Bed of Roses: Yosemite Bed and Breakfast

Badger Pass ski conditions

2010-12-15T08:52:00.000-08:00

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK’S BADGER PASS SKI AREA – BEST SKIING CONDITIONS IN 19 YEARS!

The popular family ski resort has received more than five feet of new snow in the last two weeks, creating fantastic skiing and riding conditions.

“We are experiencing the best conditions I have seen in the last 19 years, and we are excited about the opportunity to open early with great snow,” said Colin Baldock, General Manager of Recreation for Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts at Yosemite, the authorized concessioner. “New snow in addition to the hard work of our mountain operations and grooming teams allows us to open earlier than planned.”

Pre-season pass deals are available now through December 19. For the full 2010-11 season pass and lift ticket rate schedule, please visit www.YosemitePark.com

Pre-Season Pass Rates:

•Adult - $319.00 ($492 starting 12/20)
•Youth/Senior - $279.00 ($492 starting 12/20)
•Child (7-12 years of age) - $179.00 ($192 starting 12/20)

Courtesy shuttle buses from Oakhurst to Badger Pass Ski Area are available on the weekends to make it convenient for guests to relax and enjoy a day of fun in the snow. The complete shuttle schedule is available by phoning A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast at (559)642-6975.

Wilderness permits at Badger Pass will be available beginning December 11 at the Badger Pass Ranger Station. Glacier Point Road is groomed and available for cross-country skiing. All other wilderness trails remain unbroken.

Starting December 2, the Snow Report will be updated daily and is available by calling 209-372-1000. For road and weather information, call 209-372-0200.

Half Dome Cable Update

2010-12-13T18:59:00.000-08:00

Yosemite National Park Announces Changes to the Interim Program for Half Dome Cables Day Use Permits. Permits to Ascend Cables will be Required Seven Days Per Week

Yosemite National Park announces that Day Use Permits to climb the Half Dome cables will be required seven days per week for the 2011 summer season to increase visitor safety on the cables.

Over the past several years, the popularity of the hike has resulted in large numbers of people using the Half Dome cables, particularly on weekends and holidays. Saturdays and holidays averaged 840 visitors per day, while peak days saw up to 1200 people using the cables. These large numbers of hikers generated significant safety concerns and there was a fatality and serious injuries sustained by park visitors due to these crowded conditions.

The park instituted an interim program for climbing the Half Dome cables in 2010 to address these serious safety concerns. Day Use Permits were required to use the cables on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays during the 2010 season. Although the interim program worked well on the permit days, visitor use on the cables during days in which permits were not required reached peak weekend levels, analogous to peak days before permits were required.

Therefore, to address the consistent crowded conditions on the Half Dome cables, Day Use Permits will be required seven days per week for the 2011 summer season. The Half Dome cables are generally in place from mid-May through mid-October, depending on snowpack and weather conditions.

The Half Dome Day Use Permits will be available starting March 1, 2011 for climbing the cables in May and June, 2011. Subsequent permits will be available at the beginning of each month for permits three months in advance. Reservations for a permit can be made through www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Each person climbing the Half Dome cables will be required to have their own permit. Up to four permits may be obtained under one reservation. The permits are free, however, there is a non-refundable $1.50 service charge for each permit obtained.

During this interim program, visitor use and impacts are being monitored.
Yosemite National Park Rangers are studying visitor use and safety, assessing the visitor experience, and compiling data that will be analyzed by park managers. An Environmental Assessment process for a long-term plan for the Half Dome cables began public scoping in spring 2010.

A visitor use study on the 2010 Half Dome Cables Day Use Permit is available at http://www.nps.gov/yose/naturescience/half-dome-cables.htm.
To learn more about the Half Dome hike please visit http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/halfdome.htm

First Snow 2010

2010-11-23T12:39:00.000-08:00

We had our first real snow a few nights ago. We woke up to a winter wonderland. It was so beautiful. But, along with the beauty of the winter comes some work. The storm was initially windy and then it dropped a bunch of wet snow. When we went out to feed the petting zoo we found several large limbs from an oak tree had fallen onto the goat fence and partially on their house. The goats were fine but, I can imagine the panic they must have felt when that tree limb came tumbling into their pen. They were probably peacefully asleep in their little pole barn house when it came crashing down. We spent most of the morning cutting and removing the tree from the fence and clearing their pen so they could move around again. Billy Bob was taking full advantage of the fact that the fence was down. He kept escaping and running amok. He got into the feed bin and ate his fill of chafhaye and pig food. Scruffy is too tall to jump over so he stayed in the pen and tattled on Billy Bob. We finally were able to repair the fence enough to keep Billy Bob inside. When the weather clears up we'll finish the tree removal and fence repairs. In the meantime we'll sit here, watch the snowfall and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate in front of the fire.

Fall Colors In Yosemite

2010-11-18T21:09:00.000-08:00

Driving up to the Sugar Pine Cabin you'll see the most magnificent colors in the Maples and Dogwood trees. Fall is nearing it's end. The colors are brilliant, the sound quiet,the lake peaceful and the animals getting ready for winter. This peaceful setting will be covered in white snow soon enough and then our winter season begins!! Get out the snow shoes, sled,warm clothes. The fun begins!!

The local ski resort "Badger Pass" will be open soon which offers skiing,tubing,snow shoeing,cross country skiing. There is a wonderful ranger Snow Shoe hike you can join at the Badger Pass ski resort. It's about a two hour hike with a big group of people. It's alot of fun. They take lots of stops to see some of the most beautiful scenery that you wouldn't ever see on the road. The ranger talks about the history and animals on the way.

Check out our winter specials at www.abedofrosesbandb.com/. And the cabin at www.sugarpineatyosemite.com/

Come on up and join the fun :)

Spring cleaning

2010-04-24T19:53:00.001-07:00

We've been getting ready for spring and the tourist season around A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast. We pull weeds, mow the lawn, clean out the animal pens, freshen the garden beds as well as the rooms and the common areas. The decks and stairs will be getting a fresh coat of paint as soon as the last rains dry out. We cleaned out all of the kitchen drawers and cabinets. After getting inspiration from HGTV we decided to paint the lower cabinets black to give it a more sophisticated look. We like it, what do you think?

More Fee Free Days at Yosemite

2010-04-22T15:39:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON – To mark the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day and to celebrate the launch of the Obama Administration’s America’s Great Outdoors initiative, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced a schedule of free admission days to many of the lands managed by Interior.

All national parks, national wildlife refuges, and many areas managed by the Bureau of Land Management will offer free admission on June 5-6, August 14-15, September 25 (Public Lands Day), and November 11 (Veterans Day).
These dates are in addition to the previously announced free admission at all 392 national parks April 17-25 as part of the celebration of National Park Week.

“President Obama has made connecting Americans to the outdoors and our history a fundamental goal of the conservation initiative announced at Friday’s White House Conference on America’s Great Outdoors,” said Salazar.
“The Interior Department was proud to host that conference and will be even prouder to host Americans who want to get outdoors to visit their public lands.”

Snow?

2010-03-30T17:55:00.000-07:00

Wohoo, we were getting ready for spring and winter is trying to sneak back for a couple of days. If you'd like to see some snow, you can stay at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast or Sugar Pine Cabin at Yosemite.

Tonight: Rain and snow likely. Snow level 5700 feet lowering to 5100 feet. Cloudy, with a low around 29. South southwest wind between 5 and 13 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. Total nighttime snow accumulation of around an inch possible.

Wednesday: Snow showers. High near 38. Southeast wind 8 to 16 mph becoming southwest. Winds could gust as high as 21 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches possible.

Wednesday Night: Snow showers likely, mainly before 8pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26. West northwest wind between 3 and 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.

Thursday: A 30 percent chance of snow showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 42. West northwest wind around 9 mph. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.

