Carlton Cottages

welcome....

2012-02-09T12:17:00.000-08:00

Welcome!

I thought I would share some photos of the new cottage.

When we bought the home 3 years ago, we decided it needed a complete renovation. The attic was not livable space. With a first floor foot print of 1000 sf we needed to add some square footage!

We started the renovation upstairs.....adding an office and master suite. Our reasoning for starting upstairs you ask? So we would have a finished, clean space to sleep in and rest our weary heads!

Anyways, here we go with our little "tour."

After walking in the front door, we head right on up the stairs...........

To the left is the office, to the right is suite {bedroom + bathroom}

Since space is limited, everything is built-in and painted a crisp, clean white. The funky attic walls make for a perfectly cozy retreat!

The queen bed is built-in {of course!} and is a cozy place to curl up and watch a little tv!

We made sure to add plenty of lighting since natural light is a precious commodity upstairs.

Steps from the bed is the bathroom. Did you know that this bathroom was featured on HGTV's 'Bang for your Buck?' Yep, we lost. We "over remodeled" for the neighborhood, but we don't care!

The upstairs office/master suite was also featured in the Jan./Feb. issue of THIS OLD HOUSE magazine. So fun!

And there you have the upstairs bedroom + bathroom.

We will look at some more of the space in a few days!

changes

2012-02-06T05:03:00.003-08:00

Good Monday morning,

We've had some changes happening here in Carlton!

We have 'switched cottages' and now have our ENGLISH COTTAGE available for nightly rental. The cottage is just a few blocks from Parkside and is drenched in charm!

This sweet little home sleeps four and is sure to make your stay in wine country memorable...

Be sure to check back in a few days for more interior pictures. In the mean time, I have un-packing and cleaning to add to my list of daily chores!

Cheers,

Darci

2011-05-16T12:13:00.000-07:00

Well, we have big news......Gardenside has new owners!

We closed escrow today.

A lovely couple from Texas purchased Gardenside....they love the Willamette Valley so much they want to spend their summers here.

Who can blame them? This area is a beautiful area to live.....

So, for now, we just have Parkside available for rent.

We are always coming up with new ideas, so it won't be long before you see some more changes.........

In the mean time, we will just enjoy this lovely Spring weather!

2011-04-04T15:11:00.000-07:00

image

There is a new shop on Main Street.....and it is a great addition to Carlton!

Republic of Jam is a fabulous boutique style jam shop.

Yep, right in the heart of wine country. They treat their jams like wine with flights of jam available for tasting. I have only been in once, but my favorite is the APPLE VANILLA WALNUT jam.....so good!

They are open Thursday - Sunday, noon to 5.

You should pop in to check them out....you won't be disappointed!

sweet comments

2011-03-09T16:21:00.000-08:00

I thought I would share with you some sweet comments left by some guests who recently stayed at Parkside to celebrate their 10 year wedding anniversary.

Dear Darci,

We can't thank you enough for your hospitality. Parkside is amazing and you have paid attention to every detail! The baked goods were a treat for the taste buds and the fresh flowers were the perfect touch for the wet, gray February weekend. We enjoyed cuddling up by the fire, sampling some new wine we discovered, and watching movies on the HUGE TV. Carlton is a real gem and we thank you for welcoming us into your precious little town. We will be back!

Sincerely,

Mike & Jan, North Carolina

2011-02-12T10:48:00.000-08:00

FLAVORS OF CARLTON

April 2nd, 2011 * 5pm - 9pm

If you have ever attended this wine and art auction, you know what a fabulous event it is! Flavors of Carlton is in it's 8th year and it benefits local youth and community service programs.

The food is perfect.

The wine is abundant and amazing.

The auction items are unique.

The atmosphere couldn't be better......and it supports a great cause.

We would like to offer guests a complimentary breakfast basket for attending this fabulous event. When you book, just let us know that you will be attending the Flavors of Carlton auction as well!

February Special

2011-01-27T07:14:00.000-08:00

Do you need a little "post-January-outing?"

A little get away to re-charge?

Maybe you are looking for a romantic way to celebrate Valentine's Day?

Take advantage of our FEBRUARY SPECIAL!

Receive $50 off your stay {must be 2 nights or more} and a complimentary breakfast basket! Our breakfast baskets never disappoint and the money savings speaks for itself!

To take advantage of the special, just be sure to mention it when you book your reservation.

Call to book now.....503-857-8176......we look forward to having you!

January Special

2010-12-28T11:23:00.000-08:00

To ring in the new year we are offering a JaNUaRy SpECiaL.

For the month of January, we will be offering guests a 10% discount plus a winter wonderland basket....complete with coffee, hot cocoa, fresh cookies and a classic movie.

To take advantage of the SpECiaL, you must mention "January Special" and stay a minimum of 2 nights.

We look forward to having you!!

Tour of Homes: Parkside Cottage

2010-12-12T13:07:00.000-08:00

The annual Soroptimist Tour of Homes started today. I was just adding the finishing touches when the "guides" rang the door bell. Thought I would share a few photos.....

One of the bedrooms, all of the decor was green, silver, gold and black.

Mr. Clause was watching over the sweet treats in the kitchen!

The living room.....how do you hide a tv of that magnitude?

The dining room is all ready for dinner to be served!

The entry.....welcome.....come on it and get cozy!

I can't wait to check out the rest of the homes on the Tour.

Hope you all have a very MeRrY CHrIsTmaS weekend!!

2010-12-06T15:11:00.000-08:00

image

We had some really gracious guests at Parkside last week. Just a husband and wife. It seems like most of the cottage guests are friends and family traveling together......and they max out the occupancy......it's not often that we have just 2 people staying these days.

