Bonnie's Bed and Breakfast Blog

June in the Gardens

2010-06-21T16:11:00.005-06:00

Here it is June already. Birds and squirrels, gardening and B&B guests are getting my attention these days. Stevens Point has had its share of rain already this month so creatures and plants in our gardens are quite happy. Already summer travel has provided plenty of opportunities to share the gardens of Dreams of Yesteryear with guests.
I like to describe to my guests what the property, especially the gardens, were like when Bill and I purchased our historic home, the J.L. Jensen House in 1987. The huge yard was quite overgrown with trees, shrubs, vines, and Lily of the Valley. Cedar hedges that were nearly as wide as they were tall topped the stone rip rap on two sides of the lot. A bittersweet vine near the west porch crawled over the roof and looked like it would be the plant that ate the house. Grape vines had tangled their way relentlessly through the Lilacs (not a bad thing if you like to make grapevine wreaths J). Pachysandra had managed to make its way up to the top of the mama and papa pines. Although we had just bought a large old house that needed lots of attention, we couldn’t wait to sort through the gardens to discover what kinds of plantings had been placed here by early owners of our house. I imagined Jensen family members planting these varieties a century ago. But, I also imagined that soon enough I’d be using my back, knees, elbows, and muscles to have my way with these plantings. After all, what is the purpose of a garden if not to accentuate the house? J
We’ve owned this historic home over 23 years now and I think we have pruned and trimmed every inch of the yard. As guests stroll through the formal and informal gardens of Dreams of Yesteryear, they now can gaze upon antique plantings that have been lovingly nurtured back to health. Honeysuckle, Bittersweet, Lilacs, Roses, Cotoneaster, and Bridal Wreath are a few of the plantings we've given a second chance at life. Of course we couldn’t resist the allure of the local nurseries and have given some new plantings a first chance at life in a Victorian garden. A variety of Hostas, Dragon's Blood, Lavender, Bugle Weed, Sedums, Artemisia, Iris, Jacob's ladder, Wild Ginger, Anemone, Lamb's Ears, Perovskia, Euonymus, and Lillies have found a home in our Victorian garden.
So as I write this I realize it‘s officially the first day of summer. With no purpose in writing this except to ponder my gardens, I wish you a happy summer and invite you to come enjoy a stroll through my garden.

Gardens at Dreams of Yesteryear

2010-06-18T16:45:00.001-06:00

It's been a long time since I've entered a blog. Shamefully, I'll admit it was Christmas. Now here it is June and Christmas is but a memory and birds,gardening, and B&B guests are getting my attention Stevens Point has had it's share of rain already this month so birds are chirping happily and the gardens are lush. And the best part has been sharing these treasures with bed and breakfast guests.

As guests comment on the gardens, I like to describe to them what the property was like when we purchased our historic home in 1987. The huge yard was quite overgrown with trees, shrubs, vines, and Lily of the Valley. Cedar hedges that were nearly as wide as they were tall topped the the stone rip rap on two sides of the lot. A bittersweet vine near the west porch crawled over the roof and looked like it would be the plant that ate the house. Grape vines had tangled their way relentlessly through the Lilacs (not a bad thing if you like to make grapevine wreaths). Pachysandra had managed to make its way up to the top of the mama and papa pines. It was exciting to sort through nature's green to discover see what kinds of plantings may have been placed here by early owners of our house.

Over the years we've pruned and trimmed our way to returning the yard into the beautiful Victorian landscape we enjoy today. As guests stroll the formal and informal gardens of Dreams of Yesteryear, they enjoy gazing at mature antique plantings that have been lovingly nurtured. Honeysuckle, bittersweet, lilacs, roses, cotoneaster, bridal wreath to name a few are the plantings we feel we've given another life. Guests also notice the other plantings that we've added over the years. No gardener can resist the many varieties of hostas or the dragon's blood, lavender, bugle weed, sedums, wormwood, iris, Jacob's ladder, wild ginger, anenome, lamb's ears, provoskia, eunemome, and lillies we couldn't resist adding to our gardens.

I Wish You the Christmas Spirit

2009-12-04T15:02:00.003-07:00

Well it finally came. The first real snowfall of 2009. Thank goodness! I've spent three days at my job in the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point's Tutoring-Learning Center trying to sandwich in the business of decorating the Writing/Reading and Content Tutoring Labs for the holidays, two days decorating my mother and dad's house and tree, and countless days/hours decorating our home--the Dreams of Yesteryear Bed and Breakfast. And guess what? I wasn't in the Christmas spirit in the least. But today changed all that.

