Events at The Oaks ~ Meet and Greet

 

    The Texas House race is heating up and candidates are out and meeting constituents all over Hopkins County.  We opened our doors for a meet and greet for House hopeful Brent Money hosted by Down to Earth Services.  Members of the public were invited to stop by and see what Mr. Money had to say about his platform and discover if he is the right candidate for them.  

    Brent Money is a local business owner in Hopkins County and Sulphur Springs, with a title and law office located off of Broadway, close to the Urgent Care facility.  He is the proud father of five children, and has been married for over 23 years, to his high school sweetheart.  A sixth generation Texan and Hunt County resident, he feels that he has a pulse of what the people want and plans to help put forward the issues that matter to local area residents for the State of Texas as a member of the House. 

    Mr. Money hopes to put "people" back into politics by supporting the publics right to make their own decisions for their family.  "We need someone who will fight for common sense Texas values as this district’s representative." (https://www.brentmoney.com/) He plans to lead this new position by his faith and values and use his talents that has been given to him from God. 

    Mr. Money has focused on appealing to many of the major pain points many Texans feel are their rights and values as individuals in the State.  The following are the some of the platforms he plans to stand up for as a member of the Texas House.  These are the values he plans to fight for such as border security, election integrity, property taxes, right to life, second amendment, parental rights, education and justice for all.  

    If you did not have a chance to attend this event, we encourage you to find an event and meet the candidates who are running to figure out who will be the best fit for you and your values.  Be sure to check out any forms of social media or his website for more information about his candidacy and be on the look out for his next public appearance.

    Guests enjoyed small bites and drinks while visiting with Mr. Money.  Pulled Pork Sliders, Cucumber bites and Profiteroles were just to name a few.  We try to make your event as seamless and easy as possible and of course delicious. 

    

Make your own soap ~ Buff City Soap

    

 Nestled along main street in downtown Sulphur Springs is Buff City Soap.  A franchise that focuses on handmade, plant based soaps for the whole house. When Buff City Soap first came to town I thought it would be a great touch to add their soaps to our rooms for guest to enjoy.  With a local store from at 217 Main Street, guest could easily find their location and select some new favorites to take home.  Since our goal is to help promote the local shopping industry in Sulphur Springs, our addition of their products would help drive customers to their downtown location without overwhelming guests and provides them with a local treat to enjoy while staying in Sulphur Springs, at The Oaks.  

    One day a couple came and stayed with us and had visited Buff City, while at breakfast they told me they made their own custom bar of soap.  I think I vaguely remember them asking me if I wanted to make the soap myself when I ordered mine but I said no at the time.  Well this time, I needed to refill my bar soap supply so I figured why not give it a go and make the soap that the guests will be enjoying in the rooms.  

    I set up a time to come in and make my product, and the day had finally arrived.  I only added color to my soaps this time, to add some interest to our bars, but it would hopefully keep with the décor of the rooms.  

    Before you can get started you need to get "dressed."  Safety first on this adventure.  Make sure you wear closed toed shoes and long pants for your class.  Otherwise, they will have everything you need to stay safe.  Googles, face shield, apron, gloves and shoe booties are all on and now we were ready to make soap.  

    Since we decided to add color, we chose two different colors to mix together this time around, an orangish gold and a turquoise with our honey oatmeal scent.  The process is fairly simple and you even use a standard kitchen tool, an immersion blender, to mix everything together.  First you mix the water and scent together and then add in the color to blend it all together.  

    Your soap is not ready for the molds.  We added our gold color first then poured the turquoise over the top.  But your artistic skills do not stop there, by dragging a tooth pick through the liquid you are able to create a "design" in your soap to fit your stylistic needs.  

    Once you are satisfied with your pattern, your soap needs to cure and harden before being cut.  Buff City will cut it for you into the desired size you want for your soap to be used and displayed.  This a great and creative way to make gifts or have a unique bar at home for when guests come to stay.  We hope that you will take advantage of making your own bar of soap when you visit, or by making  your own bath bombs. 