Anyways, they left a bottle of Tyrus Evan pinot and a sweet note:

Darci-

Thank you for your amazing hospitality! The "cottage" (by no means a cottage, a mansion compared to our 1200 s.f. bungalow in S.F.) is cozy, inviting, luxurious and provided everything we needed or wanted. Thank you for going the extra effort; the cinnamon rolls, fresh coffee, fresh flowers and fun soaps all added to the wonderful experience. Our entire 4 day stay consisted of wine tasting, eating and reading; the most relaxing vacation we have had in 15 years of marriage! We blazed through 4 books between the two of us and tasted some of the most exceptional wine (not to mention we LOVE Cuvee!)

We will be back! We haven't decided if we will keep this precious cottage and the town of Carlton a secret, or if we will invite our friends to come along next time. Best of luck!

Mr. & Mrs. San Francisco

We do love our guests and especially love it when they also find out what a treasure Carlton is!

winter wonderland

2010-11-24T10:15:00.000-08:00

Well, we are having our first 'winter storm' of the year. Really it's just cold temperatures and a yucky, dangerous covering of ice. It's nothing like the winter snow storm we had 2 years ago.

Remember this.......

2+ feet of snow......for 2+ weeks!

Not what us "Pacific Northwesterners" are use to.

Anyways, we are keeping the cottages nice and toasty for you.

Come to Carlton to warm up your insides with some vino, and we will keep the cottage cozy and warm for you! We will even shovel the driveway and walk way if we get snow ;-)

Christmas in Carlton Special

2010-11-15T09:20:00.000-08:00

To celebrate Christmas in Carlton this year, we will be offering a December special!

Any guests who stay at either cottage will be welcomed with a beautiful breakfast basket, {coffee, tea, baked goods, fresh fruit} a bottle of wine {a favorite local wine of course!} and tickets for free tastings at a handful of our local Carlton tasting rooms.

To take advantage of our December special, guests must stay during the month of December, 2 nights or more, and mention this special when booking.

The Willamette Valley is magical around the holidays.....we would love to have you!

Christmas Tour of Homes

2010-10-17T13:32:00.000-07:00

This December, Parkside Cottage will be on the Soroptimist Christmas Tour of Homes. I am excited to have an excuse to decorate the cottage more lavishly than I typically would.

Last week the Holiday Pottery Barn catalog arrived in the mail.....the rooms are beautiful. So fun to look through for inspiration.....here are a few of my favorite PB photos.....

Perfectly wrapped packages.....

Stockings all hung in a row......

Natural, neutral and inviting.....

If you are in the McMinnville/Carlton area December 12th, we would love to see you on the tour!! Tickets go on sale soon and proceeds benefit local charities!

2010-10-07T09:59:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that we didn't have the best summer for gardening here in the Willamette Valley. I finally have tomatoes ripening and I am using them in any recipe I can. I thought I would share with you an easy, yet tasty, tomato recipe. We had this and grilled salmon for dinner, easy, filling and a summer classic. The recipe and photo are from bfeedme.com......

Ingredients:

1 (9 inch) pie shell
7 ripe tomatoes, sliced
1 yellow onion
3/4 cup mayonnaise, (I used Greek yogurt instead)
1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
ground black pepper to taste
2 teaspoons fresh basil
2 teaspoons fresh oregano

What’s Next:

Go ahead & preheat your oven to 350 F or 175 C.

Bake the pastry shell for 8 to 10 minutes or until browned.

Slice onion and place in the bottom of pastry shell. Slice tomatoes and arrange over onions. Add black pepper to taste.

In a medium bowl- combine mozzarella, parmesan and mayonnaise. Spread this mixture evenly over tomatoes.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Once cooked, garnish with fresh herbs.

2010-10-01T14:27:00.000-07:00

I just had the sweetest group of girl stay for a 4 night 'girls trip.' They hailed from the the East Coast and loved our sweet manners and sense of community here in Carlton.

We offer several concierge services to guests, they are given a list of the services when they book their stay. These sweet girls opted for massages and a kitchen full of treats. I LOVE grocery shopping for guests! I also LOVE packaging and setting it up on the kitchen for them, I usually have fresh flowers and sweet treats waiting for each group of guests as well.

Here is a short but sweet note the girls left......

Thank you so much for the fabulous accommodations! We LOVE the cottage! It is cozy and comfortable yet spacious and over-the-top. The highlight of our trip was the time we spent in the cottage. We picked fruit from the garden and enjoyed the fresh herbs on our pasta. Really, there is not a thing we would have changes, except for a longer stay! Thank you for making our girl's trip so memorable. We can't wait to come back to Carlton again....everyone is SO FRIENDLY and the coffee shop already knew us by name after morning #2.

Love,

The East Coast Girls

Harvest Special

2010-09-11T08:06:00.000-07:00

Carlton Cottages is having a 'Harvest Special.'

To say thank you to all returning guests, we are offering 5% discount on stays in October and November. Our 'Harvest Special' will also include a complimentary breakfast basket waiting for you in the cottage.

To take advantage of the special, you must stay 2 nights or longer and reference the special in your email or on the phone.

We are looking forward to a BEAUTIFUL autumn and a successful harvest for all of the local vineyards!

2010-09-03T11:07:00.001-07:00

image from www.joyofbaking.com

I have to share with you a tasty scone recipe I made for our guests last weekend. There was a bit of crispness in the air and gingerbread scones sounded like just the ticket. I found the recipe at www.joyofbaking.com

Scone Dough:

1 3/4 cups (225 grams) all purposeflour

3/4 cup (60 grams) old fashioned rolled oats

1/3 cup (72 grams) light brownsugar

2 teaspoons ground ginger

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoonsbaking powder

1/2 teaspoonbaking soda

1/2cup(113 grams) cold unsaltedbutter, cut into pieces

Zest of 1lemon(optional)

1/3 cup (35 grams) driedcranberriesor cherries (optional)

1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk

2 1/2 tablespoons unsulphured molasses

1 teaspoon purevanillaextract

Egg Wash:

1 largeegg

1 tablespoon milk orcream

Maple Glaze: (optional)

1/2 cup (50 grams) sifted confectioners (powdered or icing)sugar

1 1/2tablespoonspuremaple syrup

1 - 2 teaspoonscreamor milk

Preheat oven to 400. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, sugar, spices, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Cut the butter into small pieces and blend into the flour mixture with a pastry blender or two knives. The mixture should look like coarse crumbs. Stir in the lemon zest and dried cranberries, if using. In a separate bowl mix together thebuttermilk, molasses and vanilla and then add the buttermilk mixture to the flour mixture. Mix just until the dough comes together. Do not overmix the dough.

