Candlelite Inn: Happy New Year

I would like to wish everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. There will be many exciting things happening here at the Candlelite Inn. Our Inn to Inn Snowshoe Adventure this January. We still have a couple of rooms available. As of now the March Inn to Inn trek is filled. Also in January our Stew & Story. I'll have more for you after the holidays. Happy New Year Everyone and may all your troubles be small and all your memories happy ones.

Candlelite Inn: Happy Holidays

Happy Holidays Everyone. Enjoy this holiday season with family and friends--making memories that will last. A new year is approaching. This is a good time to look over the past year and make adjustments. But keep positive thoughts and 2011 will look brighter. Don't forget family and friends. You are there for each other. Have a Merry Christmas and a safe New Year. Happy Holidays to All!

Candlelite Inn: Snow Day

Well we received our first dusting of snow. I know, it's only a dusting. But you have to have snow for Christmas. I'm sure the ski areas are doing a happy dance. The only thing about this dusting, there is some ice underneath. Not good. So be careful out there and throughout the winter. I don't know if there is such a thing as favorite snow, but mine is the light, fluffy kind that sparkles in the sun. I know you can't build a snowman with it, but it is still pretty. Be safe out there and enjoy the snow where ever you are.

Candlelite Inn: Ski Season

Brrrr, it's cold out there. But the ski season is in full swing. They have been making snow and getting ready for their visitors. We will be doing packages with Mt Sunapee Resort and with Pats Peak again this year. Visit their websites to see what they are offering as far as specials. We are only minutes away from both ski areas. For more information don't hesitate to call the Candlelite Inn. We will be more than happy to help you plan your ski weekend.

Candlelite Inn: Inn to Inn Snow Shoe Adventure

Jan 14-16^th and March 4-6^th. Experience the warm hospitality of two award winning New Hampshire inns as you spend a cozy winter weekend in the Lake Sunapee area. This inn-to-inn adventure promises to be the right combination of physical activity in the crisp outdoors and wonderful indoor pampering. We start our adventure at the Rosewood Country Inn where we will have a brief orientation followed by a hearty, four course dinner. In the morning we’ll enjoy a three course breakfast before heading out on our journey. We’ll venture out by snow shoe (or hike, depending on snow conditions) over peaceful forest trails as our guide leads the way from one charming inn to the next. You’ll take along trail lunches as your innkeepers shuttle your luggage to our next inn. In the evening we’ll enjoy the quiet comfort, warm hospitality and gracious hearty meals at the Candlelite Inn. Your package includes 2 nights lodging, hearty country breakfast each morning, fireside dinner each evening, guided snow shoe trek, trailside lunch on Saturday and luggage shuttle. Rate is $299 pp/do (snow shoe rental an additional $20 if needed).

Candlelite Inn: Holiday Shoppers Weekend

Only 2 days left, to make your reservations for our annual Holiday Shoppers Weekend. The Candlelite Inn has a stress-free weekend planned just for you. Package includes: seasonal breakfast each morning with dessert, Friday evening hot buttered cider & holiday sweets, folder containing maps, retail sales and a voucher for a free coupon book to Tanger Outlets-Tilton. Ribbons, bows, wrapping paper, boxes, etc. will be waiting for you as you return from your shopping trip. Light hors d'doeuvres while wrapping your gifts and a light supper will be prepared. And the best part, "tax free" shopping in New Hampshire. Rates vary by room chosen and an additional fee of $40 above your room rate. Call the Candlelite Inn for more details.

Candlelite Inn: BnB For Vets

The Candlelite Inn will be providing free rooms on Wednesday, November 10th in observance of Veterans Day, to  honor those men and women who are currently serving in the military, as well as those who have served their country. The program started in 2009 by a West Virginia B&B Association, to say "thank you" to the courageous men and women. We still have several rooms available and we ask that a reservation be made. A valid military or Veterans Administration ID will be required. For more information on the program BnBsforVets.org or call the Candlelite Inn directly. And for those who aren't able to make it, the Candlelite Inn says "thank you and be safe".

Candlelite Inn: Upcoming November Events

The leaves have just about disappeared and Halloween 2010 is a memory. The holidays are approaching fast. Have you started your Christmas shopping? Here at the Candlelite Inn we are here to help. This is just a sampling of what is going on here at the Candlelite Inn and the area:

• Holiday Shopper's Weekend here at the Candlelite Inn. Nov 12-14th. Visit our website www.candleliteinn.com for more information.
• This weekend will be available again Nov 26-28th in conjunction with Tanger Outlets-Tilton's 4th Annual Magic of Midnight Sale Thanksgiving. Call for more info.
• NH Open Doors-November 6 & 7. www.NHopendoors.com
• BnB for Vets-Nov 10th. Open to all active military & vets. We still have 1 room available. www.bnbforvets.org
• There are area craft fairs and bazaars throughout the area, for that little something.