    Be sure to stop by Buff City during your visit to Sulphur Springs, they are open seven days a week and are happy to help you find the perfect scent to please your senses. 

February happenings

    This month starts out great with lots of exciting stuff going on in and around the area.  High school sports are in full swing, so if you live far away and want to attend you grandchild's game, look no further for accommodations than here at The Oaks.  

    Be sure to step out and support the local adult football team, The NTX Dragons,  at Gerald Prim Stadium, Saturday, February 5 at 6 pm.  Tickets at the gate are $10.

     Long time country music stars, Shenandoah will be in town for a concert on Friday, February 11, 2022.  This is sure to be a great show, with all their classic songs.  The concert will be held in the High School auditorium.  Be sure to get your tickets soon.

    On Saturday, February 12, the City of Sulphur Springs is hosting the Larry Buster Memorial Kids' Trout Fishing Day from 10-2 pm.  Bring your rod and reel to Peavine Pinion Pond, next to Buford Park and see what you can catch.  The Kiwanis Club will be cooking up hot dogs to eat.  A big shout out to the other sponsors, National Wild Turkey Federation, and Texas Parks and Wildlife.

    Also on Saturday, February 12, Main Street Theatre and Marlene's Sass and Class are teaming up for a fashion show mixer from 6:30 - 8 pm.  For $5 you can enjoy wine, refreshments, door prizes and a coupon.  Come see some latest fashions and hear the musical stylings of the Smith Brothers.

    The Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce is hosting their annual membership banquet to celebrate Hopkins County and recognize many of it's citizens. On Thursday, February 17, members will gather to eat and celebrate those in the community. Tickets can be purchased at the Chamber or from their website.  

    The Kiwanis club will also be hosting their annual pancake breakfast on Saturday, February 19.  The Kiwanis use the money raised to give back to the community and they give out a scholarship each year to seniors who are looking to go to college.  

    The civic center will be hoping as usual with rodeos, horse shows and the annual NETLA show, February 24-26.  North East Texas Livestock Association, helps bring students hard work on raising farm animals to the public.  These students work hard to raise show quality animals that are shown and then auctioned off after the event.  The money raised helps to cover the cost of animal and for many starts a fund for college.  This is a great show for anyone interested in promoting the growth of the next generation of farmers.    

    Do not forget about Valentine's day, plan your special someone a night they won't forget.  With Valentine's on a Monday this year, the weekend before makes for the perfect opportunity to celebrate with your love.  Plan a weekend retreat with us, and ask about our special add-ons such as wine and cheese or in-room massages.  Make your reservations soon, too book the extras during your stay.  

Travel East Texas ~ Mineola

  

  When you step outside and come for your visit to the Oaks bed and breakfast in Sulphur Springs, Texas, there are many things you can do in and around our great, little town.  In case you want to explore a little more, we want you to get to know the area before you arrive.  Each month we plan to feature another town close to Sulphur Springs, that you can visit and keep the Oaks as your home base for your exploration.  Our first stop is Mineola, Texas.

    We happened to need to be in Mineola for an evening soccer game, for one of our children and I figured this was a great time to explore before the game and get a feel for what the town has to offer for visitors.  Our first stop, like yours should be when visiting anywhere new, was the Chamber of Commerce.  The chamber of commerce in most any city is more than willing to give your tips and ideas about what is best to hit when you visit their town.  Mineola was no different.  The chamber proved to be very helpful in finding a decent place for lunch and pointed us in the right direction for our exploration.

   

Mineola is home to the railroad and that is what helps to keep this Historically registered town on the  map today.  They are home to an Amtrak depot, which makes stops on a regular basis and the town even has a festival later in the year celebrating the "Ironhorse."  The depot stop also has a small train museum located inside so visitors can learn more about the industry and how it has helped the city of Mineola.

    If you are a history buff or just like to learn more about the local area Mineola is host to a Historical Museum.  A cool fact about this museum is that it once housed the Post Office.  The only disadvantage is the days of the week they are open, Thursday - Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p. m. but admission is free.  So plan your visit just right and you can explore this little nugget of East Texas history.

