March 12th, 2012
Isolated thunder showers is what I saw on the forecast for Delray Beach….not again. I needed to take a walk and smell the ocean. Not before having coffee, though. I took off for the beach on a cloudy and soooooo windy morning. The beach looked pretty.
Delray Beach is such a walkable town. On A1A, at that time of the early morning, people were walking their dogs, exercising and just enjoying the day.
 Seagate Beach Club I had not thought about stopping at the Visitor Information Center on the corner of Atlantic Avenue and A1A. But, there I was. It was tiny, but it had all kinds of information. Even if you think you know everything that is happening in town, you can still find new events and activities in this Village by the Sea at the Visitor Info. Center. Pictures on its walls depict a Delray so long ago.
It was interesting to see this part of A1A so quiet; a few hours later you could not find parking.
 Windy A1A I went by the Sandoway Park. This park is located at 130 South Ocean Blvd. (A1A), just south of Atlantic Ave. It is a small park with benches, restrooms, drinking fountain and vending machines. It opens at 8 a.m. and closes at dusk. Since it is right across the municipal beach, it is very accessible. Plenty of parking available.
Therefore, if you are trying to find parking on the beach remember to turn on Ingraham.
Have a good one!!
March 12th, 2012
I love shrimp. They are so versatile, and adapt so easily to so many recipes. The majority of people love shrimp; even the ones that do no like fish.
This recipe is so easy and pretty fast. I, actually, messed it up a bit and it still came out, getting rave reviews from my family. That was a good thing since that’s what they were having for dinner last night.
Fastest Shrimp Bisque Ever
2 cups chicken broth (low sodium) If you are making the recipe gluten free, read the ingredients on the broth.
2 teaspoons Old Bay Seasoning, usually found at grocery stores
12 ounces fresh or frozen medium size shrimp in shells, thawed. I would add a couple more ounces of shrimp; you might have to buy the 24 ounce bag.
3 celery stalks, sliced thin
1 12 ounce can of evaporated milk
1 cup of milk
2 tablespoons all purpose flour ( I used a rice flour due to the gluten allergy in my household.)
3 anchovies, finely chopped (Don’t wrinkle your nose. They add a lot of flavor.)
Old Bay or seafood seasoning (optional)
In a 4 quart pot combine the chicken broth, the Old Bay, shrimp and Celery. Cook, uncovered, over medium-high heat for 5 minutes or until shrimp shells turn pink and shrimp are opaque. Turn stove off.
Remove shrimp with a slotted spoon or tongs; set aside to cool. Leave the celery in the pot.
In a medium bowl whisk together the evaporated milk, milk, flour, and anchovies. Turn stove back on. Add milk mixture to to the liquid in the pot. Cook uncovered over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring here or there. You want it to acquire a nice consistency; not too thick but creamy enough. If you want it thicker, just dissolve more flour in a little bit of chicken broth and add to the pot.
Meanwhile, peel the shrimp. Chop about half of them. Add all of them to the pot. Cook for another 2 minutes or until heated through.
Ladle into bowls; sprinkle with a little Old Bay. Offer your guests or family a salad and make it a meal.
Note: I bought a tube of Polenta, then sliced it and cooked it on a skillet in order to make croutons to top my bisque. It is optional, but they all liked it.
Another Note: I had run out of rice flour, so I used Pamela’s Gluten Free Baking & Pancake Mix. It did the job.
Enjoy!! Guess what? This recipe can easily be doubled.
March 10th, 2012
I don’t know what made me think of writing about El Yunque this a.m. I guess it was because I do have friends from the Delaware Beaches that are visiting the Isla del Encanto. Most of them are on the west coast of Puerto Rico; a little surfing, perhaps?
I think you take things for granted when you live in a certain city, town, etc. etc. That’s probably what I did when I lived there. The Island is beautiful and offers so much, but is in much need of tender loving care.
I kept thinking that no trip to Puerto Rico is complete without a visit to El Yunque National Forest. It is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System.
From San Juan is only 25 miles…hmm traffic can be hectic. From the west corner of the Island, definitely a bit more. Highways in Puerto Rico have improved tremendously, though.
El Yunque is located on Puerto Rico Road 191, in Rio Grande. It is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The website is www.fs.usda.gov/elyunque.
El Yunque is a tropical paradise with plants and animals only indigenous to the Island. You might be lucky to find the elusive Puerto Rican Parrot, or the Puerto Rican Lizard called Cuckoo, which is identified by its long tail and reddish underbelly.
It is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking Trails like La Mina, which is one of six interconnecting trails totaling 24 miles.
El Yunque Hiking Trail is more challenging and can get muddy, it’s a rainforest, afterall. You will be hiking to its peak which is 3,496 feet high.