Today we had our first real snowfall of the season. I woke up to discover my lawn covered with white, and to the slippery roads that paved my way to work. Looking through the windows I felt like I was in a giant snowglobe. The tips of the tree's branches were dusted with white, the large snowflakes melting on the heads and shoulders of the students as they came into our office, and the weather prediction of snow for the next five days has finally put me in the Christmas spirit. It feels good to feel that Christmas excitement again.

You would think that as one gets older, the excitement of Christmas would wear off. But, it is truly that magical time of year even for us adults. I love the anticipation that pours from Bill's and my six grandchildren this time of year, the beautiful sentimental feeling evoked by the old classic Christmas carols, the Advent Season as we prepare for Christ's coming.

I hesitate to put a damper on my Christmas spirit by turning on the news or even thinking of the state of our nation and economy this time of year. So join me and let's not make the world's problems take main stage right now. Instead, let's embrace Christmas and trust in He Who knows our problems and can make them go away. Perhaps if we can hold onto that Christmas spirit, the rest of the world's problems WILL go away.

Bill and I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Blessed 2010!

Stevens Point Roads Getting Confusing

2009-07-21T10:40:00.002-06:00

If you've visited Stevens Point, you know that our streets can be confusing. The older section of Stevens Point is especially confusing because the streets are angled to follow the path of the Wisconsin River. And to make matters worse, the downtown and older section south of downtown is made up of several one-way streets. And now to add insult to injury, the DOT has made changes regarding US Highways 10 and 66 resulting from the opening of new US-10 West between Highway 34 North and I-39.

Here is a description of the changes as forward to me through our Stevens Point Convention and Visitor's Bureau. http://www.spacvb.com/

The changes are as follows:* US 10 no longer runs through Stevens Point west of I-39; the road there is now called Highway 66.* Old US 10 West has become County Road HH between Highway 66 and Highway 34 north.* County Road P is now Highway 66 from Stevens Point to Highway 34 near WisconsinRapids.* With the re-routing of Highway 66 onto I-39 between Highway 66 and US 10, StanleyStreet and Michigan Avenue have lost their Highway 66 designation and have become local streets. Detailed map information can be downloaded here[http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102640178370&s=39&e=001ATZcwBzHY8SVi_CPd92VBeOyPcwflz6zRn_B841RF7E6u1pZuzopMLLsZxeHw1ZqlQNJLp3iPCCnOd1ZkBRsK-qo7naY8HHN43CjtjpeMFd19w8v429uKw==].

So far these road changes have not kept guests from finding our Dreams of Yesteryear Bed and Breakfast. But, I must say, I had some UWSP alumni visiting a couple weeks ago and some Iola Old Car Show returning guests who were surprised to see signs reading Highway 66 instead of Highway 10. Don't let the road changes fool you, we're still here. Come see if you can find us. :)

The Recession and Dreams of Yesteryear

2009-06-18T08:13:00.005-06:00

As I'm out and about, people will often ask me if the bed and breakfast business has slowed down due to the recession. You know with the recession our country is in, I really did not expect people to be traveling as much, but I find my expectations are wrong. I can happily reply that business at Dreams of Yesteryear has been steady and is even surpassing last year's statistics. So who are these people that can afford to travel? Well, let me tell you what I'm observing.
There are still the big events in the area that attract certain guests--events that people look forward to and plan for year after year--kind of like the square dance conventions that Bill and I would plan to attend year after year. :) This weekend the 20th annual Midwest Renewable Energy Fair has our guest rooms full. Next month, Riverfront Rendezvous, the National Wellness Conference and the Iola Old Car Show will bring guests. Later the Jazz Festival, Art in the Park, the Amish Quilt Auction will bring people to our community. But, in between the events, what reasons do people find to travel? I think that recession or no-recession, people work hard and need a vacation. So to meet that need for a vacation, I'm finding people are being resourceful and taking vacations closer to home. Some guests come from as close as an hour's drive, some come from right here in Stevens Point to get a peak at our historic home and to experience bed and breakfast hospitality. Guests may not be traveling as far to get away, but they still can feel rested, relaxed and "vacationed" by checking into a nearby bed and breakfast.
Low cost and free activities abound in Stevens Point so once here guests do not need to spend a lot of money to have fun. Some bring their bikes and ride our beautiful and free Green Circle Trail or experience hiking in our many parks. Others take architectural walks to view our many historic buildings and homes in nearby downtown. And when it comes to food, a full gourmet breakfast at Dreams of Yesteryear starts your day and is included in the price of the room. For lunch and dinner, Stevens Point has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from so dining out does not have to be expensive.
So to make a long story short. The recession has not been bad for the bed and breakfast business. It's actually great to see people stretching their imaginations to come up with ways to vacation without stretching their wallets.
I'm sure you've already thought of ways to take an inexpensive vacation, but if not, consider staying at a nearby bed and breakfast. And, while you're at it, why not stay at Dreams of Yesteryear! :)