Candlelite Inn: At Fall's End

Fall is coming to an end. This season was quite different as fall goes. It's been called a "disorganize fall" with some trees in the autumn colors, some still green and those who were totally bare. The peak was suppose to be Columbus Day weekend, but here in the Lake Sunapee Region and the Candlelite Inn, I think we are in the peak now. There is still a lot of foliage to be seen and we hope that you will be able to take a mini getaway to the Candlelite Inn and the Lake Sunapee Region to view what Mother Nature paints. The weather has been beautiful. Even now with the crisp mornings and warm days. As I take my morning walk, looking into the mountains, the color is still there. A light breeze and the leaves stir on the ground. The trees in town still have their leaves, however, some are bare. Here at the Candlelite Inn, we have been decorated for the fall since September and soon those decorations will be taken down and the holiday decorations will be put up. Enjoy the rest of the fall season.

Candlelite Inn: Beef Taco Skillet

I found this recipe in a magazine advertising Campbell's. Tried it and was very good. Even though the Candlelite Inn is not a restaurant, I do like to cook. When I first find a recipe that looks interesting, I make it as instructed and then change it to suit my needs. This was a quick and can be made in just 20 minutes.

Beef Taco Skillet

1 lb. ground meat
1 can (10 3/4 oz) Campbell's Tomato Soup ( I also used their Tomato Bisque)
1/2 cup salsa
1/2 cup water
6 flour tortillas (6"), cut into 1" pieces
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar Cheese

Cook beef in 10" skillet until browned, stirring to break up meat. Pour off fat. Stir in the soup, salsa, water and tortillas. Heat to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes. Top with cheese. Makes 4 servings.

For more information on the Candlelite Inn, located in Bradford NH, in the Lake Sunapee Region visit their website.

Candlelite Inn: The Changing of the Seasons

Summer is quickly coming to an end and Labor Day is just around the corner. Soon the kids will be back in school and our lives will have a more discipline structure instead of the carefree life of the summer. The leaves will be turning--some have already; the smell of wood burning is in the air with our cool evenings. Pumpkins, cornstalks, the turning of the leaves--what a beautiful show Mother Nature puts on for us. There is still much to do and see in the Lake Sunapee Region. Covered bridges, boat cruises, historic homes and gardens, a visit to the Candlelite Inn and not to mention the fall foliage. So get out and enjoy these remaining days of summer with  the cool mornings, warm days and crisp evenings. Enjoy the last days of summer with that special someone.

Candlelite Inn: League of NH Craftsmen's Fair

If you enjoy fine handcrafts, you'll enjoy this crafts fair. From furniture, jewelry, glass to pottery, metalwork and weaving. And that is only a sampling of what you will see at this juried craft show. Located at Mt Sunapee Resort which is only 9 miles from the Candlelite Inn. For more information contact the Candlelite Inn. Package available.

Candlelite Inn:Fort at No. 4

The Fort at No. 4 is back in action. It has been closed for the passed 2 years due to the economy and limited resources and dedicated volunteers. But it is back in action again. The Fort at No. 4 is a living history museum located in Charlestown NH. I visited the fort several years back and it truly was an experience. You really felt like you had stepped back in time. Technically they are not open, however, they are allowing self guided tours and they do have several weekends planned. So all you history buffs out there, looking for something new? Take a little trip out to the fort. For more information on the fort or about the Candlelite Inn--call or email.

Candlelite Inn: Cruising Lake Sunapee

There's so much to see and so much to do here at the Candlelite Inn and the Lake Sunapee Region. But my favorite is taking the dinner cruise and watching the sun set over the lake. As you set sail on the MV Kearsarge www.mvkearsarge.com in Sunapee Harbor, you'll enjoy a scrumptious buffet. Stroll the deck as the captain will talk of the history, folklore and points of interest of this beautiful lake. As the evening starts to settle in, on shore comes the twinkling of lights as the lake owners start settling in for the night.

So escape this summer to the Candlelite Inn and the Lake Sunapee Region as you explore the area with their quaint shops, historical buildings, array of attractions and "great find" antique shops. For more information, call the Candlelite Inn or visit our website www.candleliteinn.com

Candlelite Inn: Bradford's 4th of July

Celebrate the 4th of July this year here at the Inn. I've been told by the Independence Day committee that this year is going to be better than last year. There's something for everyone--chicken BBQ, craft fair, roast beef dinner, 5K race, just to give you a sampling of some of the activities. The festivities will be held July 2nd & 3rd and everything is in walking distance from the Inn. Grab a chair or sit on the curb --as you did when you were a kid--and enjoy the parade. After the fantastic display of fireworks--popcorn included--come in for some mouth watering desserts. While you are enjoying the 4th celebration, enjoy some exploring of the Lake Sunapee Region. There is much to see and do in area. For more information contact the Inn.