You can bird watch on the Caimitillo Trail. There are 50 different kinds of birds and 50 different native orchids. You can detour from El Yunque Hiking Trail into this trail.
If you want to have more outdoor excitement then try the Yunque Zipline Adventure. It is 70 feet above the ground at about 40 miles per hour. You can call 787-242-3368 or visit www.yunkezipline.wordpress.com.
And if you want to push yourself even more then rappelling with Aventuras Tierra Adentro might be the thing for you. You start with a hike across a monkey bridge, followed by a crash course in rappelling. It is a challenging course that involves vigorous hiking and climbing. Look at it this way, you will be flinging yourself between trees, swinging from 30 feet in the air, dropping into icy water, and finish it off by throwing yourself off 30 foot high cliffs. Okay? You want more info.? Call 787-766-0470 or, visit www.aventuraspr.com.
Rappelling is a technique that allows you to do a controlled descent down a rope from a cliff.
If you are one of those that do not need all that excitement above described, then check out the Yokahu Tower Observation Point , which rises at 1,600 feet. 98 steps to the top; you will be rewarded with a 360 degree panoramic view of the forest and the northeastern coast.
Take a break at La Coca Falls. An opportunity for a Kodak moment. The water crashes 85 feet down a sheer rock face. You can climb those rocks too for your perfect picture.
 La Coca I know my Puerto Rican friends will probably not pay attention to this post; being there and done that “kinda” thing…but, for those visiting, it is worth it.
Then, before you leave hit the Kiosks in Luquillo…frituras, pastelillos, alcapurrias, tacos de jueves…yumm, is all I can say. Wash it down with coconut water…
Have a good one!!
Note: Information for my post was taken from Go Magazine.
March 9th, 2012
Historic Milton, Delaware is just minutes from the towns of Lewes, Rehoboth, and Dewey Beach. By minutes, I mean about, 15 or 20 minutes. No big deal, driving through our roads is a breeze
As towns get bigger and more progressive and as residents fight to keep them real, Milton is a classic example of life in a small historic town.
“Milton’s history is written in its streets, its architecture, its relationship to the Broadkill River, its industrial heritage, and its image and reputation throughout Delaware and beyond.”
Milton was once a hub of the button cutting industry. A multi step and labor intensive process that was global.
If you want to know more about this historic town who is also the home of the much loved Dogfish Head Brewery, please visit:
http://www.historicmilton.org.
www.ci.milton.de.us.
So, on Sunday, March 11 you can join Irish Eyes Pub & Restaurant for the 5th Annual Milton St. Patrick’s Day Parade, in Downtown Historic Milton. It will start at 2 p.m. Lineup will be on Atlantic and Hazzard Aves.
Let’s raise some GREEN for the Milton Fire Department Training Program, Best Buddies Delaware and Casa San Francisco.
Check the website of the Milton Fire Dept. to know more about the training program at http://www.milton85.com.
Best Buddies Delaware’s mission is “to establish a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intelectual and developmental disabilities”. More info? Visit www.bestbuddiesdelaware.org.
Casa San Francisco is also located in Milton. It is an emergency adult shelter. It also provides a wide range of services aimed at helping low-income residents of Sussex County. More info? Visit www.cdow.org/casasanfran.html.
This 5th Annual St. Patricks Parade will be fun for all ages. So, get your green on!! Stick around for the after party under the tent with Live Irish Music by Danny Quinn, food & beverages, beer trucks pouring Dogfish Head beer, Face Painting, Green Beer, 50/50’s, Irish (Chinese) Auction, Giveaways, prizes and so much more.
For more complete information, please visit www.irisheyespub.com.
Note: Participate as a walker with a $5 donation and a canned/packaged food donation.
Thanks to all the generous sponsors and remember…..Celebrate Responsibly!! Talk to you later.
March 9th, 2012
My blog is my diary. To some it might be interesting and even helpful at times. But, this short post is to give thanks to all my friends that helped getting a little older more enjoyable and fun.
All of you that wished me Happy Birthday in so many ways and in 3 languages, believe me when I tell you that is was so appreciated. Good to hear from so many friends, some of you go way back.
I got plenty of cards too….my first one was so funny. I hope to get to that age graciously.
Then, the doorbell started ringing and flowers were coming in. They were all gorgeous.
And just as I put it on Facebook; well, well, well my dentists and their crew sent me beautiful flowers. Maplewood Dental Associates is located in Rehoboth Beach. Check their website, http://www.rehobothbeachsmiles.com. Thanks to Steve, Bruce, Renee and the rest.
A friend asked? How much work did you have done? Another said that if her dentist would send her flowers, she would go more often. Haha. You have to remind them about those most important dates in your life. Getting flowers from your dentist is the ultimate.
The rest of the flowers are scattered through the house. They were from family and friends.
 
