Inspiring seashore inns - Letters From Our Readers - Letter to the Editor

Sunset, April, 2004

ASK SUNSET

Q: Could you help me locate a colorist who can select an exterior color scheme to enhance the look of a 1960s ranch-style home?

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BOB CONWAY

HACIENDA HEIGHTS, CA

A: You need a specialist who knows how color performs outdoors. Geography, quality of light, and surrounding plants are all factors in choosing colors. First, look in the yellow pages under "Color Consultants." In choosing one, ask about background and experience. Ideally, the colorist will come for an on-site visit to assess your situation. Consultation also can be done by exchanging photos and color specifications through electronic or postal mail.

Re: "The West's 20 Best Seaside Inns," February, page 74. You were right on the mark with the Inn on Orcas Island. In all our years of travel, this bed-and-breakfast rates No. 1 on our list. From the minute we arrived to the day we had to depart, we were treated as if we were the most important guests in this magnificent home.

CLINT AND CHERYL BOWER

COEUR D'ALENE, ID

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We have been subscribers to Sunset since 1986. Although we live just outside of Milwaukee, you've given us so many ideas for cooking, decorating, and vacationing. Imagine our surprise when we saw the cover of the February issue. The photo was taken in almost the same spot where my husband, David, and I enjoyed a leisurely vacation a few years ago! Our picture was taken as we sat in a pair of lawn chairs and admired the beauty of the Pacific Ocean while staying at the Sandpiper House Inn (800/894-9016), a bed-and-breakfast in Elk, California.

VICTORIA JENSEN

GREENDALE, WI

EDITOR'S NOTE: Our cover photo was taken next door, at Harbor House Inn (800/720-7474).

We just can't seem to stay away from the Willcox House (www.willcoxhouse.com or 800/725-9477) in Seabeck, Washington. We have stayed there one week each summer for 12 years. Besides its magical setting on the Hood Canal over-looking the beautiful Olympic Mountains, the Willcox House offers a special breakfast each morning. Co-owner Cecilia Hughes prepares blintzes, French toast, or waffles, served with her homemade syrups and butters. The breakfast is included in the nightly rate as is an afternoon wine-and-cheese social hour.

MARSHA AND

CHARLIE GONZALES

ALHAMBRA, CA

I honestly do not know how you could omit the Ragged Point Inn and Resort (www.raggedpointinn.com or 805/927-4502) on the Big Sur coast, 15 miles or so north of Hearst Castle. Gorgeous views, nice hiking path to the beach, great restaurant, wonderful rooms, isolated peaceful atmosphere.

JAY C. SMITH

BAKERSFIELD, CA

Favorites expand weeknight menus

One of my New Year's resolutions was to add some new recipes to my weekly repertoire. My criterion was that they needed to be fast and easy. What a delight to get your January magazine with the easy midweek dinner suggestions! So far I've made the Singapore Turkey Stew (page 79) and the Marinated Flank Steak (page 81). Both were delicious.

MONIKA PETTROSS

PACIFICA, CA

I recently made your recipe for the Singapore Turkey Stew, and my wife says that it is her new favorite! We both loved the great Asian flavors in it. I used spinach instead of bok choy and it came out superb.

TOM HENRY

STOCKTON, CA

I tried the Mexican Chorizo recipe (January, page 82) and loved it. I've had some of the best in the country, but my three kids were often fearful of its "bite." They ate all of the 2 pounds I made last night.

JOSE AMAYA

AMES, IOWA

EDITOR'S NOTE: Find all of the above recipes at www.sunset.com/favorites