Candlelite Inn: The Fells open for the Season

The John Hay Estate also known as The Fells www.thefells.com will be opening the main house for the season. Enjoy renowned gardens, walk their scenic trails and have fun at the fairy village. Guided tours and exhibits throughout the summer. The main house from Memorial Day until June 20th weekends only; summer hours Wednesdays thru Sunday and Labor Day. Fall weekends: Hours 10am-4pm. The grounds are open daily from 9am-5pm. We do have discounted tickets for our guests. Call or visit the Candlelite Inn for additional information.

It's Spring at the Candlelite Inn

The weather is getting warmer each day. But Mother Nature tries and fools us with snow showers, or those chilly, breezy days. But looking out the window and seeing all the spring flowers, the buds on the trees opening and getting greener each day. The grass was mowed for the first time, but I think it was more lawn cleanup. By middle of May, we can become more serious by bringing out the lawn furniture and mulching the flower beds.

We are planning our spring and summer packages here at the Candlelite Inn. The first is this weekend for the 15th Annual Chocolate Fest sponsored by the Lake Sunapee Region Chamber of Commerce and Colby Sawyer College. It's a day of tasty desserts, cakes, candy from area pastry chefs and chocolatiers. All vying for the 2010 title of the chocolate challenge. The Candlelite Inn has a package for you which includes 2 complimentary tickets to the Chocolate Fest.

Happy Spring Everyone!

Maple Muffins--A recipe from the Candlelite Inn

These muffins are so good, enjoy them any time.

2 cups flour
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup milk
1/2 cup butter, melted
 1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup sour cream
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

In a large bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, combine the milk, butter, syrup, sour cream, egg and vanilla. Stir into the dry ingredients just until moistened. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups two thirds full. Sprinkle topping over the batter.

For the topping: 3 tablespoons flour; 3 tablespoons sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 2 tablespoons cold butter. Combine all in a small bowl.

Bake in a preheated 400 degree over for 16-20 minutes or until muffins are done. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from the pan. Yield: 16 muffins.

Sweetness is in the Air

It maple sugar time here at the Candlelite Inn and throughout the State of New Hampshire. The weekend of March 26-28, sugar houses will be opened to the public for viewing on the making of maple syrup. You'll see first hand the process of the making and also enjoy some tasty treats that the sap producers will provide. Here at the Candlelite Inn, you'll enjoy a 3-course breakfast with recipes featuring maple. After a day of touring, back to the Candlelite Inn for maple hot chocolate and maple cookies. You can't forget dinner. If you like chicken, then The Appleseed Restaurant http://www.appleseedrestaurant.com  has their signature dish, Appleseed Chicken Breast. This tasty dish is made with NH maple syrup, apple wedges and cheddar cheese. Sooooo good.  Upon departure our Maple Breakfast Basket will be given as a pleasant reminder of the sweet weekend you spent here at the Candlelite Inn.

Valentine Recipe from the Candlelite Inn

Are you looking for something special for Valentine's Day and it's quick and easy to do. Try Strawberry Heart Puffs. And what is good about this recipe, you can make as many as you like. This is what you will need:

1 frozen puff pastry sheet, thawed
1/3 cup strawberry jam or preserves
Whipped cream
4 large strawberries, sliced into 4 slices
1 square semi-sweet baking chocolate, melted

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Unfold pastry and cut into 16 hearts with a 2-inch heart shaped cookie cutter. Place on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and remove to a wire rack and cool completely. Cut each heart horizontally in half and spread 1 teaspoon jam onto the bottom half of each heart; top with whipped cream and strawberry slices. Cover with tops of hearts and drizzle with chocolate.

Enjoy! Happy Valentine's Day.

Romance at the Candlelite Inn

For all those romantics out there, surprise your "honey" with a weekend getaway at the Candlelite Inn. What better way to say "I Love You". We have our "Romantic Month of February" at an affordable rate. The package includes sparkling cider, flowers, strawberries & whipped cream, Indulgence Chocolate Basket, afternoon Valentine sweets and a romantic full breakfast with dessert. Don't forget there is much to see and do in the Lake Sunapee Region with sleigh rides, downhill and cross country skiing, ice skating on the Town Green--just to name a few.

Happy New Year from the Candlelite Inn

Where did the year go? I'd like to wish everyone a happy, healthy & prosperous New Year. I want to thank everyone of you for any impact you have made on my life and the Candlelite Inn's this past year. We have made some changes for the upcoming year; putting some new packages together; keeping some of the old packages with tweaking, some minor remodeling. It's also a time to look back and be thankful of what you have accomplished--friends you have made, a new job or profession, a hobby. These times have been hard for everyone, it can only get better. It's going to take time, but we all must work together. Again, the Candlelite Inn would like to wish everyone best wishes for 2010.