Sunday, September 21, 2008

Your Food Sensibility is Magnificent -

August 16, 2008
Dear Shadi -
What a wonderful stay we had -- as you know, we didn't want to leave. Sylvie loved watching the sunset from the secret sleeping room. She loved the garden sequestered by laundry. She loved the ample breakfast. Barclay and I second her on all that. We were particularly delighted to try new breakfast combinations and flavors. And we were thrilled to find at least one new food that William would eat - lavash! Your food sensibility is so magnificent- I can't wait to go back and inspire my team the way you've inspired me.
xx Dana Cowin ... Chief Editor 'Food & Wine' magazine
Barclay Palmer
SHE'S RIGHT! Sylvie & William

Saturday, September 20, 2008

Kismet Inn's Summer 2008 Testimonials

9/18/08
Shadi, Kismet Inn is "Out of this World" - specially on the morning of Ray's birthday here at the inn. The stay has been a unique experience & we have enjoyed it immensely. Getting to know you, Shadi has been a treat and I hope we can stay in touch. Your attention to detail & commitment to the organic, locally grown food suits my sensibility. The food was something we will not forget and I am amazed at your energy & abilities as an innkeeper. Loved the stay & hope to tell others about our hapy, relaxing & amazing time with you - love your 'mindfulness' . Wonderful and unforgettable experience - special time and loved every aspect --
Love Susan Lazarus and Ray... Florida


9/7/08
Shadi - What an amazing experience that stimulated all my senses. We had such a relaxing time here, I especially enjoyed the tub, we sat around it for hours creating our own spa experience. I also slept very soundly in the most comfortable bed! I would love to extend my stay here at the Utopia Inn, but is is back home, back to reality. P.S. I loved the tea
Shadi, Thank you for being apart of this amazing experience. Your food is delicious and your home is beautiful and comfortable. I am already dreaming of coming back and enjoying some more of your food.
Shadi - there are surprises around every corner... from your fresh teas to the terrific bathrooms, delicious foods and desirable sleeping quarters. It was an absolutely intriguing experience. Thank you!
Shadi - Thank you so much this was such an unbelievably special weekend for us & you made it that much better. I couldn't have even imagined that it would be so memorable & perfect. Thanks a ton; I'll be back!
The girls - Althea, Michelle, Chantel & Lisa

9/7/08
Shadi, We had a lovely stay - your hove done a wonderful job at creating a restful, interesting and delicious place for us to enjoy. I love the surprising details, both shall remain in our memories as a friendly place.
Kathleen & David, Chicago, IL.


9/2/08
Dear Shadi & Farid, Thank you very much for your hospitality. What a way to begin our honeymoon! Your recommendation for dinner last night was right on, and your breakfast this morning was absolutely delicious. Our first stay here was short, but we will certainly be back for a more extended visit.
Thank you, Chase and Meagan


9/1/08
Dear Shadi & Fareed, The last few days staying at Kismet was very good 'Kismet" on our part. The love & attention you put into every detail of the house and the delicious food is very much appreciated. It felt like a weekend away at friends and family. Thank you for all the great conversations. We will definitely come back for more. Thank you so much for this experience.
Khyati & Ajay


9/1/08
Dear Shadi, Aileen and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay. We found your place to be warm and inviting. Your attention to detail and personal touches can be seen throughout your home and in your food. We'll definitely be back and look forward to discussing more about food and other topics.
Sincerely, Steve and Aileen


8/31/08
Dear Shadi and Farid, thank you so much for having us in your home. We didn't know what to expect but we were extremely impressed by your hospitality. You have a beautiful and unique home filled with character and warmth. We will definitely recommend to our friends and family to come stay at the Kismet Inn, it is an experience not soon forgotten. Jeff really enjoyed your tomatoes that look like potatoes or vice versa! Thank you for a wonderful weekend. Please contact us if you are ever in Chicago (or hopefully in San Francisco!) Take care of yourselves.
Sincerely Jeff and Nancy, Chicago, Il.


8/29/08
Dear Shadi - (and Farid!) I cannot easily express how happy I am with the Kismet of your Kismet! I am grateful not only for the jams, the teas, the lamb and the peace of the days with you here - I am grateful most of all for the simple pleasure of meeting you, knowing that I'll leave here with you as a friend. thank you so much for all that you give. I wish you all the best as you continue to offer a truly unique and beautiful experience, a wondeful sojourn, a home away from home.
Scott, Key west, Florida


8/25/08
Dear Shadi, This was more than a vacation. This was a true gift and learning experience. The beauty you have created in here in only a sure reflection of yourself. My experience here will stay with me for the rest of my life & I look forward to sharing what I am leaving with - warmth & compassion and knowing you could never be too generous & loving. I really loved everything about our stay from our beautiful meals, all the beautiful decor & most definitely the body exfoliation was an amazingly beautiful experience that I have never had. And the most beautiful of all is you. Thank you, thank you so much. We will see you again. Much love Susan Sgaglio.
Shadi, Thanks for a beautiful stay at your Inn. Your kindness and generosity has been an inspiration to both of us. Brian Whitely.