Thursday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 27. North wind between 7 and 9 mph.

Friday: Partly sunny, with a high near 53.

Friday Night: A slight chance of rain and snow. Snow level 5600 feet. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 32. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Saturday: A slight chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 55.

Saturday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 32.

Sunday: A slight chance of rain and snow. Snow level 5400 feet. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 49.

Sunday Night: A chance of rain and snow. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 30.

Monday: A slight chance of rain and snow. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 50.

Monday Night: A slight chance of rain and snow. Snow level 5300 feet. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 32.

Tuesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 61.

Yosemite Half Dome cable permits for May and June available March 1st

2010-02-26T21:03:00.000-08:00

Click on the link below for an article about the permits.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/outposts/2010/02/yosemite-half-dome-cable-permits.html

Lincoln Exhibit coming to Oakhurst

2010-02-03T21:36:00.000-08:00

Traveling exhibit details the President's life

Mark your calendar for the "Abraham Lincoln: Self Made in America Learning Station Exhibition" provided by the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, in collaboration with the American LIbrary Association and with funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities. The exhibit will be on display at the King Vintage Museum in Oakhurst March 5 through April 1.

"The Abraham Lincoln: Self Made in America Learning Station exhibit" will follow the journey taken by Abraham Lincoln from frontier obscurity to our nation's presidency and will be documented through a combination of images, objects and the written word. There are seven Learning Stations in the exhibit and each one show artifacts of his life as a Self Made man - Father, Husband, Lawyer, Politician, Commander-in-Chief and much more. In addition to the Learning Stations, there is an eighth learning station created by the Museum to tell the story of the Yosemite Grant and why Abraham Lincoln is important to our area.

In addition there are special teaching trunks available during the exhibition for use by schools or civic organizations. Two teaching trunks will remain forever at the Museum as a valuable asset for use by teachers and their students. All who visit the exhibition will enjoy the rich history of our 16th President and the teaching trunks will give generations an opportunity to explore his life for years to come.

The museum hours for the exhibition will be Monday-Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. with the weekday mornings devoted to school tours. The cost for admission to the museum is $3.00. School tour reservations are a must and space is still available.. Contact the museum at kingvintagemuseum@sti.net or call 559-658-6999 or 559-676-3370 for more information or to make reservations for school tours.

Why was the Oakhurst museum chosen? In the early 1860's influential Californians started visiting Yosemite National Park. They decided that they wanted this land of beauty to belong to the state of California. During the Civil War, this group petitioned President Lincoln to grant the Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove to the state of California. In the middle of the Civil War, Lincoln took time on June 30, 1864 to sign the legislation, known as the "Yosemite Grant". Ultimately this land went back to the Federal Government, but the Yosemite Grant Act was seen as the beginning of the State of California Park System enjoyed today.

The entire community of Oakhurst will be celebrating this Exhibit with some "historic" events and everyone is invited to attend.

The list of events follows:
January 31 "Gone with the Wind" at the Met Cinema hosted by Ladies Tea and Jousting Society. "Gone with the Wind" inspired costume contest with awards.

February 12 Abraham Lincoln Gala Birthday Celebration. Kickoff celebration hosted by the Museum and the Oakhurst Chamber.

February 14 Valentine Chocolate Extraordinaire Dinner at ECCO celebrating "The Lincoln Marriage" hosted by the Wild Wonderful Women.

March 5 Opening Night Preview of the "Abraham Lincoln: Self Made in America Learning Station Exhibition" at the Museum by ticket only.

March 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28. 7 p.m. "Abraham Lincoln Assassination" Drama at the Golden Chain Theatre. 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. on Sunday.

March 12 Ragtime Festival at Fresno Flats Historic Village and Park 2 p.m. to 5 p.m..

March 13 Ragtime Festival at Golden Chain Theatre 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

March 19, 20, 21 "Civil War Living History" at Oakhurst Community Park. Produced by the National Civil War Association in conjunction with the Museum and the Chamber of Commerce.

Friday, March 19 "Education Day" for Students.

March 21 3 p.m. Oakhurst Community Band Spring Concert: presents "Remembering Lincoln" at 2 p.m.

The museum is a women's, men's and children's vintage clothing and accessories collection dating back to 1790 including military uniforms and war memorabilia. During the Abraham Lincoln Exhibition the feature exhibit in the museum will be "Journey through Life in the Nineteenth Century". The collection will feature artifacts from the late 1700's through the 1900"s plus some of the military and children's collection.

For more information about the events contact the museum kingvintagemuseum@sti.net or call 559-658-6999 or goto www.LincolnOakhurst.com. or www.kingvintagemuseum.org.

Half Dome Permit Information

2010-01-31T22:03:00.000-08:00

The following information is from the NPS website. For more information you can find FAQ's at http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/hdfaq.htm

Permits to hike to the top of Half Dome are now required on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays when the cables are up. This is an interim measure to increase safety along the cables while the park develops a long-term plan to manage use on the Half Dome Trail.

Beginning in 2010, all people using the Half Dome Trail above the subdome must have a permit in possession on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays when the cables are up. A maximum of 400 permits will be issued each of these days. (Before the permit system, fewer than 400 people used this trail on weekdays, while about 800 people used this trail on weekends and holidays, on average.)

In 2010, permits are available up to about four months in advance to one week in advance only through the National Recreation Reservation Service (NRRS). Permits are not available in the park or on a first-come, first-served basis. Demand for permits will be very high; availability may last only a matter of minutes on the first day permits become available. Each permit has a service fee of $1.50 (which covers the cost of NRRS processing the permit; Yosemite does not receive any money).

Note: Backpackers with an appropriate wilderness permit can receive a Half Dome permit when they pick up their wilderness permit with no additional reservation required. Rock climbers who reach the top of Half Dome without entering the subdome area can descend on the Half Dome Trail without a permit.

The Half Dome Cables are usually in place and available for use the third Friday in May, conditions permitting. The last day to use them usually is Columbus Day Monday. We can not guarantee the cables will be available on any given date. If you choose to get a permit for dates in May or October, there is an increased chance the cables will not be in place.

If you are unable to hike Half Dome for any reason (including weather, cables not available, illness, etc.) on the day you have a permit, you will not be able to get a permit for a different date.

Web Cam

2010-01-21T16:17:00.000-08:00

Here is a link to our local web cam. It is positioned just south of the Highway 41/49 junction. It is located about 5 miles south of A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast at a place called Deadwood. This is one of the highest points in the town of Oakhurst so if there is snow anywhere it will be here. The bed and breakfast is at a slightly higher elevation so we may have snow even if there is no snow on Deadwood.

Check it out:

http://www.sti.net/webcam/index.html

New Years Eve

2009-12-28T17:56:00.000-08:00

Ring in the New Year. It's hard to believe that 2009 is already about to be a memory, but that's no reason not to celebrate in style. There are many fun ways to ring in 2010 near Yosemite. Stay at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast and go to one of these wonderful dinner parties. Call (559)642-6975 or email bedofroses@sti.net if you would like to make reservations.

Ducey's, located at The Pines Resort at Bass Lake is offering an exciting Celebration Package, including a festive, 5-course dinner, live entertainment, dancing, party favors and a midnight champagne toast for only $87.50 per person. to plan ahead, you can see their menu or call (559) 692-8855 for reservations.

Erna's Elderberry House, the region's only five star restaurant, has a very special evening planned as well. Courses include a decadent Sonoma Foie Gras, a delicious celebration of Veal and Beef, and an enticing Raspberry-Champagne Tort for desert. And that's just a small teaser of what they are offering. The full menu, including seating times and pricing, is available online.

The Tenaya Lodge will also be celebrating New Year's Eve in style as they pair their delicious dinner and live entertainment as well as a champagne toast with discounts on lodging, and a special Champagne Breakfast the next morning. You can find out more, or make your reservations online.