Transfer to a lightly floured surface andkneaddough gently four or five times and then pat the dough into a circle that is about 7 inches (18 cm) round and about 11/2 inches (3.75 cm) thick. Cut this circle in half, then cut each half into 3 pie-shaped wedges (triangles). Place the scones on the baking sheet. Make aneggwash of one well-beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon milk and brush the tops of the scones with this mixture. Sprinkle the tops of the scones with some rolled oats.

Place the baking sheet inside another baking sheet to prevent the bottoms of the scones from over browning. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.

To Glaze: Mix together the glaze ingredients, adding more sugar or milk until you get the desired consistency. It needs to be thin enough that it can be drizzled over the tops of the cooled scones. With aspoondrizzle the glaze over the tops of the scones and let dry.

2010-08-22T17:29:00.000-07:00

image found here

If you live in the Willamette Valley, I am sure you have heard about the Labor Day weekend half marathon. If not, here is a little snippet from runfororegonwine.com....

The inaugural Oregon Wine Country Half Marathon premieres in 2010 on Labor Day weekend, marking the fourth event in the Wine Country Half Marathon Series produced by Destination Races alongside the Napa-to-Sonoma, Santa Barbara and Healdsburg Wine Country Half Marathons. Experience the warmth and charm of the Willamette Valley when the weather is ideal and the vines are full and ready for harvest. This scenic course meanders through the heart of the valley in Yamhill County, beginning at magnificent Stoller Winery and finishing in the town of Carlton for the popular post-race Wine & Music Festival. Less than an hour south of Portland this area is dotted with small towns, orchards, Christmas tree farms, vineyards and ranches.

The Willamette Valley is recognized as one of the finest Pinot Noir producing regions in the world and is home to over 200 wineries. Many of Oregon's finest wineries will be welcoming you to the inaugural Oregon Wine Country Half Marathon. Destination Races has partnered with the Willamette Valley Wineries Association, Ken Wright Cellars, Chehalem Mountains Winegrowers, and the Oregon Agri-Business Council to bring you the ultimate wine and food themed destination running event in the country.

2010-08-07T13:57:00.000-07:00

I do my best to have freshly baked treats waiting for the guests when they arrive. If I am short I time, I stick to my home made chocolate chip cookies. But, when I have a little extra time, I LOVE baking something a little extra special.

I want to share with you this easy and SUPER DELICIOUS recipe I found for Lemon Blueberry Scones. Right now in Carlton, we have a little blueberry stand that has the best, local blueberries. I have been buying quite a few berries, then freezing what we don't eat so we can enjoy blueberry treats in the winter as well.

Lemon Blueberry Scones:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup lemon yogurt
1 egg
1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries*
GLAZE:
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon peel

In a large bowl, combine the first six ingredients. In another bowl, combine the yogurt, egg and butter. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold in blueberries. Drop by heaping tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto a greased baking sheet.

Bake at 400 degrees F for 15-18 minutes or until lightly browned.

Combine glaze ingredients; drizzle over warm scones.

Enjoy!

Recipe from here

Photo for here

Raspberry Cobbler

2010-07-21T10:31:00.001-07:00

If you are staying at the Cottages this month, you know there is an abundance of raspberries! Here is a great cobbler recipe I found....

Ingredients List:

2 tbl cornstarch.
1 1/2 cup sugar.
1 tbl lemon juice.
4 cup raspberries, picked over, rinsed and drained well.
1 cup flour.
1 tsp baking powder.
1/2 tsp salt.
6 tbl unsalted butter, cold, cut into bits.
Vanilla ice cream.

Directions:

In a large bowl, stir together the cornstarch an 1/4 cup cold water until cornstarch is completely dissolved. Add 1 cup sugar, lemon juice, and raspberries, and combine the mixture gently but thoroughly. Transfer to an 8-inch cast-iron skillet. In a bowl, combine well the flour, remaining sugar, baking powder, and salt. Blend in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Add 1/4 cup boiling water and stir the mixture until it just forms a dough. Bring the raspberry mixture to a boil on top of the stove, stirring. Drop spoonfuls of the dough carefully onto the boiling mixture, and bake the cobbler on a foil lined baking sheet in the middle of a 400F degree oven for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden. Serve warm with vanilla ice
cream.

2010-07-15T15:50:00.001-07:00

Will you be joining us at Carlton's A Walk In The Park this year?

It's July 31st {11-8} and August 1st {11-6} and if you have been in the past, you know each year bring better artists, entertainment, food vendors and wineries. It really is a fabulous event and the proceeds benefit our local charities!

For more details, you can check out their website. You really won't want to miss out!!

Turkey Rama 2010

2010-07-07T15:16:00.000-07:00

image courtesy of The News Register

So 2010 marks 50 years of Turkey Rama festivities in McMinnville. It's changed over the years, but it was a festival I always loved as a child.

If you are going to be in the area July 9th and 10th, it's a great place for some tasty nibbles and local entertainment. On Saturday, they will grill over 5 tons of turkey in Wortman Park....that in it's self is reason to come visit!

