Art by Night Gallery Crawl
“The artist is a receptacle for emotions that come from all over the place: from the sky, from the earth, from a scrap of paper, from a passing shape, from a spider’s web. ” –Pablo Picasso
Attention all art lovers! Downtown Roanoke will be presenting its next monthly gallery crawl on November 6, and you definitely won’t want to miss out! The Art by Night Gallery Crawl features some incredibly talented artisans, and their displays: “Art by Night showcases Roanoke’s thriving arts community, featuring diverse galleries, museums and artist’s studios. This event supports Roanoke’s talented, local artists, and brings the community together through art openings, live music and demonstrations” (RoanokeArtbyNight.com).
Fast Facts:
When: November 6, 2015, 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Where: Downtown Roanoke (Free parking will be available at the Warehouse Row lot on Salem Avenue, the Williamson Road lots between Franklin Road and Church Avenue, and the Elmwood lot at Williamson Road.)
Cost: Free
Participating Galleries:
– Wilson Hughes Gallery (http://www.wilsonhughesgallery.com/)
– Art on Kirk (http://artonkirk.blogspot.com/)
– LinDor Arts (http://www.facebook.com/LinDorArts)
– Villages of Africa (http://www.villagesofafrica.com/)
– 202 Market Square Gallery (https://www.facebook.com/202MarketSquareGallery)
– LIMINAL: alternative artspace (https://www.facebook.com/LiminalArtspace)
– Roanoke Symphony Orchestra (http://www.rso.com/thegreenroom)
– The Market Gallery (http://www.marketgalleryroanoke.com/)
– Taubman Museum of Art (http://www.taubmanmuseum.org/)
– Ripple (http://www.rippleroanoke.com/)
– Art & Iron, An Artistan Gallery (http://facebook.com/ArtandIron)
– Alexander / Heath Contemporary (http://alexander-heath.com/)
Lodging: A Shenandoah Valley B&B!
Fall Photography in the Shenandoah Valley
It should come as no surprise the fall is one of the most photographed times of year. From professional photographers to casual passers-by with a camera phone, almost everyone is eager to capture the colorful brilliance of autumn. The Shenandoah Valley of Virginia happens to be a particularly picturesque locale for your photography, so grab your camera, book your room at one of our BBHSV Inns, and let these tips help you get started:
Take photos at sunrise and sunset.
“The first and last hours of sun during the day (the times right around both sunrise and sunset) have a brilliant quality to the light that can yield great photos” (PhotoJojo).
Use water in your photography.
“Still water in lakes and lochs is ideal for capturing reflections. If you get down to the water’s edge you can create sublime, symmetrical compositions, with the landscape occupying the top half of the shot and its reflection filling the foreground” (DigitalCameraWorld).
Use subtleties.
“Consider some close-ups that are related to autumn but not to the season’s bright colors, like the image of mushrooms growing on the side of a tree, or the photo of a milkweed seed pod with seeds being dispersed by the wind…Fall color is an excuse to go out in the woods; it doesn’t mean that everything you photograph has to be defined by colorful leaves” (NikonUSA).
Ready for an autumn adventure in the Shenandoah Valley? Choose an Inn now!
New Market Virginia’s Southern Kitchen
If you’re a history buff touring New Market, Virginia’s Museum of the Civil War or Battlefield State Historic Park, then you’ll most likely work up an appetite with all of that Civil War history indulgence. What better way is there to fill your growling stomach than with some hearty southern food?
Photo by Ron V
Southern Kitchen is New Market’s very own classic, southern eatery. Established in 1955, it has a long tradition of comfort food with everything from fried chicken to peanut soup, all served with 1950s flair. Feast on a country ham as the jukebox plays behind you. Chow down on a homemade meringue pie with its perfect creamy sweetness. Sip some vegetable or peanut soup on a chilly, fall day, or bite into the hot, open-faced roast beef sandwich. (Is your mouth watering yet? Ours certainly is.)
Photo by Pamela T
But don’t take just our word for it. Check out these Yelp reviews as well:
“I had the fried chicken, which was beyond delicious with a crispy golden skin and juicy meat. The chicken-fried steak, smothered in white gravy, that my son ordered was even better. Awesome mashed taters and tasty beets and green beans. The waitress convinced us to have some pie with our coffee (chocolate for me, lemon for my son).”
“Excellent food! Friendly service. Some of the best biscuits and gravy I have ever had.”
“Hush puppies, Peanut Soup, Fried Chicken… and finish it all off with a slice of coconut cream pie…”
Photo by Dana S
Need lodging for your New Market getaway? Click here to check out our BBHSV members.
Apple Crisp Pancakes with Apple Cinnamon Syrup
“We were served a delicious breakfast each morning, and Betty makes this wonderful apple cinnamon syrup to use on her pancakes or waffles.” –TripAdvisor Reviewer
There’s nothing quite as comforting as waking up to a hot breakfast of a chilly morning, and who does breakfast better than a B&B? Betty Luse, innkeeper at Widow Kip’s Country Inn, is happy to share her recipe for apple crisp pancakes, enhanced with a rich apple cinnamon syrup, so try it out for a holiday breakfast, and you’ll never go back to cold cereal again!