    If museum's are not  your thing, Mineola is home to the oldest, continuously operating theater in the State of Texas.  The Lake Country Playhouse and Select Theater is home to all different kinds of shows and events. 

You can see a first run movie or watch a classic all at the same location depending on what happens to be playing.  This would be great spot to stop by and watch a classic or take in a play.  

    If nature and being outside is more of your jam, then be sure to stop by the 3,000 acre nature preserve.  This beautiful spot in East Texas is sure to appease all the people in your party.  The Mineola Nature Preserve has a little bit of everything for you to enjoy in the outdoors.  A disc golf course, horse riding trails, a kayak or canoe spot, fishing and so much more.  Step outside to explore this small piece of East Texas, it is sure to bring you joy.  Grab your bike and explore!  Don't forget to pack a picnic lunch for your visit.

   The dining scene in Mineola is varied.  There are going to be some great spots and some good spots to pull up a chair and grab a bite of food to enjoy.  We chose to eat downtown and support those local businesses, this time we ate at Logan's.  They have a good selection on their menu and even have a vegetarian section, which if you have spent anytime in East Texas is rare.  We have also eaten at Kitchen's and we stopped in for fudge and coffee at The Fudge Shop inside Between Friends.  You can look up my reviews on both locations at google reviews.  

     Just past the Nature Preserve is a winery, Grand Oaks, that people should be sure to check out.  They only have tasting hours on Saturday, so be sure to call ahead to see if you can get in to grab a taste.  We always fill like visiting these type of wineries, and feel it is important to help keep them open and making great wine.  Unfortunately we happened by on a weekday, so we could not stop, but would love to hear about your experience.  

 Needless to say, Mineola is a great stop when exploring East Texas.  It is close enough to Sulphur Springs to make The Oaks your home base and yet far enough away from home to make it like a little staycation.  We encourage you to book your stay and then explore.  Until then "take only memories, leave only footprints." ~ Chief Seattle.

Cranberry Rose ~ herb infused cocktail

  

   We are back with our herb infused drinks for the New Year.  I have a plan of action to make one happen once per month, so check back here to see what new drink we are mixing up.  And be sure to follow us on social media, there might be a cocktail hour during the month featuring our latest drink.

    This month we are featuring the drink we made for our New Year's Eve party.  A Rosemary Cranberry Vodka, we called the Cranberry Rose, that is sure to be a crowd pleaser at any time of the year.  We wanted to feature an herb that is currently growing and a little bit of fizz to help ring in the New Year.  Have no fear's this drink can be enjoyed at any time of the year, as rosemary is typically growing all year round.  

    We found this drink to be full of flavor and the more rosemary you want to taste the longer you let it sit in the vodka.  For our purposes we let ours sit for about four days, in a window, to allow the flavor to meld with the alcohol. That brings us to how we made this drink.  We do have to prep a few days in advance to truly get the rosemary to seep into the vodka.  We cut a few stems off, and placed them in a jar and coved with some vodka.  I let mine sit in the window to speed up the process, since I started a little late.  

    The rest is pretty easy, if you are making for a larger group you could just pour directly into a pitcher but since I had a smaller group I made each drink directly into the champagne flute we would be drinking out of.

    The rosemary flavor really came through in the vodka and gave this drink and extra kick of tastiness.  The cranberry combined with your sparkling drink of choice made for a simple and pleasurable experience.  

    If you wanted to make this drink a mocktail, I would make a simple syrup infused with the rosemary in stead of letting it seep with the vodka.  I would then use club soda or a sparkling water of your choice to add the bubbles.  You could then have a great version of this drink for those designated drivers or friends who choose not to drink. 

Cranberry Rose

1 oz Rosemary infused vodka

2 oz Cranberry juice

squeeze of some lemon

Top off with Moscato/Champagne/Prosecco

Garnish with a sprig of rosemary and lemon.