After ringing in the new year, perhaps you would like to head in to Yosemite and partake in the special New Year's Day brunch at the Wawona. Their special brunch will be open from 10:30 until 2 New Year's Day, with favorites like Eggs Benedict, Cheese Blintzes with strawberry sauce, Pork Tenderloin with a Fig Port winesauce, broiled salmon with citrus fennel relish and much more.

Pumpkin Butter recipe

2009-12-08T21:40:00.001-08:00

By popular demand here is a very good pumpkin butter recipe. This butter is full of the flavors of the holidays. Thick and delicious, you'll spread holiday cheer as you spread it on fresh bread in the morning. We serve it here at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast with toast or homemade muffins or scones. We also make it to give as hostess gifts in pretty decorated jars during the holidays. Several guests have asked for the recipe so here it is courtesy of Safeway/Vons:

Pumpkin Butter

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

15 ounces 100% Pure Pumpkin

2/3 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 cup honey

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

Directions:

Combine pumpkin, sugar, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon and cloves in medium, heavy-duty saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat; reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring frequently, for 20 to 25 minutes or until thickened. Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 2 months. Recipe makes 2 cups (32 servings-1 tablespoon per serving)

First Snow 2009

2009-12-07T13:01:00.000-08:00

Yeah!! We waited up late last night for snow to arrive. It snowed a little but, it wasn't enough to stick. And then this morning about 10 AM the snow really began to fall. There are several inches accumulated on the ground right now. Oh, it is so beautiful. This is our favorite time of year.

Caio, his wife Barbara and their cute 4 year old daughter, Giselle spent several days here but had to leave this morning. Here is a picture of them just before they left. You can see Giselle didn't want to leave. She said she wanted to stay here and play some more. She helped to feed the animals in the petting zoo this morning out in the snow.

All of the animals came out to take a quick look at the snow. They ate their breakfast and went back to their cozy beds.

Hercules and Minnie have found nice warm spots near the fire to stay cozy.

Traveling with pets

2009-11-30T22:10:00.000-08:00

We're proud to be pet friendly at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast. Here are some tips for traveling with your pet.

Assess your pet.

Be honest about your pet's ability to travel. Be sure your pet is in optimum health for travel. If your pet is very young or old, or is ill it may be better for all concerned to look into a pet sitter or kennel. Check with your lodging choice to be sure your pet will be welcome. Some establishments have size limits.

Schedule a visit with your veterinarian.

Ask your vet about any flea, heartworm, or tick risks for areas you will be visiting. If your pet gets carsick or restless when traveling, ask your vet about appropriate medications or treatments.

Seriously consider having your pet microchipped. If your pet becomes separated from you many humane societies and shelters nationwide use scanners that will read these implanted chips and let you be reunited with your lost pet.

Make certain all vaccinations are up to date and obtain current health and rabies certificates no more than ten (10) days prior to your departure. These are required if your pet is traveling by air. You are also strongly recommended to have these documents if your plans do not include air travel. You may need to board your pet unexpectedly and many kennels will not accept pets without theses certificates. And, if your pet requires emergency medical care, having these will allow care to take place much more quickly and without dangerous duplication of vaccinations.

Obtain a secure carrier for your pet.

You need a sturdy, properly ventilated crate of adequate size for your pet to stand up, turn around and lie down in comfortably. Additionally it must comply with any airline requirements. Print your pets name and your name, address and phone number on the outside of the crate with permanent marker. Make sure your pet is accustomed to the crate before you begin your trip.

Verify that your pet's tags are current.

Your pet should wear a secure collar at all times with tags showing proof of rabies vaccination and your name, address, and phone number in case your pet becomes separated.

Before you leave.

Trim your pet's nails. Pets with freshly trimmed nails will be less likely to damage items in strange surroundings and will be easier to carry and restrain if necessary. Bathe and rid your pet of any fleas to avoid infesting its new surroundings.

Things to bring.

-A sturdy leash and an extra collar.
-An old blanket or sheet for the back seat of your car and to cover bedding and furniture at your destination.
-Food. Bring enough for the whole trip. If you feed canned, bring a can opener and spoon.
-Portable water bowl. If your pet is sensitive, bring water from home to mix with unfamiliar water.
-Treats, toys or chew items.
-All required medications, supplements and preventatives.
-Tweezers to remove foreign objects from fur or paws.
-Brush or comb, lint and hair remover.
-Waste removal bags.
-An old towel to wipe wet or dirty paws.
-Carpet cleaner for accidents.
-First aid kit.
-Flashlight for nighttime walks.

Be prepared for the worst.

While no one likes to think about it, many pets do become separated while away from home. To increase chances of a safe and quick return, bring a recent photograph and written description of your pet including breed, sex, age, weight, height, and any microchip or tattoo numbers.

While you're traveling.

Keep fresh water available for your pet at all times. Avoid sudden changes of diet. If you are unable to obtain your pet's normal brand, switch gradually over to the new food over a period of four or more days.

Obey all leash laws and make certain to keep your pet on a leash or in a carrier at all times when not securely in a room. Clean up after your pet.

Have a safe trip.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T11:09:00.001-08:00

Greetings from A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast and Sugar Pine Cabin at Yosemite. Today is a special day to take the time to be thankful for all that is good in our lives. It is an especially good time to be thankful for family and friends. Time to enjoy the company of those we love and care about.

We are very thankful for all of our wonderful guests; past, present and future. We have a full house for this Thanksgiving holiday and are thankful for that.

Wherever you are and whoever you are with, take time today to look around you and find things to be thankful for.

Warmest thoughts from Jenine and Josie

"I ate too much turkey,
I ate too much corn,
I ate too much pudding and pie,
I'm stuffed up with muffins and much too much stuffin',
I'm probably going to die.

I piled up my plate and I ate and I ate,
but I wish I had known when to stop,
for I'm so crammed with yams,
sauces, gravies, and jams
that my buttons are starting to pop.

I'm full of tomatoes and french fried potatoes,
my stomach is swollen and sore,
but there's still some dessert,
so I guess it won't hurt
if I eat just a little bit more."
- Jack Prelutsky, I Ate Too Much

Sugar Pine Cabin website launch

2009-11-17T22:12:00.000-08:00

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
The new website for the Sugar Pine Cabin at Yosemite has been launched!! Check out our new look at Sugar Pine Cabin at Yosemite
The new site is prettier and easier to navigate.

Also, look for our winter special at the cabin. Rent the whole cabin for up to 8 people for only $200 per night plus tax. When booking just select the special at the end of the reservation process or mention the special if you call us (877-624-7673)

It's Almost That Magical Time of Year !!

2009-11-17T19:26:00.000-08:00

Now is the time of year to start thinking about Winter.
A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast or Sugar Pine Cabin at Yosemite
are the perfect places to be to enjoy the fun.

The $99.00 Winter Special starts December 1st through March 31st (excluding holidays) at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast. You can book any room for only $99. which includes a yummy continental breakfast.

The Winter Special at the Sugar Pine Cabin at Yosemite
starts November 1st through March 31st(excluding holidays). The regular rates for the whole cabin, which holds up to 8 people are $300. per night. The winter rate is only $200. per night for the whole cabin. Bring the whole family!

The Lower cabin normally rents out at $200. per night. The winter special is $150. per night.

Take advantage of these specials and book right away to make sure you get your special dates ..... before someone else gets them!

Get away from the stress and have some fun!!

Bring the kids to see the petting zoo and play in the snow.