Jensen House Article

2008-11-20T07:16:00.004-07:00

One of the wonderful things about living in an old house is the history that comes with it. Every now and then I learn something that deepens my mental image of what life was like living here before Bill and I and our two girls moved here in 1987. This past week the Portage County Gazette (pcgazette.com) featured a story by Tom Jensen. The article was entitled, "Jensen family home provided enough space for mischief." The article by Tom was well written and gave a pretty good picture of the life of a young man growing up in a big old house like this and the kinds of things kids get into. Without getting into parphrasing the whole article, lets suffice to say that one of the paragraphs explained an incident that included grass snakes in the peach bathtub. I wish I would have known this before I took all those relaxing bubble baths in this oversized tub. Well, too late now. The tub was part of our last renovation project and is no more. Maybe a good thing. I don't think I'd enjoy a bubble bath knowing snakes had been in my tub.

Tom, thanks for sharing your stories.

About Time I Blogged

2008-06-26T19:18:00.003-06:00

Well, I certainly have taken a vacation from blogging. Sorry about that. Finally made it through another academic year at UWSP where I work as an office manager in the Mary K. Croft Tutoring-Learning Center. It was a great year. The students are wonderful--must be, I've worked 32 years in this department. Hmmmm--I'm dating myself. Anyway, it's summer and time to focus on gardens, grandchildren and all those summer bed and breakfast guests. I really had wondered if gas prices would take its toll on the B&B business. So far I haven't noticed a great decline in guests. I guess we all need to get away once in awhile. I'm glad people are feeling Dreams of Yesteryear is a worthy getaway and want to come visit.

Last weekend we were full of folks attending the Midwest Renewable Energy Fair in Custer. Three of my guests were main speakers at the fair. One of the speakers we were honored to host was Venezuela Ambassador Carol Moselay Braun. What a wonderful lady. We shared old house stories. Carol too has an old house. I wish this were the term she was running for US President. Anyway, be assured, there were great conversations around the breakfast table regarding alternative sustainable energy resources. I heard that 20,000 people attended the fair and that the MREA fair is the largest in the world. I'm amazed the kinds of things that bring people to this part of Wisconsin.

I'm looking forward to some busy weekends in July with the Iola Old Car Show and the National Wellness Conference coming up. At Dreams of Yesteryear we mark our anniversaries by the Iola Car Show. We hosted our first bed and breakfast guests the weekend of the Iola Old Car Show in 1990. So here it is eighteen years later and we're still loving this business. We still have lots of openings left for July and August. Hope you'll plan a summer getaway with us. Cheers.

New baby for Christmas

2007-12-27T15:26:00.000-07:00

Well the Christmas rush is nearly over and finally I can take time to collect my thoughts and enter a few words in my blog.
The fall season straight through Christmas was very good. We were blessed with lots of guests to share my favorite season of the year. And, we were truly blessed with the arrival of our sixth grandchild, Regina Caeli Patrice. She arrived on December 12 at 12:01 AM and boasted a full 10 pounds 14 1/2 ounces. What a girl. She's all baby and what a joy--the first of any of our children or grandchildren to be born with a head of hair and dark hair too. Needless to say, Christmas was a little crazy at our house this year.
Christmas Eve is the day our family chooses to get together to celebrate the birth of our Lord and to exchange presents. This year dinner was moved up a bit so that the children would have time to spend with their cousins. So we hosted a 4:00 dinner for a clan of 22. While family was arriving, six rooms of guests were also arriving to check into their rooms. I can't believe I'm saying this, but, "I think I need a BIGGER house." I think this house is big until events like Christmas make me think we need to rent a hall. My daughter Darcy assures me that a hall would not put us in the right mood and that this old victorian home is the perfect setting for Christmas. And, of course, I know she's right. This house has hosted 107 Christmas'.
But today I am comforted that the business of Christmas Eve is over and I can enjoy warm memories of Christmas Eve 2007. My house full of guests have checked out and my housekeeper and I tidy up as we await the arrival of more guests. What a great life we have. Wonderful family and So much to be thankful for. Oops, I hear the doorbell. Guests have arrived. More later.

Great time to Visit Wisconsin

2007-10-02T15:57:00.000-06:00

I think fall in Wisconsin makes weathering winters in Wisconsin worth it. Each fall as the colors of the trees change, I'm reminded how beautiful our state is. The Wisconsin River is just a block away from our B&B and is the perfect spot to watch the colors turn as we head toward the peak colors of the season. Come watch the colors change with us at Dreams of Yesteryear. Enjoy a ride through the woods on our Green Circle Hiking/Biking Trails. And, enjoy a stay at our bed and breakfast. We'd love to share the autumn experience with you.

