A Tid Bit

"Watermellon juice"

2011-08-03T00:38:04Z

Family visits daily is the best way that I can explain what running a bed and breakfast is like and we absolutely love everything about it. We are blessed everyday with each and every one that comes to stay at our beautiful B&B and yesterday was another of those days. The Lange's are a beautiful couple that had so much love for themselves and for their God and it ozzed out of them. It was an honor to serve them. Touching hearts with acts of kindness is free but more valuable than money can measure. Here is the blog that Jim blessed me with this morning. I thought I'd share it with you.

"According to Jesus, the two greatest commandments are to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" and to "Love your neighbor as yourself." He then said that "All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." (from Matthew 22:37-40) In other words, the Bible can be boiled down to four words, Love God & Love People. So what does this look like in the marketplace? Well I was blessed by being on the receiving end of that type of love this morning.

Today, my bride and I are celebrating our 26th wedding anniversary. To mark the occasion, I surprised her last night by taking her to a bed and breakfast we had never been to before. The Housley House in Grand Rapids, Ohio was built in 1883 and has quite a history. From the incredible interior to the outdoor garden in back to the beautiful river scenery out front, the entire place is amazing. But I discovered this morning what really makes this place special are the owners Don and Teresa Marie Williams.

We had a wonderful time talking with them on the porch last night. As a result of our conversation, Teresa Marie apparently went to my website to check me out. She must have stumbled upon the page that shares some odd facts about me (to the right) and discovered that I really like watermelon juice (I have only ever had this in Mexico). This morning Connie and I sat down on the porch for breakfast and she served us an awesome meal including fresh squeezed watermelon juice (pictured above)! She admitted that she had never prepared this before but she plans to make this a part of her menu rotation from now on.

I was very taken aback and was struck by the way she was showing love and honoring me. She was living out Jesus' command to "love your neighbor as yourself." And, she was doing this in the marketplace-how cool is that! And it wasn't just me who experienced this. Another guest for the evening was Terri and she was celebrating her 40th birthday today. Teresa Marie brought out a blueberry and white chocolate scone (that was delicious by the way) with a candle in it and we all sang Happy Birthday to Terri.

This really encouraged me to look for ways that I can be more loving in every encounter I have. I hope it does for you too!

By the way, if you ever decide to stay at the Housley House (which I highly recommend), you must ask them to tell you the candelabra story and how it is a confirmation to them that they are right where God wants them-it is incredible and will strengthen your faith!

"IN THE GOOD OLE SUMMER TIME"

2011-06-08T01:56:38Z

Step back into yesteryear at the Housley House B&B of Grand Rapids, Ohio! Sit along the tow path, located just across the street from our front door and watch the rapids of the scenic Maumee river as it races to Lake Erie. See the beautiful sunset or take a ride on the historical Miami and Erie Canal boat of the 1800's. As you step into the beautiful Italianate Victorial 1883 home of RA Housley that is on the National Registry of historical homes but feels like a step back into grandma's house, and just like grandma's house - you will smell the sweet aromas of baked apple dumplings, blackberry scones and homemade cinnamon rolls made personally by Teresamarie, who with over 15 years experience in hospitality in the B&B world knows how to spoil you and keep you coming back..

Check out this review: " My husband and I were looking for a quiet peaceful place where we could relax and get away from our busy hectic life. Although it was only 1 1/2 hours from our home, we felt like we found a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. We loved EVERYTHING about The Housley House!

Our two night stay was delightful. Our hosts were so gracious and by the time we left on Tuesday, it seemed like we knew Teresa Marie and Don all our lives.

We stayed in the Dillen Room. The room was furnished with beautiful antiques, as was the entire house. The Housley House is exceptionally clean; well decorated; welcoming; comfortable; friendly--all the attributes you look for in a getaway.

My husband and I spent a lot of time swinging on the huge front porch, surrounded by the beautifully decorative gardens. The view and peacefulness of the Maumee River brings a soothing and romantic experience to this setting.