Read a book and enjoy some hot tea in the cabin and watch the winter wonderland outside

Logs on the fire burning, hot chocolate, peace and quiet, warmth, love, ummmmm

You're in Paradise...:)

Almond Chocolate Biscotti

2009-11-12T01:21:00.000-08:00

I made biscotti for the first time tonight. I love biscotti and it is so expensive to buy. This recipe was real easy. I found it on FoodNetwork.com. It takes some time and my biscotti broke up into smaller pieces than I would have liked. But, I think with some practice, this will be a favorite here at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast.

Chocolate Almond Biscotti
Recipe courtesy of Gale Gand
Prep Time:
30 min

--
Cook Time:
1 hr 10 min
Level:
Easy
Serves:
24 total pieces
Ingredients
2 cups flour
1 cup sugar
1/3 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
2 egg whites
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
2/3 cup whole almonds, toasted
1/3 cup chocolate chips
Directions
In a standing mixer with a paddle attachment combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt. Mix together eggs, egg whites and vanilla extract. Gradually add egg mixture to flour mixture blending on low. Toss almonds with chocolate chips then add to flour mixture and blend just until combined.
On a well floured surface roll dough into 2 logs, 2 inches in diameter. Place on a greased sheet pan and brush with beaten egg. Bake at 350 degrees until light golden brown, about 30-35 minutes. Allow logs to cool 15 minutes then cut into slices on the bias. Place slices on a greased sheet pan and bake in a 350 degree oven until toasted, about 15-20 minutes. Cool. Store in an airtight container.

Babysitting

2009-11-09T15:02:00.001-08:00

Today we babysat a new little pomeranian puppy named Penny. Jenine's sister just got her the other day. When she asked us to watch Penny while she went to sewing class we thought that sounded like fun!! She looks like a little angel in this picture sleeping on her stuffed sheep. She ran around chasing anything that moved and chewing anything that stood still. She loves shoe laces and electrical cords. Our little dog Minnie wasn't happy about sharing the limelight with such a cutie. Minnie didn't understand Penny's desire to hop and play so much. So, Minnie went to take a nap while Penny played and then Minnie watched while Penny took her nap. Boy, it's just like having babies around again!!

Madera Wine Trail Nov 14 and 15

2009-11-08T07:53:00.000-08:00

The family wineries of the Madera Wine Trail will host "Holiday Spirit Weekend" on Nov. 14 and 15 from 10 am to 5 pm. Wine lovers may purchase a Passport Glass for $25 at any of the participating wineries both days of the event, or pre-purchase tickets online for $20 at www.myticketportal.com. "It's a great chance to sample our fabulous local wines complemented by indulgent food pairings, local art and live music," said K.C. Pommering, executive director of the Madera Vintners Association. The Madera County Arts Council will host a two day art show & exhibit at their Circle Arts Gallery at Cleveland & Schnoor in Madera. Agajanian Vineyards will be at the Gallery pouring their award-winning local wines both days. The Agajanian wine tasting & the Art Show are included with the Madera Wine Trail Passport Glass. Many businesses will also be taking part in the festivities. The Vineyard Restaurant in Madera will open for dinner Saturday and will waive corkage fees for bottles purchased on the Madera Wine Trail. For reservations or more information, contact The Vineyard at (559) 674-0923.For those who don't wish to drive, Touch of Class Limousine Service will be offering special travel packages for Holiday Spirit Weekend. 888.575.4667 Participating wineries include: Birdstone Winery, Chateau Lasgoity, Ficklin Vineyards, Idle Hour Winery, Mariposa Wine Company, Quady Winery, San Joaquin Wine Company and Westbrook Wine Farm by appointment.

Fee free day at Yosemite

2009-11-03T15:05:00.000-08:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. – To honor America’s service men and women, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced that areas managed by the department will not charge entrance fees on Wednesday, November 11, 2009.
Visitors to public recreation lands managed by the National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management and Bureau of Reclamation are invited to take a day to honor and reflect on what our service men and women have done to maintain our freedom and keep peace around the world, Salazar said.
"The Department of the Interior is honored to offer this fee free day to thank our nation’s service men and women," said Salazar said "The sacrifices and achievements of the brave men and women of our armed forces can never be understated. We invite all of our visitors to enjoy this fee free day and take time out on this national holiday to remember our service men and women who are currently serving overseas in harm's way. "
The Department of Agriculture also is waiving entrance fees at its national forests.

Bath time at the zoo

2009-10-27T13:16:00.000-07:00

I've never bathed a chicken before. Didn't even know you could. We did research on the Internet about it first. Apparently there is a specific way to do it. We recently got a new batch of chickens. We selected one of each kind just to have a variety. The silky, which we named Fluffy, is supposed to be white and, of course, fluffy. She wasn't very white or fluffy...and to be honest, she smelled a little bad. The bath went fine. She was calm and almost seemed to enjoy the process. Silkies have dark blue skin so she looked pretty weird when she was all wet. As instructed on the Internet, we used a blow dryer on High/Cool until she was completely dry.

Fluffy looks and smells much better now.

Clockwise from top left: Pepper, Red, Fluffy, Pinky Lee, Pip

Yosemite Guide

2009-06-06T16:03:00.000-07:00

In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.

John Muir

Many people stay at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast or Sugar Pine Cabin at Yosemite as their base point for their visit to Yosemite. We strive to make your visit as full and/or relaxing as you would like. We have many books and brochures about Yosemite and the area for you to read and even take with you to the park.

One guide that we keep in stock for our guests is the Yosemite Guide. It is published by the National Park Service (NPS). It is a wealth of information. You will receive a copy when you pay at the gate to get into the park. A good idea is to check out the current online copy before you arrive. Here is the link: http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/guide.htm. Check it out. It has maps, hike descriptions, schedules for ranger programs, safety information and much more.

If you have any questions about your visit, feel free to email us at bedofroses@sti.net. We volunteered for several years at the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau (http://www.yosemitethisyear.com/) and have a lot of resources for information.

What to do in Yosemite

2009-04-21T12:35:00.000-07:00

If you have 1 Day in Yosemite:

Just have one day to spend in Yosemite and want to make the most of your time? Your best bet is to devote a few hours to securing some additional days in Yosemite.

If, however, you're still unable to free up more time, you're not completely out of luck. We’ll try to help you make it as full a day as possible.

This tour will definitely take a full day.

Mariposa Grove (closed in winter)

The Mariposa Grove is easily the largest and most famous of Yosemite's Giant Sequoia groves, and the Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree are the most popular attractions here. They're near the top of the 2.2 mile (3.5 km) lower loop trail. We recommend continuing to the upper loop in most cases, but time may not allow on this trip. Rather than hike the loop you may want to take the tram tour. Learn the secrets of the sequoias and their unique environment in a one-hour interpretive tram tour of the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. The audio tram tour is available in five languages and audio description. Available spring to fall, conditions permitting. Fee for tour is subject to change but, runs about $24 per person.

Tunnel View

If you're making your first visit to Yosemite, this is an essential stop. Approaching from the south, it's a turnout just after you emerge from the tunnel with Yosemite Valley in full view. The Tunnel View, subject of several million photographs annually, provides a spectacular overview of Yosemite Valley, including El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall.

Bridalveil Fall

Just about one mile past the Tunnel View is the pull out to Bridalveil Fall. Bridalveil Fall is the tallest waterfall along Yosemite Valley's southern rim, 620 feet (189 meters) tall. There are good views of it from several places in the valley, but it's easily worth the short hike to the base of the fall to see it up close. If you do hike all the way to the base in the Spring or early Summer when the falls are full, you'll get drenched with spray, so you might want to bring rain gear. It's also worthwhile to take the fork of the trail that crosses a pair of stone bridges over Bridalveil Creek below the fall.

