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Now Serving Scotty P’s Big Mug Coffee

“So shines a good deed in a weary world.”

― William Shakespeare, The Merchant of Venice

Willie Wonka said that too when, after being disheartened by the behavior of some folks, his faith in humanity was restored by the gesture of one.   Living through a pandemic is worrisome.   We can all cite moments of fear, anxiety, and frustration.  But there are those moments, too, when dreamers remember there’s a heap of good in the world. Perhaps it shines a little brighter in the midst of all the uncertainty.  I thought I’d share a true “feel good” story with you in hopes it’ll warm your heart as it has ours.

This place we’re living in and sharing with others is a dream.  And some of the things that have unfolded throughout the world pandemic have added a bit of unexpected magic to life. In 2002, my late sister called me to tell me about a show. She said my daughter, Lorelei, and I HAD to watch it.  The show was called Gilmore girls.  My sister said it reminded her SO much of the relationship between my daughter and me.  After she persisted for many months, Lorelei and I promised to sit down for the pilot episode once the first season was available on DVD.

We were hooked.  Admittedly, it felt like someone had been peeking into our lives a bit as we watched each episode.  We could relate to so much of the banter, the quirks, and the lives of the characters.  Lorelei dreamed of a career as a writer and could relate to the character of Rory who aspired toward a career as a journalist.   I worked as an Apartment Manager for large complexes and my husband and I loved staying at B&B’s.  That is where the dream of running an Inn was planted.  I found watching Gilmore girls inspired that dream further.

The show offered a platform we could deeply relate to and gave us a little escape to Stars Hollow each week.  It quickly became my favorite show of all time.  A favorite character mine and my daughter’s, and of so many people who love the show, is the owner of the diner in Stars Hollow, Luke Danes.   Throughout the series, he was known for having “The best coffee in town.”

For the show’s creator to put “Prince Charming” in jeans, a flannel shirt, and a backward baseball cap was nothing short of brilliant. Lorelei and I decided we didn’t like any of Lorelai Gilmore’s other suitors. We liked Luke.  As so many fans did, we hoped the two of them would eventually end up together. We were heartbroken when the series ended.

In 2010, Tom and I made a serious run at purchasing the Astor House; however, the timing wasn’t right.  But we never lost sight of that dream.

In 2016 Netflix produced 4 ninety-minute continuations of the Gilmore girls so we could learn what became of Luke, Lorelai and her daughter Rory.  My daughter and I got together to watch the Netflix series and we enjoyed every moment of it.  You can view the series at https://www.netflix.com/title/70155618 

Fast forward to 2019 and two amazing littles were added to the two beautiful children Lorelei and her husband had welcomed into the world between 2012 and 2014.  Tom and I absolutely adore our four grandchildren.  Lorelei was also on her way to becoming an author in 2019, as her first novel is being released this fall by Penguin Random House.  She signed a two-book preemptive deal.  It’s a dream come true.  Here’s a link to her page on the publisher’s website.

We had so many blessings to count over the years.  Lorelei’s husband landed a fabulous job.  Our son and his wife had the blessings of amazing career and travel opportunities as well, and Tom and I purchased the beautiful Astor House we’d had our eye on since 2010.   In February of this year, Lorelei decided to arrange a cameo video, as a surprise for me, from Scott Patterson.  (The actor who played Luke Danes on Gilmore girls.)  I was amazed, to say the least, and the video definitely made me smile.

Shortly afterward, I received an email from Scott’s assistant, letting me know he’d started a coffee company. She told me they’d looked up our B&B online after Scott had done my cameo video and they found our Inn delightful.  She wondered if we wanted to try a sample of Scott’s coffee brand.  Of course, we accepted.  That was in February. Needless to say, we fell in love with the coffee to the point we knew we’d never serve anything else to the Astor House guests. It was the best coffee I’d ever tasted. Additionally, we learned there was great integrity at Scotty P’s Big Mug Coffee, like doing things to help the environment in source countries.

Scotty P’s Big Mug Coffee is a perfect match for our home cooking and award-winning baking at the Inn.  We also learned we could easily become Wholesale Partners with Scott’s company. A fella I already admired for his acting skills.  Imagine that.   We all know what transpired in the US in March.  Tom and I never could have anticipated the world pandemic occurring just a few months after achieving our dream of living in and running the Astor House.

