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January 25th, 2012

Seaquels, Furniture Consignments, Home Accessories, Ocean View, Delaware, Resale, Replace, Renew, New Location

 

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“Once loved treasures can be true joy to someone else.”  Consignment shops sell second-hand items.  Sometimes the profit is split 50/50 between the owner and the person that brought the merchandise in; others might have a different arrangement.  One thing for sure is that consignment shops will only accept items that look like new.

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There are many reasons to go to a consignment shop.  If you are taking your own merchandise in, then you might be turning a cluttered house into cash.  These shops are a business, not thrift shops; they do want to make a profit.  The idea is to sell at the highest possible price with the customer still getting a good deal.

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These shops are popular.  Everyone wins and everybody likes a bargain.

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Seaquels is a furniture consignment shop located at 4 Town Rd. (between the 2 World Gym buildings) in the town of Ocean View, Delaware.  Ocean View is west of Bethany Beach, about 2 miles.  This is their new address.  They just moved last week.  If you have visited the shop before, go in that same entrance but go towards the back of the buildings.  There is plenty of parking.

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Seaquels is owned by Cindy and Kathy.  Tel. 302-829-8636.  E-mail is seaquels@gmail.com.  You can find Seaquels on Facebook like everyone else.

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The first thing you will see is that Cindy and Kathy are so friendly.  I feel like I have known them forever.  Very easy to talk to and just as helpful.

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Seaquels has great merchandise and it turns over quickly.  The pictures of the merchandise you will see on this blog, might not be there next week.  You can also ask Cindy and Kathy to be on the look-out for a specific piece.  One thing for sure is that they do have very affordable prices.

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This new building has great lighting and they can spread out.  They just moved here so they are still placing furniture, art, plants, wall decor and basically, getting used to this much space.

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So check out the store!!  Seaquels opens, at this time of the year,  from 10 to 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Monday.  On Sundays it opens from 11 to 2 p.m.

Beautiful day in the Delmarva Peninsula!! Enjoy and talk to you later…

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January 23rd, 2012

Indian River Inlet Bridge, South Bound Lane Opens, Looks Great at the Delaware Beaches!!

 

For years it has been “pedal to the metal” as you crossed over the Indian River Inlet Bridge.  It was looking old and a bit decrepit. 

It took long enough but after a few years of building, it finally has opened. 

If you are traveling right by the coast, south or north bound on Coastal Highway (Rt. 1) you will find this route to be so scenic and gorgeous; the Bay on one side, the Atlantic Ocean on the other.  The locals that drive this route back and forth to the different towns for work every day are truly lucky.

The South Bound lane is the one that just opened and so I took a drive on a rainy, foggy and warm winter day.  Can’t complaint because it has not been bad at all.  Here are the pictures.

South Bound (New Bridge)

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North Bound (Old Bridge and Pedal to the Metal)

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My trip was not only to cross over the new bridge but to also visit Seaquels, the consignment shop near Bethany Beach.  Just moved to a new building….post in the making, stay tuned….

Have a good one!!

January 22nd, 2012

Delray Beach, Restaurants, Favorites, Tried & True and Always on Their Menu, Delray Beach, Favorite Eateries, South Florida, Palm Beach County

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In Delray Beach, Florida some restaurants come and go, just like anywhere else.  But then, there are those who are now part of the established eateries that make this Village by the Sea such a South Florida destination.  They are serving tried and true dishes; some are a house specialty and some are a customer’s favorite.

So, if you find yourselves in this Village by The Sea, enjoy the town, the beach, the shops and all the restaurants; some are more casual than others, but almost all of them offer al fresco dining.

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I visit Delray often and the following restaurants are favorites in Delray.  They all offer so much on their menu.  But, there are some dishes that I am totally hooked on.  Check my list.

Ziree Thai and Sushi is located at 401 West Atlantic Ave. (a few blocks west of the Delray Beach Tennis Center).  Tel. 561-276-6549.  Website? http://www.zireethai.com.

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Sushi, sashimi, other Asian delights are among the many dishes.  I have been visiting Ziree since they opened and have seen it grow and be such a part of the local community.