Portage County Historical Society Synagogue Museum

2007-08-20T08:36:00.000-06:00

You know how sometimes you forget to visit the attractions that are near you just because, well, "they are near you?" Well, in our case, this is true of the Portage County Historical Society Synagogue Museum which is only a block away from our home--the Dreams of Yesteryear Bed and Breakfast in Stevens Point.
Yesterday was a rainy day and my sister Sunnie and her husband Jeff were in town visiting my parents. We had lunch at one of our favorite Sunday spots--I HOP, and then were wondering what to do with the rest of the afternoon. My husband Bill was driving so he decided to take us on a little tour of our own town.
The tour started at our Dreams of Yesteryear to see my new Jesus and the Children statue which I recently purchased and landscaped in my informal garden.
The tour then commenced to somewhere we hardly ever go simply because it's so close. We visited the Portage County Historical Society Museum on Water Street. The sign "Museum Open" beckoned to us. We were pleasantly surprised to find the display this season was on local businesses and places in Stevens Point. We had a wonderful time looking at the displays and remembering stores and businesses that were here when we were growing up. We even discovered a photo of the J.L. Jensen Store (the original owners of our B&B). What a great display. We could have spent hours in this little museum.
After the museum we took a driving tour to show off the new murals and windows to the past that have been appearing in our historic downtown area. Besides beautiful art, the murals are a great way to put you in a nostalgic mood as you remember some of the buildings that once graced this fine town.
The tour ended with dessert at Belt's Soft Serve. We stood in line in the rain to get our ice cream and then drove back to my parent's home to chat. What a great way to spend a rainy Sunday afternoon.
You know showing your town to someone else is fun. You feel like you're looking at your town for the first time--through the eyes of a visitor. I'd like to think Stevens Point has come to cherish its history. Or, is it, that I've grown up and can appreciate the history of the town in a way you can only appreciate it after you've gotten older? Either way, I discovered being a visitor in my own town made me proud of the city I grew up in.
I hope you'll want to come and look at Stevens Point through the eyes of a visitor. I'd like to hear your comments about my town. And while visiting, come stay at Dreams of Yesteryear. Our bed and breakfast truly is, "the kind of place Victorian dreams are made of." We have lots of momentos of Stevens Point and lots of memories to share.

Dreams of Yesteryear Joins Highway 51

2007-07-26T16:54:00.001-06:00

Dreams of Yesteryear has just signed on to partner with the WI Department of Tourism in their Explore Highway 51 Package. Check out this website for lots of information about how you can explore Highway 51: http://www.explorehwy51.com/

I know having grown up in Stevens Point, WI, Highway 51 has played a big part in my life. I was raised in a home on Wadleigh Street only blocks from downtown Stevens Point. However, not many relatives lived in town. A visit to either set of grandparents or most of my 14 aunts and uncles or 42 cousins meant a trip north on Highway 51. So this is the part of Highway 51 I got to know best. As I got older and could do more traveling, it seemed nearly every trip we took started up or down Highway 51. There was always something neat to see and explore. No trip was complete without stopping for lunch at some neat little "Mom and Pop" restaurant or exploring some gift shop in a quaint little town. I still enjoy driving down Old Highway 51 along the Wisconsin River. So, needless to say, I have many fond memories of traveling this historic highway.
As my part to encourage you to explore Highway 51, Dreams of Yesteryear is offering discounts on two night stays. In addition if you book a suite for two nights, we'll not only give you the discount but will also include a Dreams of Yesteryear tee-shirt. Check out our offers on the Highway 51 website. But, to qualify for this offer, you must mention that you are part of the Exploring Highway 51 Package at the time you book your room. My husband Bill and I look forward to meeting you and reminiscing about Highway 51.

Ice Age Trail

2007-07-21T17:19:00.000-06:00

Just signed up to be part of the Inn-to-Inn hiking program available through the Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast Association (WBBA) and the Ice Age National Scenic Trail Foundation. I've always been interested in how the glacier molded the landscape surrounding this beautiful area. I'm also intrigued by the stones, rock, and boulders the glacier left behind. I'm so happy that these areas are now mapped out and people can really appreciate their beauty by hiking along the Ice Age Trails. The information I sent for from the Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation shows the trails between Portage and Waupaca Counties as the trails nearest Dreams of Yesteryear in Stevens Point. I'd be happy to have hikers come stay at our bed and breakfast. As part of the Inn-to-Inn hiking program, we'll shuttle Ice Age Trail hikers from the trail to our B&B and back to the trail the next morning for a fee of $10--but not until you've had a good night's sleep in our comfortable beds and I've fed you a bountiful gourmet breakfast to get you ready for your hike. Hope to see you soon!