Oregon Lavender Festival

2010-06-30T19:13:00.000-07:00

image from here

OK girls.....here is a wonderful little festival you won't want to miss.

I'm not saying the boys don't appreciate lavender, I'm just saying you will probably enjoy this event more with your girlfriends....

The Oregon Lavender Festival is July 10th & 11th.

It's held in Yamhill, at Beulah Park. Beulah Park is a serene and beautiful setting.....tall oak trees and grass fields......

This is what the festival's website lists for activities the days of the event.....

enjoy locally produced food and wine, many products made with lavender
visit Yamhill's Beulah Park with booths featuring products hand-made by local artists
watch craftspeople demonstrate their skills
learn how lavender oil is distilled from the plants
view (or buy) local artists' paintings of the area's scenery
cut some lavender! (each location supplies scissors)
buy lavender products made in Oregon as well as brought in specially from Provence, France
learn how to make a lavender wand, sachet, or wreath
ask the experts your questions about growing lavender
enjoy the countryside
listen to local bands
get a massage
relax - that's what lavender is known for!

Sounds pretty good to me!

IPNC

2010-06-25T21:45:00.000-07:00

Are you attending IPNC this year?

"Regarded by wine and food luminaries as "one of the most enjoyable wine weekends in existence," the IPNC is an irresistible event for foodies and Pinot devotees."

A full ticket weekend will get you:

The IPNC Full Weekend Ticket includes:
• A Large Format Food & Wine Pairing Seminar
• 2 Grand Outdoor Tastings
• The Grand Dinner
• The Salmon Bake
• A Vineyard Tour & Winery Lunch
• Array of Afternoon Activities
• Friday and Saturday Breakfast on the Patio
• Sunday Sparkling Brunch Finale
• Opportunity to Celebrate with over 60 International Pinot Noir Winemakers and 50 Guests Chefs

Sounds like a lovely weekend to me! For more details:

Call or E-mail: 800.775.4762 or 503.472.8964 or info@ipnc.org

Welcoming Summer

2010-05-31T09:01:00.000-07:00

Well, Memorial Day Weekend is the "un-official" start of Summer.

It is also the "official" start of the busy season for the cottages. We are now if full gear and looking forward to meeting new guests this year.

The photo above is an inspiration photo for the back yard setting at Gardenside.....we shall see what the summer holds and how far I can make it towards that goal!

Happy Memorial Day weekend! Today I am so thankful for the men and women who have given their lives for our freedom........

xoxo

Darci

2010-05-01T17:05:00.000-07:00

Thursday, May 6th we are opening up the cottages for a

'Carlton Winery & Eatery' open house.

From 5-7 the cottages will be open.

Stop by for some nibbles, drinks and a looksie around the cottages!

Mom's Day Special

2010-04-27T09:08:00.000-07:00

Moms are pretty special you know.

To honor our mother's this Mother's Day weekend, we are offering a Carlton Cottages Special...

Stay 2 nights at either cottage, Mother's Day weekend, and we will waive the cleaning fee.

Mom's clean enough, so we aren't asking the mom's to clean in exchange for no cleaning fee.

Nope, it's a $50 savings.

Plus, we are also going to provide a breakfast basket.

Yep.

Full of coffee, tea, fruit, eggs and fresh baked goods.

Just to say Happy Mother's Day.

In order to take advantage of this special, you have to ask about our "Mother's Day Special" when making your reservation........we promise that mom will not be disappointed!

HGTV is coming to Carlton.....

2010-04-14T18:14:00.000-07:00

Yep.....you read right!

HGTV is coming to our darling little city of Carlton.

One of our bathrooms is going to be on the show 'Bang for your Buck.'

So fun!!

I will keep you posted.

I know everyone in the Haney household will be on their best behavior.....with television cameras around and all......and you will probably see me out in the gardens A LOT trying to everything in tip-top shape.

Oh boy......no time to type!

I better get to work!

xoxo

Darci

2010-04-01T19:25:00.000-07:00

I just had the most lovely guests stay at Parkside....young newlyweds from New York City.

They were just in town for 2 nights but they took advantage of their time in wine country! Here is a bit of the blub they wrote in the guest book......

Darci,

Thank you for an absolutely perfect place to celebrate our anniversary! We enjoyed two solid days of wine tasting in Carlton , came home to a roaring fire in the fireplace and cooked a lovely dinner in your gorgeous kitchen! Everyone in Carlton is extremely friendly and seems to be in love with this little town. Thank you, thank you, thank you.....we will be back soon!

Gary & Cathy

*image courtesy of the lovely PB*

2010-03-29T17:25:00.000-07:00

Have you heard the news?

The Horse Radish has a new owner!

She is super sweet and full of energy.....I am so excited for this new chapter for Carlton's favorite wine and cheese bar.

April 1st is her first day as new owner, if you are in Carlton, you will have to pop in for a glass of vino and say hi!

2010-03-05T12:47:00.001-08:00

Well, we are teaming up with a fabulous massage therapist to offer in-cottage massages. How lovely does that sound??

She is offering 1 hour massages for $70 and 90 minute massages for $90, all within the comfort of the cottage!

She scheduled me for a massage next Friday.....I will let you know how fabulous she is after that!

Happy Friday!!

SIP

2010-03-01T11:55:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it is already time for the McMinnville Food & Wine Classic?

Yep....sure is!

March 12th, 13th and 14th.

The Evergreen Space Museum will be bustling with foodies and wine'os from all over.

If you would like more information, you can check out their website www.macwfc.org

2010-01-17T19:03:00.000-08:00

Spring is right around the corner........

Lemon Clove Cookies

2009-12-13T15:30:00.000-08:00

There is a new Carlton resident who, from what I hear and the little I have tasted, is quite the baker!

Yesterday he popped in the shop and brought me a tasty sample.......a little frosted Lemon Clove cookie.