8/22/08
Shadi, We were thoroughly impressed with your beautiful B&B! So much thought was obviously put into the whole house. Sorry this trip was so short, but we will hopefully be returning in the future (and staying in the other rooms too)! Thanks for your hospitality and for making our stay in Bath a wonderful one....
Warmest Wishes, Michael & Tracy Stone, Gaithersburg, MD


8/19/08
Shadi, The pages are filled with endless compliments and thanks. I'm sure many f which say things more eloquently than I could..... What a memorable day in the beginning stages of my husband and my marriage. Not only have the amenities been beyond any expectations, but the company was our favorite part :). It is obvious that this isn't just a business that you have, but a gift for hospitality and a drive to make the world a better place guest by guest. Love is the only thing that really makes a difference.
May god bless you and the fruition of this place. Love, Mandy and Adrian Capote.
Thank you for doing your part of bringing the best of what the world has to offer, and making it available with such generosity at the extraordinary Kismet Inn.


8/17/08
Shadi, I have to thank Stephanie for bringing me to your beautiful, light filled inn. I felt at home immediately. The space you have created is nurturing, loving and peaceful. Yet, you manage to encourage stimulating, authentic conversation. Breakfasts were delicious, the rooms heaven on earth. I'm leaving with a deep sense of well being, and cannot wait to return with my husband, or daughter or Steph. Please let us know about the trip to Iran, you have me intrigued.
Love, Karen Segel
Dear Shadi, my innkeeper friend, what a gift you are to share with my family and friends. Imagine three times in one year! Lots of Love, Stephanie


August 17, 2008
Shadi, It seems like I have known you for so long you are - so loving, open and beautiful. It is a joy to be around you. Thank you for your hospitality - this house is such a reflection of you! Dinner was a delight - Breakfast a joy - I love, love, love the carrot jam and will try to reproduce it at home. I look forward to a relaxing return visit.
Love - Merrill Johnston

Dear Shadi,
We totally enjoyed our stay with you & thank you for your hospitality & the sharing of your home and history, all best wishes for a happy life!
Fondly, Rita Mervin & Morris


August 16, 2008
Dear Shadi -
What a wonderful stay we had -- as you know, we didn't want to leave. Sylvie loved watching the sunset from the secret sleeping room. She loved the garden sequestered by laundry. She loved the ample breakfast. Barclay and I second her on all that. We were particularly delighted to try new breakfast combinations and flavors. And we were thrilled to find at least one new food that William would eat - lavash! Your food sensibility is so magnificent- I can't wait to go back and inspire my team the way you've inspired me.
xx Dana Cowin,
Barclay Palmer
SHE'S RIGHT! Sylvie & William


15 August 2008
Shadi, It was a great place to meet you. Our stay in your house was wonderful. Thanks for your hospitality and for a great breakfast! We hope we can return as your guests. Best wishes for your future.
Muchas gracious por todo, Let us know if you ever come back to Spain, you'll have a place. Montse & Jordi


12 August 2008,
Staying here has been amazing! we are so glad that we got to spend part of our honeymoon here. The food was so delicious, the room so comfy (we are in love w/the shower!), the massage was just what I (Chantelle) needed. We hope we get to return (maybe for our 1 year anniversary) and thank you so much for being so great and generous! We will treasure our time here @ Kismet always, Sam & Chantelle


August 10, 2008
We cannot wait to come back! One of the most luxurious weekends ever! Thank you so much for everything - the (amazing) food, massages, steam (I've never felt so clean!), and your generous hospitality. Thank you again.
See you again soon, Katie & Nathan xoxo P.S. when we come back can we have some cooking lessons? :) please.


Dear Shadi, we know when we spoke with you on the phone that our stay here would be special and it has been. We loved the room and all your adventure with this house. We especially enjoyed your cooking and the dinner you made for us. Never have we had lamb as succulent or rice so crunchy and delicious! Thank you for all of the lovely pastries and tea. We are spoiled forever. This was a wonderful place to stay. Thank you for making us feel so welcome! We wish we couuld come back again soon at other seasons and wish California weren't quite so far away! It was a pleasure to stay here.
Our best wishes, Patty & James.