Taking Time to Blog

2007-07-13T10:20:00.000-06:00

Well, time does have a way of getting away on us. I realized this morning that I it's been a while since I "blogged." Things have been hopping at Dreams of Yesteryear. I wonder why it is that I look forward to summer. Although I'm not working at my regular job at the Tutoring-Learning Center (TLC) at the university, I find myself busier than ever. Work around the B&B definitely fills my days.
This summer I'm happy to have three helpers who are assisting me with the day to day operations of the bed and breakfast. I hired Nick, one of our reading/writing tutors at the TLC, to help out in the home maintenance department. Nick started out as a gardener until I discovered he's excellent with the paint brush. So far he's painted the playhouse and garage doors. And, in the process has tackled several home projects. Katie is my housekeeper. She has been a real blessing. As it turns out this has been a very busy summer for guests and Katie cheerfully cleans those rooms and gets many compliments for the fine job she is doing. Chad comes in for a few hours a week to keep the landscaping in check. He sheers and trims and keeps the water fountain clean. I love it when passersby admire my gardens. Chad knows how to give the place that manicured look. I don't know what I'd do without all my helpers.

Anyway, time for me to get back to work too. This is the weekend where the Iola Old Car Show meets the National Wellness Conference--a great boost for the economy of Stevens Point.

Bathroom is Completed

2007-05-03T15:40:00.000-06:00

Finally, the first floor bathroom is complete. The last detail was added on Monday. That was the custom shower doors. If you miss the old bathroom, you can still see it on our website: www.dreamsofyesteryear.com. Just click on the rooms link and go to the Maid's Quarters. The old peach bathroom still lives in photos. Watch our website for the new photos of our "more" Victorian bathroom. We think it turned out very well.

Renovation Continues at Dreams of Yesteryear

2007-03-21T08:31:00.000-06:00

We've owned our dream house since 1987 and still the restoration continues. We finally got around to renovating the first floor bathroom. This bathroom while cheerfull and functional looked like the late 1950's-early 1960's. Peach tile on the floor and walls, combined with peach bathtub, sinks and toilet graced the room. Well, no more. On February 26 we embarked on another restoration. The new look includes white subway tile bordered by a sage green vine tile. The tub and shower has been replaced by a custom duo-head shower. The sink and cabinet is being replaced by a two legged wall mount sink. A new toilet, light fixtures, towel bars, etc. will finish the restoration.
All this will be background for a custom bathroom buffet which will use two of the original glass mullioned cabinet doors from the house's original butler's pantry.
This Thursday marks the completion date of this project. I can't wait for you all to see the finished renovation. Just watch our website for the new photos that will be launched to show off this new bathroom. This is the bathroom that is shared by the Gareld's Room and the Maid's Quarters. This new bathroom will be a special treat for those guests.

Peggy Sue has many homes

2007-03-10T06:18:00.000-07:00

Remember my earlier blog about cute little Bichon Peggy Sue moving into Dreams of Yesteryear, well things have changed. In January, Bill and I took a trip to San Simeon to tour the Hearst Castle. Peggy Sue went to live with my daughter Darcy's family for a few days. Well, as attached as she and I were, while we were away, Peggy Sue bonded with our two year old grandaughter, Mary Gabriel. What can I say, the two are "buds." So now Peggy Sue has another home. That doesn't mean Peggy Sue doesn't spend time at Grandma Bonnie's house. This poor orphan of a dog that we adopted from the Humane Society now is blessed with several homes. While most of the time, you'll find her at my daughter's house, she also feels quite welcome at Dreams of Yesteryear and my younger daughter, Danielle's house. She just loves everyone and is happy to have people love her.
So if you are a guest visiting Dreams of Yesteryear, don't be surprised if Peggy Sue "is" or "is not" in residence at the B&B. However, if you are a guest who would like to have a dog around, I'm sure Peggy Sue will oblige and come over to get in her share of petting and snuggling. Or, if you're a person who would prefer not to have pets around, let me know. Peggy Sue will understand and so will we.

Princess Peggy Sue Has Arrived at Dreams of Yesteryear

2006-10-10T16:47:00.000-06:00

Well, obviously going back to work has had its toll. I've found little time to catch up with my blog. But, something really terrific has happened around here that I must tell you about. We adopted the sweetest gentlest dog I've ever known. Her name is Peggy Sue. Yes, just like Buddy Holly's "Pretty Pretty, Pretty Peggy Sue." We adopted Peggy Sue from the Portage County Humane Society and, she is quite the princess. She is all white--a Bichon mix. She loves to be cuddled, petted, combed, talked to, walked and carried.