Oh it was so delightful! Refreshing yet so "holiday" tasting.

I decided to bake up a little batch this morning.

Here is the recipe that I used..........perfect for a little "sugar fix" or, a good little batch of cookies to give away.....

Lemon Clove Cookies

The flavor combination of clove and lemon is remarkably delightful.

Prep: 15 min - Chill: 1 hour - Cook: 15 min per cookie sheet

3/4 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon Lemon Extract
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves
2 cups all-purpose flour

Lemon Glaze:
1 1/2 cups confectioners sugar
2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon water
1/4 teaspoon Lemon Extract

1. Beat together butter and sugar with electric mixer. Add egg, lemon extract and salt. Beat until smooth. Stir in ground cloves and flour.

2. Divide dough in half. Wrap each half in wax paper to form a cylinder about 1 1/2 inches in diameter and 9 inches long. Chill dough.

3. Preheat oven to 350°F. Cut dough into 1/4-inch slices. Arrange on ungreased cookie sheet and bake 12-15 minutes. Remove from pan and cool. Prepare Lemon Glaze.

4. Combine confectioners sugar, water and lemon extract. Drizzle over cooled cookies.

Makes 30 (2 cookie) servings

courtesy of www.backofthebox.com and www.mccormick.com

Oh Christmas Tree.....

2009-12-07T11:33:00.000-08:00

Friday night was the Tree Lighting Ceremony in Carlton.

We had local chorus and band members singing and playing Christmas carols, along with hot cocoa and cookies.

It's a great little community event. Our little Christmas trees are very simple, but who knows what the years could bring???

Here's to some City decorated Christmas tree inspiration......

For now we will be happy with our 3 little Christmas trees that grace the Upper Park. Christmas is alive and well in Carlton!!

xoxo

Darci

2009-11-20T10:16:00.000-08:00

If you are in Carlton this weekend, we would LOVE to have you stop by our Preview Sale at Lullaby boutique (223 W. Main Street)

We will be open Saturday, November 21st

and

Sunday, November 22nd from 12-6.

Stop in and warm up with a cup of hot cocoa and a few cookies.....we will be looking for ya!

Stormy Day

2009-11-07T14:53:00.000-08:00

The first big storm of Autumn has officially found it's way to the Willamette Valley.

Thunder. Lightning. Rain.

In my book, it's a perfect day for sitting by the fire and listening to the storm.

I do miss the living room at PARKSIDE, which is where we once called "HOME."

You could watch the storm roll in off of the mountains, start a fire and just cozy in for the day.

Now, lovely guests from all over the U.S get to enjoy this living room. They get to snuggle in, start a fire, pour a glass of wine and watch the storm roll in.

I have to refrain from walking over and asking if I can snuggle in and join them by the fire.....

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.....

2009-10-16T15:14:00.000-07:00

It's early, I know.

But, little elves have been planning this year's Christmas in Carlton for months now.

So, mark your calendars.

December 4th and December 5th.

On the night of the 4th, we are going to listen to festive Christmas carolers, enjoy refreshments and watch our city tree lighting.......

2009-10-13T12:32:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I have Favorites.

Favorite guests that is.

Maybe they were super sweet on the phone, or just very intriguing and kind.

Maybe they don't even become a Favorite until after they have checked out and I find nice comments, great wine or other gifts and/or a fairly clean cottage.

Sometimes I show favoritism.

I know it's probably not "professional." I know it's not very nice. I should treat everyone special.

Well, I had a SUPER SWEET lady and her husband stay a few weeks ago.....and I left her a little treat. It's a super easy treat to give. I usually give this, or something similar, as a gift when Matt finishes a bathroom remodel as well.

Who doesn't love La Bella Casa......and fancy soap that a dear friend so graciously told me about......and we always need new plush, soft towels.....right?

I'm just passing along a little tid-bit of information....it pays to be nice to the receptionist when you book a reservation somewhere......maybe she plays Favorites too :)

More Sweet Words........

2009-10-07T08:33:00.000-07:00

Here are some more sweet words from some guests at Garenside Cottage....

Darci,

We had a wonderful time staying in the Gardenside Cottage. By our standards, this is much more than a cottage, it is a beautiful, spacious home!

Many gourmet dinners were enjoyed in the well stocked kitchen. And, watching the sun set over the hills through the master suite window also, a thing of great beauty to see.

We will come and stay again and recommend the Carlton Cottages to my friends and family in Seattle and San Francisco.

Thank you,

Peter, Nicole, Natalie and Jason

2009-10-02T10:14:00.000-07:00

At Parkside, our pear tree produced the mother load of pears this year! When we don't have guests, I go pick a bucket or 2 of these golden beauties. I found this wonderful pizza recipe.....if you love trying new kinds of pizza.....you will love this!! This recipe is from www.allrecipes.com

INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)

1 (16 ounce) package refrigerated pizza crust dough
4 ounces sliced provolone cheese
1 Bosc pear, thinly sliced
2 ounces chopped walnuts
2 1/2 ounces Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).
Place pizza crust dough on a medium baking sheet. Layer with Provolone cheese. Top cheese with Bosc pear slices. Sprinkle with walnuts and Gorgonzola cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven 8 to 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and crust is lightly browned. Remove from heat. Top with chives and slice to serve.

2009-09-26T17:56:00.000-07:00

Well, as the summer growing season is coming to an end, I am busily trying to find recipes to use the last of my tomatoes, squash, basil and other herbs before the first frost.

I have veggies, fruit and herbs planted at both the cottages and I LOVE it when guests have fun raiding the garden!

