The Need to Satisfy

Being in the B and B business allows for all kinds of interest.  They all revolve around service but can be many things.  As the Innkeeper I get to do all the things I love to do, all the things I like to do, all the things I will do, and all the things I have to do.  The good news is it is a sliding scale that goes from large loves to small have to dos.  Number one love has to be the "need to satisfy."  "Satisfy" can take on many directions in a B&B.  Today I want to focus on satisfying the love of a great breakfast and a morning that can set the tone for a great day.

When I book a reservation one of the first questions I ask is "Do you have any food allergies?"  Most people are taken aback by this.  Some people have even written in reviews about the fact that I ask this question.  I am not a full service restaurant, but I do aim to please--back to "satisfy".  I have run into many different answers to this question.  Some people are gluten free, some allergic to eggs, strawberries, bananas, nuts, etc.  You know what?  It's really not that hard to work around these issues.  After having dealt with all the allergies there are many other questions.  You know what?  We all don't drink 4-5 cups of coffee every morning any more, however, SOME of us do.  Some of us have had 3 cups before we come to breakfast.  So asking, "Do you want coffee at Breakfast?" is a very important question.  Oh, and then there is the question, "Are you coming to breakfast?"  Funny, but there are a few people who book at a  B&B and never mean to come to breakfast.     So do you get how we get into "The need to satisfy?"

Now, my latest discovery in satisfying my guests.  When you ask about the allergies they all say "no".  Then you prepare the most beautiful gourmet breakfast and set it down in front of them and they say, "the only two things I don't eat are bananas and pecans."  This is right after a beautiful presentation of my Bananas Foster French Toast.  This has nothing to do with allergies, it has to do with "I don't like."  Another "I don't like" can often be eggs.  Therefore, I always have on hand my wonderful homemade Granola and a variety of fruit.  That doesn't mean they don't like your thyme potatoes though. So just remember you are there to satisfy.  Satisfy an allergy, satisfy a want, and satisfy a need.  The glory of the need to satisfy for any and all.

The "R" word--Resolutions

Ok, I was reminded today that I have not blogged in a month.  Some how a full house all through the holidays took on a life of its' own.  Lots of food, fun, delightful guests who are now new friends, and many bottles of wine.  Decorations up--decorations down.....the Charlie Brown tree was loved by all. 

So now I must discuss the "r" word.  I don't make resolutions except for the one that has to do with running the Lazy T.  I am pouring my heart and soul into 2011 to make this the best year.  The Lazy T has only been open for 2 years and 3 months.  The first 9 months don't really count because I wasn't on site full time to make it happen.  However, 2010 was a good year despite the economy.  This year I have a list of improvements to make every guests' experience better than ever before.  I resolve that the Great Hall will get a big upgrade through HVAC improvements, furniture additions, and a kitchen upgrade.  That is all a big challenge but WILL be accomplished.  Outside there will be the additions of a large fountain, more landscaping and improved lighting.  The BIG excitement for me is going to be the addition of a garden filled with herbs, tomatoes, garlic, and all things that I can use in the making of my Texas sized breakfasts.  Of course this fabulous garden will have to be Deer fenced so we get to enjoy it and not them.  AND in front of the garden will be the addition of a sunset watching patio!  I am really excited about this.  So you can see I have set a lot of goals for myself this year, and they are all goals to create a more pleasurable experience for you at the Lazy T.  Tell me what you think of my plans.  Any ideas?