Bill and I have only had one other dog in our life. But, about two years ago we had to send Patsy Cline, our Maltese we had raised from a pup, to her eternal reward. And of course we missed her--the pitter patter of little paws, the licks and kisses. Of course there were lots of things we didn't miss--like standing in the cold urging Patsy to do "her thing." But, I think the time had come for another dog. We knew it was meant to be when a friend told us about this adorable dog at the animal shelter. Of course I had to go see. And, of course we had to give her a good home. A good home, indeed. Peggy Sue settled in quite nicely at Dreams of Yesteryear. Several people tell us our house looks like a doll house or something out of a story book. So now we have a princess in our story book house. Her name is Princess Peggy Sue.

I must admit I was a little afraid of bringing a dog into our bed and breakfast. Our home is full of victorian style antiques and bringing a dog we knew nothing about into our house was a bit scary. But low and behold, I knew Peggy Sue belonged at Dreams of Yesteryear since she seems to respect my antiques and is quite at home with them. I knew she especially belonged at our bed and breakfast when after her veterinary check up, I took her next door to Jay Mar, a store for pet supplies, to get a reward. I had only intended to buy her a toy, but we began to look at several dog beds and she snuggled into a victorian upholstered one and didn't want to leave. So, I bought this bed for her--along with a couple toys. Peggy Sue has very good taste--expensive taste too. No doubt she belongs at Dreams of Yesteryear.

Of major concern was the question of whether or not Peggy Sue would react well to our five grandchildren and our bed and breakfast guests. Well, she passed all the tests. She is extremely tollerant of children. And, she likes our guests. I suspect Peggy Sue thinks our guests come to visit her. We have had several guests since we adopted Peggy Sue and to my amazement she doesn't bark at the door bell or at the guests, but rather looks affectionately at them expecting some pets on the head and some praises for her cute looks. Unlike our Patsy Cline, Peggy Sue doesn't even beg for food. She doesn't even bark when the pizza boy arrives. What a princess of a dog. We certainly do feel lucky we got to adopt her. Do come and visit us at Dreams of Yesteryear and say hi to Peggy Sue. She'll remember her manners as she comes to welcome you.

Back to Work

2006-09-06T15:48:00.000-06:00

After what turned out to be a very busy summer at Dreams of Yesteryear, the grand finale came Labor Day weekend. We had the pleasure of hosting two lovely Russian families, several people biking the Green Circle Trails, and parents returning their students to UWSP. A great weekend it was. And now it's back to work for me.

In addition to running my bed and breakfast full time year round, I also am a 36 year employee of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. The office I've worked in for the past 30 years is called the Mary K. Croft Tutoring-Learning Center. It's a "one of a kind" place on campus. The TLC as we refer to our office is a tutorial service for our university students and has the reputation of being one of the friendliest places on campus. Today we prepared sandwich fixings as part of a welcome back social for our staff of about 150 tutors. It was great to see the new and returning tutors. So, I'm back in the saddle at the TLC but look forward to balancing my work there with my favorite hobby--hosting and greeting guests at my Dreams of Yesteryear Bed and Breakfast.

Looking Forward to Fall

2006-08-23T09:31:00.000-06:00

Although Dreams of Yesteryear is open to receive guests all year, summer is by far our busiest season. Next most popular season seems to the the Fall. The Fall colors of Central Wisconsin are truly vibrant and amazing. The combined colors of the maples, oaks and fir trees along the Wisconsin River make this area a spectacular site to behold the Fall. Combine that with the crisp Fall air and sunshine, well, Fall is my favorite time of year. Dreams of Yesteryear will soon be decorated for Fall. Come enjoy our bed and breakfast and perhaps a ride on the Green Circle Trails. And, if you like festivals, Stevens Point's own Art in the Park at Pfiffner Pioneer Park will be held September 16, the Festival of India on September 30, Hidden Studios Art along the Ice Age Trail Tour is September 29, 30, and Oct. 1. You won't want to miss Dozynki Harvest Fest October 7 and Historic Main Street Harvest Fest October 7 and 8.

There are lots of reasons to come to Stevens Point. Make your days here really enjoyable by staying with Bill and I in our beautiful Dreams of Yesteryear Bed and Breakfast.

International Week at Dreams of Yesteryear

2006-08-12T08:19:00.000-06:00

Had a very international week at Dreams of Yesteryear last week. What fun it was to have guests from Mexico, Switzerland, Holland, and the US all sitting down to my breakfast table at the same time. I think world problems could be solved if there were more breakfasts like this.