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I love a dish called the Atlantic Ocean.  It is a combination of salmon, shrimp, scallops, squid and mussels, steamed in thick curry sauce and basil leaves.  It is a delicious dish and can you believe that it is only $19.95.  It is served with your choice of white or brown rice.

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Jimmy’s Bistro has been in Delray for a few years, at 9 S. Swinton.  Tel. 561-865-5774.  You can find Jimmy’s Bistro on Facebook. I was there when Jimmy first opened the bistro.  I knew success was around the corner.  It was a matter of time; a few passed the word around and Jimmy has become very much loved in the community.  It is small, quaint and has great background music.

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One of my true favorites and I imagine, a signature dish along with his Po’ Boy is Jimmy’s Tomato Soup with Parmesan Crust.  It is served steaming hot; love poking through the crust to find a comforting soup.  It is filling so get a lighter entree. Or, have a salad with it.

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Cabana El Rey – It is referred to as Cabana, located at 105 East Atlantic Ave.  Tel. 561-274-9090.  Website?  www.cabanarestaurant.com.  This restaurant serves a variety of Latin dishes; tostones, mariquitas, coconut rice, morcillas, paella, rice in squid ink, but a favorite of mine and one that you will always find on its menu, is the Pollo Asado which is a half roasted chicken rubbed with adobo (garlic, oregano, lime and extra virgin olive oil).  It is served with a choice of yellow or white rice and beans, of course.  It is $17.95 and is the best; kid you not.

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Tramonti is located at 119 E. Atlantic Avenue. Tel. 561-272-1944.  Website? www.tramontidelray.com.  This restaurant is one of those that is crowded all the time.  Do anything you can to get ahead of the line; speak Italian? That’s even better.  They serve a very good lunch too if dinner is not your thing or reservations are hard to get.

A signature dish of Tramonti is called Spaghetti in Cartoccio Areo.  It is a baked spaghetti with shrimp, parma prosciutto in a cognac cream sauce.  The baking is done in foil.  Well seasoned, thick sauce, just enough cognac.

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Another favorite? Carpaccio Di Manzo is a beef carpaccio on a bed of arugola, capers, balsamic vinegar and shaves of parmigiano cheese.  It is more of an appetizer.

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Brule Bistro is in what is known as Pineapple Grove.  This Art District of Delray is becoming a second Atlantic Avenue.  Brule is located at 200 NE 2nd Ave., Tel. 561-274-2046.  Website? www.brulebistro.com.  I have yet to make it for dinner; that will be soon, though.  The restaurant has a good menu and an extensive wine list.

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The chilled gazpacho with yogurt creme is excellent on a hot South Florida day.  Homemade; not canned.

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The Market Salad is a favorite and it has assorted veggies and white balsamic vinaigrette dressing.  Topped with grilled chicken, it is certainly a beautiful meal.

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City Oyster was one of the first restaurants I went to when I first came to Delray Beach about 9 years ago.  It is located at 213 East Atlantic Avenue.  Tel. 561-272-0220.  Website? www.cityoysterdelray.com.  Definitely it is defined as American Cuisine.  It has a great bar and very impressive inside.  I usually just sit outside having what I love there best; raw oysters.  They are from different parts of the country.  Served on ice, plump and salty.  That’s all I need to say.

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Vic & Angelo’s is located at 290 East Atlantic Ave.  Tel. 561-278-9570.  Website? www.vicandangelos.com.  Great atmosphere, good bread, fine wings, and delicious pastas, but one dish that I order every single time is the V & A Caesar Salad.  Romaine Hearts, hand shaved Reggiano, white anchovies with the homemade Caesar dressing makes this one of my favorite salads.  It is large enough to share; I never do and I never offer either.

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After that salad a veal picatta with artichokes, capers and lemon jus…is a favorite, as well.

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Bru’s Room is a Sport’s Bar right in the heart of Delray.  Along with many types of beers, and plenty of televisions for all the sport aficionados, they serve the best, bar none, Wings.  I usually order the Triple Threat. It is a combination of all their wings; BBQ, Sweet ‘N’ Tangy and hot, grilled and topped with minced garlic.  You can leave the garlic out or just get like I sometimes do, the Sweet ‘N’ Tangy, but the magic word is Grilled.  You can order them for take-out, as well. Call 561-276-3663.  Bru’s Room is located at 35 NE 2nd Ave.  Website? www.brusroom.com.  The wings are gluten free and it is one of the few restaurants that I have encountered in South Florida offering a gluten free menu.