    We always have a Moscato on hand for events, or special occasions for guests celebrating a Wedding or Anniversary, that I like which isn't too sweet or dry.  This Moscato is the perfect blend for those who like one that is a middle of the road.  Depending on your tastes you can make your drink sweeter or drier based on the alcohol you choose to use.  Don't forget you can always make a mocktail.  Be safe and use a designated driver!

Cheers! From the Oaks bed and breakfast.

Happy New Year's Sulphur Springs!

  

  I can hardly believe that the end of the year is just around the corner.  In a few short days we will be closing the door to 2021 and opening up the door to 2022.  We all know that time goes by at the same speed everyday but there are days that feel faster than others.  Well this entire year feels as though it flew by, except maybe that week in February when we were snowed in.

   

With the New Year on the horizon, what are you plans?  Do you have any big trips on the books?  Business or personal goals you want to accomplish in the next year? Do you make resolutions or goals every year?  What does the New Year mean for you and your life?

    As a child growing up, especially in our middle school and high school years, our family would have weekly meetings to go over goals.  We would set goals for the week, revisit our monthly goals and see if we were on track for larger goals that could be hit during the quarter or year.  I will say in the moment I did not appreciate these family meetings and truly have not kept up those habits.  Part of that is my husband, when we were first married, did not seem interested in doing this, so I just stopped.  I think internally I still set little goals for myself and mentally kept a record of them but never really put pen to paper and tracked my progress.  With that being said, I have not taught my children to set goals either. Sure we talk about those things but I don't make them write them down and keep them accountable for their goals.  

    I am going to step out of my comfort zone and put this out here for all the world to read if they want, or not.  My goal for The Oaks this year is to increase my occupancy by 15%.  Some of you might be thinking that's not a lot or woah how will she do that?  Each year we have grown a little, except for 2020 and we all know why.  I'm not sure if this is going to be a big ask for me or not, but its a goal that I feel like is attainable and with the help of all my past guests, and future guests something I can make happen.  

   

 Everyone has a different reason for traveling.  Some travel for business, some travel for pleasure.  There are lots of different activities and events that are going on in Sulphur Springs and the surrounding area to make a visit to The Oaks, amazing.  

    Our goal for you is to visit someplace new, and come and explore our little corner of East Texas.  The civic center, Cooper Lake, and Celebration Plaza are always open and welcome to travelers from all over.  Whether it's for business or pleasure we hope that while you are in Hopkins County and Sulphur Springs you stop by and visit The Oaks for your overnight accommodations.  

    Until then Happy New Year!  May all your goals and dreams for 2022 be realized!

Happy Holidays

     The holiday season is upon us and there is no shortage of fun and excited events for the whole family to participate in, here is Sulphur Springs.

    

    To start of in the spirit of giving, Blue Santa, Toys for Tots and food drives are happening all over the city.  The joy of giving to others does not stop at only this charities, there are Angle trees at local churches and stores.  If you desire to give back this season, be sure to check out those in need.

    The first weekend in December really  kicks of the Holiday Season with the Lion's Club Lighted Christmas parade.  This annual event, is fun for all ages.  Businesses, civic groups, the ISD and many others gather to march through the town to open up the holiday season. 

    The tree lighted ceremony will be held just before the parade on the Celebration Square, so bring your lawn chairs and Christmas spirit to line the streets and partake of this great holiday tradition.

    The Hopkins County Historical Society is at it again with Holiday in the Park located at Heritage Park.  This event is a great way to see what an old time Christmas holiday was like while exploring and learning about the past.  Heritage park goes all out for this event and it is cost effective for the whole family.

   

 The North East Texas Choral Society hits the stage this weekend with the holiday show, Deck the Halls.  They have two performances available, Saturday at 7 p. m. and Sunday at 2 p. m.  This is sure to be a great show as they have always done an amazing job in the past.

    The High School band and choir take the stage on December 9, 2021 to perform their holiday concert.  It is always a great time to see those students put on a great show.  You can see all the hard work that goes into this program and just how far our fine arts department has come.

  

  If you want to take a little break from all the holiday cheer.  Be sure to check out the Monster Truck Mania at the Civic center on December 11, 2021.  It is sure to be a great show for the whole family.