10 August 2008, Shadi - Thank you for a wonderful stay. Breakfast was delicious & the room spectacular! We'll be back!
Aron & Alex, Brooklyn


August 6, 2008,
Oh, Shadi! what a fun time we have had here at the Kismet ... and with you! How special you have made this trip with all your personal touches everywhere. Your breakfasts were wonderful (my favorite was the homemade yogurt with the flakes & fruit, & the toast with raspberry jam!). The exfoliation was fabulous... and you have been such a great sport with all of Sean's teasing! Ha, Ha! We will be back .. and we will send as many people as we can this way to stay at your special inn. We miss your hugs... and smiles! Love, Tessa & Sean Stockman, Rochester Hills, MI
Hi SHADI! I can't tell you how much we've enjoyed our time here with you! The Kismet is BEAUTIFUL!!! We love it, AND we love you. Thank you for such a wonderful time. I know that this place is going to do awesome. We are definitely coming back. Shadi you are a special person, and will always be in our hearts! Thank you, again.


August 2008
Dear Shadi, Thank you so much for wonderful two days and nights at Kismet Inn. I would have to come back during autumn or winter time - I picture myself sitting in front of the fire place or wrapped in a blanket on the porch in the afternoon sun, reading a book from your library or looking through one of your many wonderful recipe and cook books, in anticipation of a delicious, sumptuous evening meal. Both Axel and I enjoyed very much what you prepared for us last night and had a wonderful time. We also loved the soaking tub - such a rare pleasure in an inn. Thank you again for your warm hospitality and for making us feel like welcome guests to your home!
Patricia & Axel

8/4/08
Shadi - Thank you for simply everything! This was a delightful respite in all aspects. We are hoping to come back again. Don and Melanie .... Yes! Thank you so much, Donald Berkemeyer.


Dear Shadi,
Suzie and I are so glad to have found your wonderful Inn. Your hospitality and warmth have guaranteed our return. (For more than one night). Thank you, Jason Gordon & Suzie Bertisch

August 3, 2008
Dear Shadi, What a wonderful crucible you have created. We drove in tired and frizzled last night; this morning we are leaving - not full of our experience at your beautifully crafted inn - but replete, I would say that in your hands hospitality is an art. In that same, you are a sensitive, engaging artist - my husband and I are leaving you today full of peace and beauty. I hope the experience of keeping this beautiful inn nourishes you as staying here nourishes your guests. We are so fortunate to have stayed our night with you. Thank you, Lili & Miles.
P.S. I could stay here by this winter next to the yellow lamp & write for hours.


8.3.08
Shadi - Your peaceful spirit, your delicious food - the lamb, wild mushrooms, organic eggs, blueberries, goats milk - and wonderful cooking, the flowering teas, amazing bath and exfoliation, deep nights' sleep..... shadi, thank you for helping to make our special weekend ever more special and memorable. We will have to return on a special future anniversary. You have become and always will be part of our lives.
Thank you so much for such a wonderful experience on the weekend of our engagement. James & Jennifer.


August 2nd 2008.
A bouquet for you Shadi with much gratitudes for my delightful stay @ Kismet. You inspired me to want to slow down, relax & start cooking again.
In friendship - Jenna Field, Warwick, NY.


8/2/08
It was a pleasure to get to know you and your beautiful inn. You have done a wonderful job creating an oasis for a weary travelers. The food was delicious too! We wish you much happiness and success...
Glenn & Krisit Long, Easley, S.C.


7/27/08
We so enjoyed our stay in your exquisite inn - so elegant, peaceful, gorgeous and delicious. We appreciate your saving us from the cats and dogs in Harpswell!
Best Wishes, Megan & Andy


7/27/08
Dear Shadi, Our sincerest thanks for the gracious and kind hospitality you've shown us over this past weekend. Your commitment to health and wellness is reflected in every part of what you do here at Kismet. a warm peace radiates throughout this Inn and we are so fortunate to have shared in it. Until next time!
With much love & peace, Chris & Aidee, Boston, MA


July 26, 2008
We'll never forget your warm hospitality and amazing dinner. You're a lovely person. Bob & Becky Morgan.
Fabulous, Unique, Intimate, Personal, Chocolate, Splendid.


7/25/08
Dear Shadi, the setting and location are beautiful and convenient. You have created a cultural blend, a world wide mixture of gentle quality. Thank you for inviting us to take off our shoes, it allows a quiet awareness of self and surroundings. Thank yo for sharing your organic being.
Michael and Peggy....... Florida


7-23-08
Dear Shadi: We cannot find words to describe how much we enjoyed our stay here. We were deeply touched by your sense of sincere hospitality, generosity, great sense of humor & especially your wonderful and healthy breakfasts. We hope to see you again. We would love to receive you at home in Vermot. Roya, shawdon, Kisan and I will always remember our wonderful visit at your elegant and warm Inn!
With warmest regards, Mahmoud, Roya, Shawdon & Kian.