The celebration was not over just yet. We decided to meet another birthday girl, Shelley, in Ocean City, Maryland, for crabs. We chose the Crab Bag; they were extra large, heavy and at this time of the year, from North Carolina. They had just come in. Their website? www.thecrabbag.com
And to finish a most delightful evening…..gosh, that Moon was awesome!! Thanks.
March 8th, 2012
Symmetry – “An imprecise sense of harmonious or aesthetically pleasing, proportionately and balance; such that it reflects beauty or perfection.”
Part of the fun of visiting the Delaware Beaches is shopping. Downtown Rehoboth Beach is known for unique shops. Don’t get me wrong, we do have some t-shirt shops; all beach towns have them. That’s part of the charm, hmmm.
Anyway, my friend Jody and I were strolling around Rehoboth. We visited Dogfish Head, Heidi Lowe, and then we came upon Symmetry. I have to hand it to Jody. She knew this store well. The shopkeeper? Lee, was a friend. We did not think it was open yet, but Lee came out and invited us in.
Symmetry has been in Downtown Rehoboth Beach for years. It was originally located on Baltimore Ave. This is a new location for them. Just a few weeks ago they opened for business at 403 Rehoboth Avenue. Tel. 302-260-9741. E-mail symmetrydesigns@aol.com.
You cannot miss it. A shingled house with striped awning. Symmetry is a very stylish shop that carries primitive to contemporary home elements.
 