    On December 18 at 11 a. m. Wreaths Across America will be at each of the city cemeteries laying wreaths for our fallen veterans.  This is a great time to gather the family to celebrate the sacrifices others have made.  WAA is a great service opportunity for all ages.  

  We hope that you are able to find your favorite holiday event while you visit Sulphur Springs.  Be sure to check out our dates available for your stay to be able to enjoy the holiday fun.

Basil Vodka Gimlet - herb infused drinks

 

               Our herb infused drink this month is a Basil Vodka Gimlet.  Now I know you might be wondering why we are using vodka in our gimlet, when they are usually made with gin, and why not.  It’s just a twist on the traditional drink and uses a liquor I know we already have in our stash. 

               This is a great summer drink, especially since basil is growing in all it’s glory during the hot summer months.  This cool and refreshing drink is best consumed in a chilled glass, that will help keep your drink cool while sipping it on the back deck. 

               I will say that I did make my simple syrup so that I could add in an additional basil flavor to this drink.  I diced up two kinds of basil, purple and green, and cooked them into my syrup.  I figured this would add to the flavor of the drink.  Boy was I right, I love basil so it’s a stronger flavor in the syrup than just muddling it in the bottom of the shaker. 

               I dropped in five green basil leaves to the bottom of my shaker and muddled them with a bit of fresh lime juice.  Once I felt satisfied with that, I added in the rest of my ingredients.  A bit more lime juice, the simple syrup and vodka. Don’t forget the ice! Cover the shaker and give it good shake to meld all the flavors together.  Strain the liquid into the chilled glass.  Garnish with a fresh basil leaf and enjoy!

               What a great and refreshing option to enjoy during cocktail hour.  So simple and delicious. Click the link on the drink title to watch the video.  Hopefully it's all on there correctly.  I'm not holding out hope I got it correct this week.  

 

 

Basil Vodka Gimlet

 

5 or 6 green basil leaves, one for garnish

 

1 ounce fresh lime juice

 

½ ounce simple syrup

 

3 ½ ounces vodka

 

1.      Place half the lime juice and basil leaves in the bottom of the shaker to muddle.  Mash it all together

2.      Add the simple syrup, vodka and remaining lime juice.  Fill with ice to the top of the liquid.  Shake rapidly until the shaker if freezing your hands.

3.      Strain into chilled martini glass, and garnish with a basil leaf.  You could also garnish with a lime as well. 

 

Enjoy this great summer drink, with friends and yummy snacks.  Don’t forget to be safe and designate a driver.

Norman Rockwell 4th of July Celebration

     When you think of the 4th of July, what comes to mind first?  Fireworks, cook outs and fantastic American fun, celebrating the day that America singed their independence.  The Annual Symphony and Fireworks celebration on the square in Sulphur Springs, is one of those fantastic American adventures that brings people together to celebrate one specific event.  A full orchestra takes the stage to play classical pieces before the fireworks show.

    Never has a more "Norman Rockwell" event taken place in small town America than the Symphony and fireworks.  Just imagine a full orchestra playing beautiful classical music, then a fireworks show right downtown, backdropped by the quintessential county court house.  

    Make your plans today to join us at The Oaks and then the square for a great All-American 4th of July celebration.  

    We hope to see you then.

Allison 

Travel to Sulphur Springs! The Celebration city.

     I don't know about you but I know I could use a quick getaway to recharge my batteries.  With States opening up and easing restrictions on travel, now is the perfect time to hit the road and explore those cities close to you.  

    Sulphur Springs, Texas is the perfect city to start with.  Just an hour and half North East of Dallas/Fort Worth, of off Interstate 30, it is a must see attraction that you should add to your travel itinerary.  We are ready to help you have a great visit, and explore the city and surrounding area.

    After checking in to The Oaks head downtown to explore and shop.  Downtown Sulphur Springs, has so many great places to shop and eat, there is something there for everyone.  Check out the boutiques on Main street to find your next outfit for a night on the town.  Make your own soap at Buff City Soap or explore, Landers Creek to discover your favorite attire for hunting or a day on the lake.  