Pancake Ingredients:
1 egg, beaten
¾ cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
2½ cups pancake mix, divided
¾ cup chunky applesauce plus extra for serving
½ cup quick cooking oats
¼ cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons butter, softened
Apple Cinnamon Syrup Ingredients:
1 cup sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons cinnamon
2 cups apple cider of natural apple juice
2 tablespoons lemon juice
½ stick butter
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray a baking pan with non-stick cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine egg, milk, vanilla, 2 cups of pancake mix, and ¾ cup of applesauce. Spread mixture in pan. In a medium bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, remaining ½ cup of pancake mix and butter. Sprinkle oats mixture over ingredients in pan. Bake for 14-16 minutes. Serve with applesauce and warm apple cinnamon syrup.
For the syrup: Combine sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, apple cider, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then remove pan from heat and stir in butter until melted, and combine. Serve warm.
Photo by TripAdvisor user mmnnbb1.
A B&B at Llewellyn Lodge, Lexington, VA
Lexington, VA is chock full of activity, ranging from history to horses, and after a day of exploration and enjoyment, you’ll need somewhere to rest your head. Who do we suggest for your lodging needs? A B&B at Llewellyn Lodge, a member of the Bed and Breakfasts of the Historic Shenandoah Valley.
For the past 30 years, A B&B at Llewellyn Lodge has been owned and run by John and Ellen Roberts, who are not only exceptional innkeepers, but also fascinating individuals. John, a Lexington native, is an expert fly fisher as well as an accomplished outdoorsman with a vast knowledge of the area. Ellen is a gourmet cook with a history in the hospitality industry, and she is also an avid golf enthusiast.
The inn itself is comprised of warm, welcoming 3-diamond rooms that offer high speed internet access, HD televisions, private baths, and all of the other modern amenities necessary for a luxurious getaway. Be sure to check their specials page for up-to-date information on the packages they offer:
– September Special
– General’s Package
– Romantic Weekend Package
– Fine Dining Experience
– Fly Fishing Package
– Massage and Spa Package
Click here to check availability and make your reservation now at A B&B at Llewellyn Lodge.
(Trivia: Previous guests of this inn have included Newt Gingrich, Jimmy Dean, Tom Wolf, and Miss Manners. Fishing guests have included Senator John Warner, and John Havlicek of the Boston Celtic Hall of Fame.)
Attend Fall Festival Living History Day at Grand Caverns
If you caught a past blog of ours, then you may have learned a bit about the famous Grand Caverns of Grottoes, Virginia. But a tour of the caverns isn’t the only excitement you can experience at this historic location. Coming up on October 3, 2015, you’ll have the chance to experience Fall Festival Living History Day. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just a casual observer of the past, you won’t want to miss this event!
Here are a few details about what you can expect to find and enjoy at this year’s festival:
- Artifact Identification: Bring you arrowheads, stone tools, and other historic artifacts, and let the Massanutten Chapter of the Virginia Archeological Society help you identify their past.
- Re-enactment Groups: “Re-enactment groups from different time periods will be demonstrating the daily life of a Civil War, WWII, and Vietnam Era Soldier throughout the day.”
- Vehicle Displays: Observe an array of military, classic, and antique vehicles.
- A Ballroom Dance: Held inside the Ballroom of Grand Caverns, you’ll have the opportunity to end the festival with an authentic ball from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (It’s not required, but if you feel so inclined, feel free to wear period attire!)
Don’t forget to book your room at a Shenandoah Valley B&B to complete your Living History experience. We look forward to seeing you!
Why You Should Visit the Shenandoah Valley in the Fall
“There is something incredibly nostalgic and significant about the annual cascade of autumn leaves.” ― Joe L. Wheeler
Here comes fall! Have you planned your Shenandoah Valley adventure?
1. The Fall Foliage: Of course this is reason #1! The Shenandoah Valley bursts into autumn with colorful ferocity as green fades into fiery shades of fall. There is no better place to watch the seasonal shift of nature than at a Shenandoah Valley B&B in the heart of Virginia’s mountains. (Stay up-to-date with the foliage by calling the Virginia Fall Foliage hotline at 1-800-424-LOVE.
2. Fewer People: Summer is the overwhelmingly popular time to travel, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best time. Beat the crowds with a fall getaway (especially a mid-week vacation when the streets are still and the beds are available).
3. The Outdoor Activities. Whether you’re hiking, biking, horseback riding, or simply enjoying a scenic drive, fall is the ideal time to venture outdoors. You’ll find cooler weather that has left behind the humidity of summer but hasn’t quite entered the chill of winter, and you’ll have the opportunity to experience the colors of nature firsthand.