Anyways, one of my favorite summer treats is fresh pesto. I typically make it with basil, but have also used parsley and even cilantro. I made this pizza the other night and it is a fast, easy dinner that helps to use up some of those "end of summer" veggies and herbs. This recipe is from www.allrecipes.com

INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)

1 (12 inch) pre-baked pizza crust
1/2 cup pesto
1 ripe tomato, chopped
1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
1 (2 ounce) can chopped black olives, drained
1/2 small red onion, chopped
1 (4 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and sliced
1 cup crumbled feta cheese

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).
Spread pesto on pizza crust. Top with tomatoes, bell peppers, olives, red onions, artichoke hearts and feta cheese.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and browned.

2009-09-23T18:53:00.000-07:00

Well, the new website is up an running! The designer was a delight to work with and the website now coordinates with our printed material. You will have to stop by and check it out, www.carltoncottages.com, we are giving $500 to the first 10 visitors.

Oops....

That is not true.

Wrong promotion. :)

We are giving a big Thank You to everyone who takes a peek at it.

It's such a treat to meet talented people who are so great at their job......thanks Simone!

sweet words....

2009-09-13T20:26:00.000-07:00

We have had some of the sweetest people stay at the cottages.

We have Guest Books at each of the cottages. I love it when guests write comments about their stay.

We had a couple who stayed at Parkside this past weekend. They are fellow Pac. North Westerner's from Seattle.....

Carlton is an undiscovered gem-what a peaceful place to relax and explore the indescribable Oregon wines. The cottage is perfectly lovely-all in order.

We had perfect weather to sit at STOLLER and enjoy the country views; LEMELSON is so close and with wonderful wines. CARLTON FARMS pork dogs, grilled pears, Oregon Blue Cheese from THE HORSE RADISH, and sweet tomatoes from the garden, all make a lovely candle-lit dinner on the deck. La Rambla in McMinnville was terrific. Thank you for peace and quiet and ideas for our retirement house! We'll send our friends!

Community Market

2009-09-08T09:11:00.000-07:00

McMinnville's Granary District plans to host a community market Saturday, Sept. 12, as a test to see if local residents, artisans and businesses will support a weekend market year-around. The test run is slated for 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

I think this is sooooo exciting for our little community! I will be there to support them and definitely spend my $$ locally!

2009-08-25T20:26:00.000-07:00

I LOVE it when guests are gardeners! Or, at least love gardens......

They are so excited and inquisitive about the gardens and flowers.

I had guests in a few days ago who were just from Portland and they left with several starts and cuttings.

So fun to be able to share flowers, plants and a love of gardening!

If any of my little gardening friends out there would like starts, just stop by, I would be more than happy to share......

2009-08-19T10:10:00.000-07:00

New Website Coming Soon! We are movin' on up in the world of all things internet ....... so be on the look out for our new website......hopefully it will be here before the holidays.......

Walk in the Park Guests

2009-08-05T10:46:00.000-07:00

Well, we have met some delightful people through the cottages. This past weekend we, had art vendors for Carlton's a Walk In The Park stay at Parkside. They were WONDERFUL! Not only were they fascinating and entertaining, they were polite, clean and very thoughtful.

GARY & MICKI VOORHIES create custom COPPER & IRON metalwork for the home and garden.

I purchased just 4 small chicks from them. However, when I headed out back to do some garden work I found a few of their pieces they left for me!!

KELLY PHIPPS also creates custom COPPER & IRON metalwork for the home and garden.

Same story.

I purchased an adorable DRAGONFLY from Kelly and when I headed out back to work in the garden, she had left me a QUEEN OF THE GARDEN piece!

Look at that cute sunflower!

And another.

Cute chicks. One for each of my girls.

Most of the time I feel like SLAVE OF THE GARDEN, not QUEEN!

Thanks you guys! You are so TALENTED and generous!!

2009-07-27T15:21:00.000-07:00

This is the first summer that Gardenside has had a yard and flowers. I can't believe how the flowers are blooming! Lot's of work to do this fall as far as amending the soil, transplanting and adding to the mix. Here are a few pics, we have a ways to go but it's a start.......

International Pinot Noir Celebration

2009-07-22T11:36:00.000-07:00

This weekend McMinnville will be buzzing as wine lovers from near and far come take part in the 23rd annual International Pinot Noir Celebration. I've never been but I hear the fun is wonderful and the wine is even better. Can't wait to hear the rave reviews about the 2009 IPNC.....

Pesto

2009-07-15T16:40:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love pesto? Really. I can't get enough of it during short summers here in the Willamette Valley. I try to keep an assortment of herbs and veggies growing in the gardens at the cottages. I probably don't have enough basil at the cottages to make a fresh batch of pesto, but here is my tried and true Jamie Oliver recipe......

½ clove of garlic, grated
salt and pepper
3 handfuls of fresh basil leaves
½ cup pine nuts, lightly toasted
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
olive oil, optional
a squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

1. Mix garlic, salt and basil leaves in a pestle and mortar, or pulse in a food processor. Add the pine nuts and mix again.

2. Pour out into a bowl and add half the Parmesan cheese. Stir and add olive oil to make into a firm sauce.

3. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and cheese until you reach the desired taste.

4. Add lemon juice.

2009-07-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

We had just the greatest couple stay at Parkside for a week. They were from Texas and they were so friendly and fascinating. They even sent us a little "gift package" from Texas! Here are a few pictures she took from the back yard......

Enjoying dinner and wine on the back deck.......
The sunflowers are now in full bloom......
The vegetable and flower gardens. They were able to help themselves to the last wave of strawberries and the new wave of raspberries.......

2009-07-04T13:56:00.000-07:00

Happy Independence Day! We are so blessed to live in a country where we are free.

2009-06-30T16:30:00.000-07:00

As I am busily working in the garden, the smell of lavender reminds me that the Oregon Lavender Festival is right around the corner. July 11th and 12th to be exact. If you are a lavender lover, or you just love great artists, food and wine, then you will want to plan on stopping by. Here is a link to event website for more details......

Save the date.....

