Castle Marne Bed and Breakfast

"A Love Story at Castle Marne B&B" continued!!

2012-02-17T12:49:00.000-07:00

It is my pleasure to introduce Mr. and Mrs Nick and Linda Clous!

Remember "A Love Story at the Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast"? (previous post) They tied the knot Valentine's Day at 6:30 in the evening. The bride looked lovely in her elegant shift complimented by her gorgeous jewelry.

Nick was handsome in his deep blue suit with a red striped tie. Linda is holding the bouquet of fresh white tulips with a red ribbon. The matching boutonniere is perfect on Nicks lapel.

Witness/ photographer Liz Feher-Peiker signs the license.

Lovely shot of the license, bouquet and the wedding cake

Cutting the cake. They chose butter pecan cake with chocolate mousse filling in the shape of a heart.

Remember the "promise ring'? It's now her wedding ring!

Beautiful bouquet and photo of their rings

Yumm, delicious!

Time for the romantic candlelight dinner for two.

First course is Bruschetta with fresh basil.

Kitchen staff, Charlie and mom, Melissa Feher-Peiker assembling the main entree's

Nick chose the Bacon wrapped Filet Mignon with seasoned potatoes and stuffed mushrooms.

Linda chose the Salmon poached in champagne with a hint of clove and lemon with a fresh fruit salsa, served on a bed of wild rice. Both LInda and Nick had the orange marmalade steamed carrots and caper butter broccoli.

Cake for dessert with coffee

Breakfast the next morning with fellow guests Eric and Zanthe. They were engaged at the same time Linda and Nick were being married. Congratulations all of you! See the bridal bouquet as the center-piece?

Thank you for sharing this special occasion with us here at Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast. It has ben a pleasure!

A Love Story at Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast

2012-02-06T14:22:00.001-07:00

This Valentine's Day a couple is eloping. Eloping is romantic enough, but wait till you read their story.

Seventeen years ago Linda Gabriel and Nick Clous were married to different people. The two couples were good friends. Over time Nick's wife passed away and Linda was divorced. Since they'd always been good friends they would catch a movie every now and again, go out for a bite together, things like that.

Without either of them realizing it, they were falling in love. Nick asked Linda to move in with him, she agreed.

Linda has suffered several serious health related challenges. She has been rushed to the hospital numerous times and Nick has been by her bedside every time.

Nick asked Linda to marry him. She said she just wasn't ready for a serious commitment. Undaunted, Nick gave her a "promise ring". She accepted. A couple of years go by which brings us to this Valentine's Day.

One morning back in January I received a call from a giddy woman. She announced that she had just been asked to marry the man of her dreams! She'd been to our web-site and saw that we offer romantic elopement packages. I told her "congratulations" and what day did they want to be married? "Valentine's Day", she gushed.

We discussed the different packages . Throughout the entire conversation she giggled and sighed, telling me how in love she is and the importance of everything being romantic. I assured her that the Castle Marne is definitely romantic!

The next day Nick and Linda came over. We sat down and talked about their ideas and discussed details. They shared their story with me. I was so taken by it I decided to share it with you.

Linda is 61 and Nick is 71. They are like school kids in love. They radiate their joy. It is a pleasure to be with them.

They have chosen to spend their honeymoon in the John T. Mason room. It has a queen-size bed and an in-room jetted tub.

Our packages include the ceremony, bridal bouquet and matching boutonniere, wedding cake for two and a candlelight dinner in the private Peacock Dining Room. Everything is included.

A few days after they made their reservation, I got a call from Linda. She had decided what kind of flowers she wants and details about the cake. She has chosen white tulips with a red ribbon and she will have a heart shaped cake of butter pecan with chocolate mousse filling.

She told me she'd picked out a dress and was sad her best friend couldn't be with her to help with all the decisions. As the dress was being wrapped up she mentioned to the sales clerk that it was to be her wedding dress. Feeling better she stopped by the make-up counter at Dillards. Again she mentioned that she was getting married. The make-up counter became a buzz of activity. What had been one clerk became several. The ladies fluttered around Linda, trying different shades of shadow, colors of lipstick and fragrances. The ladies have offered to do Linda's make-up the day of the wedding, for free!

I asked Linda how she and Nick found out about the Castle Marne. She told me Nick's son had stayed here and told her how romantic it was.

Remember the promise ring? Well it's officially an engagement ring now! I'll post photos of the wedding as soon as I've got them.

A Cause Worth Supporting!

2012-01-21T16:08:00.001-07:00

The Castle Marne B&B proudly supports a worthy cause called "Magic Moments".