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The Office is located at 201 East Atlantic Avenue.  Tel. 561-276-3600.  Website?  www.theofficedelray.com.  No ordinary office this is.  They serve outdoors, at the bar or indoors.  I have had different salads at the office; some are specials but one that is always on their menu and a favorite is the Vinegar Maker’s Salad.  Romaine, tomato, avocado, cucumber, carrot, onion, olives, chick peas, and roasted cauliflower.  It is even better topped with a fish, beef or chicken.  My choice is usually beef.

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A resurgence of deviled eggs I have found to be in a lot of restaurants.  Their Truffled Deviled Eggs with paprika and chives are so good.

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The Dark english Ale Battered Fish with salt and vinegar “chips”, pan fried onion dip, and cole slaw does not have any rivals.

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Lemongrass is located at 420 E. Atlantic Avenue.  Tel. 561-278-0222.  It is a happening spot with plenty of customers enjoying unique fare.  I have had, just like in the above mentioned restaurants, plenty of what they have to offer, but, one dish that is outstanding, besides being a conversation piece is their Holly Snapper.  Boneless and fried snapper, topped with a garlic sweet chili sauce.  I take my time in eating it and savour every last bite.  Love it!!

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Another favorite and signature dish is the Lobster Monster Roll…crispy lobster, cucumber, scallions, asparagus, masago, I/O with sesame seeds.  This is all you need to order.

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Delray Beach, let me tell you that you have come a long way….good for you…talk to you later.

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January 20th, 2012

What’s Going On?, Activities, Events, Entertainment, Delaware Beaches

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Not so quick to think we are hibernating at the Delaware Beaches.  Usually the week following a holiday week-end is quiet at the Delaware Beaches; more so this time of the year.  If you are visiting Lewes, Rehoboth, Milton, Clarksville (west of Bethany Beach), then check what’s going on…

Friday, 1/20 – Lewes -  Star Gazing Starry Night at the Cape Henlopen State Park.  Learn how to find the familiar star patterns known as constellations and learn the stories they tell as we go outside and explore the night skies.  Ages 10 and older with an adult.  $2/person.  At 6:30 p.m.  This program is led by a naturalist and will meet at the Seaside Nature Center inside the Cape Henlopen State Park in Lewes.  Follow the signs.  Call to pre-register 302-645-6852 and remember to dress for the weather.

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Friday, 1/20 – Milton, DE – Documentary – An Evolving Legacy:  Delaware’s Coastal Act.  Doors open at 6:30 p.m.  Venue?  The Milton Fire Hall located at 116 Front St., Milton, Delaware.  Admission $5 for adults and $3 for children ages 11 and under.  You can purchase tickets online, today, until Noon, by visiting http://www.rehobothfilm.com/film_events_delmarva_roots.html.  Or, you can just purchase them at the door.

Delmarva Roots is a series of films about the rich history of the Delmarva region.  If you missed it at the Film Festival then here is another chance.

Forty years ago, Governor Russell W. Peterson championed Delaware’s landmark Coastal Zone Act to preserve the Delaware shoreline.  Before Peterson’s death last February at the age of 94, he was interviewed.  He recounted the dramatic struggle to craft and pass this visionary legislation.  In addition to reporting his story, the film explores the 40 year history of the Coastal Zone Act, and presents the ongoing challenges all Delawareans face in the struggle to balance the desire for industrial development with a love for unspoiled natural habitats.  After the screening, Director Michael Oates will lead a question and answer session about the production of the film.

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Friday, 1/20 – Lewes – The Lewes Historical Society Presents Jim Horn “Remembering Rehoboth Beach’s Glory Days” – at the Lewes Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, Kings Highway in Lewes.  7:30 – 9:00 p.m.

Rehoboth native, Jim Horn, will be the featured speaker on the history of Rehoboth Beach.  He will share his family’s collection of photos taken over time, recording much of the history of Rehoboth’s development and growth.  His family’s enterprises in the early 1900’s included the Rehoboth dance pavilion, roller rink, stores, the Auditorium Theater in Lewes, the Del-Reho Casino and the Blue Hen Theater.  His last presentation was over 8 years ago.  He is currently a Delaware Magistrate and serves as a judge in the state’s judicial system.  For more info., please call Michael DiPaolo at 302-645-7670.