2009-06-24T15:19:00.000-07:00

This year, Carlton's a Walk in the Park will be held August 1st and 2nd. It's fabulous wine, food, artists, vendors and live entertainment, all together under the oak trees in the lower park. You won't want to miss out!

Oregon Brews & BBQs

2009-06-16T08:22:00.000-07:00

This weekend is the annual Oregon Brews and BBQs. We went last year and it is a blast. The food was delicious and I hear (not much of a beer drinker myself) the beer selection was great. So join the fun this Friday and Saturday, June 19th and 20th at McMinnville's Granary District.

Sunset Magazine

2009-06-08T11:50:00.000-07:00

Have you checked out the latest issue of Sunset magazine? They have a wonderful story on Oregon's Wine Country, particularly Carlton.

2009-05-26T08:15:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I had the opportunity to meet yet another great guest. Typically, I don't meet the guests. The check-in and check-out process is really convenient for me and them. She stopped by the Vintage Sale on Sunday and we chatted away. She also headed back to Washington with some new treasures......

She snagged this ADORABLE vintage bird bath that was planted with succulents. Really, it was so cute. We all shed a little tear when we wrote SOLD on the tag.

She also walked away with several BumbleBee Hill Farms soaps.

And of course she needed a box of cookies for the road.

Thanks Arlene! It was such a treat to meet you and thank you for leaving the cottage so clean.....you are welcome back any time!

Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-19T19:38:00.000-07:00

Carlton, and really the entire Willamette Valley, springs to life Memorial Day weekend. It is the un-official start to wine tasting season. Here are a few things you could do this weekend....

Of course, you could visit us at our Spring Fling Vintage Sale. We would love to have you!

Many choose to tour the countryside by bike......

And of course, there are the wineries. Some of them are only open Memorial Day weekend and Thanksgiving weekend. What a treat! Carlton offers a free transportation service within the city limits on Saturday and Sunday. We want people to enjoy their time and not have to worry about parking or driving from winery to winery. Schedules and posters are through out the town.

Have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!

2009-05-14T09:38:00.000-07:00

We just had the most delightful and intriguing ladies join us for out little dessert at the cottages last night. They braved the awful Oregon rain and ended their fun filled night with coffee, lemon tartletts and pecan pie tarts. The Willamette Valley is full or fun, dynamic and creative women!

It's time for a little party......

2009-05-12T10:54:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow evening, the cottages and I are hosting the dessert portion of a progressive dinner through Carlton. I believe Carlton will be buzzing with about 50 extra women tomorrow night. Cheese and wine at the Horse Radish, more wine at Tyrus Evan and Scott Paul, appetizers at Cielo Blu, dinner at Cuvee, then the girls are hopping into two vans and being chauffeured to the cottages for dessert. Oh what fun!

The desserts have been purchased....ummm I mean baked :)

The lilacs have been cut and arranged.......

Oh the fun we will have!

Clean

2009-05-02T18:34:00.001-07:00

I had some guests leave today who had been at Gardenside for 15 nights. That is the longest anyone has stayed! I was a little worried about how the cottage would fare without being cleaned for 15 nights. Well......my guests were FABULOUS! They even vacuumed, cleaned the bathrooms and the wood floors! For the most part, I do enjoy cleaning the cottages. Part of that fun is the fact that I can justify purchasing really great cleaning products. I just love getting the space all ready for new guests! Some of my favorite products to use.....

I spray down all of the linens and furniture with my linen spray. Bella Casa carries this line and they are so yummy! Lavender Pine is what my guests are currently smelling.

This surface spray works really well, it smells yummy and it's even organic.

I use them to wipe down EVERYTHING!

Do you have some great cleaning products that you love to use?? Do tell..........

2009-04-28T12:32:00.000-07:00

If you will be in the Willamette Valley over Memorial Day weekend, you will not want to miss our huge Spring Fling Vintage Sale. It will be May 23rd and 24th and we have several vendors lined up. Antiques, vintage finds, handmade goods, flowers, plants, baked goods, and so much more. You won't want to miss out.....I promise!

Mother's Day in Wine Country

2009-04-25T12:13:00.000-07:00

I spoke with a guest yesterday who takes annual Mother's Day get-aways...... three adult sisters and their mom. What a great way to celebrate such a special day......a night away with just the girls. The Willamette Valle is a perfect spot for girls to visit. We have wonderful antique shops. RD Steeves is just in neighboring Yamhill, Rick's Wholesale Antiques and Lafayette School House Antiques in Lafayette, and many more in neighboring towns.

Nurseries usually seem to get a girl excited too. Our fertile ground provides us with some fabulous nurseries to choose from. Ferguson's Fragrant Nursery is one of my favorites! They have beautiful gardens and the staff is very helpful. Country Gardens is just a few miles from the cottages......they have a wonderful selection and the pots are beautiful!

And, of course there are plenty of wonderful tasting rooms and restaurants to visit. Too many to even try to hit in one weekend. In fact, Mother's Day in the Willamette Valley may just need to become an annual tradition!

2009-04-16T19:19:00.001-07:00

As April appears to be passing by, I am anxiously awaiting May. I always wait until May 1st to plant my veggies and flower starts. I love to have fresh veggies, fruit and herbs at the cottages. I think it is a fun treat for guests that decide to stay in for dinner and cook or BBQ. I already have some sunflowers, zinnias and cosmos popping up from last year! The fruit trees are blooming and the strawberries are flowering. I am ready!

Carlton Farmer's Market

2009-04-14T10:20:00.000-07:00

Well, the sun is shining and Oregonians vaguely remember what it is like to be outside and feel the warmth of the sun. For me, a huge part of summer is gardening! I LOVE to be outside and I know many other Oregonians who do to. Well gardeners, it's time to get planting. It sounds as if Carlton will be hosting a farmer's market this summer and we will need vendors!