4. Shenandoah Fall Foliage Bike Festival. If you’re an avid biker, a casual cycling enthusiast, or a supporting observer, then you won’t want to miss this festival! “A perennial favorite with cyclists up and down the mid-Atlantic states and beyond, the Fall Foliage Bike Festival offers a full weekend of riding, sightseeing and warm Virginia hospitality.”
We look forward to seeing you on a fall adventure in the Shenandoah Valley! Click here to check out our member inns, and book your lodging soon, as our B&Bs fill up fast in the fall.
A Treetop Adventure with Virginia Canopy Tours
There’s no doubt that Virginia breathtaking (especially that historically stunning portion of the Commonwealth known as the Shenandoah Valley!). It’s one thing to view Virginia from the roads of a scenic drive or from the mountaintops after a challenging hike; it’s another thing entirely to watch the view rush past you as you zip through a canopy of lush trees.
Photo by Virginia Canopy Tours
Virginia Canopy Tours offers you a chance to “Zip the Park” and explore Shenandoah with their zip line excursions: “During the canopy tour, participants will enjoy stunning views of the Massanutten Mountains and the gorgeous hardwood forest of the Shenandoah Valley. Guests will learn the rich history of the Shenandoah Valley, native plant species, and the wild inhabitants who make the woods their home.” These two and a half- to three-hour tours will take you up to 90 feet above the ground and beyond speeds of 40 miles per hour. You’ll explore 8 different zip lines, a sky bridge, an air stair bridge, a rappel, and more.
After your treetop adventure, you’ll definitely want a place to unwind and relax, and that’s where the Bed and Breakfasts of the Historic Shenandoah Valley comes in. BBHSV member Lackawanna Bed & Breakfast is only a short drive away from Shenandoah River State Park.
Happy zip lining!
Breweries in and around the Shenandoah Valley, Virginia
“Without question, the greatest invention in the history of mankind is beer. Oh, I grant you that the wheel was also a fine invention, but the wheel does not go nearly as well with pizza.” –Dave Berry, Writer and Humorist
Did you know that August is Virginia Craft Beer Month? Now is the time to showcase the Commonwealth’s growing craft beer industry as well as highlighting the award-winning brews in the area. The Shenandoah Valley of Virginia is home to a number of breweries and is just down the road from the aptly named “Brew Ridge Trail.” Check out the following breweries, and while you’re at it, find lodging at a nearby B&B:
Redbeard Brewing Company, Staunton, VA
Queen City Brewing, Staunton, VA
Shenandoah Valley Brewing Company, Staunton, VA
Three Brothers Brewing Company, Harrisonburg, VA
Pale Fire Brewing Company, Harrisonburg, VA
Three Notch’d Brewing Company, Harrisonburg, VA
The Brew Ridge Trail, including Devils Backbone Brewing Company, Wild Wolf Brewing Company, Blue Mountain Brewery, South Street Brewery, and Starr Hill.
Happy Virginia Craft Beer Month!
Indulge in this recipe for Apple Crepes with Hot Cranberry Sauce
If you thought our last pancake recipe from By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages was good, wait until you try these apple crepes with hot cranberry sauce! You’ll never want to go back to cold cereal and milk again.
- Ingredients – Crepes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 3 Tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch salt
- Ingredients – Apple Filling
- 6 fresh tart apples — peeled, cored, and sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 2 to 3 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup sugar (depending on variety of apple used)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice with freshly grated zest
- 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- Ingredients – Hot Cranberry Syrup
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 cups cold water
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 or 2 drops red food coloring (optional)
Crepes: Sift together flour and sugar in a small bowl. Combine remaining ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Add dry mixture and beat until smooth. Lightly grease a 6-inch non-stick skillet over medium/high heat. Coat the bottom with about 3 Tablespoons of batter, spreading to cover the bottom of the skillet. Cook until crepe is lightly brown; flip and quickly brown the other side. Stack between layers of parchment or waxed paper until all crepes are cooked. Makes a dozen.
Apple Filling: Prepare the apples and place in a large bowl. Combine the sugar and spice with the cornstarch and sprinkle over the apples. Coat the fruit well. Melt the butter over a medium flame/heat and add the apple mixture. Saute several minutes until juices emerge, lower flame/heat, and continue to simmer until apples are “tender crisp” — maybe 5 minutes more (again, depending on the variety used). Turn off flame/heat, cover apples, and hold warm.
Hot Cranberry Syrup: Combine sugar with cornstarch and mix well. Add cold water and stir over medium flame/heat until sugar begins to dissolve. Add cranberries and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to a low boil and continue cooking as cranberries begins to burst and mixture thickens nicely, approximately 5 to 7 minutes more. Add 1 or 2 drops of red food coloring if the cranberries haven’t provided enough color.
To serve: Fill each crepe with 2 to 3 spoonfuls of warm apple filling, fold to center, adorn with beautiful red cranberry syrup, and garnish with a sprig of edible greenery. Eat and enjoy!
Originally published here.