Above: Full cast of Magic Moments in the show "Cactus Flats"

Scene from "All This & World War ll"

Rehearsal

Ed Reinhart in "All This & World War ll"

Frank. is that a chicken in your holding?

More rehearsal

Scene from "All This & World War ll"

Back stage

Director KQ. "Great Job!"

Magic Moments is a non-profit organization that produces an annual musical theater production and integrates able-bodied persons with those with physical and developmental disabilities into the total performing cast. One of our main goals is to raise community awareness of the special gifts of persons with physical and developmental disabilities and provide our diverse cast an opportunity to give back to our community through theatrical performance. Most of our production cast and crew are volunteers who come from all over the Denver metropolican area. http://www.magicmomentsinc.org/

The Castle Marne family, the Feher-Peikers and the Peikers donate our time and talents to help bring this annual show to life. Three months of rehearsals every weekend and late nights, over two hundred cast and crew, able-bodied and special needs actors, singers and dancers come together to share the thrill of a live performance and bask in the glow of love for the craft.

After 27 years, Magic Moments has a new home. Our performances will be held at Kent Denver on March 22nd through 25th, 2012 in the Anschuetz Family Theater. http://www.magicmomentsinc.org/

Because we rely on grants, corporate and patron sponsors, donations, etc. to produce this annual show, we are looking for someone to underwrite our cast party by providing baked goods, coffee/punch, etc. If you or someone you know loves community theater and can help please visit our web-site listed above.

On behalf of the Castle Marne B&B family and all the families in Magic Moments, we look forward to sharing the Magic of Magic Moments with you this March! Check out this review from "The Denver Post". http://www.denverpost.com/theater/ci_8401308

Bravo!

Recipe of the Month: Baked Breakfast Burritos

2012-01-12T13:15:00.000-07:00

We recently had a request for our famous baked breakfast burritos. Our guests love this southwestern entree every time we serve it. Here's our simple but delicious recipe:

Two cans of black, pinto, or kidney beans, or refried beans
Can of corn, chopped chilies, finely chopped onion, chopped green pepper (optional)
Eight 5-inch tortillas
Grated Cheddar cheese

4 eggs, lightly beaten
2 cups milk
1 Tbsp. flour
1/2 tsp. garlic salt
Dash hot sauce (we like Cholula)

Grease 12x17 inch baking pan. Preheat oven to 350. Mix together the beans and any other fillings (corn, chilies, etc.) till well blended. Put about a 1/3 cup of the bean filling in the center of each tortilla and top with about 2 Tbsp. grated cheese. Roll each tortilla up and arrange them seamside down in the prepared pan.

In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, milk, flour, garlic salt, and hot sauce, and whisk until smooth. Pour the mixture over the tortillas and bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese and return to the oven until the cheese is melted. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy!

"Operation Muffin Drop" in it's 3rd year!

2012-01-04T16:10:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again, time to pack up hundreds of yummy muffins and mail them off to America's troops in Afghanistan. We've got almond muffins, egg nog muffins, apple spice, pumpkin chocolate chip, strawberry-banana, blueberry muffins and more. Makes my mouth water just writing these words.

The family and staff of Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast have been baking for weeks preparing a little taste of home in every bite. It's our pleasure to share our muffins. If you'd like to participate in this year's "Operation Muffin Drop" call Melissa. We'll include some of your home baked goodies in our mailing. 303-331-0621

Thinking of tying the Knot in a Victorian Castle? Look no further...

2011-12-29T16:12:00.000-07:00

Castle Marne is a great place to get married!

Ever dream of exchanging your vows in a historic Victorian Castle? Castle Marne is the perfect place to be married. Below are a few photos of a lovely wedding held here last month.

Tom and Julie Seaba invited 15 very special guests to join them in celebrating their wedding.

Julie had a cake with the top layer Yellow Cake with Raspberry filling

and Chocolate Cake with German Chocolate filling.

Her bouquet was long stemmed Calla Lilies with ivory ribbon

Tom and Julie make it official.

Her beautiful bouquet with some of the Castle's silver in the background

The Castle Marne can accommodate a small intimate elopement with just the two of you or go as high as 35 for a stand-up cocktail reception.

For more information on weddings in Castle Marne, give us a call. Melissa and her professional staff are eager to assist you in planning and celebrating your perfect wedding. 303-331-0621, 1800-92MARNE.

Celebrate the Holidays with Afternoon Tea at Castle Marne B&B

2011-12-21T15:43:00.000-07:00

Imagine Christmas carols in the background, the aroma of fresh baked scones filling the air, you are surrounded by vintage Christmas lights and decorations all while nibbling on tasty finger sandwiches at a truly Victorian Afternoon Tea at the Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast.