Yosemite Valley

Park your car in Yosemite Village and ride the free shuttle bus around Yosemite Valley to popular destinations. Be sure to stop at the Valley Visitor Center and Yosemite Museum to learn more about Yosemite’s story and view the park’s award-winning, 23-minute film Spirit of Yosemite. The popular Valley Floor Tour is a two-hour open-air tram tour that takes you past many of the Valley’s unique features. Another great way to see any area of the park is to meander along a trail, bike path, or meadow boardwalk. Pick up the self-guiding trail brochure, A Changing Yosemite, in front of the Valley Visitor Center and follow the trail posts around Cook’s Meadow

Yosemite Falls is visible from much of the valley -- visit the Swinging Bridge for a particularly good photo opportunity of the upper falls. The short walk to the base of Lower Yosemite Fall is well worth it, especially during the Spring season, when the waterfall thunders down the Valley wall. (If you want to see the entire falls at once, we suggest taking the Sentinel Dome hike near Glacier Point)

Glacier Point (Closed in winter)

Although you can mix up the order of the other stops on this tour, we recommend leaving Glacier Point for the last stop, so you can enjoy the sunset here. From Yosemite Valley go South on Highway 41 then take the Glacier Point Road. It is about a 20 minute drive to the parking lot at the end of the road. It's a rewarding place to sit and watch the peaks change colors after a long day's driving and hiking. There's a cafeteria / gift shop at the trailhead, so you can grab a snack, settle down, and enjoy the ending of an event-filled day in Yosemite.

From here it is just a short drive back to A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast where you can enjoy a massage in the full body electronic massage chair, a dip in the pool, a luxurious soak in the hot tub or a glass of sherry. There are many restaurants just a few minutes from A Bed of Roses.

If you have 2 Days in Yosemite:

(check for winter closings by emailing us at bedofroses@sti.net)

Consider the suggestions for one day, but perhaps choose two areas of the park to explore in depth. Take a hike on the Mist Trail, Sentinel Dome or Taft Point. You might enjoy the features of Yosemite while pedaling a bike, floating on a leisurely raft trip, or riding on horseback. Travel back in time on a horse-drawn stage ride or during a blacksmith demonstration in Wawona.

The Mist Trail

From Yosemite Falls, head to the Mist Trail, which is at the eastern edge of Yosemite Valley. You can catch a free shuttle bus in Yosemite Valley directly to the trailhead, or you can park at Curry Village and walk an extra .75 miles (1.2 km) to get there.The Mist Trail has three natural turnaround points, and you can choose any of them depending on how tired you are or how late it's getting. Unlike the Bridalveil and Yosemite Falls trails, which are mostly flat, each segment of the Mist Trail involves some significant climbing, so if you're not in great shape, you may want to wait and see how you feel as you reach various points along the trail.The first stop on the Mist Trail is at the Vernal Fall Bridge, a mile (1.6 km) from the trailhead. This bridge offers a view upstream of the Merced River and Vernal Fall, although the view of the fall is getting gradually obscured by trees.From the Vernal Fall Bridge, it's another 0.7 steep but spectacular miles (1.1 km) to the top of Vernal Fall, where you can look down on the fall, then sit beside the Emerald Pool and dry out (not for nothing is it called the Mist Trail).From the top of Vernal Fall, it's another 1.8 miles (3.4 km) to the top of Nevada Fall. Although the trail continues on from there to Little Yosemite Valley and Half Dome, this is the turnaround point for the Mist Trail. You can either return the way you came or swing right and return via the John Muir Trail, which meets the Mist Trail again just above the Vernal Fall Bridge. The Muir Trail includes a memorable view looking back to Nevada Fall, and we recommend seeing it if you've got time.Most hikers on the Mist Trail turn back after reaching the top of Vernal Fall. If you continue to the top of Nevada Fall, you won't have it all to yourself, but you should find things far less crowded.

Taft Point and the Fissures

This is a relatively short (just over 2 miles/3.5 km round trip) hike to a heart-stopping overlook with a sheer drop off over the valley's south wall. If you've driven into Yosemite Valley and been knocked out by the towering immensity of El Capitan, you won't want to miss the chance to visit Taft Point and look down on it.

Sentinel Dome

The Sentinel Dome and Taft Point trails depart from the same spot along Glacier Point Road. After hiking to Taft Point, you can return to the road and then take the Sentinel Dome trailhead, but we recommend returning just part way along the Taft Point trail and then taking the well-marked fork that leads you to Sentinel Dome via the valley rim. (The distances of the two trails are similar.) You likely won't notice the elevation changes along the Taft Point trail, but you will feel the climb to Sentinel Dome. While the Taft Point trail leads you to a spot on the valley rim where you'll see a view primarily of western Yosemite Valley, Sentinel Dome has 360-degree views for miles and miles.

If you have 3 days in Yosemite:

For a three-day trip, you could visit all areas or spend your time becoming intimate with one. If your goal is to cover as much of the park as possible, don’t miss Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, the Tioga Road, Tuolumne Meadows, and the Mariposa grove of giant sequoias. Travel Highway 120, Tioga Road (closed in winter, check with us at bedofroses@sti.net for scheduled opening dates) where spectacular scenery, vast meadows, and mountain lakes await you. Choose places to stop, picnic, hike, and spend more time based on what appeals most to you. Stop at Olmsted Point for incredible views of Half Dome, Clouds Rest, and Tenaya Canyon.

Olmstead Point

This is one of the shortest hikes in Yosemite. But despite that, most visitors don't even bother to walk the quarter mile (0.4 km) to Olmstead Point; they're content to soak in the views from the parking lot, which are arguably as good as the views at Olmstead Point itself.

Tenaya Lake

If you're feeling lazy or you don't want to ford the lake's outlet at its western end, you can skip the 2.5 mile (4 km) lake circuit and just hang out on the beach at the east end of the lake. The best views, however, are looking back east across the lake from the western beach.

Tuolumne Meadows

We recommend leaving Tuolumne Meadows until the end of this tour so you can spend sunset wandering through it. It's worth it.

Wildflowers and Waterfalls

2009-04-01T11:31:00.000-07:00

Wildflowers & Waterfalls

If you're planning a trip to Yosemite or the surrounding area, now is one of the best times to enjoy what nature has dished up for you! Along Hwy. 140, between Mariposa and Yosemite National Park, you will find yourself viewing a carpet of wildflowers on the hillsides. From the orange glow of poppies and the waves of babies breath, your eyes and camera will not believe what is in store. Make sure you bring your wildflower identification book with you. There are several areas for you to pull over and take a shot or two, but please be careful that you are completely off the road when pulling over and only pull over where there is ample space. With the snow pack melting in this warm weather, Upper & Lower Yosemite Falls are cascading beautifully and Bridalveil is breathtaking! You will also see some waterfalls that are not too often visable. Again, bring your camera, and your hiking shoes! Stop by the Visitors Bureau in Oakhurst and they can help you with waterfall maps, wildflower books, hiking advice, places to stay and eat! Check them out at www.yosemitethisyear.com

Yosemite's Half Dome Hike

2009-03-20T10:12:00.000-07:00

"Life is either a daring adventure or nothing. Security does not exist in nature, nor do the children of men as a whole experience it. Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than exposure."
Helen Keller- US Blind and Deaf Educator (1880-1968)

Rising nearly 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley and over 8,800 feet above sea level, Half Dome is a Yosemite icon and a great challenge to many hikers. Although it was originally thought to be inaccessible, George Anderson reached the summit in 1875, in the process laying the predecessor to today's cable. Half Dome's missing half is thought to have fallen off when the Ice Age glaciers passed through.

The Half Dome hike is approximately 17 miles round trip. The hike to Half Dome can take anywhere from 10-12 hours; some take longer. This endurance hike is not for you if you're out of shape or unprepared. You will be gaining elevation (for a total of 4,800 feet) most of your way to the top of Half Dome. Most would say the reward is worth the effort. Along the way, you'll see outstanding views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, Half Dome, and panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra.