From the moment Tom & I stepped into this place, we felt as though our hosts bent over backwards to make this a truly relaxing and inviting place. I can tell Teresa Marie takes pride in creating the homemade breakfasts and evening treats she serves as each came out as a work of art and tasted fabulous (oatmeal pancakes with fresh blueberry syrup, scone with orange glaze, blueberry bread pudding, strawberry shortcake) Yum!!!

To top it off, Teresa Marie directed us to area attractions such as the Isaac Ludwig Mill and Providence Metro Park historical mule drawn canal boat ride. She also printed us off discount coupons for our evening dinner with friends.

This area of Ohio is just beautiful and having the Maumee River across the street just adds to the charm. We found the entire experience most outstanding and we are looking forward to attending one of the upcoming events planned.

When you stay at the Housley House, you will be intrigued by the amazing story of the paths that led Teresa Marie and Don to Grand Rapids and proud owners of the Housley House. Don't forget to ask about the matching candelabras."

STEP BACK IN TIME AT THE HOUSLEY HOUSE B&B

2011-05-03T14:59:03Z

If you love history and times of the past then you will love to step back in time and stay at the Housley House B&B of Grand Rapids, Ohio! Located in the heart of everything, you will never get bored. You can sit on our porch swing and watch people fishing, canoeing, taking the canal boat ride and even shopping or you can be a part of all the fun out-door activity yourself. The best part is that you get 2 free tickets with every stay at the Housley House B&B, during the Miami - Erie Canal boat season (May thru Sept - Wed.thru Sat.noon-4:30p.m.). There are many beautiful trails to walk, Metro parks to see, Oak Openings to picnic at and much, much more! But the best part is in the evening, sitting on the porch with the other guests and enjoying Teresamarie's apple dumplings!

TIS THE SEASON FOR ROMANCE!

2011-01-12T20:31:40Z

"Whether your looking for a location for that inimate size wedding, a romantic getaway, Murder Mystery or "Eat, Pray & Love" girl getaway... the Housley House B&B is your place! Teresamarie has been a wedding officant for over 15 years and we take pride in customizing every package to fit your needs at one low cost! We are a 1 STOP WEDDING LOCATION! Ceremony, photographer, wedding minister, flowers, cake, reception, honeymoon..... THE WORKS! Call Teresamarie for more details on the different packages available at 419-615-7144

Do you belong to a women's group, garden club, book club, card club? Or do you just have a group of friends that love to get together and have fun? Why not come to the Housley House B&B for our Eat, Pray and Love girl's weekend away! Call 419-615-7144!

What is the Housley House's "Eat, Pray and Love" package?

The more ladies, the better!
Upon arrival - Meet and greet upon arrival with or without a wine tasting and more!! PRICE: $175.00 per person includes 2 night stay and package or $100.00 for a 1 night package. Call Teresamarie for details of this package.

There's been a Murder at the Housley House B&B!! Join us for a special Murder Mystery.
Meet and Greet from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. over wine tasting, cheese and crackers and let the game begin!
6:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. - character building and dressed in character for dinner which... will be at Miss Lily's which is also owned by the Innkeepers. The murder will begin at dinner with lots of time to gather clues and draw your own conclusions. Then we are back to the Housley House for dessert where the night continues to unravel the mystery so that you can dream about who did it all night long. And a prize for the person that acts their part the best without going out of character! Lots of laughs and lots of fun.
Prices: $65.00 per person includes dinner, winetasting, dessert and more! Cost of the room is additional. This package is for 3 couples - so bring your group of friends, family and/or group! Call Teresamarie for more details.

OR JUST COME TO REST AND ENJOY SITTING ON THE PORCH SWING! WE ARE LOCATED IN THE HEART OF ALL THE ACTIVITY AND FACING THE BEAUTIFUL VIEW OF THE MAUMEE RIVER AND THE MAIN STREET OF GRAND RAPIDS OHIO!

TIME FOR ROMANCE AND ALOT OF FUN!