I will have more to come on days and times.........

If you are interested in volunteering or selling your produce, please shoot me an email or feel free to give me a call at 503-852-7868.

Save the Date!

2009-04-11T11:32:00.000-07:00

You won't want to miss our Spring Vintage Sale! Memorial Day weekend, May 23rd and 24th to be exact, the streets of Carlton will be bustling and we will have unique finds, creations, antiques, flowers, displays and so much more. More to come.......

Spring has sprung!!

2009-04-06T10:57:00.000-07:00

Well, today the estimated temperature in the Willamette Valley is 77.

Yes, 77.

Sorry for the short post, but I have to get outside!

Ideas.....

2009-03-31T09:24:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we had some guests visiting for a family birthday party. When they called, they asked the infamous questions......What do you do in this area if you don't want to go wine tasting? Well, we have a plethora of fun things to do in the Willamette Valley if you don't enjoy wine tasting!

I have never been on a hot air balloon ride but I have heard they are a blast! Vista Balloon Adventures is based out of Newberg and offers this adventurous treat. It is quite a site to behold when you see the early morning sky dotted with hot air balloons. Ahhhh.....
There are incredible hiking trails, bike trails, wonderful parks and golf courses. We have brochures for different trails at the cottages but the Chamber of Commerce has a wonderful assortment of literature.

The Willamette Valley is filled with wonderful restaurants. Not only is historic 3rd street lined with treats for the taste buds, there are adorable boutiques and unique shops to visit too. You can't forget about the Evergreen Space Museum, we have spent hours in there and not seen everything. Of course when summer arrives, there are farmer's markets, festivals and various art, wine and food events. This area is rich with treasures!

Herb Gardening Class

2009-03-26T10:48:00.000-07:00

Well, as the sun begins to shine, I think all of us Pacific North Westerners are itching to get outside. I love gardening....flowers, veggies, herbs, I just love being outside! I have planned a herb gardening class in April. A nod to Spring and a chance to learn about caring for herbs, cooking with herbs and then planting a container garden. Not only is it more cost effective to grow your own herbs, many are perennial and will come back year after year. Here are the details below.

When: Friday, April 24th 4:00-5:30

Saturday, April 25th 1:00-2:30

Where: 543 W. Main Street, Carlton

What's Provided: Everything!

Unique Pots To Plant Your Herb Garden In

Soil

Herb Labels

Herbs

Lavender Lemonade and Lemon Thyme Lemon Bars

Cost: $20 for a small garden (you choose 3 out of 8 of your favorite herbs to plant)

$28 for a large garden (you choose 6 out of 8 of our favorite herbs to plant)

RSVP: by April 15th to darcihaney@yahoo.com or 503-857-8176

Cookies or Chocolate??

2009-03-23T15:01:00.000-07:00

I typically leave a little cake stand with cookies for guests when they arrive. Usually is it chocolate chip, nothing too daring but a favorite standby. I am toying with the thought of leaving a small box of Honest Chocolates instead. The Honey Caramels are my favorite! Anyways, Dana Dooley, the very talented owner of HC, now has her HC Kitchen downtown. On the weekends, here husband works the tasting room and they pair Dana's chocolate with her husband's wine. Divine. I'm thinking it may be a nice treat for guests to try the chocolate at the cottage, then know you can walk downtown and try different chocolates with wine, or purchase a couple of pieces for the road. Any thoughts?

$25 Prix-Fixe Dinner at Cuvee

2009-03-19T10:22:00.000-07:00

If you haven't been to Cuvee yet, you are truly missing out! It is French Country cuisine at its finest. Let's not forget about the lovely, intimate setting as well. The restaurant is tastefully decorated and nestled between the Main Street Deli and the City Park, right on Main Street. During the month of March, they are offering 3 course Prix-Fixe dinners for $25! You won't want to miss out.....

Q & A with Sabra....owner of the Horse Radish

2009-03-16T16:14:00.000-07:00

Carlton is full of fabulous businesses and very talented business owners. The Horse Radish is an extremely busy wine and cheese bar located here in the heart of Carlton. Not only is the Horse Radish a wonderful palate pleasing addition to our dear town, it also offers classes, live music and other entertaining venues to the list of things to do while in Carlton.

How long has the H.R. been in Carlton?

We opened mid-May 2007.

What inspired you to open the H.R.?

I always wanted to have a cheese store, and with the great pairing of wine and cheese, somewhere in the Willamette Valley would be perfect.

What is your favorite part of your job?

Tasting cheese, wine and enjoying people.

What are the top three things you love about Carlton?

(Not is order of preference!) .....people, wine, beautiful area.

Do tell about your upcoming events.

Live music every Friday and Saturday evening
East Coast Swing dancing lessons starting 3/29 (4 Sundays)
Different local wineries coming to pour Thursdays from 5-7 pm and Saturday afternoons
Various consignment art hanging which is rotated frequently

Thanks Sabra!

Blushing......

2009-03-12T08:06:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Karl Klooster who wrote a "little ditty" about the cottages in the latest edition of The Oregon Wine Press. He mentioned to me yesterday that they are running a similar story in an upcoming News Register article. Thank you. We are so blessed to be a part of this vibrant and charming area.

16th Annual McMinnville Wine & Food Classic

2009-03-07T17:14:00.000-08:00

Next weekend, March 13th, 14th and 15th, McMinnville will be showcasing it's best in wine and food. The event is held at Evergreen Aviation Museum which is an incredible venue in and of itself. This event is open to all ages and draws attendees from all over the Northwest. Check out the SIP website at www.macwfc.org/index.html

Good morning!

2009-03-07T17:09:00.000-08:00

Well, here at Carlton Cottages we have decided to keep on online journal of all of the great things that are happening, not only in Carlton, but in the entire Willamette Valley....