Friday, 1/20 – Rehoboth – Jakes Seafood has Danny Shivers, Vocalist/Electrical and Acoustic Guitarist entertaining diners on Friday evening.  On Saturday, 1/22 – Decades Dance Party starting at 9 p.m.  Dance the night away to the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s.  No cover.  More info? Just call them up at 302-644-7711 or visit their website, www.jakesseafoodhouse.com.

Friday, 1/20 – Lewes – Music & Entertainment at Bethany Blues, Lewes – Big Hat, No Cattle; a little rock, a little “Billy”.  Always great entertainment as Sydney’s Music Revival at Bethany Blu7es continues every Friday.  Big Hat provides foot stomping joyful country gospel and soulful music.  Bethany Blues is located right on Rt. 1 at 18385 Coastal Highway.  Tel. 302-644-2500.  www.bethanyblues.com.  Entertainment begins at 8 p.m.

Friday, 1/20 – Rehoboth Beach -  Nage Bistro in Rehoboth Beach – Live Entertainment starting at 7 p.m. at the Wine Bar.  Local musicians. Nage is located at 19730 Coastal Highway.

If you love to cook and want to learn more please visit www.nagerestaurant.com and click on their Healthy and Flavorful Cooking Class which will be Saturday, 1/21.  The chefs at Nage are going to give your diet a post-holiday tune up.  The class will be immediately followed by a special lunch with the instructor.  The lunch is included in the price of the class.  It will start at 10 a.m. until Noon.  For more info., please call 302-226-2037.

Another interesting event offered by Nage Bistro is their Meatless Mondays at Nage, serving extraordinary vegetarian dishes in order to promote good health and also help the environment.  Meatless Mondays is a national campaign to promote healthier eating and a healthier planet.  The menus will be featuring meat free cuisine designed to prove that vegetarian cuisine does not have to be boring.  Call for reservations at 302-226-2037.

Saturday, 1/21 – Clarksville,  4 miles west of Bethany Beach – Good Earth Market & Organic Farm is located on Rt. 26 at 31806 Good Earth Lane, Clarksville, DE.  Tel. 302-537-7100.  Website? http://www.goodearthmarket.com.  At Noon.  Get Ready for Your Super Bowl Feast!!  Join Cape Seasonings from Lewes, Delaware as they show you how to prepare 5 Simple Super Bowl Party Snacks.  Try their Soul Blend Seasons, Gourmet Pretzels & Chips and Kaldi Organic EVOO.

Good Earth Market makes sandwiches and salads to order daily from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.  Just give them a call with your order and they will have it ready for pick up.  302-537-7100.

Saturday, 1/21 – Lewes – Battery 519 Museum Tour at 2 p.m. at Fort Miles inside the Cape Henlopen State Park.  Join a historical interpreter for a guided tour of a WWII coastal defense gun battery.  See the updates and renovations.  Ft. Miles was a key part of the nation’s coastal defense during and after WWII.  In April of 2005 it was added to the National Register of  Historic Places.  Meet at the Orientation Building in the Fort Miles Historic area.  Follow “Fort Miles” signs to the parking lot.  Walk the paved road through the Cantonment area to the orientation building; it will be the largest one on your right.  Please call 302-645-6852 to pre-register.  $5/person.  This program is for ages 7 and older with an adult.

Sunday, 1/22 – Rehoboth Beach – 9th Annual Championship Sunday at 2 p.m.  Venue?  Rehoboth Beach Convention Center right on Rehoboth Avenue.  Bring family and friends and watch and cheer the NFC and AFC Championship Games.  Silent auction, kids room and more.  $20/adult and $5 for children under 12.  For tickets call 302-226-8750, 302-645-9344 or 302-226-2230.  You can purchase tickets in advance at MX Physical Therapy at Safeway Plaza, Trader’s Jewelry & Gifts at 116 Second St., Lewes, or at the door.  Non-perishable food items will be accepted in support of Casa San Francisco’s Food Pantry.

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I guess….not so quiet, afterall….Have a good week-end.  Chilly but it does feel soooo nice.