2010-11-17T12:54:49Z

The Housley House Bed and Breakfast of Grand Rapids, OHIO is that perfect spot for your intimate wedding, beautiful crisp morning walks on one of our many trails, or come spend your holidays at the Italianate Victorian Housley House Bed and Breakfast in Grand Rapids, Ohio - just 15 minutes west of Toledo! Whether you choose to book our: #1 Dinner theater package - Which includes your overnight stay with us, a bottle of wine, breakfast for 2 delivered to your room, and 2 tickets for a Holiday Dinner Theater by the Villagers of Friar Tucks at the well-known LaRoe's restaurant! ONE GREAT BIG PACKAGE FOR ONE SMALL PRICE! Call now to reserve your date available. Or #2 our "LIGHTS BEFORE CHRISTMAS" package which includes, overnight stay for 2, a complimentary bottle of wine, breakfast for 2 delivered to your room, 2 tickets to the Toledo Zoo and dinner for 2 at your choice of LaRoe's restaurant of Grand Rapids or El Tipico, the oldest Mexican restaurant of Toledo! Throughout The Lights Before Christmas, visitors will enjoy hot chocolate and other holiday treats, carolers and ice-carving demonstrations on selected evenings, and rides on the Safari Railway and African Animal Carousel, weather permitting. The package is open from November 19 to December 31.

REVIEW BY GUEST: We just spent 2 perfect days with Don and Teresa at The Housley House. There were 4 overworked, stressed out Moms that walked into the house, but 4 relaxed, rested and happy women that left Monday morning! We shopped downtown at the unique stores in Grand Rapids, had a delicious lunch on the patio at LaRoe's, walked along the river and then enjoyed wine in the garden of the B&B under a beautiful trellis. We talked and laughed for hours. After we had great pizza a Mama Teresa's (almost next door to the B&B) we came back to sit on the porch with Don & Teresa. The shared history of the B&B and stories of the community. Then Don took us on a lantern walk down the tow path of the canal. Don is full of stories, although we aren't sure if they are all true! LOL When we returned Teresa had freshly made, right out of the oven apple dumplings with ice cream waiting for us on the porch. YUM! Then we went upstairs, to a little sitting area to talk late into the night. The next morning we went downstairs to fresh coffee and our choice of spots for breakfast. We picked the side porch because it offers a beautiful view of the Maumi River. Teresa served us warm blueberry bread pudding, black raspberry scones with a delightful white chocolate glaze. Both were amazing and I was satisfied with those, but then she served an egg casserole and bacon. I have no idea what was in it, but it was great! All this with coffee and orange juice. We lingered over breakfast enjoying the fact we did not have to do the dishes. Then we walked around town some more, stopping in a few shops and enjoying the slow pace of the small town. We did not want to leave and look forward to returning maybe in the Fall for another Girls Get-Away! We recommend The Housley House 100%!

THE HOUSLEY HOUSE PRESENTS - "A HOLIDAY TO REMEMBER"

2010-11-05T00:57:43Z

Image via Wikipedia

Come spend your holidays at the Italianate Victorian Housley House Bed and Breakfast in Grand Rapids, Ohio - just 15 minutes west of Toledo! Whether you choose to book our: #1 Dinner theater package - Which includes your overnight stay with us, a bottle of wine, breakfast for 2 delivered to your room, and 2 tickets for a Holiday Dinner Theater by the Villagers of Friar Tucks at the well-known LaRoe's restaurant! ONE GREAT BIG PACKAGE FOR 1 SMALL PRICE!