The Castle serves Afternoon Tea everyday, year around, but there's something special about sipping piping hot tea in a Victorian Castle at Christmas time. Give us a call, space is limited. We'll be keeping the decorations up until Sunday January, 8th if you can't join us sooner. 303-331-0621

Merry Christmas!

Tasty Christmas Morning Muffins

2011-12-13T16:00:00.000-07:00

Planning your Christmas menu? This is a great recipe for Christmas morning breakfast. Make the batter ahead and bake off as you need to.

Eggnog Muffins

1 egg beaten
1/3 c. canola oil
3/4 eggnog ( Silk brand Eggnog works beautifully for those who cannot tolerate milk)
1/4 c. rum

2c. flour
1 T. baking powder
1/2 t. salt
2/3 c. sugar

1 t. nutmeg to sprinkle on top of the muffins.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a small bowl stir together beaten egg, oil, eggnog and rum then set aside. Sift together flour, baking powder, salt and sugar in a medium-size bowl. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the egg mixture. Mix together just until dry ingredients are moistened. Spray mini muffin pans. Fill the cups with the muffin batter 3/4 full and sprinkle the tops with the nutmeg. Bake approximately 15-20 minutes or until the tops are lightly brown.

Makes 36 mini-muffins. Enjoy!

Denver East High School does it again!

2011-12-13T14:31:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the East High School "We the People" Constitutional Scholar Team.

Congratulations to the East High School "We the People" Constitutional Scholar Team. Our Constitutional Scholars won the Colorado State Championship yesterday, December 12, 2011, at the Colorado State Capital.

Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast extends our congratulations to the whole team and specifically to our own Louie J., Castle Marne Innkeeper and junior at East High School for winning this prestigious competition.

We are proud of each of our scholars, along with their coach, Mr. Mark Thalhofer, as they head to Washington D.C. in April to compete in the National "We the People" Competition.

East Angels, you ROCK!

Jane Austen Celebrates her 236th Birthday at the historic Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast

2011-12-13T14:18:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, December 11th, some of Jane Austen's biggest fans gathered at Denver's historic Castle Marne B&B to toast the lauded lady author and wish her a very happy 236th birthday. The party-goers enjoyed tasty finger sandwiches, delicious quiche and scrumptious scones and desserts. The authentic loose leaf Earl Grey Tea was a big hit as well.

The Jane Austen Society of North America, also known as JASNA is an organization of over 4,000 lovers of her novels. Some of her most well-known stories are "Sense and Sensibility", "Pride and Prejudice" and "Emma". The Denver/Boulder Region of JASNA gather throughout the year to share many pleasures: discussing Austen's novels; toasting her on her birthday (December 16th); listening to lectures, panels, and performances, illuminating her writing, life and era: learning English country dancing and 19th-century card games and much more.

To learn more about joining JASNA visit their web-site www.jasna.org or email Rae Wiseman at rae.wiseman@comcast.net.

On behalf of the family and staff of the Castle Marne B&B have a very Happy Birthday Jane!

Annual Victorian Holiday Home Tour was a Huge Success!

2011-12-02T13:25:00.000-07:00

Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast, the Colfax Business Improvement District www.colfaxave.com, along with 5 other Victorian mansions ushered in the 2011 Christmas Season last week with the 2nd Annual Victorian Holiday Home Tour.

Thank you to all the wonderful tour goers for supporting the Denver Children's Home www.denverchildrenshome.org, by attending this wonderful event. Over 400 visitors stopped by for some Christmas cheer and toured the historic homes on Denver's Upper Capitol Hill.

The weather was cold but sunny and folks were treated to a free carriage ride.

Two fabulous choirs set the holiday tone by singing traditional and contemporary carols. For more information about the carolers, please visit their web-sites. The Original Dicken's Carolers www.originaldickenscarolers.com, and The "Last Note Singers" http://www.ponydesign.com/LastNoteSingersWebsite/LNS_StartPage.htm. They donated their time and lovely voices to entertain everyone.

Cara Schuman treated tour goers with her piano playing inside the Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast. We met Cara while she and her boyfriend were overnight guests here at the Castle Marne. Cara has played piano for the annual historic candlelight tour, at the home of Washington Irving in New York's Hudson Valley where they used to live. She offered to play for us, we were thrilled to say the least.

When all was said and done, this was a very successful event. For next year,

plan ahead and put Saturday November, 24th, the first Saturday after Thanksgiving on your calendar.

On behalf of all of us at Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast, the Colfax Business Improvement District, the elegant and historic Victorian mansions on the tour and the Denver Children's Home, have a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

Great Thanksgiving dinner recipes

2011-11-17T10:50:00.001-07:00

We've got some great Thanksgiving recipes for you to try.