January 18th, 2012

Tidewater Realty, Coastal Chem-Dry, Doggies at the Beach, VacationRentals.com, Miken Builders, Better Living Delmarva, Realtors, Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, Rentals in Rehoboth Beach, Grooming, Day & Overnight Care for Dogs, Builder, Sunrooms & Awnings, Doing Business at the Delaware Beaches and Advertising at AboutMyBeaches

 

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New Year & New Expectations; that’s what this post should be called.  The Delaware Beaches are becoming more popular every year.  The attraction of low property taxes, along with the amenities make the beaches a year-round playground.  Tax free shopping, mild winters, beautiful scenery…the towns have been crowded during the week-ends. This is our Second Season and a few quieter months is the perfect time, for us that live here year-round, to truly embrace the beaches.

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With that in mind, I want to mention some of my Delaware advertisers, who have been in the area for so many years.  I can recommend them all fully because I use them.

 

Tidewater Realty is located at 32892 Coastal Highway (Rt. 1) at the Starboard Center in Bethany Beach.  Tel. 302-539-7500 or toll free 800-888-7501.  This is a boutique size real estate company catering to North Bethany and Bethany Beach customers.  Website?  http://www.tidewaterrealty.com. Tidewater has been a sales leader in the community for 30 years.  Personal attention, a friendly staff, rentals and sales.  A tip for you is to visit the website and wether your interest is sales or rentals, the website will give you an idea of who they are and what is available.  Make your summer rentals choices early; you know how it is….if we have a forecast for a hot summer the prime weeks will go quickly. 

 

Coastal Chem-Dry, is at the forefront of the carpet and upholstery cleaning industry.  A green certified company using innovative equipment and powerful cleaning solutions.  You can call for a free estimate at 302-645-2800 in Sussex County or 302-234-0200 in New Castle County. Website?  www.chem-dry.net/coastal.de.   Take advantage of the specials that are now on-going.  Visit their website www.chem-dry.net/coastal.de/specials to find out what they are offering.

Please note that once your carpet or upholstery is cleaned by Coastal Chem-Dry, it only takes a couple of hours to dry; not days.  And, if you have pets, this is the company to use.

 

VacationRentals.com is a national rental company.  Part of the family of Home Away.  I was surprised when last year they contacted me.  The properties that are being advertised on my website are in Rehoboth Beach.  Check http://www.vacationrentals.com/vacation-rentals/rehoboth-beach-delaware.html.  You can also click directly on their website, on the link available on the bottom left hand side of this blog.  Events and activities are always happening in Rehoboth.  The company has townhouses, single family, and condos all great for taking time off at the beach with a group of friends.

 

Miken Builders is located at 32782 Cedar Drive, Millville, DE 19967.  Tels. Office 302-537-4444, cell 302-381-0773.  Website?  www.mikenbuilders.com.  Mike Cummings is the company’s Founder and CEO.  This is a commercial and residential construction company well respected in the community.  I have known Mike for many years and no job is too small or too big for him.  Find out for yourself and give his company a call.  His staff is amazing.

BetterLiving Patio & Sunrooms of Delmarva is under the umbrella of Miken Builders, but a complete different company even though they share the same address.  Tel. 302-251-0000.  Website?  www.betterlivingdelmarva.com.  The company is the exclusive provider of BetterLiving 3-season year-round sunrooms and awnings.

 

Doggies at the Beach – I have said it so many times and here it goes again.  You can leave your dog at this cage free, temperature controlled facility, 24 hour supervision with total confidence.  Jim and his staff are wonderful and animal lovers.  Doggies at the Beach is located on Rt. 24 at 18806 John J. Williams Highway.   Tel. 302-644-8200. Website? www.doggiesatthebeach.com.   They offer grooming for dogs and cats, training for different levels of your dog’s life, web cams so that you can check you pooch while away and in case you would like a drawing of your pet; DJ who is in charge of the pooches at night can draw your pet.  For more info. call the office and talk to Jim.  Here are a few of his drawings.

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Note:  The above mentioned companies can be accessed directly from my website.  Just click on their site and you will be directed immediately to all the information they have available.

 And…..if you decided you would like to advertise on AboutMyBeaches, then $500/year will get you a banner on my website with personal attention, of course.

