March seems to be devoted to colorful celebration, and I am excited for the upcoming month of merriment! First we are bedecked in purple, yellow and bright green for Mardi Gras, the wonderful indulgence holiday of New Orleans. Falling on March 8th this year, this last ditch celebration before the devotions of Lent begin offers a bit of a chance for frivolous fun and mid week masquerading! Mardi Gras also offers the perfect excuse for a getaway, so take advantage of the celebratory atmosphere and remember to pack your best mask!
Arguably the biggest color that comes to mind in March, however, is the lucky shimmering green of the Irish. St. Patrick’s Day is March 17th, and the day beckons to both kinds of people in the world – “Those that are Irish, and those that wish they were.” As Ireland is one of my favorite places to visit and explore, I love when this time rolls around, and I’m inundated with Irish folklore, myths, and stories surrounding this little island. The green waves of color from clothes, food, drink and décor seem to be trying to mimic the lush rolling hills of the homeland, creating a bright fresh color of new life. The joy and merriment of this time of year, from leprechauns and pots of gold to a little extra luck in your day, always seems to pull me in. A favorite Irish saying of mine always seems to find me this time of year – “Bless you and yours
As well as the cottage you live in.
May the roof overhead be well thatched
And those inside be well matched.”
I believe this is particularly important for Innkeepers and their travelers, who have the opportunities along their respective journeys to be a wealth of knowledge, comfort and joy for each other along the way!
To add to the plethora of colorful events and goings on this month, the wonderful and optimistic color pink has been named Color of the Year by Pantone. About time! I love pink, and have used it in many ways.
A few of my favorite tips for using pink unexpectedly: Pink light bulbs in at least one lamp in every bedroom and the dining room, guaranteed to cast a flattering light and create a romantic atmosphere effortlessly (Pinqueslavania.com). A pale pink ceiling, which can be achieved by adding a small amount of pink to any white paint, works magic by reflecting a flattering light downwards and can be used with any wall color. Pink flowers are somehow always very special. Camellias are in bloom right now and are a long lasting classic. Roses will be coming up soon and the specific pink that pantone selected “Honeysuckle Pink” will be reflected in summer’s blooms. The shade pink is actually named for a color from the flower genus Dianthus an, an especially clear and bright shade. Pink is great with many other colors in small or large doses. Picking up on the trim from glossy wall paint, a single pink wall can really light up a room and especially a dark area. Play some light on it for instant pop. I love pink contrasted with black and shiny dark brown, but actually, there are very few colors that don’t go well with pink. Some of my very favorite shades are: Bridal Pink from Benjamin Moore, Hibiscus by Ralph Lauren, Red Earth, by Farrow and Ball, Light Sandstone from Martha Stewart Living, Checkerberry from Glidden, and Persimmon from Benjamin Moore. Just give it a try and I think you’ll find that a dose of pink will have you viewing the world through rose colored glasses.To round off this blog, please find below more of our Guest’s Greatest Picks 2011 Award Winners!
Best Wishes,
Pamela
This Irish getaway offers a Celtic experience right in the Ozarks! The Irish Inn, our Most International Winner, provides a small, intimate setting, perfect for a quiet weekend away, small wedding, and taking in a little luck o’ the Irish. 
The Historic Fairfield Inn has the oldest tavern license in Gettysburg, dating back from 1786! At the Best Bar/Pub Winner, guests will feel like they’ve stepped back in time to enjoy a pint with good friends at the Historic Fairfield Inn.
Spinnakers has much to offer guests – three guest houses, a restaurant, a pub, and a brewery all their own. Voted Best Gift Shop, their shelves are stocked with specialty beer, wine and spirits, allowing guests to take a bit of their getaway home with them.
For active guests, this Best Nearby Golf Award Winner is a must-visit! McConnell Inn offers excellent golf courses and proximity make this a perfect spot for golf enthusiasts, or those simply wanting to practice their swing during a relaxing getaway.