As with all adversity we’ve faced, and our family has had our share, we persevered through this challenge with a lot of faith and a lot of helpers.  One of whom was an absolute surprise and a delight, especially for me.  When we were finally able to open our Inn again after Safer at Home orders were lifted, we finally put in that order for the best coffee on earth.

We received so much incredible support from Scott’s assistant, Elaine, and we’re a small player in the grand scheme of things.  But even throughout the quarantine time, she reached out to us to find out how we were doing.  Once we were ready to place our order she helped us navigate our options.  She answered every question we had in a timely manner. She gave us pointers on our social media posts to help increase our visibility.

She even arranged a phone call between me and Scott Patterson himself.  This I found to be an exceptionally grand honor.  I have to say it was incredibly surreal to talk with Scott.  I’d heard his voice hundreds of times over the years of watching Gilmore girls and here he was on my cell phone.  He spent about 20 minutes sharing his enthusiasm at having us as a wholesale partner. He gave us tips on everything from displays to marketing.

It speaks to the integrity of Scott and his company that he would take time to chat with me about the Astor House and our partnership. Scott and Scotty P’s have been unbelievably gracious in helping us kick-start awareness of the Inn now that we’ve reopened.   We owe many thanks to Scott and Elaine for so kindly taking time to get the Astor House before so many people through their social media platforms.

Our loyalty was firmly in place because of the taste.  The interactions with Scott and his team have made us iron-clad wholesale partners and customers for life.

I’ve hit the jackpot in a few incredible areas of life.  Motherhood is one of those places.  I have two amazing adult kids to whom Tom is step father.  Lorelei and Kyle are my dreams come true.  Seeing them pursue the desires of their hearts brings such joy. They and their spouses have offered incredible support of this dream of the Inn.

Tom is my real-life “Luke Danes.” We’d been part of each other’s circle for a long time before we realized true love was right in front of us. He wears flannel in the winter.  He sometimes wears a baseball cap.  He finds my dozens of quirks amusing and he tolerates them with a smile and gentle teasing. He pays attention to the little things and his occasional rants make me laugh. He even cooks amazing breakfasts.

I still watch Gilmore Girls reruns and the Netflix “A Year in the Life” series continuation.  The parallels we can draw between our real lives and the show Lorelei and I love aren’t lost on us. Our story, too, involves a mom with a dream of finding true love and of running an Inn and a daughter with a dream of a career as a writer.  We’re honored to have Scott Patterson’s picture in our parlor at the Astor House, in a glass hutch along with bags of his coffee for sale.  I walk by it and think, “How did this happen??”  We’re enjoying the opportunity to introduce this fine coffee and company to everyone who comes to the Inn and everyone we know.  The guests, and our friends and family, are falling in love with Scott’s coffee.  We knew they would.

To any business that serves or sells coffee, we encourage you to look into Scotty P’s Big Mug Coffee.  It truly is the best coffee on earth.  And you won’t find better a better team to inspire you and support the success of your dream.

Check out Scott’s amazing coffee blends and learn more about the company at https://www.scottyp.com/ And by all means, come enjoy a cup of Scotty P’s while you enjoy a relaxing stay at the Astor House.  With all of the uncertainty and unrest in the world, everyone could use a getaway.  And we thought everyone could use a true feel-good story, where a small B&B in Green Bay was helped through a pandemic, in part, by a beloved actor the family has admired for years.   Two worlds have delightfully collided.

We have so much to be grateful for as a family.  And helpers, in life, come in unexpected ways sometimes.  Scott’s efforts have reminded this dreamer of the good in life.  Faith in humanity can, sometimes, be restored by the gesture of one.

Indeed, “So shines a good deed in a weary world.”