Or #2 our "LIGHTS BEFORE CHRISTMAS" package which includes, overnight stay for 2, a complimentary bottle of wine, breakfast for 2 delivered to your room, 2 tickets to the Toledo Zoo and dinner for 2 at your choice of LaRoe's restaurant of Grand Rapids or El Tipico, the oldest Mexican restaurant of Toledo! Throughout The Lights Before Christmas, visitors will enjoy hot chocolate and other holiday treats, carolers and ice-carving demonstrations on selected evenings, and rides on the Safari Railway and African Animal Carousel, weather permitting. The package is open from November 19 to December 31 (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day). Hours are Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. (the Zoo closes at 9 p.m.) and Friday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Beautiful Seasons of The Housley House B&B

2010-10-11T23:18:18Z

This season of Don's and my life is just as beautiful as this gorgeous spot of warmth and colors that we named The Housley House! All you have to do is open your eyes and let them fall upon God's beauty as the painting unfolds of bright orange, warm reds and golden yellows, everywhere you look! Even though the B&B is full of all that warmth and those colors inside, year-around - you just can't stay inside too long! Theres just too much to do and to see and before long those colors will be gone and replaced by the sparkling diamond crystals of the snow and ice that etches the views. Come stay with us at the Housley House B&B and feel the warmth while you are walking the many paths, enjoying the scenic Maumee or swinging on our beautiful porch! And taste each bite of heaven as your pallets taste my homemade apple dumplings, cinnamon rolls and lots more baked goods! October, November, December and January bring Murder Mysteries now, pie parties and much more! Call for more information! This is just one review about our B&B for you to enjoy! "My husband took me on our annual "anniversary" B&B trip, which we started at our 10th anniversary because I NEEDED time away from my darling children. We have done this four years in a row, and this was definitely the best trip by far! The room was amazing ANd affordable (off-season rates probably helped that). We stayed in the spacious Dillin suite, which I highly recommend. It has beautiful, floor-to-ceiling bay windows that overlook the river, with a large bathroom that included a lovely whirlpool tub (delightfully roomy for one, a bit cozy for two, but cozy is what you're looking for on an anniversary trip, anyway! The decorations of this 1880-ish home really added to the experience, and the garden sounds like it's divine (in January, it just looked snowy!). The breakfast was sumptous, but in the end, it was good that we had so much food, because we spent TWO HOURS lingering over it as we all enjoyed the company of our vastly entertaining hosts. Whether they're telling the story of how they met, the incredible circumstances of their lives before that time, or the amazing tale of how they came to own the home, they were by far the most enjoyable part of the trip. At times I was vastly amused, other times humbly moved, but always enthralled. I can't wait to return, both to enjoy the front porch (which looks like it would be heaven in warmer weather) AND to hear more of the hosts' wonderfully entertaining stories."

The Housley House B&B and it's surrounds are a painting from above!

2010-10-01T01:10:24Z

Here at the Housley House Bed and Breakfast, every season is a beautiful painting from "above". The colors of autumn mixed with the smells of baked goods made fresh each day, the feel of the luxurious sheets as you nestle into your bed and sounds of laughter from all the stories that Don will enlighten your heart with - are all added details that touch each and every heart that stays with us. Our quaint little town of Grand Rapids, Ohio is full of so much history and Don loves to tell all the stories about this beautiful Ludwig Mill, the historical Maumee river, our beautiful Italiante Historical B&B and much more. Here is just one review that we'd like to share with you.

"Dear Don and Teresamarie, you are the epitome of Bed and Breakfast hosts! It was clear from when you walked out to our car to greet us, that you put alot of effort into meeting your guests` needs...and more! Your personal interest and extra touches are what set you apart from the normal Bed and Breakfast's. Somehow in one day I felt at "home" and like I was family. With our son going to BGSU this fall, we look forward to spending many more times with you. My husband fell inlove with you because of your scones in the morning, chocolate chip cookies when we arrived and apple dumplings before bed! I will never hear the end of it until we get here again. Thank you for allowing us to enjoy your tandem bicycle and hammock. What a lot of fun!" Jenny and Dave

A Bit Of Heaven!

2010-09-22T16:55:56Z

Your are the

LET THE ACTIVITIES BEGIN WHILE STAYING AT THE HOUSLEY HOUSE B&B!

