th Man Golf Promotion (which we started running 12 days from the Super Bowl and includes $12 green fees and $12 cart rentals) and a glance at the weekly weather report, she was amped! She was so excited to share the news with her golfing group of 12 gals, on the course later in the day. That was last Tuesday…

Yesterday afternoon, as I was puttering around my yard in the 60 degree weather, Kim popped out of her house all dressed in her golfing gear and smiling ear-to-ear. She had just returned from a SPECTACULAR day at the Port Ludlow Golf Course with some of her friends. She was giddy about the experience and thrilled that she was able to golf such a beautiful course for such a great price. She thanked me for letting her know about it, to which I replied, “Don’t thank me, Kim. Thank your Seattle Seahawks for that one!”

To make it a little sweeter, Kim informed me that a few more groups of her friends were thrilled to be heading out to golf at Port Ludlow over the next couple of days.

It was encouraging to hear that my 2 minute phone call to a friend did what an e-blast that took two hours to put together would do, and maybe more. Just another reminder to us in Marketing to keep it simple, make it personal and don’t be afraid to pick up the phone every once and awhile.

View the 12th Man Special Here...

Now only 6 Days until the Super Bowl

Want to Linger?

When was the last time you “LINGERED” somewhere? No, I’m not talking about lingering on your couch in your pj’s on a lazy Saturday – but lingered somewhere where you could explore your surroundings and take in new experiences without being rushed. Unplugging in a sense, from all your normal daily routines and agenda’s and plugging in to something new. If it’s been awhile or it’s time to recharge the batteries and seek a bit of different scenery, consider Port Ludlow…it seems to be the hot-spot for lingering these days.

Lingering…relaxing, exploring, tasting, shopping, golfing, hiking, spa’ing, sipping, sitting, talking, bird watching, house hunting…..you get the picture. These are all things that you can do just around Port Ludlow! Venture out to a neighboring town like Port Gamble and Port Townsend and there is even more to explore! Haunted mansions, antique shops, farmers markets, cideries, wineries, ice-cream shops, the list goes on and on.

All those activities considered I also understand that some people like to LINGER in place, comfortably in a plush robe; snuggled up in front of a warm fire; while taking in breathtaking views. Well, you can do that too….

The Resort is now offering a special LINGER Package – just to make it easy for you. (That’s how we start off your relaxing get-away, by making the first thing easy.) Stay two-consecutive nights (weekday or weekend) in a cozy fireplace room with jetted tub, hand-crafted bath amenities and plush robes. Enjoy The Fireside for breakfast, lunch and Sunday brunch, and tapas-style happy hour. LINGER for dinner and enjoy the daily changing menu and the fireplace while you look at serene Ludlow Bay. LINGER with a Lingering Loganberry Cocktail with Whidbey’s Loganberry Liqueur and Eaglemount Rhubarb Cider. LINGER for a walk on 26 miles of trails in Ludlow or on the golf course. LINGER through the shops at the Marina and lobby of the Inn. And my personal favorite – LINGER at the spa (Ludlow Bay Massage and Wellness Spa) or have them come to your room for an in-room treatment. Ahhhh, sounds amazing. Feel like LINGERING yet?

The Resort at Port Ludlow - The Perfect Place to LINGER

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