    Don't forget to check out the glass bathrooms and the Veterans Memorial. Pull up a chair and watch the people who come to enjoy this little gem in the country.  Or participate in a game of chess on one of the large chess boards located next to the glass bathrooms.  Enjoy this green space with a picnic lunch or explore the many restaurant options available to you.  

   Wood fired pizza from Arturo's, Steaks from Red Neck Bar and Grill or drop in for a late lunch at Haystacks.  Our little town has a variety of flavors and restaurants to choose from right downtown.  

    Then you can head on over for a night cap at Phinesse Farms or the Backstory Brewery.  If that is not your style then have dessert at the Magic Scoop.  

    There are many options to choose from when visiting Sulphur Springs, ask us to help point you in the right direction or explore on your own.  Either way, this little weekend or weekday getaway will not disappoint.  

    Thanks again for choosing to stay with us at The Oaks Bed and Breakfast.

Ladies Night Out

Two of our great downtown businesses are coming together to host a Ladies night out at the Oaks.  We can hardly wait to have Marlene's Sass and Class and the Gourmet Kitchen to show off their products to the wonderful people of Sulphur Springs.  Tickets are available to purchase at both the shops for $20.  Come and see some great Summer fashions

 and taste some wonderful food.  We are so excited to see what these great businesses have to offer so we hope that you will stop by and check it out as well.  The fun starts at 6:30pm, we hope you can make it out.

Magnolia Room

The Oaks is made up of three suites, each richly decorated by the help of local antique dealers.  Today we are going to learn more about the Magnolia Room. 

The Magnolia room is a beautiful room in hues of green.  The walls are lightly colored with two large windows that let in plenty of natural light.  A gorgeous king sleigh bed is the focal point of the room.  With the help of Dana's Southern Charm, the room is pulled together by a beautiful dresser, comfortable green chair, and a lovely table desk.  The picture that gave the room it's name sits over the desk which features a custom made flower arrangement.  Each piece in this room is on loan from Dana's and can be purchased.  Find something you love, and we can help you take it home and make it part of your home. 

With task lighting at the table desk any work that you might need to complete or notes that may need to be written can be easily accomplished.  Feel free to leave us a message about your stay or send a postcard home for the memories.

This room is temperature controlled by a mini split AC/Heat system that is able to be changed by the guest.  That way each room is the temperature you want it to be.  These mini split systems help us to maintain a more energy efficient bed and breakfast. 

The Magnolia room has a wonderful bathroom, with a glass enclosed shower and custom tile work. It's the perfect space to get ready to start your day.  Complimentary soaps are available in each room.  If you are staying for multiple days we ask that you please try to reuse your towels.  We have made that task easier by providing hooks for you to hang your towel on.  We try to be environmentally conscious at the Oaks and would like to share that with our guests.

After a restful nights sleep, please come downstairs to enjoy a wonderful homemade breakfast made just for you.  We also feature the best coffee in town from Coffee off the Square.  So start your morning off right with delicious food and great company.

We hope you have enjoyed our tour of the Magnolia Room.  Let us know when you would like to come and stay with us.  We'd love to have you at The Oaks. 

New Place to Stay

Hello Sulphur Springs travelers,

We hope that you find our city a welcoming location to visit and play.  The Oaks bed and breakfast is now open and ready for guests.  If you are just visiting friends and family or coming to enjoy what the city has to offer the Oaks is the best place to stay.  We plan to help make your stay in Sulphur Springs, as enjoyable as possible. 

We have three guest rooms for visitors to enjoy.  Each with their own touch of class and pleasure.  The rooms are decorated by local merchants and each item is for sale that you see in the rooms.  Find something you love please let us know and we will contact the business owner to help you with your purchase.  We decided to have the rooms decorated in this manner in order to help out our fellow downtown business owners and to drive traffic to the renovated square.

Thanks for stopping by to learn more about our special BandB.  We hope to see you soon.

Thanks,
Allison