Today, thousands of people reach the summit each year. For most, it is an exciting, arduous hike; for a few, it becomes more of an adventure than they wanted. While there is nothing you can do to guarantee your safety, below you will find some tips to reduce your risk and have a safer, more enjoyable hike.

To relax and refresh before and after your hike to Yosemite's Half Dome, stay at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast or Sugar Pine Cabin at Yosemite

Recommended preparation for the hike to Yosemite's Half Dome:

Being in shape is highly recommended for this long, difficult hike. Start by taking power walks daily, going farther each day. Working on a stair stepper is helpful since you will be climbing a large number of steep rock steps. Nordic track is also good for the endurance of the long haul. Use arm weights to strengthen the muscles that will be used to pull yourself on the cables. The cables at some points are at a 45° angle. You are almost pulling yourself up the side of Half Dome with the cables.

It is recommended that you become acclimated to the higher altitude if you are from lower than 4,000 feet. The air is thinner and harder to breathe. Starting out with smaller hikes at the 4,000 ' altitude will be helpful.

Things to take with you to hike Yosemite's Half Dome:

1. Water-
One of the easiest ways to ensure a safe, enjoyable hike is to be sure to have plenty of water. Weather conditions and personal preference affect the amount of water you need, but suggested minimum amounts per person are:
1 gallon (4 liters) if hiking to the top of Half Dome
2 quarts (2 liters) if hiking only to the top of Nevada Fall
1 quart (1 liter) if hiking only to the top of Vernal Fall

The only treated water on the trail is available (summer only) at a drinking fountain at the Vernal Fall Footbridge (less than a mile from the trailhead). Merced River water is available up to Little Yosemite Valley, however you should treat this water by boiling, using iodine, or using a giardia-rated water filter. Drinking untreated river water may cause significant illness.

You can carry the water in a large canteen to wear over your shoulder (pre-frozen the night before so you can have a cool drink).

2. Food- (high energy, light weight), check at sporting good stores for examples(trail mix, granola bars, dried fruit, raisins, cheese, crackers, Lunchables... pack lightly).

3. Gloves- (leather or rawhide, not winter type), to protect your hands on the cables. However, if you bring your gloves up, pack them out. Hundreds of pounds of rotting gloves otherwise accumulate.

4. Socks- (to put on after soaking feet in water on the way down from Half Dome).

5. Mole skin- (to put on sore spots on toes, precut or bring pocket knife).

6. Kleenex or toilet paper- Flush toilets are available at the Vernal Fall Footbridge (below Vernal Fall). Composting toilets are available near Emerald Pool (above Vernal Fall), near the top of Nevada Fall, and in Little Yosemite Valley.
At any other location, you are required to bury any solid human waste at least six inches (15 cm) deep and at least 100 feet (30 m) from water or trails. Pack out toilet paper.

7. Plastic bag that contains: Band-Aids, Neosporin, pain reliever, Dramamine.

8. Pocket knife.

9. Bandanna- (nice to wet in streams along the way to wet the face and tie around your neck).

10. Sunscreen- (apply frequently since you will be perspiring often).

11. Bug repellent- (mosquitoes are out in early day and evening, pesky small flies too).

12. Hat- (cover over the back of neck is good, sun will be on your back most of the way).

13. Back pack or waist pack- (you could use two waist packs, one in the front - other in the back).

14. Hiking boots- Another easy way to make your hike enjoyable is to have well broken-in boots with good ankle support and good traction. Some of the most common injuries Half Dome hikers suffer are blisters and ankle injuries; good footwear is the best way to prevent these problems. Tennis shoes are slippery on rocks.

15. Light weight wind breaker- The summit is typically 15°F (8°C) to 20°F (11°C) cooler than Yosemite Valley and windy conditions are common. Be prepared for cool temperatures and rain showers.

16. Small Flashlight- (hike may take you longer than expected). If you plan on hiking during the day, it's smart to leave around sunrise (or earlier) and then have a non-negotiable turn-around time. For instance, if you haven't reached the top of Half Dome by 3:30 pm, you will turn around. Check for sunrise and sunset times before you hike. Regardless, each person should carry a flashlight or headlamp with good batteries (hikers commonly struggle down the trail after dark because they don't have a flashlight).

17. Camera- (put around neck or in backpack while going up the cables). If while climbing the cables your camera slips from your hands as you are clicking that fantastic shot of the eagle swooping overhead...let it fall. Several people have fallen as they grab for their falling cameras.

18. Topo map- Although the trail is well marked, you should be prepared with a good topographic map and compass and know how to use them.

19. Silver emergency blanket.

20. Poncho- (small inexpensive disposable one), the trail leading to Vernal Fall is called the mist trail!!!

21. Money- to get ice cream at Curry Village at end of hike.

Where to start the hike to Yosemite's Half Dome:

Most people begin the hike from Happy Isles (shuttle stop #16), which is about a half-mile from the trail head parking lot or about 3/4 of a mile from Curry Village (parking available).

When to start your hike to Yosemite's Half Dome:

Early as possible! You will need to give yourselves 10-12 hours to complete this very difficult hike. The shuttle buses start running at 7 am.

Be warned there is an increase in crowding and congestion on Saturdays and holiday weekends on Half Dome. Most visitors arriving at the cables during these periods will experience slow access to the summit, extended exposure to potentially uncomfortable conditions, and an increased likelihood of irresponsible behavior due to frustration with conditions. We strongly recommend planning your Half Dome visit for days other than Saturdays or holiday weekends.

Time of year to hike Yosemite's Half Dome:

NEVER HIKE HALF DOME IN A THUNDER STORM. Lightning may strike Yosemite's Half Dome at any time. Check the weather forecast before your hike and try to reach the summit early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. If a storm appears nearby, do not continue to the summit and, if in the summit area, leave the area (while still using caution when descending the cables and steps).

Late May the cables are usually put up at Half Dome. The cables are usually taken down in late September early October. The weather is a factor when going up the cables. The best time to hike the trail is late June. The weather is still cool, daylight is longest and crowds are usually less. Depending on the weather, if a storm is in the forecast, do not attempt to hike the trail.

More helpful information:

Environmental Illness and Injury

A few visitors each summer have problems with altitude sickness. Symptoms may include severe headache and/or nausea. The only way to relieve altitude sickness is to descend immediately. Other environmental illnesses include heat exhaustion, dehydration, and hyponatremia (low electrolyte levels). In addition to drinking plenty of water, be sure to eat, and to take regular rest breaks in the shade.

Water safety

Entering Emerald Pool and the Silver Apron is prohibited, and entering pools above waterfalls is strongly discouraged, because of frequent injuries and fatalities.

Emergencies

Even if you plan properly and bring the correct equipment, you might still encounter problems. Some cell phones have coverage from Half Dome and from some locations on the trail. Little Yosemite Valley Ranger Station is staffed during summer. You can find the ranger station on the north side of the valley, near where the Half Dome Trail begins to climb out of the valley. Park rangers frequently patrol the trail, so the ranger station is not always staffed. You may need to send some members of your group to Yosemite Valley to get assistance.

Trash

There is no trash service on trails. While hiking in Yosemite, be sure to pack out all trash. When possible, you can help park rangers by picking up trash that you encounter on the trail. Bear proof trash cans are available at trail heads.

Don't forget your camera and have a safe, enjoyable hike!

The true fable of Hercules the cat

2009-03-07T15:37:00.000-08:00

When we first moved to the Yosemite area to open A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast we had a black cat named Hercules. Hercules was an outdoor cat. Well, we had heard that there were coyotes, bobcats and mountain lions living near Yosemite. So, we decided to convert Hercules into an indoor cat after we moved. I don't know if you've ever tried to convert a cat but, cats don't convert easily. Hercules kept escaping and he would be gone for several days at a time.