If you like pumpkin and you like soup, try our Pumpkin Bisque. Should be made a day or two ahead and reheated before serving, this allows the flavors to blend.

2 T. butter

1 large onion, diced

1 1/2 lbs. pumpkin, diced or 3 cups pumpkin puree

6 c. homemade or canned chicken stock

3 T. all-purpose flour

1/2 t. salt

1/4 c. fresh parsley, chopped

Melt butter in a large saucepan. Add diced onions and saute until soft. Add pumpkin and chicken stock. Cook over medium heat for 15 minutes. Take out 1 cup of pumpkin mixture and add flour to make a rue. Whisk until all the lumps are gone. Add rue mixture back into the soup and whisk to prevent lumping. Cook about 5 minutes, whisking occasionally to cook flour. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Note: We let the soup cool and blend with a blender. Re-heat and serve with a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top for garnish. Tastes great with homemade croutons. Serves 8.

How to make great home made croutons: Butter a couple of slices of bread liberally with soft butter. (Butter substitute works great too.) Sprinkle bread with onion salt, garlic salt and dried parsley flakes. Cut bread into cubes and bake on a cookie sheet for about 10 minutes in a hot oven. Take the tray out and with a turner, turn the croutons over to bake evenly for another 5-10 minutes or until golden brown and

crispy. Enjoy!

How about those turkey leftovers? We've got a tasty Turkey Pasta Salad.

Turkey Pasta Salad

3/4 c. mayonnaise

1T. Dijon mustard

1/2 t. dried thyme

8 oz. fettucini, cooked and drained ( for a change try bow tie pasta instead)

1 c. diced turkey breast (smoked turkey adds a delicious flavor too)

3/4 zucchini, sliced and halved

1/2 c. red bell pepper, cut into small strips

1/2 c. yellow bell pepper, cut into small strips

Salt and pepper to taste

In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, mustard and thyme until well blended. Add pasta, turkey, red and yellow pepper and toss together. Season with salt and pepper. Chill well. If salad is too dry, add a little more mayo just before serving. Serves 6

On behalf of the family and staff of the Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast, Happy Thanksgiving!

Great Thanksgiving dinner recipes

2011-11-17T10:49:00.000-07:00

We've got some great Thanksgiving recipes for you to try.

If you like pumpkin and you like soup, try our Pumpkin Bisque. Should be made a day or two ahead and reheated before serving, this allows the flavors to blend.

2 T. butter

1 large onion, diced

1 1/2 lbs. pumpkin, diced or 3 cups pumpkin puree

6 c. homemade or canned chicken stock

3 T. all-purpose flour

1/2 t. salt

1/4 c. fresh parsley, chopped

Note: We let the soup cool and blend with a blender. Re-heat and serve with a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top for garnish. Tastes great with homemade croutons. Serves 8.

crispy. Enjoy!

How about those turkey leftovers? We've got a tasty Turkey Pasta Salad.

Turkey Pasta Salad

3/4 c. mayonnaise

1T. Dijon mustard

1/2 t. dried thyme

8 oz. fettucini, cooked and drained ( for a change try bow tie pasta instead)

1 c. diced turkey breast (smoked turkey adds a delicious flavor too)

3/4 zucchini, sliced and halved

1/2 c. red bell pepper, cut into small strips

1/2 c. yellow bell pepper, cut into small strips

Salt and pepper to taste

On behalf of the family and staff of the Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast, Happy Thanksgiving!

Castle Marne B&B Sends Muffins Overseas to Afghanistan for the Holidays

2011-11-15T13:27:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year again, the Holidays, time to bake hundreds of muffins and ship them off to America's fighting forces in Afghanistan. Code named "Operation Muffin Drop" two years ago, the family and staff of the Castle Marne B&B in Denver decided to bake and mail the Castle's famous muffins overseas.

The response has been heart warming. "We are proud to do our part in doing what we do best, baking the sweet taste of home and sharing with those so far away from family and loved ones." says owner Jim Peiker. "It's the least we can do to support our troops."

This photo of Castle Marne is courtesy of TripAdvisor

For information on joining "Operation Muffin Drop" visit us at http://www.castlemarne.com/en-us/index.htm.

Happy Thanksgiving and a Merry Merry Christmas!

Castle Marne B&B says "Thank You" to Vets on Veteran's Day

2011-11-13T15:46:00.001-07:00

Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast in conjunction with over hundreds of bed and breakfasts across the US and Canada, offered free rooms to veterans as a special thank you for their service. Each inn donated at minimum 1 free room. Castle Marne got all goofy and opened our entire house, all 9 rooms.

