LETTER FROM HOSTESS

Steve and I lived off-grid (not hooked-up to conventional electric utility company) for over 25 years. Our "new" adventure is co-ordinating our off-grid system with the power grid. I say co-ordinate because we are not doing an interface system where we would feed back into the grid, but will now use the power grid for some of our AC applications. Which means that lights and the water pump will run on alternative energy but things like hairdryers and computers will be run on conventional power.

We still ask that you turn off lights when not in use and use the power strips provided to by pass some of the instant on features of certain appliances, but you may use your hairdryer, shaver, computer, etc. without concern or the need to give us a heads up.

Jacks Lake Bed and Breakfast is first and foremost concerned with your comfort and enjoyment. Clean rooms, fresh linens, comfortable beds, a nice breakfast and all the little extras that make for a pleasant stay. We are not the energy police nor will we try to proselytize you. There are plusses and minuses to everything including alternate energy applications. If you're interested in discussing such things, we talk about it, warts and all.

Alternate energy and its applications has always been a fascination of my husband, Steve, and he could talk for hours about it (and has!) Conversation with us is certainly welcome, but definitely optional.

In addition to alternate energy we're interested in home schooling, gardening, holistic health and politics, and sailing.

While staying at Jacks Lake you can have as much privacy as you'd like, including breakfast in your room. We have a beautiful location and wonderful options for you , our guests. A hot sauna is something you can do year-round. Followed by a jump in the lake or a shower.

The hot tub is seasonal (not used in the summer months) and accommodates four. Robes are provided but you may want to bring a pair of flip flops. We have an extraordinary movie collection. One roving TV/DVD player but the meeting room has a digital projector and screen for communal viewing.

Cards, various board games and art supplies are available. Each room has a strato-lounger and good reading light. A deck, volleyball/badminton court, gardens, floating dock and a canoe are available for your use. We want you to leave feeling relaxed and with your "batteries re-charged".

—Kathy Duffy