2010-09-01T14:52:12Z

Before this B&B, I lived in the Sierra Mountains of California on the California side of Lake Tahoe where I ran a 15 bedroom B&B and when I moved back home, I thought I'd never see anything as beautiful as what I left behind. But that wasn't true. God had other plans for Don and I. There may not be any mountains in Grand Rapids, Ohio but I love it just as much. This historical canal is just across the street from the Housley House Bed and Breakfast. You can go hiking, biking, skiing, shopping! You can have a picnic lunch on a sandpiper boat, or the canal boat that is right in Grand Rapids. We have a butterfly house and many other out door places to enjoy. It really is the most beautiful little town in Ohio.... in our opinion and its the perfect place to get away, rest and rejuvinate! So come spend some time with us at the Housley House B&B and be sure to ask about our Autumn time specials! We have Canal Days in September, the Applebutter festival, Lantern walks, wine tours, murder mysteries all at the Housley House B&B in October and Grand Rapids' Christmas Open House the week before Thanksgiving. Also, don't forget to rent out the entire B&B for your holiday gatherings!

Just read this awesome review!

"Since this lovely B&B opened, I have been contemplating a stay at Housley House. Finally, the day finally came. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed my time there. The long summer evening was spent on the wide, breezy Victorian porch with tea and warm cookies. The bed was cozy; the bathroom luxurious. And, in quiet of the morning, I walked by the Maumee River enjoying a mug of coffee as I watched a Great Blue Heron hunting on the river bank. Then, there was that scrumptious breakfast on the porch (I highly recommend the peach scones!). The innkeepers - Don and Teresa Marie - were warm, attentive and generous. It was a weekend well spent and I hope to return soon." 8/29/10

Step Back In Time at the Housley House Bed and Breakfast!

2010-08-21T01:54:33Z

Give us a call and make a reservation to stay with us here at the Housley House Bed and Breakfast of Grand Rapids, Ohio. We take pride in making your stay with us, everything you want it to be. With over 15 years experience in the hospitality field we pay attention to even the smallest of details. If you like outdoor activities.. this is the place! We have a bicycle made for two, a hammock built for two, a porch swing built for two that is yours just for booking with us! There are all kinds of trails to enjoy, a canal boat that will take you back in time. We have places to bird watch, nature watch, the Toledo Zoo, outlet malls, antique shops and even a local restaurant that was featured on the Rush Limbaugh show called LaRoe's! So come spend some time at the Housley House Bed and Breakfast and enjoy a cup of coffee in the early hours of the morning as you sit on the swing that faces the rushing rapids of the Maumee River and then let Don serve you breakfast out on the porch if its nice or in the tea room or dining room if its not! Just as this review speaks of:

#1 From: Mrs. Leis of Ohio - "Recently, my hubby treated me to an escape weekend. From the moment we approached the stately Housely House, it was like we were escaping to another time. The grounds were beautiful, and as it was a snowy day, the whole scene looked just like a Currier and Ives etching. The house itself is a testament to 19th century craftsmanship and 20th century skilled restoration. I felt a sense of calm and wonder went I entered the house; I was "blown" away by the beautiful woodwork, the priceless, vintage lighting, the charming decor...it felt like I was stealing a chance to stay in a house that had over a century's worth of stories to tell. All the rooms in the inn have their own brass nameplates; all have a distinct beauty and charm. The beautiful garden area in the back would provide a perfect setting for anything from a wedding to a family reunion; I plan to visit it in the spring or summer when the flowers are in bloom. Although the town has a variety of unique shops, and there are several wonderful new malls and a number of great restaurants a short drive away, my hubby and I found ourselves wanting to return to the inn and the calm it had to offer. Our room provided a beautiful view of the river below, and the whirlpool tub in our connected bathroom was a real treat. We were thrilled to find a wonderful midnight snack (Teresa's scones) on our table waiting us. Best of all, perhaps, was the delicious breakfast we were served the next morning. The night before our innkeeper, Teresa, asked what we'd like to eat and where we'd like to be served, in our room or in the (beautiful) dining area. Leaving, I really just felt refreshed and happy (and convinced we'll make a return trip). So, our escape trip was worth every piece of dirty laundry and every messy room I had to return to. Plus, now I know an escape is only a phone call away! I highy recommend The Housely House with its English garden and charming hosts."