Owner Jim Peiker had grandson, Charlie put out a few flags so the guests wouldn't get lost.

We told the group we'd love to take photos for the blog. David Benavides brought his uniform. He looks great.

Castle Marne is proud to be affiliated with Select Registry, an association of inns and bed and breakfasts throughout the US and Canada. Select Registry and the Professional Association of Independent Innkeepers along with A Better Way To Stay organized this year's Veteran's Day special. For more information on A Better Way To Stay visit this website. http://www.betterwaytostay.com/current-promotions/bbs-for-vets/

For more information on the Select Registry collection of inns and b & b's click here: http://www.selectregistry.com/index.asp

Guests started arriving in time for afternoon tea served in the Victorian Parlour. We served shortbread, lemon bars, hand rolled truffles, raspberry bars and scones with lemon curd and preserves. Tom Osieczanek helps himself to some treats.

Gathering for one of Castle Marne's fabulous breakfasts.

Group photo in the Parlour

Group photos out in front of the Castle

Beau and Carolyn DeClue

Kate and Aaron Silberman

Mark Labrecque and Zabeth Farr

Amanda and Andy Sharma at Tea Time. Tom and Ruth Ann are seen in the background.

Jeffery Elwell pouring tea, his wife Audrey is in the background.

On behalf of the family and staff of the Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast it was our pleasure to have these 18 wonderful people join us for Veteran's Day. We look forward to opening our home again next year!

http://www.betterwaytostay.com/current-promotions/bbs-for-vets/

2nd Annual Victorian Holiday Home Tour

2011-11-09T12:40:00.002-07:00

Visit Six of Denver's Grandest Victorian Homes.
A Great alternative to the Malls on Saturday, November 26, after Thanksgiving!

Six mansions all dressed up for the holidays open their doors for a walking tour to the public for the second year in a row. 11:00 to 4:00

This tour is a fund raiser for the Denver Children's Home.

Denver Children's Home is the first nonprofit in the State of Colorado. Throughout their 135-year history of service, the organization has consistently met the needs of children and families. On a daily basis, DCH serves an average of over 100 children and families and over 1,000 children and families in our community annually! For more information about Denver Children's Home please visit their site, http://www.denverchildrenshome.org

Tour includes:
   * Castle Marne B & B * 1572 Race St.
   * Adagio B & B * 1430 Race St.
   * Holiday Chalet B & B * 1820 Colfax Ave.
   * Denver Tea Room * 1820 Colfax Ave.
   * Unity Temple * 1555 Race St.
   * McAllister House * 1565 Race St.
   * Bailey/Siller's Mansion * 1617 Vine St.

Details: * $12.00 in advance. Buy now: http://colfaxave.com, click on Vict. Hol. Home Tour
   * $15.00 the day of.
   * Children 9 and under are free.
   * Tour begins at Castle Marne, where you will receive the map
For more information please call 303-331-0621.

What else is going on? Listen to the "Original Dickens Carolers", the "Last Note Singers", Bagpipes, Harpist, Pianist and Free Carriage Rides. Come, enjoy and proceeds go to the Denver Children's Home.

Westboro Baptist Church pickets Denver's East High School

2011-11-09T11:34:00.000-07:00

Remember the Westboro Baptist Church from Kansas? The folks who picket fallen soldier's funerals? The people who thank God for every soldier who dies because God is punishing America for tolerating Gay and Lesbian lifestyles? The people who hate Jews and blame them for the problems of the world? Check out the photos.

Yesterday several members of the church were in Denver to protest the National Allied Jewish Federation convention being held at the downtown Sheraton. They had some extra time on their hands and decided to picket East High. The school was notified on Friday. My boys, Louie J. and Charlie decided to call for a peaceful counter demonstration Monday at 7:00, school starts at 7:30. The message went out via social media. The kids decided to wear purple in support of fellow gay and lesbian students and bring only positive posters.

Big Louie, the kids and I showed up early before anyone else had gathered. Charlie was worried that no one would show. At 7:00 a.m. 6 Westboro Baptist Church members set up their boom boxes and played "We will, we will rock you" by Queen at the corner of 17th Ave. and Esplanade (one of 3 the main driveways to enter the high school). We thought it ironic they would play a song from an openly gay dead musician as their theme song. They'd wrapped themselves in the American flag, drug a Gay flag on the ground and held up "God Hates Fags", "God Hates Jews" and "Jews killed Jesus" signs. It didn't take long for the students to gather. Denver Police, DPS Security were present as were school administrators.