Have a good one!!

January 17th, 2012

Rehoboth Dairy, Rustic Acres Farm, Century Farm, Grass Fed Cows, No Artificial Hormones, No Antibiotics, The Way Milk Should Taste, Amish Eggs, Butter, Breads, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware Beaches

 

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Back in 2009 when I started this blog, the concept was “word of mouth”.  Finding those unique places that make our beaches such a wonderful place to live. I wanted to pass the word around.   Believe me, I know I am lucky to live in the coastal area of the Delaware Beaches, and I do not take it for granted.

The other day my husband mentioned that he had read about a dairy farm in Rehoboth.  They also had produce and on and on he went.  It was on the way to the Glades, he said.  Okay, I had not been on that road for years.  It is the type of road that is mostly traveled by the people that live in that vicinity.

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I found the farm, and the storefront.  It look like someone was there.  Then, I met Nelson.  I introduced myself; the store was opening at 11 a.m.  In our brief conversation he said that these are hard times for dairy farmers.  That the Euro having problems have made companies in Europe trying to market powder milk to be reconsituted, here in the U.S.  What?  That’s crazy, I thought.  His mother would be there at 11 a.m., Nelson said.  He, on the other hand, would probably be out back playing with the cows.  Could not wait to get back at 11 a.m.

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Rehoboth Dairy, LLC is located at Rustic Acres Farm, at 37217 Rustic Acres Ln. in Rehoboth Beach.  Tel. 302-226-2571.  Earl’s 302-245-8308 and Nelson’s 302-245-8310.  If you are going north after just leaving Rehoboth Beach, on Rt. 1 (Coastal Highway), turn right on Hollands Glade Rd., right after Tomato Sunshine.  If you are coming south on Coastal Highway (Rt. 1) then, make a U turn at the intersection of Shuttle Rd. and Rt. 1 in order to get to Hollands Glade Rd.  On Hollands Glade Rd., continue driving inland and you will see the farm on the left and the store just by the road.

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There were people already there when I arrived.  Immediately, I met Earl and Mary Ann, who along with their sons work the farm. 

A few customers were checking out already with a box full of lettuce, eggs, milk, and butter.  Cash and check are accepted.  No credit cards.

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Earl and I started talking; I think he could outtalk me by a lot, if there is such a thing.  His good friends were Amish from Dover, Delaware.  They built the store.  Comfortable in its simplicity.  During the summer months you are going to find all kinds of local produce.

This is a dairy farm.  The milk?  Well, it is as fresh as you are ever going to get any milk.  The cows are in the back.  They get milked in the updated building that dates prior to the Civil War.  The milk is brought to the back of the shop where it is pasteurized.  Rehoboth Dairy follows all State regulations.  It takes them 8 hours to produce 100 gallons of milk. 

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They have available, whole milk, 2%, 1 1/2 %, and cream.  The milk is in glass bottles; 1/2 gallons and quarts. A deposit is required for the glass bottles.  Bring the bottles back for your deposit to be refunded.  You’ll be back for sure. 

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The cream goes to the top and just like in the old days, it separates.  Shake it a bit and you will get one delicious tasting glass of milk.  Milk in its purest form is as near to being a perfect food as one can find.  It is a complex and complete supply of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antibodies, essential fatty acids and carbs.

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Only a handful of dairy farms remain in the State of Delaware.  The cost of carrying these farms is incredible.  Earl had to sell everything some years ago when it got to be too much with 200 cows.  He has now about 70 and is trying to keep it going.  He is a farmer at heart and speaks of work with passion and delight.  He also said that farmers buy retail and sale wholesale.

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Pasteurization of raw milk is required by law.  This process began as a result of bacteria that could contaminate the milk after the milk left the cow.  The milk from Rehoboth Dairy is pasteurized with milk from their cows, in the family century farm.  These cows are grass fed with no artificial hormones or antibiotics.

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No homogenization here.  Homogenization forces the milk, by extreme pressure, through tiny holes which break up the normally large fat molecules into tiny ones.  This unnatural fat is easily absorbed into the blood stream.  In milk that has not been homogenized, the large fat molecules, are normally passed through the digestive track, unabsorbed.  A lot of health problems are attributed to homogenization.