 

Find Stunning Fall colors in Green Bay Wisconsin

Enjoy the Fall Colors in Green Bay at our historic Bed and BreakfastHave you ever dreamed of seeing the Fall Colors in Wisconsin? This year, make it a reality and visit us in Green Bay. Though we’re hesitant to say goodbye to summer quite yet, there’s no doubt that fall is one of our favorite seasons here in Green Bay.  Fall means football, of course, as we rally around our longtime team, the Green Bay Packers.  Packers Game days are an event in Green Bay, with all-day tailgating and celebrations at sports bars and living rooms around town. But, beyond football, fall is truly magical in Green Bay.  It’s a great time to get outside and take in the colorful splendor of fall around town and in our parks. The fall colors, set amidst the sparkling blue background of Lake Michigan, are breathtaking.  See it all, and experience a magical fall this season at our Green Bay Bed and Breakfast. Book your room today! Continue reading

An Accessible Boardwalk on the Beach in Algoma

Accessible Boardwalk on Crescent Beach in Algoma, WisconsinThough there’s plenty to do in downtown Green Bay this summer, there are surrounding communities that make for a wonderful day trip. Algoma is one such town. Algoma, a charming small town located on the shores of Lake Michigan, is a beautiful place to spend a day. Algoma is the perfect place to go fishing, or just browse the shops, walk along the beach, or sip a glass of wine.  Our favorite thing to do is enjoy the shoreline along scenic Lake Michigan, where Algoma’s award-winning and ADA-accessible boardwalk is located. Come explore Green Bay and the surrounding communities with us this summer.  Book a room at our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast today! Continue reading

10 Reasons to Visit Green Bay This Summer

10 Reasons to Visit Green Bay This summerPlanning a trip to Wisconsin this season? Be certain to include Green Bay as a highlight of the trip, allowing ample time to explore the endless activities and attractions catering to a variety of interests. Green Bay has a little bit of everything, including alluring locales for adventure enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, museum fanatics, and discerning foodies just to name a few. Check out this list of the top 10 things to do in Green Bay, then book your stay at the Astor House Bed and Breakfast. Continue reading

Spring Blooms at the Green Bay Botanical Garden

Spring Blooms at the Green Bay Botanical GardenThis spring is the perfect time to getaway to Green Bay, before the summer crowds arrive.  It’s been a long and cold winter, but the weather is finally changing for the better. We’re looking forward to a spectacular summer. Come celebrate the start of spring with us at the Green Bay Botanical Garden, which is entering peak bloom season. With more than 300,000 flowers in bloom at this time of year, a walk through the gardens is truly breathtaking, and one of our favorite things to do each year. Book your room at our Green Bay Bed and Breakfast, and start planning for your spring getaway today! Continue reading

Green Bay’s Top Breweries

Best Breweries in Green BayIf you’re at all into drinking beer, then you probably have heard of the craft brew craze taking over taps across America.  Despite the fact that the large-scale breweries that once made Wisconsin famous have slowly disappeared over the years, beer is still very much an integral part of our culture.  Without a doubt, craft beer tours have become as popular as wine touring and in some areas are far more accessible. With breweries of every size and style popping up across the country, there has never been a better time to enjoy the very best brews Wisconsin has to offer. Craft breweries are known for their ingenuity and with such a collaborative community here in Green Bay, they are coming up with exciting new beers that offer something for everyone to try. Book your room at our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast today, and discover the best beer in Green Bay. Continue reading

Browse the Farmer’s Market in Green Bay

Green Bay Farmer's MarketIf there’s one tried and true way to experience Green Bay as the locals know it, it’s by visiting a local Farmer’s Market. Nothing showcases the talents and resourcefulness of a community more than a local market, and those in Green Bay are no exception. In fact, the Downtown Green Bay Farmer’s Market has been running strong since 1917. That means the markets have been a part of Green Bay’s culture longer than the Green Bay Packers. Needless to say, Green Bay harbors a deep history with this markets, and it’s a truly incredible piece of our city worth visiting.  The next time you stay with us at the Astor House Bed and Breakfast, make sure you take the time to visit one of our incredible Farmer’s Markets in Green Bay.

Green Bay Top Farmer’s Markets

The Saturday Market in downtown is not only the oldest, but also the most popular of the Farmer’s Markets in Green Bay. The Saturday Farmer’s Market opens for the season on May 26, and will run every weekend through October.  The market hosts over 100 local vendors, each of which must come from within a 75-mile radius of Green Bay and grow, make, cook or prepare their own products. It’s truly a showcase of the best goods produced here in Green Bay.  There are also a variety of fantastic live music performances and events each Saturday at the market, and an experience you won’t want to miss.