Soon hundreds of kids holding "God even loves you" and "God loves everyone" surrounded the church people. The kids sang songs and the school cheer. I actually teared up when I realized that Denver's East High School Angels overpowered the ugly hate with love. By 7:20 church members packed up their signs and boom boxes. They were planning to picket for 30 minutes. Hundreds of kids politely escorted them to their car.

Other high school mascots are Hawks, Trojans, Cougars, Devils, you name it but East High are the Angels. Westboro Baptist Church picked the perfect school to picket.

As the parent of two East kids, I am so proud of all 2300 students. From the kids all the way to the top administrators and principal, this was one very classy event. Melissa (Mom)

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Castle Marne B&B Honors Vets this Veteran's Day

2011-11-08T13:00:00.010-07:00

THE FINAL INSPECTION

The soldier stood and faced God,
Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining,

Just as brightly as his brass.

'Step forward now, soldier,
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To My Church have you been true?'

The soldier squared his shoulders and said,
"No, Lord, I guess I ain't,"
Because those of us who carry guns,
Can't always be a saint.

I've had to work most Sundays,
And at times my talk was tough.
And sometimes I've been violent,
Because the world is awfully rough.

But, I never took a penny,
That wasn't mine to keep...
Though I worked a lot of overtime,
When the bills just got too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fears...
And sometimes, God, forgive me,
I've wept unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place,
Among the people here.
They never wanted me around,

Except to calm their fear.

If you've a place for me here, Lord,
It needn't be so grand.
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don't, I'll understand.

There was a silence all around the throne,
Where the saints had often trod.
As the soldier waited quietly,
For the judgment of his God.

"Step forward now, you soldier,
You've borne your burdens well.
Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in Hell."

Author Unknown~

In honor of America's fighting forces, Castle Marne B&B is giving retired and active military a free night in Denver's premier Bed and Breakfast this Veteran's Day.

We're grateful for your service, it's our turn to serve you.

Thursday, November 10th, all 9 rooms will be filled with vets and their companions. The next morning 18 rested folks will wake up Veteran's Day to a fabulous breakfast in the Castle's Peacock Dining Room.

A group photo will be taken. Watch for video and photos.

If you are active or retired military and were unable to join us this Veteran's Day, Castle Marne is offering a 20% discount indefinitely.

On behalf of the family and staff of Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast, thank you!

1st snow of the year at Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast in Denver.

2011-10-31T16:22:00.001-06:00

Tuesday October, 18th, Denver weather went from warm and balmy 80's to 35 degrees of snow and cold. We got upwards of 8 inches of heavy wet snow in less than 24 hours. Check out the before and after photos. All over the city tree branches heavy with late season leaves broke plunging thousands of Denver residents into darkness. Luckily the Castle Marne was warm and cozy.

Amazing Group-on Promotion!

2011-10-21T12:14:00.001-06:00

Wow, Group-on! The phones are ringing and our heads are spinning. We're booking business and we are introducing the Castle Marne to thousands of new customers. Monday alone we had over 11,000 visits to our web-site and have sold over 300 packages!

Thank you to all of our new friends of Castle Marne. We are excited to have you joining us this fall and winter. Consider booking a romantic candle light dinner for two in the formal Peacock Dining Room. Give us a call and we can go over all the delicious menu options. The web-site has some great photos of the dinners. Operators are standing by. (I've always wanted to say that.) 303-331-0621 or www.castlemarne.com.

How did the Castle Marne get it's name?

2011-10-16T13:16:00.001-06:00

The Castle Marne was named by the mansion's 4th owner following the end of WW1. Adele Van Cise had purchased the home and was converting it into an apartment house. She spent a good deal of money on the re-construction making sure every apartment had a kitchen and private bathroom. She wanted her apartment house to have a great name. Adele's son Edwin Van Cise, recently returned from WW1 had served in France, fought and survived the bloody Battle of the Marne. He served in the 3rd Infantry Division.

He told his mother that the stone building reminded him of the castles and manors along the River Marne. That's how the apartment house became known as The Marne.

More than 70 years later in 1989, the Peiker family purchased the house and turned it into a bed & breakfast. The building had been empty, abandoned and in severe disrepair. The Peikers, Jim and Diane, with daughter Melissa and her husband Louie Feher-Peiker needed a great name for the B&B.

Back in the '80's the primary way to find any business was by alphabetic phone book listings. The Marne would be too far down the alphabet for future guests to find, the Peikers felt. The building clearly looked like a 'castle' and the letter 'C' came before 'M', so that's how the name "Castle Marne" came to be.

A week with Tiny Tim

2011-10-10T17:41:00.000-06:00

It was the summer of 1991 and Tiny Tim (born Herbert Buckingham Khaury in NY) checked into the Castle Marne B&B. We had the distinct pleasure of spending 5 days getting to know this amazingly talented and tortured musical artist.

