by Melissa Placzek Dreaming of a comfy, cozy room your guests can call their own? Transform an extra room into a bed-and-breakfast-style getaway with little luxuries that are sure to pamper and please. Little Guest Room Luxuries A sewing kit Fresh, 300+ thread count, cotton sheets Fresh quilts Mooshy towels and washcloths Polished furniture and…
Spa Cuisine: A is for… Alphabet Soup!
by Melissa • • 2 Comments
In honor of Mother’s Day this past weekend, this recipe is for the kiddos (and you too!) Who doesn’t secretly love to indulge in some of the comforting “nursery” foods from their youth? 🙂 In my opinion this dish can still be called “Spa Cuisine,” because it is good for the body and soul. This…
Musings Newsletter: Restaurant Review of The Harbor View Cafe in Pepin Wisconsin
by Melissa • • 2 Comments
Last weekend the sun was shining and we were experiencing the first beautiful weather in the Minnesota/Wisconsin area that we had seen in months. Time to venture outside! We decided to seize the opportunity and set out on a short road trip over the Wisconsin/Minnesota border. The Great River Road led us to one of…
Wine Tasting Notes: McGuigan Gold Shiraz 2004 & “Passive-Aggressive Steaks”
by Melissa • • 0 Comments
Once spring has sprung, I usually start looking for refreshing Pinot Grigios, Sauv Blancs and Chardonnays to serve with all of the salads, fruits, and grilled chicken and fish dishes that make up a majority of our “warm weather menu”. There is one food where I make an exception, and that is grilled steak or…
Luxurious Retreat Tip: Shopping at Ethnic Markets
by Melissa • • 0 Comments
“From Greenland’s icy mountains, from India’s coral strand, where Afric’s sunny fountains roll down their golden sand.” -Reginald Herber (Missionary Hymn) Ethnic Shopping is the next best thing to taking a vacation. The aromas, vibrant colors, textures and flavors of these little shops are a feast for the senses. This will change the way you…