Day Trippin' to the Housley House B&B and experience the best!

2010-08-16T03:13:01Z

Give me a call and make a reservation to stay with us here at the Housley House Bed and Breakfast. It all begins from the moment we talk...... I listen to your needs and wants.... but mostly to your dreams. What is it that you are looking for in the stay... is it... rest? Is it activities? Is it romance? Alone time? Fun and laughter? It is my job to listen to your dreams and make them come true. We have places to bird watch, nature watch, the Toledo Zoo, outlet malls, antique shops and even a local restaurant that was featured on the Rush Limbaugh show called LaRoe's! So come spend some time at the Housley House Bed and Breakfast and enjoy a cup of coffee in the early hours of the morning as you sit on the swing that faces the rushing rapids of the Maumee River and then let Don serve you breakfast out on the porch and let us make the magic for a special time to remember! Just as this review speaks of:

The Cream Of The Crop of Grand Rapids, Ohio

2010-08-06T23:07:30Z

Spending the last 3 years here at the Housley House Bed and Breakfast has been unbelieveable! We have met the most amazing people. People come from Germany and Austria to the locals and other states of the US. Whether its by car, bike or motorcycle......... one thing is for sure... it is always a treat for us. This photograph is of a husband and wife bicycling team with another bicyclist who started in California, went to Florida and up to Ohio! Sharing the stories and sharing the laughter as we sit together on the porch, enjoying the apple dumplings and rocking on the chairs is always a highlight of our evenings! There is so much to do here at the Housley House Bed and Breakfast! There are canoes, paths to walk, bikes to rent, picnics to take, boat to ride on, trains to relax in, sites to see, shops of all kinds to enjoy and good food - here, there and everywhere! Our number one task is to spoil you in every way that we can. Just as this review states:

"Oh my gosh! What a wonderful experience to have an overnight at your wonderful Bed and Breakfast! I have never felt so pampered and welcomed! When I woke up this morning I was torn between wanting to stay in this wonderful comfortable bed or to get up and run downstairs to sit in your lovely parlor! You two are an amazing couple with energy that should be captured by NASA! Thank you for sharing so much about your community at large! You set a beautiful example for the rest of us to follow. And the food was over the top! Thanks again!" Mary Lou - Columbus, Ohio

Grand Rapids Cream of The Crop!

2010-08-05T18:55:34Z

As soon as you give us a call and make a reservation to stay with us here at the Housley House Bed and Breakfast - It all begins....... From the moment we talk...... we listen to your needs and wants.... but mostly to your dreams. There is so much to do when you stay with us! We have the butterfly house that houses over 500 species of butterflies, we have trails for hiking, an historical canal boat and train to take rides on. We have places to bird watch, nature watch, the Toledo Zoo, outlet malls, antique shops and even a local restaurant that was featured on the Rush Limbaugh show called LaRoe's! So come spend some time at the Housley House Bed and Breakfast and enjoy the porch swing that faces the rushing Grand rapids and local Front Street activity and let a highschool football coach of 33 years and his "Lily" make the magic, for a special time to remember! Just as this review speaks of:

June 2010 - "My husband and I stayed at The Housley House in June for our anniversary! We love to stay and bed and breakfasts and rarely do we find that both the house is extraordinary as well as the hosts! In The Housley House, you have it all! Great home, great people! We have visited Grand Rapids many times over the years and now we feel like we have new friends there because Walter and Lily (aka Don and Teresa Marie) are such wonderful people. We watched a storm from the front porch, walked downtown to dinner and around Grand Rapids, did a little shopping in Perrysburg (only about 20 mins away) and just relaxed in the lovely Dillon suite with its amazing view. The food! Oh, my, it was wonderful! I loved the cinnamon rolls and the scones! We even bought some to take home! If you're looking for a beautiful house, friendly and wonderful inn keepers, in a quaint little town with lots to do, then this is the place to stay! thanks Don and Teresa Marie for sharing your home!

The Cream Of The Crop of Grand Rapids, Ohio

2010-08-04T00:25:11Z