Let's see, Stevens Point Hotel or Bed and Breakfast

2006-08-02T07:31:00.000-06:00

If you're someone who hasn't discovered the uniqueness and fun of staying at a bed and breakfast, I invite you to read an article I wrote last week. Sometimes people are afraid to make the extra effort to stay at a b&b or they're afraid to try something different. I think sometimes we get in a rut and think of a hotel immediately when we need lodging. Well, read my article and I hope you will be inspired to stay at a bed and breakfast instead of a hotel. I hope too that the term "bed and breakfast" will come to your mind first the next time you travel. Here's the address where you'll find my article: www.dreamsofyesteryear.com/stevens-point-wi-hotel.html.

English Gardens

2006-07-17T17:31:00.000-06:00

As you can expect by mid July, Wisconsin gardens should be at their peak. So is true of the gardens at Dreams of Yesteryear. I worked for years to achieve an English garden look but always wondered if I came close to what gardens really look like in England. Well, I found out. Last week I had the pleasure of hosting a family of guests who were originally from England. The highest compliment was paid when they said my gardens reminded them of England. Now I feel I can say with affirmation that the almost half acre of property surrounding Dreams of Yesteryear consists of English gardens. Come see if you agree.

Dreams of Yesteryear Turns Sixteen

2006-07-08T12:04:00.000-06:00

The Dreams of Yesteryear Bed and Breakfast marked 16 years in business. Although we did not buy our Victorian Queen Anne home to be a bed and breakfast when we purchased it in 1987, we became a B&B in 1990. The best things sometimes happen by accident. That's how it was with our bed and breakfast. We took the overflow from a local bed and breakfast one busy weekend in July. It was the weekend of the Iola Old Car Festival and every hotel room in Stevens Point was booked. My friend asked if we'd like to have some guests. We said we would and, as they say, the rest is history. This weekend the Iola Old Car Festival once again occurred and we marked 16 years in business. I guess we must like owning and operating a bed and breakfast or we wouldn't have stuck it out this long. What can I say, our guests are the best--the cream of the crop. Who wouldn't want to do this? So, happy 16th anniversary, Dreams of Yesteryear.

Fireworks

2006-07-03T17:34:00.000-06:00

Had a wonderful Fourth of July celebration in Stevens Point this weekend. Riverfront Rendevous was terrific. We could hear the music from our backyard, but that didn't stop Bill and I from going over to hear some bluegrass music on Saturday night. Prairie Smoke was playing in the historic Pfiffner Building by the river--a great setting for bluegrass music. Met up with some friends and had a great time reminiscing over a beer. We topped that off with last night's fireworks display. Living in a tall house near the river has its advantages. We had a bird's eye view of some pretty spectacular fireworks from the window of our Isabella Room. Great show and a wonderful weekend!

What a fun weekend we had

2006-06-27T08:45:00.000-06:00

It was a happening time at Dreams of Yesteryear this weekend. The Midwest Renewable Energy Sustainable Life Conference boasted an attendance of about 19,000. And a good representation of them stayed at my b&b. Great breakfast conversation! Although I was busy with the b&b and couldn't attend the conference, I was able to learn a lot just by listening to the breakfast conversations. I think the high prices of gas have definitely made people aware of the need for alternative sources of energy. It was great to hear of the inventions that are in the works to meet this need. Maybe there is hope for us.

Bike the Green Circle Trail

2006-06-17T10:21:00.000-06:00

Had two couples this weekend who were staying with me at Dreams of Yesteryear while they biked the Green Circle. If you haven't done this yet, consider trying this. Of all the bike trails popping up around Wisconsin, I think the Green Circle in Stevens Point is one of the nicest. The Green Circle was truly created in the spirit of community cooperation. Guests can enjoy the change of scenery along the 30 mile trail. Guests at Dreams of Yesteryear receive Winrgy and Food 4 Thought Energy drinks to help them get the most out of their bike ride. Plan to stay at Dreams of Yesteryear and ride the Green Circle.

A Busy Weekend for Stevens Point

2006-06-16T06:47:00.000-06:00

Next weekend promises to be a busy weekend of Stevens Point. The Renewable Energy Fair runs next weekend and I can tell you from experience, it's a "happening time" and a great boost for this area's economy. I can tell from the calls I'm receiving that hotels in this area are full. However, I did have a cancellation for Friday night, June 23. Anyone need a place to stay?

Green Circle Trails is 10 years old

2006-06-03T10:08:00.000-06:00

There was a nice article the other day in the Stevens Point Journal about our city's Green Circle. If you like to hike or bike, plan to explore the Green Circle Trails in Stevens Point. The trail was truly a cooperative action on the parts of residences and the city to create a 30 mile path around the city. The various parts of the circle's topography change making for a very interesting walk or bike. Come see for yourself. And while you do, plan to stay with me at Dreams of Yesteryear Bed and Breakfast. We offer a biker's package which includes a picnic lunch, tee-shirt, photo, and map of the Green Circle. You can read about it on our website: http://www.dreamsofyesteryear.com.