 
Lee was very excited to show us around. Floors refinished; plenty of merchandise and I thought they were ready for the season.
 Lee is behind the counter. Symmetry has accents for the modern house, and accessories to enhance one’s way of life. You will find furniture, decorative bowls, vases, lamps, art, and even jewelry.
 
 
We found that it was an affordable store, whether you were buying for yourself or for a friend.
Lee was very easy to talk to. And, so friendly. I always mention that friendliness is a characteristic of practically all shopkeepers in Downtown Rehoboth Beach.
I asked Lee if Symmetry offered interior design services. He said, yes. If you are interested, please visit the store or call him up.
He pointed out that the shop tries to engage local artists and artisans. They do have pieces from Delaware, Pennsylvania and even from Florida. Some of the textiles on the pillows are made by one of the oldest mills in the country, in Pennsylvania.
 
So here are more than a few pictures….let’s go shopping!!
 
 
 
 
Rehoboth Beach is a destination….why don’t you come and visit and stay awhile…talk to you later….Love Tax Free Shopping!!
March 6th, 2012
I have to laugh because when I think of comfort food, I have to add tostones (plantains) to that list. In Puerto Rico, having tostones is part of everyday eating. I have written about them in the past. If you click on the month of June of 2010 on this website, and scroll down to the 28th, you will see them there, as well.
When I go to my supermarket, Giant, in Rehoboth Beach, you can find plantains right along the bananas. They are part of that family, except with more starch and less sugar.
Going through the cash register I sometines get asked; what do you do with them? The explanation follows like; peel, slice, fry, mash and fry again. Eyebrows go up and that’s pretty much it…intimidation, definitely.
I don’t have a tostonera. That’s the easier way of smashing the plantain after you fry them. I do have a pilon, though. This is the mortar and pestle. It is pretty much indispensable in Latin cooking.
The plantains for tostones need to be green. The easiest way to peel them is to cut both ends, put in the microwave for 1 minute, regardless of the size. Take out carefully. With a knife make long slits on the skin of the plantain and then peel.
Cut the plantains in about 1 inch slices. Some people soak them in salted water; don’t bother with that.
Put them in the very hot oil in a deep frying pan and fry until they have a nice golden color.
Take out and place on paper towels to drain.
The next step takes you to the smashing part. I told you I don’t have a tostonera, so I use a long piece of wax paper, folded in half. Place a piece of plantain in between the two pieces of wax paper and with a plate smash it. With a spatula pick it up and put it back on the paper towel until you finish with all the fried pieces. It does not take long, believe me.
After that just let them stay on the paper towel until you finish with your “Mojito”. You thought it was the drink, right? No, no; it is a sauce for the tostones.
In the mortar, mash a garlic clove. Add salt and pepper to taste. About 2 tablespoons of olive oil, mix it all in. Then add about 1/2 cup of tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons of cilantro, the juice of one lime and a few dashes of Tabasco. All this can be done to taste…a little bit of this or a little bit of that.
Now is time to fry the smashed plantains or tostones again. In the very hot oil place them in and cook until they come to the surface, turn them over and continue cooking until they are very golden; watch them so they don’t burn.
Put them back to drain, arrange on a platter, pass the Mojito.
Note: Butter and garlic powder or salt on top are another way they are eaten in my household.
I love them thin and crispy but soft in the inside…..talk to you later…Buen Provecho!!
March 6th, 2012
On Spring Break? If you are visiting Rehoboth Beach, check what’s going on this week.
Wednesday, March 7th – Around the World is a monthly film series presented by The Rehoboth Beach Film Society. This series features critically acclaimed, award-winning international independent films. Location? Upstairs Screening Room, at Movies at Midway on Coastal Highway.
A Screaming Man – This drama explores the relationship between a father and son fraught with sacrifice, selfishness, and guilt….It is not rated and it is in French and Arabic with English sub-titles. Visit http://www.rehobothfilm.com/film_events_around_the_world.html, if you want to see the trailer.
Until Sunday, March 11th – This will be your last opportunity to see the Rehoboth Beach Museum Exhibit “Skimming the Surface”. See vintage surf and skimming boards, bathing suits and images from the 60s and 70s. The Rehoboth Museum is located at 511 Rehoboth Ave. It opens Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. More info.? Please call 302-227-7310. Or, visit www.rehobothbeachmuseum.org.
Announcement – Since AboutMyBeaches is a member of the Rehoboth Beach/Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce, e-mails are sent with info. and updates. The following just came in.
Dewey Beach Arts Fest – Dewey Business Partnership is seeking artists and crafters for the first Dewey Beach Arts Fest scheduled for Saturday, May 12th. So, they are calling all of you artists!! For an application, email deweybusinesspartnership@yahoo.com. The deadline is March 15th.
Saturday, March 10th – Second Saturdays Destination Art Walk. Visit downtown Rehoboth Beach galleries from 2 until 5 p.m. as part of the Second Saturday Art Walks presented by Mosaic, the gallery collective for downtown Rehoboth Beach. Stroll through the galleries, the art, enjoy the receptions and much more. Please visit www.mosaicrehoboth.com.
Saturday, March 10th – Having been selected by the Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation to be a host site for the first year of the On Screen/In Person Film Touring Program, the Rehoboth Beach Film Society is bringing on this date Family Talk (Fambul Tok). Time? 7:00 p.m. Location? Movies at Midway at their Upstairs Screening Room, on Coastal Highway (Rt. 1). Admission $4 for members and $5 for future members. You can visit http://www.rehobothfilm.com/film_events_special_screenings_events.html. You can purchase tickets through the website. Tickets are also available at the door.
Family Talk – This documentary shows how victims and perpetrators of Sierra Leone’s brutal civil war are finding methods of healing in an unprecedented program of tradition-based truth telling and forgiveness ceremonies.
Artwork Contest for 2012 Film Festival – The Rehoboth Beach Film Festival is seeking original art submissions to be adapted for the 2012 Independent Film Festival. The selected artwork will be used in the creation of the Festival’s poster, program, t-shirts, and other memorabilia and/or Film Society publicity. Due date is March 21st at 4:45 p.m. If you are interested please visit http://www.rehobothfilm.com/festival_artwork_guidelines.html.
My Fair Lady – March 16th until April 1st at Clear Space Theatre, at 20 Baltimore Ave., with performances Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:00 p.m., Sundays at 3:00 p.m., and a special matinee on Thursday, March 22nd at 11 a.m. Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for seniors and $15 for students/children. You can purchase them online at www.clearspacetheatre.org, by phone at 302-227-2270, or in person at the Box Office, located at 20 Baltimore Avenue in Rehoboth Beach.
My Fair Lady is a timeless musical and the day it opens will be exactly 56 years since it originally opened on Broadway. Based on George Bernard Shaw’s play “Pygmalion”, My Fair Lady centers on cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle as she is taken in by Professor Henry Higgins, who attempts to turn her into a proper English lady…
Have a great time!! Talk to you later….
 
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