A local night club known as Ruby Nightclub booked Tim into the Castle Marne. When welcomed by the owner Jim Peiker, Tiny Tim asked Jim to pick a song from any era and he would sing that song. Jim said "what was the number 1 hit song in America in 1863", Tiny Tim sung out "Eating Goober Peas"! Jim than asked for the most popular song the year the Castle Marne was built back in 1889, Tim sang out "Down Went McGinty" w.m. Joseph Flynn.

Tim proceeded to share his passion for popular music history. He claimed to have extensive knowledge of classical music as well. As we got to know Tim, we learned that he had a very big heart. He was a very gentle soul.

That summer business was very good that year and the Castle was sold out every night that Tim was with us. Not a single guest that week believed that Tiny Tim was sleeping in the same B & B as they were. He performed every night at Ruby Nightclub, slept in late and spent every afternoon at one of Denver's many hospitals singing in the various children's wards.

When performing, Tim would plug his soprano ukulele into an orange construction power extension cord and close his eyes. He never made eye-contact with his audience. It was as if he was playing his favorite music for himself and we just happened to be in the room. He was fabulous! I have never seen someone who loved his music more. It was easy at first to laugh at his outrageous out-fit, (he didn't change his clothes once) but the more you listened the more you realized he was serious.

Was it all just an act? In my opinion, no. Tiny Tim was a quiet, unassuming man who suffered from an extreme form of OCD or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.

When we met Tim those many years ago, he was wearing a powder blue tuxedo jacket with a toothbrush in the pocket, white tuxedo shirt with the matching blue piping, and black tux pants. In his hand was a brown paper bag filled with his only other change of clothes (which he took to the dry cleaners), tooth-paste, more tooth brushes, a hair brush and several jars of Este Lauder face cleansers and creams. While he spoke he would stroke his long, shiny curly black hair.

The first night he was with us Jim got a frantic phone call. "Mr. Pike, please get over here quick!" Jim ran up to his room and found Tim on the bed in the Lang room curled up in the fetal position. With a trembling voice he told Jim he was desperately afraid of Miller Moths. That summer Denver was in the middle of one of the worst infestations of Miller Moths ever recorded. Jim got the vacuum cleaner and sucked them all up. Every evening while Tim was performing Jim would check his room for moths.

One afternoon Tim complimented me on how clean his shower was. He said he should know, he took 10-11 showers a day!

My husband Louie asked him what would he be doing if he wasn't Tiny Tim. He told Louie that he'd probably be a messenger boy in mid-town Manhattan.

We have wonderful memories of Tiny Tim. He was a charming and delightful human being. We are grateful for the week we spent with him.

Free Rooms for Vet's Sold Out

2011-10-03T16:29:00.002-06:00

The Better Way to Stay promotion offering FREE rooms for Vet's and Active Military Veteran's Day has been so successful the Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast is Sold Out. We are keeping a Waiting List in case someone has to cancel.

Just because we're sold out on the 10th of November, doesn't mean your out in the cold. Castle Marne offers a 20% discount to all Active Military and First Responders, and 15% for all Retired Military 7 days a week!

We want to thank our service men and women all year long. Give us a call and we'll assist you in selecting the perfect room for you. Afternoon tea, late night cookies and a full breakfast are all included in the price. Several of our rooms have either an in-room jetted whirlpool tub or a private hot tub on the private balcony. Sorry, no T.V., but we do have free WIFI and free parking.

Unplug just a little, get your R&R here at the Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast. Call toll-free to make your reservation. 1800-92MARNE.

Veteran's and Active Military Stay FREE at Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast

2011-09-30T13:19:00.002-06:00

Are you a Vet? Are you Active Military? Call Now to Reserve Your FREE Night in The Number 1 Rated Bed and Breakfast in Denver by TripAdvisor!

Castle Marne B&B Says "THANK YOU" for your service to our Nation with a FREE night Thursday, November 10th, 2011.

Complimentary Afternoon Tea is served in the Formal Victorian Parlour from 4:30 until 6:00. Late night "SleepyTime Tea" and home baked cookies are available after 8:30 p.m. Wake up Veteran's Day to a fabulous full breakfast in the Elegant Peacock Dining Room.

All 9 of our Guest Rooms are included in this exclusive offer. Call Now! First Come First Served!
303-331-0621, 1800-92MARNE

All reservations must be made directly, no on-line bookings will be accepted.