Question about Pruning

2006-06-01T18:36:00.000-06:00

I've spent days weeding my gardens. After all the rain and heat we've had the gardens are growing like crazy--including the weeds. Today I and my helper are pruning the Bridal Wreath bushes that frame the backside of my sign. But, I have a question. If I stop pruning the shoots at the top of the five foot bushes will they eventually drape and produce flowers? My hope is to not have to prune them. Any advice?

Spring Planting at Dreams of Yesteryear

2006-05-21T17:55:00.000-06:00

I was happily exhausted and sore by the end of yesterday. My day began by organizing all the plants I had bought the day before for the flower urns, planters and gardens surrounding Dreams of Yesteryear. Since our house is a teal blue, I chose red and white as my scheme color this year--as close as I can get to a patriotic theme even with a teal shade of blue. The most exciting part of the planting process was filling all my Smith and Hawkins copper planters I bought this winter as I anticipated spring. The copper ties in with the copper finials and spire on our Queen Anne roof--kind of anchors the place. And, let me say, copper with red and white geraniums, spikes and ivy look great together. I'm pleased--sore but pleased. Oh these aching bones! I'll think I'll do more planting tomorrow. :) Hope you'll come see my fantastic gardens.

Dreams of Yesteryear Packages

2006-05-19T21:31:00.000-06:00

Had a lot of fun today putting together special vacation packages for my guests. So far I've come up with a Romantic Getaway Package which includes dinner for two at the Red Mill, a Bike Trail Package that includes a wonderful Dreams of Yesteryear tee-shirt, and a Spa Weekend Package in conjunction with the Wellness Spa. I hope you'll check out my Dreamy packages. If you don't find what you're looking for here, let me know, I'd enjoy putting together a package designed just for you.

Great Day to Have Company

2006-05-10T17:29:00.000-06:00

At Dreams of Yesteryear everyday is a great day to have company--especially nice people like the guests I just finished checking in from the Milwaukee area. You meet the nicest people in this business. It turns out they're quite interested in joining us in our wellness business. One of the fun things we do for some extra cash and to help us stay healthy is invite others to join us in our nutritional supplement business. With baby boomers like us looking toward retirement and wanting to maintain our health, the nutritional supplent business really is a great fit. The nutritional company my husband and I formed is called Dreams Wellness since it's an off-shoot of our bed and breakfast. It's part of a parent company called Wellness International Network. If you are interested in purchasing nutritional supplements that you really notice make a difference for you, or would like to get involved in a great business opportunity, let me know. I'd love to tell you all about it.

My new website

2006-05-09T18:30:00.000-06:00

It's a rainy day in Stevens Point and I finally got a chance to really look at the work my daughter Darcy and her husband Jason did on my new Dreams of Yesteryear website. I must say I'm impressed. But then again, I'm her mother--of course I'm impressed, right. I invite you to take a thorough look at the "Dreams" website and see if you don't agree. It's full of history about our town and this historic old house. Beautifully written and illustrated. And best of all, easy to navigate. And, if you like what you see and want a website of your own, Darcy and Jason Bunn have started their own website design company-- Promotion Web Design. http://www.dreamsofyesteryear.com/promotion-web-design.html. They have a number of beautiful websites in their portfolio and they promise low rates and quality work. Their belief is that every business deserves a beautiful website.

We'll help with your travel

2006-05-08T19:50:00.000-06:00

With gas prices so high, I'm happy to report that Dreams of Yesteryear is participating in another Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast Assosciation promotion. We're offering a $20 gas rebate to guests who stay midweek during the month of May. We'll give you $20 in cash or a gas card, whichever you prefer. You must mention this promotion when making your reservation. I hope you'll take advantage of this special offer.

Bonnie's Bed and Breakfast Blog

2006-05-01T12:15:00.000-06:00

Bonnie's Bed and Breakfast Blog

Hi this is Bonnie. I must say I've never "blogged" before but I look forward to letting you all know what's happening at Dreams of Yesteryear.
If you've ever visited our B&B, you know that our house sits on more than three city lots. Most of this is gardens--lawn, perennials, and hopefully soon annual flowers. I'm really amazed that my tulips have actually gotten to be about five inches high and have buds. I think this is the first year the rabbits have eaten them. Likewise, my hostas are about five inches high. The two-day slow rain we've had over the weekend was especially good for the perennials. Come on over and see them make their way into the summer.