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Archive for April, 2011

April 21st, 2011

The Lilypad, Children’s Boutique, Clothing, Gifts, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware Beaches, New Proprietors

 

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I wrote about The Lilypad last summer.  At the time Gayle was working at the store.  Lilypad was owned by a friend.  Gayle is a retired teacher and thought working a few days would keep her occupied.  Then, I was so surprised when she told me that she and her daughter, Paige, had bought the business.  So, the other day I decided to stop by and see how they were doing.

The Lilypad is located at the Village-By-The-Sea Shops at 149 Rehoboth Ave.  Tel. 302-227-4464.  The e-mail address is LilypadRehoboth@yahoo.com.  You can find The Lilypad Children’s Boutique on Facebook.

Every time I turn around I find that one of my friends is having a grandchild.  I hope they read this post so they can start spoiling those little ones.

Gayle and Paige have rearranged the store a bit and it really looks good; not cluttered.  So many cute things.

The Boys on one side and the Girls on the other.  In between you will find lots of gifts like puzzles, stuffed animals, bows, charms and bracelets, and clothing for newborns.  The store is well known for its assortment of Christening gowns.  They were all protected and in plastic so I did not take any pictures.  Best you call them for more info. or send them an e-mail.

A few brands caught my attention.  See Kai Run, for example.  This is a line of shoes that meet the American Podiatric Medical Association’s rigurous standards.  It is family owned and operated with their business in Seattle, Washington.  In stores since 2004 they are now sold in major retail stores and unique children’s shops.

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Another brand was Daily Tea Clothing.  Very popular.  Started in San Francisco in 2002.  The line evokes vintage beach days.  They now also have a line for women, as well.

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In a basket and on the counter I spotted nail polish.  It was by a company called Piggy Paint.  Great colors and completely natural; non-toxic, odorless, and kid friendly.

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These were pretty funny!!

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Gifts for both, boys and girls.

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For the very little ones, there are some really cute things.

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More merchandise is arriving every week.  If you are in Rehoboth, stop by and introduce yourself. 

 

Talk to you later….

April 20th, 2011

Matt’s Fish Camp, Fresh Seafood, North Bethany, Restaurant, Review, Delaware Beaches, Opening Thursday, 4/21

 

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I needed to write this post last night while my taste buds were still remembering the delicious meal I had just enjoyed. 

I experienced at Matt’s Fish Camp a great quality of ingredients, a culinary competence, a very good service and a relaxing and casual ambiance. 

Matt’s Fish Camp had soft openings a few nights this week.  Officially, this new restaurant is opening on Thursday, April 21st.  They will open 7 days a week with lunch and dinner by Memorial Week-End.   At present, they are opening at 4:00 p.m., Wednesdays to Fridays, and at 11:00 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

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Location?  South of Indian River Bridge, in North Bethany at Tower Shores.  Tel. is 302-539-CAMP.  Website?  www.mattsfishcamp.com.

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Matt’s Fish Camp is the newest addition of already very well-known and successful restaurants from Lewes to Fenwick Island, Delaware, owned by Sodel Concepts.  To find out more info. about all their restaurants and catering services, please visit http://www.sodelconcepts.com.

It is just the type of restaurant that captures the essence of coastal dining; the ocean on one side, the bay on the other.   Local favorites serving the freshest catch of the day.  Just like the fish camps in the south.

On the right side of the building there are picnic tables where you can enjoy your carry out.

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In the inside, a little music in the background, bar tables on one side; you can check the sun setting.  Open kitchen on the other side.

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The dining area is set up with booths and tables.  It is very casual.  Just come as you are type of restaurant.  The staff?  Very friendly.

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I started checking the menu.  I am sure they were wanting to see how it was received.  You can purchase wines by the bottle or by the glass.  Beers, some local like Evolution Primal Pale Ale, Dogfish 90min ipa and 16 Mile Blues Golden Ale.  Others, like Corona, Blue Moon, Troegs Hopback Amber, Miller Light, Coors Light and a Maryland favorite, the Natty Boh.

My eyes first went to what was called Jars.  These are starters served in Jars.  We ordered Matt’s spice roasted peanuts.  Slightly salted, slightly spicy; herbs in plain view.

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Then I ordered the conch “red” chowder.  I love conch.  When I see it, I don’t think twice about it.  The soup had plenty of conch; the right amount of spice.  The flavor brought me right to the islands of the Caribbean.

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My husband had Matt’s imperial crab stuffed oysters.  These oysters had a little bit of breading but Matt fixed him some without the breading. Very good; the crab imperial did not take over the oysters.