Right after we had finished renovating A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast we left on vacation. We wanted to have a week to relax before we became innkeepers and opened our doors for people all over the world to come to visit. As we were taking our luggage out to the car Hercules sneaked past and ran as fast as his little legs would carry him. He didn't know that we weren't going to be there when he came home a few days later.

When we did come home Hercules wasn't there. We spent many days and nights looking for Hercules and waiting for him to come home. After a couple of months passed we came to the sad realization that he wouldn't be back. Minnie, our toy fox terrier missed her best friend, Hercules. She became depressed and wasn't eating much. She hung her head and looked forelorn.

While at the veternarians office one day a few months later we saw several kittens being given away. We let Minnie pick one out and she immediately walked up to the black kitten and wagged her tail. We named the new kitty, Maxie. Minnie and Maxie played together but, Minnie was older and mellow and Maxie was young and hyper. Minnie was glad to have Maxie around but, it just wasn't the same.

One evening we were sitting around the living room at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast having a cup of tea with some of the guests. One of the ladies asked if we let Maxie outside. We said, "Oh no, our last cat got eaten by coyotes so we keep Maxie in."

The next morning when I went into the living room to start the coffee I looked down and saw Maxie looking up at me and he meowed. Oh my God, that meow wasn't Maxie's meow. That meow could only belong to one cat, Hercules!! But, where did he come from? The guest from the previous evening walked into the living room just about then. She saw the black cat and said to me, "I hope you don't mind, but, I heard your cat crying outside my window last night. So I got up and let him in. I knew he wasn't supposed to be outside." I pointed at Hercules in disbelief and said, "This isn't the cat we were talking about last night, this is the cat that got eaten by coyotes over a year ago!"

Needless to say, Minnie was delirious to see Hercules was back. As were we. We often wonder where he was for over 13 months. But, he won't tell us. He hasn't strayed far from home since then. He is so happy to be home and he shows it to all of our guests by letting them pet him endlessly.

Both cats are indoor/outdoor now. There was a lot of posturing for position as the head cat after that. After all, Maxie thought he was an only cat and Hercules couldn't believe he'd been replaced. Once in a while there is still a battle for power and the cats will go running through the living room with Minnie hot on their tails barking at them both.

Breakfast Recipe

2009-02-16T20:24:00.001-08:00

Here is one of our favorite recipes at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast. When we make this dish we usually get several requests for the recipe. This dish is so easy to make you can whip it up then visit with everyone while it cooks. You'll look like a gourmet cook when you serve it.

Peach-Berry Quiche

Ingredients:
1/3 to 1/2 box Corn bread/muffin mix (I use Jiffy)
Fresh or frozen peaches
Fresh or frozen blueberries
1/4 to 1/2 Cup Granulated Sugar (depends on how sweet you like it)
2 cups Half and Half (use fat free if you want)
8 Large Eggs, lightly beaten

PREHEAT oven to 350° F.
SPRAY bottom of glass casserole dish (9"x13"x2") with Pam or other spray-on non-stick coating.
SPRINKLE corn bread/muffin mix in bottom of dish.

SPREAD fresh or frozen peach slices on top of corn bread mix (covering bottom of dish).
SPREAD fresh or frozen blueberries around and on peaches (as many as you like-1/2 to 1 cup or more if you like!).
SPRINKLE sugar over fruit.
COMBINE eggs and half and half in a large bowl; mix well.
POUR egg mixture over everything.

Bake at 350 degrees for 45 mins to 1 hour until set and light brown. Let sit several minutes then cut and serve warm. Serves 6-8 people.

Delicious with sweet corn muffins (recipe below).

Sweet Corn Muffins

(you can find this recipe on the Albers Yellow Corn Meal box)

Ingredients:
1/2 Cup Albers Yellow Corn Meal (can use white corn meal instead)
1-1/2 Cups All-Purpose Flour
2/3 Cup Granulated Sugar
1 Tablespoon Baking powder
1/2 Teaspoon Salt
1-1/4 Cup Milk
2 Eggs, Slightly Beaten
1/3 Cup Vegetable Oil
3 Tablespoons Butter or Magarine, Melted

Directions:
PREHEAT oven to 350° F.
Grease or paper-line 12 to 18 muffin cups.
COMBINE flour, sugar, corn meal, baking powder and salt in medium bowl.
COMBINE milk, eggs, vegetable oil and butter in small bowl; mix well.
ADD to flour mixture; stir just until blended.
POUR into prepared muffin cups, filling 2/3 full.
BAKE 18-20 minutes until light brown or until wooden pick inserted in middle comes out clean.
COOL in pans on wire racks for 5 minutes; Serve warm.
HIGH ALTITUDE (3500 to 6000 feet): Bake for 20 to 24 minutes.

Yosemite Cam

2009-01-25T23:01:00.000-08:00

Take a peek at Yosemite without even being here! This Yosemite cam is brought to you by The Yosemite Association (YA). Click on the link below or cut and paste into the URL address.

http://www.yosemite.org/129/Web-Cam-View.htm?expandable=1

Yosemite Association is a non-profit park support group. Yosemite lovers unite through the Yosemite Association (YA), an organization that supports interpretive, educational, research, scientific and environmental programs in Yosemite National Park.

Authorized by Congress, YA operates in cooperation with the National Park Service. YA provides services and direct financial support to promote park stewardship and enrich the visitor experience. Their educational mission in Yosemite is supported by membership from people like you who join their group.

YA members receive a 10% discount at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast and at Sugar Pine Cabin at Yosemite.

Inpirations:
"The man at the top of the mountain didn't fall there. To get what we've never had, we must do what we've never done."

Snow Fun

2009-01-17T12:36:00.000-08:00

Like many locations in Northern California, Yosemite National Park has four seasons. Each season in Yosemite offers countless adventures and for winter there is “snow” better place.

Yosemite has some of the most beautiful and breathtaking vistas to enjoy winter activities from skiing to snowboarding to a romantic getaway at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast (http://www.abedofrosesbandb.com/), or a cabin rental at Sugar Pine Cabin (http://www.sugarpineatyosemite.com/).

One of the most popular, and affordable places to experience the true feeling of winter in Yosemite is at the outdoor Curry Village Ice Rink. Starting in mid-November and lasting until mid-March, winter adventurers can glide (or slip and fall, a lot) across the hockey-sized ice rink, which is open to skaters of all ages.

This winter the world famous outdoor rink, one of the few true Americana experiences left in the western United States, celebrates its 80th anniversary. It was first established in 1928 when the Yosemite Winter Club flooded an unused parking lot and today it remains a permanent fixture surrounded by towering pine trees, and snow covered granite mammoths like Half Dome.

Due to its wonderful views and charming atmosphere the ice rink is a haven for families and couples searching for an unforgettable moment in the valley. Even for those not skating, a fire pit and warming pit are located next to the rink and are ideal for socializing, watching other skaters, sipping on some hot cocoa, or just appreciating the beauty of a snow-clad Yosemite in winter.

Daily skating sessions are offered from 3:30 to 6 p.m. and 7 to 9:30 p.m. weekdays (weather permitting). On weekends and holidays, the rink is open for an additional morning session from 8:30 to 11 a.m., afternoon sessions from noon to 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 to 6 p.m., and an evening session from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Ice-skating in Curry Village is $8 per adult, per session, and $6 per child. Skate rental is $3 per session. Helmets are available at no additional cost, and private sessions for groups up to 200 in size are available. A family of four with two adults can skate for a total of $40.

Another family favorite winter destination in Yosemite is the Badger Pass ski area. In the winter, when the hoards of tourist have left the valley, a gentle one-hour, vista filled ride is all it takes to reach Badger Pass from A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast (http://www.abedofrosesbandb.com/). Badger Pass is widely known as California’s oldest ski area but perhaps it is most known for its excellent beginners’ terrain for first-time and novice skiers and snowboarders.