Through small cooperatives, Earl and Mary Ann buy other staples for their store.  Butter, is made by the Amish.  Of course, I had to get it.  It is so good.  The eggs are free range and a variety of sizes, as well.

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Honey from Lanes Pure Honey from Dover, Delaware.  Comb and all.

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A freezer was in the middle of the store filled with lima beans and meats and pork products.  Filet, roasts, sausage, hamburger patties, scrapple, pork chops.  Earl and Mary Ann can tell you the content of everything they sell.  I told Earl he would get a scrapple review for sure. 

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The pork comes from pigs raised on another farm, but owned by Earl.  And the beef is from their steers which are raised on their farm, again, grass fed beef with no antibiotics and no hormones.  Haas Family Butcher Shop in Dover takes care of the preparation of their meat and pork products.

Besides milk, butter, eggs, and honey, I bought a pork loin roast, filet and scrapple.

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You can find in the store Amish baked goods, as well.

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I took off with Earl on his truck to check the cows out back.  They were all eating; I think that’s what cows do all the time, anyway.  The cows you will find at Rustic Acres Farm are Holsteins and Jerseys.

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Holstein is the world’s highest production dairy animal, with distinctive markings.  Some are mostly black to mostly white, half and half, or red and white.

Trivia:  Pauline Wayne was a famous Holstein that was the Presidential Pet of the 27th President of the U.S., William Howard Taft.  It lived and grazed on the White House and provided for their milk.  It was the last Presidential Pet Cow.

Jerseys are a small breed of dairy cattle, originally bred in the Channel Island of Jersey.  It has high butterfat content in its milk and a “genial” disposition; curious and gentle. 

Trivia: Elsie the Cow was the famous mascot of Borden, Inc. in the U.S.

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I asked Earl if they were dumb.  He said that a cow remembers everything that has been done to it.  As we walked he touched them here or there, behind their ears.  It was like they recognized him.  One just got close to me and tried to grab my pocket.  I had a treat from my dog, Addy, there.  Slobbered all over the bottom of my coat.

Earl said that cows are creatures of habit and they follow a strong pecking order.  It is a whole process to get them used to one another.

The calfs had to be weaned.  They were so cute, coming out of their huts, thinking you had a bottle for them.

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From there they go with just one other cow to a different pen.  Then to a bigger space with a few more and on and on it goes until they are ready to be all together.

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They all have shelter in the winter; a roof over their heads. 

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As I was walking with Earl I asked him if he gave tours.  He said he did not because he did not want germs and contamination in his farm.  I felt lucky that he took me to see it.  All I could think of was that you really had to love it; it is really so much work.

A resurgence of wanting better foods; away from over processed foods, I am hoping that give these farmers the opportunity to stay in business. 

I read food labels all the time.  Have to since there are food allergies and health issues in my household.  It is just incredible to read some of the ingredients, dies and preservatives in the simplest of foods. 

I really enjoyed talking to the Warrens.  A plan for the not too distant future is homemade ice cream.  I can’t wait!!!

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Note:  I had to get some info. from Wikipedia….

January 15th, 2012

Shorebreak, Lewes, Delaware, Casual Men’s Outfitter, Local, Men’s Wear, Guys, this Post is for you Only.

 

It used to be that there was Black Tie, Semi-Formal, and Casual.  Times have changed and the new designations on how you should be dressed for a particular ocassion are:  White Tie, Black Tie, Creative Black Tie, Black Tie Optional, Semi-formal, Festive Attire, Business Formal, Business Casual, Dressy Casual, and, finally, Casual…  This last designation is pretty much khakies or good jeans, cargo or Bermuda shorts, plain t-shirt (no slogans, please), polo shirt or turtleneck, casual button-down shirt, sweater, loafers, sneakers (with or without socks), or sandals.  

That’s our way of living, here, at the Delaware Beaches.  That’s why this coast is so popular; we live a casual atmosphere and it reflects in the way we also dress.

With that in mind I have to tell you that back in 2009, I was out and about in Lewes.  It was just a few months since I had started AboutMyBeaches.  Looking for material, checking the restaurants and shops.  I had not yet started including pictures on my blog.