July 23, 2008
Dear Shadi, Thank you so much for being your guests. We spent an unforgettable time in an incredible atmosphere. You've created a very special and comfortable place, where your love to special details is remarkable. We enjoyed your hospitality and your way of doing things with love and respect. We are grateful for coming to know you! Thank you for new inspirations and experience of name, Iran and humans. H.Hesse Walter from Germany....
maybe, in every new beginning there is a magic, which protects us and which helps us living... Eurika... Germany.


July 22, 08
Dearest Shadi - jan - your spirit of generosity & life is present throughout Kismet! How fortunate for us to have BEEN gudied here. We will forever be grateful.
A 1000 fimes over, Carole & Katherine


July 20, 2008
Dear Shadi, What a jewel to have found Kismet Inn on our visit to my sister's family. We hope to come back again and again, as holidays and long weekends draw us to Yarmouth. It is so unusual to find a home created with such warmth and honesty - let alone an inn! You've left me with many inspirations for how I'd like to live in our home. Kismet Inn is a treasure! Many, many thanks..........Clelia Peters & Blake Suttle, Brooklyn, NY


July 19, 2008
Dear Shadi, Arriving on a rainy evening, finding ourselves in the serenity and beauty of an old magnificent house radiating of New England & oriental embroidery and feel. Thank you so much for a pleasurable stay. M & C ... Denmark

July 18, 2008
Dear Shadi, We love staying in a living museum of art, calm and great food. A truly unique experience. Thank you for taking great care of us. Next time I will bring my indoor shoes. (Ha ha)
Jeff and Shelley, Port Washington, N.Y.


July 13, 2008
Dear Shadi, From the moment we arrived, and removed our shoes we felt at home. You have created a rare oasis of peace and kindness in a confused and tangled world. Thank you for your hospitality, your food for the soul, and your kindness. Peace. Johan B & Jane Y. Cambridge, MA


July 7, 2008
Dear Shadi, You have created an oasis of tranquility in midcoast Maine. Your warm and gracious hospitality has made this a memorable visit to midcoast Maine and a perfect setting to celebrate our 25th anniversary. Thank you...... we look forward to future visits. Deborah & John, Durham, N.H.


July 5, 2008
Dear Shadi, Thanks for a wonderful stay in your beautiful home. It was a perfect way to end our visit to Maine. Next time we must do dinner!
Julie & Pete Nixon


July 5, 2008,
Dear Shadi, Thank you for opening your wonderful home to us - and enveloping us in your magical cultures. The quietness and warmth and calmness of your nature are so soothing and added to the experience.
Warm regards, N.B.


July 3, 2008
Dear Shadi, Kurt and could not have chosen a more perfect place to stay for our honeymoon. We find your business very inspiring. Your home is tranquil, beautiful, and "homey." Thank you for everything and we wish you all the best. This week will forever hold a special place in our memories.
Best, Kurt Holmes & Emma Abby, Natick, MA.


June 29, 2008
Dear Shadi, A most wonderful, relaxing, peaceful, and delicious experience. You are most natural for the tremendous job of being a Innkeeper and hostess. Loved the yoga experience and the organic environment! (The sheets and towels especially!) There is peace here, and you have achieved it! I hope we (my daughter Lindy and I), will be able to see you again and we hope to experience the "exfoliation" massage again. We are going away rested .
Best to you and be blessed with your plans! Gene Calvert Kellogg, Needham, MA. Lindy McDonough, Brooklyn, NY.


03 June 2008
Dear Shadi, Thank you for providing such an unique experience and making my 30th birthday unforgettable. I fell restored and rested and ready for the year ahead. Thank you, Jovanna Bapitsta


June 6, 2008
Dear Shadi, I leave Bath feeling restored, enriched, and relaxed. Thank you for your warm hospitality, loving care, and most excellent company. I truly enjoyed spending time with you and in your beautiful inn. I am really amazed at how how relaxed I feel! Your meals were delicious, your decorating is exquisite, and the ambiance you've created is very peaceful. Namaste,
Patrick Bartmess... you're a very special person & this house is very beautiful.

June 1, 2008
Dear Shadi, The Kismet Inn - your dream come true - is truly an incredible place because you make it so. The food was outstanding, the ambience so powerful. The "spa" - the yoga and the treatments were indescribable - everyone should have an exfoliation - healthy & psychologically & spiritually - to shed one's skin and face the world all buff & new - one experience I will never forget. But it could have only been this way due to the loving & warmth the innkeeper, you, Shadi, have brought to this beautiful place. May you have only happiness and peace - To a truly same women -
Warmly - Linda & Saul Greenfield