September 3rd, 2019 by srsm
Irish Soda Bread: Apparently it’s not Irish in origin. Stirring It Up: With apologies to my Scottish husband, I give you the recipe for Irish Soda Bread which has been enjoyed by many guests here at West Hill House B&B. This recipe just a few minutes to put together and only 30 minutes to bake. Best … read full article
August 28th, 2019 by srsm
It’s fair to say that when Laura Ingalls lived in the Little House in the Big Woods, she could never have imagined that today, more than 150 years later, we would be talking about a Tiny House in the Big Woods! That, however, is exactly what the Mad River Valley will be talking about come … read full article
March 12th, 2019 by Kim Dixon
Spring in Vermont is different than that of many other states. Sure, we see budding green trees and daffodils poking up to say hello, but that snow is still here and has a multitude of parts to play in this season. Spring skiing (same fun – slightly warmer temperatures) is only part of spring in … read full article
January 8th, 2019 by srsm
Stirring it up: Sandbakkels are a Norwegian sugar cookie treat which is enjoyed throughout the Scandinavian countries, especially at Christmas. But seriously, who wouldn’t want a sugar cookie at any time of the year! A friend of mine has strong Norwegian roots and when I showed him the photo of my Sandbakkels he exclaimed, “I … read full article
November 21st, 2018 by srsm
No two snowflakes are alike and that was discovered in Vermont! Winter is fully upon us and the snowflakes are floating softly through the air. The landscape is blanketed in white and is oh so beautiful. If you were a kid growing up in snow country you tried to catch snowflakes on your tongue. Why? … read full article
August 20th, 2018 by srsm
Serving it up: Quiche. This warm, creamy, egg pie is a winner at breakfast here at West Hill House B&B. Quiche can also be enjoyed for lunch or, dare I say, dinner and is especially tasty cold with a crispy salad on a hot summer day. Makes one 8″ (20cm) pie Oven 375°F (190°C) Bake … read full article
August 6th, 2018 by srsm
Shelburne Farm and Shelburne Museum are two of the great treasures of Vermont which offer an interesting insight into the past, present and future of the Green Mountain state. Shelburne Farm-A visit to the farm is well worth your time. The grand structures including the family house, the Coach House, the Breeding Barn and the … read full article
July 30th, 2018 by srsm
The State of the Arts: Vermont Festival of the Arts August is a great time to experience art in Vermont. So…pack up the babies, grab the old ladies, and bring everyone up to Vermont. (sorry Neil Diamond) The month of August 2018 marks the 21st year for the month long Festival of the Arts in the Mad … read full article
July 14th, 2018 by srsm
A Vermont covered bridge is always a great attraction. It is part of the beautiful Vermont scenery. Whether long, short, painted, unpainted one span or two, windows or solid walls there is something romantic about these structures. In Vermont, there are just over 100 authentic covered bridges giving the state the highest number of authentic … read full article
May 17th, 2018 by srsm
Farm life isn’t easy. For those who make farming a way of life it shows a love of the land. Hardly a day goes by that one doesn’t see an article on healthy eating. Magazines, newspapers, the Internet, and TV programs, are all touting the benefits of healthy eating. Copious numbers of recipes are shared and … read full article
March 26th, 2018 by srsm
It’s Maple Sugaring Time once again. Vermont has strict Maple Laws governing the production of maple syrup to ensure that you get the highest quality maple syrup. For such a deliciously complex flavor, maple syrup is surprisingly simple to make. Sugaring takes place for just a few weeks in early spring when the spring-time sap from … read full article
March 23rd, 2018 by srsm
Farm fresh veggies for the boys in Oliver was not an option. They would have even been happy to have “Hot sausage and mustard!” but gruel was the order of the day. When we here in the Mad River Valley of Vermont sing of “food glorious food” we know that there are farm fresh, locally grown … read full article