Another wonderful Farmer’s Market to visit are the Wednesday evening markets on Broadway, which has grown to include 150 vendors, and is the largest public market in Green Bay.  Opening Day for this market is May 30, 2018, and it will run into September. While this market is a wonderful place to stock up on local fruits and vegetables and enjoy some boutique shopping, it’s really known for its food and drink offerings.  Instead of sitting down for one big meal, you can spend your evening grazing your way from food vendor to food vendor, and enjoy a taste of Green Bay’s top restaurants.  You can also relax in the beer garden, which features pours from Green Bay’s own breweries. It’s a fantastic evening treat in the middle of the week.

Local Produce at the Green Bay Farmer's MarketAdditional Farmers Markets to Visit

There are a couple of notable Farmer’s Markets nearby that are also worth a visit. The De Pere Market is Thursday evenings in Seroogy’s Chocolate parking lot. Afterwards, enjoy a walk around historic Downtown De Pere and the RiverWalk, where you’ll enjoy scenic views of the Fox River. The Oneida Market on Thursdays, run by the Oneida Nation, is a wonderfuly place to browse Oneida and other locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, maple syrup, flowers, plants, sweet grass and naturally raised or grown products. You can also find handmade Oneida arts and crafts.

The entire Green Bay Farmer’s Market experience offers something for everyone, and is a great way to spend a relaxing morning or evening during your stay at the Astor House. Many of the incredible ingredients found at our local Farmer’s Markets make their way into your breakfast each morning at the Astor House Bed and Breakfast. Book your stay today, and enjoy this fresh insight into Green Bay’s local culture.

Best Fall Getaways Around Green Bay

Romantic Getaway on Green BayAs daylight gets shorter and the holiday season draws nearer, it’s time for a getaway. While the temperature has dropped, winter has not yet arrived. This is the best time to travel as there are fewer people on the road and in the parks. If you hurry, you can still catch the fall color in the Green Bay area, from golden yellow to crimson red. You can simply stroll along the Fox River or take a drive to neighboring Door County. When you’re ready for a relaxing and convenient place to stay, the Astor House Bed and Breakfast in the historic district of Green Bay is the perfect place. Its old world charm, equipped with all modern amenities, has delighted many guests. With only five themed rooms, it is a popular place for those who want cozy and cheerful accommodations. Make your reservation online today! Continue reading

Fun Activities in Green Bay This October

Green Bay has many things to doAre you looking for fun new activities to do in Green Bay this October?  Yes, it’s football season. Beyond that, you may not be aware that from sports to history, arts to nature, and casual to fine dining, Green Bay has much to offer. So, whether you are coming here to watch the Packers play in Lambeau Field or for a business trip, you’ll want to add a few days to your itinerary and explore around the area. Starting in October, our ice hockey team, the Green Bay Gamblers, will be gliding on ice and passing the puck at the Resch Center. Athletes will want to participate in the Green Bay duathlon.  It’s a 2 mile run, followed by a 19 mile bike ride, and ending with another 2 mile run.  The event will kick off at the Bay Beach Amusement Park on Oct 21. Still looking for more to do? Eaglemania is coming to Meyer Theatre, also on Oct 21. If you like The Eagles, you will love EagleMania! With so many things happening in Green Bay in October, be sure to make your reservations early. The Astor House Bed and Breakfast is conveniently located for all your activities and excursions. Call us today or reserve a room here. Continue reading

Great Places To See Fall Foliage In Green Bay

Fall Foliage Green BayFrom the stunning fall foliage to the Packers playing in the Lambeau Field, nothing beats autumn in Green Bay! Whether a drive along country roads or a stroll in the city’s park, you can see fall foliage everywhere.  If you wish to see more nature, we recommend taking a short drive. Head north towards Sumaico and look for Butler Rock. You will find the best views at the Mountain Fire Lookout Tower. Also, be sure to take Rustic Road 8 between Flintville and Suamico. It wanders between stands of hardwood and coniferous trees, and is truly beautiful during Autumn. Alternatively, go south past Appleton to Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin’s largest inland lake. You will find breathtaking views from the High Cliff State Park and Ledge View Nature Center observation towers. The best drive is east on the ‘quiet side of the lake’.

Take your time and allow your five senses be stimulated during a fall getaway to Green Bay. The Astor House is a charming old-world Bed and Breakfast, equipped with all the modern comforts you need during your time in Green Bay. Check our availability online and reserve your room today. Continue reading

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