Unlike many other ski areas Badger Pass has an extremely unique, relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for kids or people looking for a low-key experience in the snow covered Sierra. With 10 runs, nearly 85 percent of the downhill slopes are designated for beginners and intermediate-level skiers and snowboarders. A new terrain park keeps freeriding snowboarders entertained. Five lifts carry skiers and snowboarders around the mountain.

Badger Pass features one of the best and largest sundecks in the Sierra. Parents and on-lookers can watch their kids and friends learn how to negotiate the snow covered high country of Yosemite while soaking up some California sun. They also have a popular ski program for youngsters, the "Badger Pups" kids downhill program. It offers customized instruction for little skiers ages four to six years old.

Badger Pass is a full-service ski resort offering ski and snowboard instruction, rental equipment, a ski shop, childcare, and a cafeteria and lounge. The ski area is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the season, which is generally mid-December to late March (weather permitting).Elevations range from 7,200 feet to 8,000 feet with a vertical drop of 800 feet with an average temperature range of 30 to 60 degrees. Seasonal snowfall averages about 17 to 20 feet.

Aside from the skiing, another great aspect of Badger Pass is the off-the-slope fun. Guided snowshoe walks, extensive cross country skiing and the family favorite snow tubing, are also available. Services at Badger Pass include a cafeteria, ski shop, day lodge, ski repair shop, and baby-sitting (children must be out of diapers and toilet trained.)

All-day lift ticket prices for adults are $38 and half-day, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. are $28. Youth ages 13-17 are $32 and $22. Seven to 12 year old’s tickects are $15 and $11. Adult season passes are $376. Rentals for everything from ski boots to helmets are available as well.

To start planning your winter getaway contact us at bedofroses@sti.net.

February Area Calendar

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6th, 7th, 8th
Fresno Flats Ragtime & Vintage Music Festival - Oakhurst.
For more information about this event, click here.

14th, 15th
Wine & Chocolate Weekend/Madera Wine Trail.
For more information about this event, click here.

18th
Amgen Tour Will Come Through Oakhurst!!!

Amgen Tour Travels Through Our Area - From Merced through Oakhurst and onto Clovis. The largest cycling event in America, the 2009 Amgen Tour of California is a Tour de France-style cycling road race presented by AEG that challenges the world's top professional cycling teams to compete along a demanding, recently expanded, 800-mile course from Sacramento to Escondido from February 14-22, 2009. Lance Armstrong will be leading this year's race which will come through Oakhurst on February 18th between 1 and 4 p.m.

Contact us at bedofroses@sti.net to be here for any of these events.

Romance in Yosemite

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Looking for a way to tell your sweetheart you love them for Valentine's Day? Here are 10 ways to be romantic while visiting A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast near Yosemite.

1. Rub noses in front of a roaring fire and sip a glass of champagne in the Christmas Rose Room.

2. Pop the question in a way she (or he) will never forget at the top of one of Yosemite's most breath-taking views, Dewey Point, located at the rim of Yosemite valley. From this vista, Yosemite's El Capitan and Half Dome can be seen.

3. Snuggle up during a chairlift ride at Yosemite's Badger Pass Ski area, California's first ski resort.

4. Giggle together in the bubbles of the two person heated jacuzzi tub in the Country Rose Room.

5. Bundle up under a blanket to stay warm on a two horse open sleigh ride.

6. Hold hands as you view the wonders of the Park during a two-hour Valley Floor Tour, departing twice daily from Yosemite Valley.

7. Ice skate under a moonlit Half Dome, then share a hot cocoa by the fire at the Curry Village outdoor ice rink.

8. Take a jaunt on the miles of secluded snowshoeing and cross-country ski trails, departing from Yosemite's Badger Pass Ski Area less than an hour from A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast.

9. Renew your vows at the picturesque 128-year-old Yosemite Chapel.

10. Experience the ultimate in romance with a Yosemite "Romance Package," now available at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast. All rooms are only $99. Add Roses and Champagne, Wine or sparkling cider for only $50.

Winter in Yosemite

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People who visit Yosemite in winter don't want the word to get around. Here's why:

Pleasant Weather: At 4,000 feet, Yosemite Valley's winter temperatures are relatively mild.

Dramatic Mountain Light: With the sun at a low angle, morning and evening winter light is filled with gold.

Wildlife in the Open: Coyotes, mule deer, raccoons and even an occasional bear are easier to spot when the leaves are off the trees.

Yosemite to Yourself: There are far fewer people in Yosemite Valley in the winter.

Lodging Specials: You can get a room almost any night at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast (http://www.abedofrosesbandb.com/) on short notice and at a generous savings. Our Winter special of $99 for any room is a reason in itself to visit the area. Or bring the family and stay at the Sugar Pine Cabin in Fish Camp (http://www.sugarpineatyosemite.com/) for only $300 per night for a family of 8!

Yosemite's Badger Pass Ski Area: As California's original ski area, Badger Pass has been a favorite of winter- loving families for generations. Unpretentious, friendly and affordable, Badger Pass offers a uniquely stress-free atmosphere. Featuring one of the best sundecks in the Sierra Nevada, you can watch the children learn to ski or snowboard while enjoying the California sunshine. Badger Pass is a full-service ski resort offering ski and snowboard instruction, rental equipment, ski shop, child care, cafeteria and lounge and free shuttle service from Yosemite Valley. Located on the road to Glacier Point, Badger Pass is about a 40-minute drive from Yosemite Valley. Open mid- December through late March, conditions permitting.

Badger Pass Cross-Country Center & Ski School: There are nearly 350 miles of skiable trails and roads in the park. Beginning at Badger Pass are over 90 miles of marked trails and 25 miles of machine-groomed track. Cross-country track and skating lanes are groomed from Badger Pass to Glacier Point (a 21- mile round-trip). From silent snowy day-trips to overnight adventures, the novice and expert alike can create their perfect trip. The Cross-Country Center and Ski School has everything from equipment rentals and sales to knowledgeable guides and daily lessons, as well as scheduled and custom-designed day and over-night trips. For more information, call (209) 372-8444.

Snowtubing: Relive the childhood joy of sledding with a new twist. Badger Pass has created specially groomed slopes exclusively for sliding on custom-designed innertubes made for the snow. Located right next to the ski slopes at Badger Pass, snowtubing offers a convenient and affordable alternative way to play in the snow. Note: Sledding is not allowed in the Badger Pass area.

Snow Play Area: If sledding is what you want-just outside the Yosemite gate is a snow play area. Fun for children and adults alike, bring your own sled, tube or trash can lid. Throw snowballs, make snow men or snow angels to your heart’s delight. And it’s FREE!

Snowshoe Walks: Enjoy a two-hour ranger-led snowshoe walk from Badger Pass. Look for signs of wildlife, learn about winter ecology and get some great exercise! Don't miss special snowshoe walks during nights of the full moon. Check Yosemite Guide for schedule. No experience necessary and snowshoe rentals are available for a small fee.

Ice Skating: Imagine the pleasure of ice skating under the shadow of two of Yosemite Valley's most dramatic sights—Half Dome and Glacier Point. The Ice Skating Rink located at Curry Village (shuttle stop #21) has delighted generations of visitors. The rink is open from mid-November through mid-March (conditions permitting), with daytime and evening ice sessions. The rink offers a rental and retail shop, warming hut with snack and beverage vending machines and a toasty fire pit.

Tenaya Lodge in Fish Camp, only a few miles from A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast, has an open-air ice rink. The sparkling white ice rink measures an expansive 80 feet by 40 feet, and is open for day and night skating.

Sleigh rides: Enjoy a rare opportunity to see the Yosemite area, bundled up in a warm blanket, as you go dashing through the snow in a two horse open sleigh. Winter weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to call or email prior to your arrival for reservations and scheduling updates.