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I stopped at a brand new shop called Shorebreak, at 115 Savannah Rd., Lewes.  It was right in downtown historic Lewes, where Second St. meets Savannah Rd.  Tel. 302-645-8488.  Josh Barr was and is the owner of this men’s wear shop.  He is a local guy, went to school with one of my sons, and it was great to see him open this shop.  He was looking forward to this new adventure.

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Last week I decided to stop by and check Shorebreak out.  It was wonderful to see the shop again, with beautiful merchandise.  Most of all, it was great to see how Josh has really become a shopkeeper.  He was so confident, knew his brands well; so friendly and easy to talk to.

The Delaware Beaches only have a few men’s shops that are owned, individually, by locals.  Josh told me he carries everything from Southern Tide, Cutter & Buck, Original Penguin, Life is Good, sweaters and pullovers, flannels, sunglasses, swim shorts, shorts, hats, sandals, and casual footwear. 

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Here is what his shop looks like:

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Belts, hats, ties, shorts, and sunglasses.  Shorebreak is open every week-end at this time of the year, but you might also find him there, unexpectedly, during the week.  You can give him a call in case you need something asap.   There are also good sales taking place at this time, as well.

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Sandals and casual footwear.

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The bottle openers are always popular.

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As I was walking through the store a small sign caught my attention.  Another local guy, Corey Schab, has local t-shirts, L-Town, also reflecting the small, coastal town living of Lewes, Delaware.  Shorebreak is carrying the t-shirts; high quality material and good looking, as well.

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Small town shopping…Historic Lewes…residents, shopkeepers…priceless!!

January 14th, 2012

Brunch?, Breakfast?, Sundays, Rehoboth Beach Restaurants, Delaware Beaches

 

Rehoboth Beach

Rehoboth Beach

Enjoying your long week-end?  You have to admit that even though it was a bit chilly; it still has been one beautiful day.  Looking to have breakfast or brunch in Rehoboth on Sunday?  Then, check my list because there are plenty of our local restaurants that serve one or another, or both.

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Breakfast vs Brunch?  I really don’t have a preference.  I am not too much of a breakfast person; a bold cup of coffee is what I crave in the a.m.  Breakfast gives you fuel to endure the day, though.  Brunch is a complete different animal.  It is a meal between or instead of breakfast or lunch.

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A typical brunch is between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.; late morning.  I think brunch is all about how leisure you can be.  Socializing and indulgence come to mind.

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This is the Second Season in Rehoboth Beach.  Some restaurants have taken a well deserved rest; but the following are open and ready to make you feel at home.

Jam Bistro by Eden is located at 21 Baltimore Ave.  They will be serving Brunch starting at 11:30 a.m.  Tel. 302-226-5266.

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Cafe Azafran Rehoboth is located at 18 Baltimore Ave.  They will be serving Breakfast starting at 8 a.m.  Tel. 302-227-8100.

Sole Rehoboth is located at 44 Baltimore Ave.  They will be serving Brunch starting at 10:30 a.m.  Tel. 302-227-7107.

The Gallery Espresso is located at 70 Rehoboth Ave., in the 1st Street Station.  They serve Breakfast and even have some vegan and gluten free fare.  Tel. 302-231-2113.

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Purple Parrot is at 134 Rehoboth Ave., and they will be serving Breakfast.  302-226-1139.

Summer House is located at 228 Rehoboth Ave., and they will be serving Brunch starting at 11 a.m.  Tel. 302-227-3895.

Crystal is located at 620 Rehoboth Ave.  They will serve Breakfast all day.  Tel. 302-227-1088.

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The Point is located at 722 Rehoboth Ave., where Rt 1 meets 1A.  They serve Breakfast and plenty of baked goods all made in-house.  Tel. 302-260-9234.

Nage is located at 19730 Coastal Highway, 1 mile south of Midway Movies and across from the Gap Outlet.  They will be serving a Brunch from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.  14 items for $14, Bloody Marys and Mimosas.  Wine Bar is open all day. 

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Bethany Blues located at 618285 Coastal Highway will be serving Sunday Football Brunch from 11 until 4 p.m.  Tel. 302-644-2500.

 

And after your breakfast or brunch, why not take a walk on our beautiful Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk?

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Enjoy your stay in Rehoboth Beach!!  Talk to you later…..

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