Author's/Speaker Series starts Sat., Oct. 15, 1:00-3:30

2011-09-28T16:16:00.001-06:00

Castle Marne B&B proudly presents the first in a series of local Denver area authors and speakers events. The Castle offers a truly intimate and personal venue for book lovers and authors alike.

Join us for this first ever event, Saturday, October, 15th. A lite lunch will be served.

Meet 3 local author/speakers who invite you to explore your personal spiritual health and wellness, and your relationships with non-physical beings and angels.

Jalynn Venis, intuitive and author of "Angels to Spirits: How Non-Physical Beings Imprint Our Lives" will discuss her work from her "intuitive explorer" perspective.

Laura Faeth, author and healer will share her book "I Found All the Parts: Healing Through Rock'n'Roll". She will ask "what do music, alchemy, Tarot, secret societies, past lives, mantras and a well known rock band have in common?" Make your reservation now to find out! 303-331-0621

Danae Shantis, local spirit worker and healer will share her interactive event combining healing breath work with music from a CD inspired by and recorded with the assistance of the Ascended Masters and angels. Danea will be presenting her program "The Breathing LIfe".

Reservations are strongly recommended, a lite lunch is included. $12.00 in advance, $15.00 day of. Call to reserve your spot. 303-331-0621, 1800-92MARNE.

Haunted Gardens and Picnics

2011-09-21T16:32:00.001-06:00

Autumn is the perfect time to enjoy the changing colors, Colorado's brilliant blue skies and a gourmet picnic in the haunted gardens of Denver's Cheesman Park. Let Castle Marne pack you a delicious meal to enjoy amidst so many lost souls in the lovely rose gardens.

Over a century ago, Cheesman Park was Denver's cemetery and "Boot Hill". As Denver grew and prospered, wealthy citizens looked for sweeping views of the majestic Rockies above the dirt and dust of busy Denver. The best locale for such a planned up-scale residential development was the existing cemetery.

Developers and city leaders hired a mortician to respectfully relocate all the graves to Denver's new Riverside Cemetery. The mortician hired to do the job was an unethical man and proceeded to con the city in a most horrific way. He negotiated the contract to be paid on the number of coffins, not bodies. He made all child sized coffins and began dismembering the bodies and putting only parts in the caskets. He needed upwards to two and sometimes three coffins for one body. He left graves open encouraging thieves to rob the graves and dogs would drag bones and body parts around town. After months of this outrage neighbors and city officials had had enough.

The mortician was fired, all the open graves were refilled and grass was planted leaving thousands of graves where they were. Today Cheesman Park is ringed on all sides with elegant and expensive turn-of-the-century mansions. The lovely rose gardens on the east side are considered the most haunted section of the park.

The picnic is $45.00 + tax. Pick up a bottle of wine on the way and we'll lend you a blanket. For details on ordering and menu options please give us a call. 303-331-0621 or 1800-92MARNE. We need at least 48 hours to plan and prepare your picnic. Alcohol not included.

Recipe of the Month: Sugar-Free Shortbread

2011-09-10T12:46:00.003-06:00

At the Castle Marne, we always make every effort to accommodate our guests' special dietary needs. We are happy to try out new recipes and techniques to make sure everyone has the chance to enjoy our delicious homemade food.

Try this version of our classic shortbread for a sweet treat anyone can enjoy:

Ingredients
1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, softened
1/2 cup Splenda
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp almond extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 Tbsp cornstarch
1/8 tsp salt

Using an electric mixer, cream butter, Splenda, and vanilla and almond extracts together in a medium-sized bowl. In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and salt until well-blended. Cut flour mixture into butter mixture using a pastry fork until a cohesive dough has formed. Press dough into the bottom of a greased pie pan and slice before baking. Sprinkle with chocolate sprinkles or raw sugar for a pretty finish. Bake in a 350 degree oven for about 12 minutes or until firm. Let cool for at least 20 minutes, then reslice and serve.

Keep in mind that goods baked with Splenda will bake faster than with normal sugar, and will not appear to brown in the oven.

Happy sugar-free baking!

Great Urban Race and Dumb Friends League Fundraiser

2011-08-29T13:07:00.019-06:00

We had so much fun this past Saturday as one of the clues on the Great Urban Race scavenger hunt, put on by Red Frog Events. Over 100 teams stopped by the Castle Marne to complete an etiquette lesson and get their picture taken before rushing off to complete the other 11 clues.

It was also a great opportunity for Liz and some of her friends to complete a service project by selling ice cold water to benefit the Denver Dumb Friends League. Thanks to lots of thirsty racers, they made over $100 to donate to the local animal shelter.

Thanks to everyone who stopped by and to the organizers of the race for thinking of the Castle Marne as part of the unique tour of the city!