Lily's House on the 12

I'm terribly embarrased that I waited this long to write a review for such a delightful stay in September 2019. But, Lily gave me this wonderful mug which I promised myself I would not take out of its protective plastic until I wrote this review. More than 6 months later, I am keeping my promise to myself, but moreso to Lily & Steve who are just about the most kind and gracious people I have met. I was in town, alone, to attend the wedding of a colleague at a nearby winery. I'm normally a five start hotel girl, and in the general vicinity of this quaint area, I'm not sure I could even find a three star- and- even then I felt sort of hesitant. My flight was delayed and I landed in a total downpour during rushhour in Toronto. I arrived to Lily's later than expected, but no less welcome! Lily was there to give me a walk around, explain everything in the room, the house, the area. Lily is full of energy, creativity, intuition. I was exhausted and she could tell- and- in another place, like a generic hotel, I probably would have grabbed some take out and hit the shower and bed. But, I think Lily could sense my overall awkward feeling, being in town for a wedding, alone- not really wanting to go out on the town and eat alone. I am only telling you this part because it was such an act of kindness and care that you would never experience in a regular hotel, not even a 5 star. Lily offered to make me some homemade Chinese dumplings. I insisted that she shouldn't and I would be just fine and she has already done so much for me by spending time with me. But, of course she insisted several times over- and on a cool rainy night it sounded so good! I can't promise you nor should you ask Lily to make them for you but this personal touch was extraordinary and appreciated. She sat me in the art studio and brought me some tea and dumplings. Surrounded by her father's artwork, I felt like I was at the home of family, even a sister. As we discussed art, and Lily explained how her art studio worked, before I knew it, I was painting! You can see the beautiful painting she helped me create in my attached photos (She is a tough teacher, be warned!). I stayed in the center room on the riverside. I'm embarrassed to say I cannot remember which season it was (the 4 rooms represent the 4 seasons). Nevertheless, the room was spotless, deliberately very clean, and cozy (but not small). Every little touch is well thought out. The bathroom cleaner than my own and, the shower delightful with double heads. Anything you need, is right there. If had a lot of work to do on Saturday and I sat facing the river and worked on my laptop all day (maybe snuck in a nap) and I was just so happy. That day's breakfast, made by Steve and Lily was so delicious and so filling, I didn't even think about lunch and I had the wedding at 5pm anyway. Steve- how could I have written so much and neglected to mention him yet! (Sorry Steve!) Steve is down to earth, happy and friendly and just as gracious as Lily. The two of them are adorable together and during breakfast, I felt like I was with siblings. There were two other couples there and during breakfast, Lily facilitated conversation among us, and it made me feel so much better than being in a hotel eating marginal food alone. In the hour of breakfast I learned so much about the other people, the area, and what they were their to do. It was unique. The food was so good. So good. Better than a breakfast at any 5-star hotel, any day. I'm not sure what I missed here and I'm sorry I've written a novel. But, I know what's it's like when you are traveling and you don't know where to stay and there is no trusty hotel chain in the area. I like my privacy and I like the come and go anonymity that hotel stays bring. But, Lily's on the 12 is unlike the stuffy bed and breakfasts that you picture. It's modern, clean, personal yet not intrusive and private but not lonely. Let me take this moment to thank Lily and Steve for a wonderful two night stay. You two are extremely special and I have thought about my visit many times. Down to the details: Parking- simple - no problem- diagonal on a driveway, a space for each room Clean or cleaner than your own home Private, you have your own code to get in and out of the house Heavy luggage? Lily will make Steve carry it! Like to relax all day in your room without anyone bugging you? Perfect Should you plan an art lesson or class with Lily before you arrive? Definitely. I hope you enjoy your stay! I am a picky picky picky person when it comes to hotels. I took the risk of staying in a B&B and, in the end, was better for it. Thank you Lily & Steve!