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For the main entree I decided to have the whole black bass.  It was grilled and served over mashed potatoes, yellow squash and sugar snaps.  Every time I can order a whole fish, I will do so.  Even though you have to work around those little bones, it is worth it.  The taste is so different; the bones really add so much flavor while cooking.  It was tender and, again, perfectly seasoned. 

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My husband decided to have the skate.  Both of us had never had it.  It was to have been dredged in flour in ordered to be pan seared but because of the gluten allergy it was served without the flour.  I took a bite and it melted in my mouth.  Very delicate. I was so surprised.  It was so good!!

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Potato salad was brought to the table for sharing.  Perfect summer side.

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By this time, my brain was signaling that I had eaten too much.  To please stop!  Well, Mike, our waiter, which by the way was very attentive, told me that he really loved the blueberry pie.  It was a classic pie.  I have to say that it was not overly sweet at all and I think Matt said he put a little pepper and sorry but I forgot which herb he mentioned.  Thyme, perhaps?

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Then George and Jerry came to the table.  Having not seen each other in such a long time we started to catch up. A small order of the skate was ordered again because we raved so much about it that George needed to try it.  They were pretty happy with their meals, as well. 

I have a feeling we closed the fish camp.  Talk to you later….you know what?  You are going to love it.  You’ll see.  Let me know….

April 18th, 2011

Basic Concepts, Women’s Apparel, Accessories, Fresh Produce, Focus, An Institution, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware Beaches

 

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Oh, I have a feeling that I am going to get into trouble for calling Basic Concepts “An Institution”.  You see, I know Patti Watson, the proprietor of this shop that is going into its 35th season in Rehoboth Beach.  Now, you tell, me if this is not an institution.  This store has weathered the ups and downs of our economy through the years, and in my book Basic Concepts should be congratulated just for that effort.

Basic Concepts is located at the Village-By-The-Sea Shops at 149 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971.  Tel. 302-227-8688.

I stopped by and was chatting with Patti and right at that moment I thought about writing a post for my blog. 

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Basic concepts carries two main lines of clothing.  Fresh Produce and Focus from California. 

Fresh Produce has been around for a long time.  Lots of new bright colors for the season.  Cute tee-shirts, little skirts, blouses and dresses.  They are perfect for the way we live here at the beach. 

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Throw earrings, a necklace, a bracelet and you have an outfit.

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Basic Concepts has hats; a must at the beach,  as well.

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The brand Focus has also cute jackets, shirts, sweaters and dresses.  Even during the summer evenings there are cool nights.  She had some great colors.

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Last year I mentioned how nice it is to walk around Rehoboth Beach and see the familiar faces of those shopkeepers that make this town.  They are friendly, caring, and I really enjoy them.

Have a good one…..talk to you later.

April 17th, 2011

Breast Cancer, Runs, Walks, Fundraisers, DE-Feet Breast Cancer, Shore Striders, Bethany Beach Breast Cancer Fun Run/Walk, Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition, The Only Organization in Delaware focused solely on Breast Issues affecting Women and Men, Delaware Beaches

 

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Unfortunately, I have enough friends in Delaware, Maryland, Florida and Puerto Rico who have been touched by breast cancer.  Some of them are cancer free and some are going through treatments at the present time.  Each one of them, facing this disease with courage, hope and even humor.

At the Delaware Beaches, there are several events that will be happening in May.  All with one common goal; Breast Cancer awareness, education, support and early detection for women and men, as well.

As the weather gets warmer in our Beaches, it would be a great time to visit, stay, participate and have a good time. 

The Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition, Inc., or DBCC started in 1991.  It is affiliated with Screeing for Life, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and the Avon Breast Cancer Fund.  For more information on this organization, please visit http://www.debreastcancer.org.

 

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Bethany Beach Breast Cancer Fun Run/Walk – This event will take place on May 7th, Rain or Shine.  It is a 5K Fun Run and a 3K Walk.  Pre-registration is until April 29th.  The cost is $25 for adults, $15 for children and 10 and under can participate for free. 

Please Note that free t-shirts are guaranteed for all who pre-register. 

If you cannot pre-register then come on the day of the event, which will begin with check-in at 8:00 a.m.  The 5K Fun Run will start at 9:00 a.m. and the 3 K Walk will start at 9:10 a.m.  You will be able to sign up then, as well.

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Then, stay after you finish and celebrate your accomplishment; meet new people or just hang out listening to music, while sampling a healthy breakfast.  There will be raffles and a sale of the event’s t-shirts to further raise money.

To pre-register and for further information, please visit http://www.bethanybeachbreastcancer.com.

 

Second Annual DE-Feet Breast Cancer 5K Run/Walk will take place May 22nd from 9:00 a.m. until 12 Noon.

Location?  Tanger Outlets, at Applebee’s Restaurant, 36470 Seaside Outlet Drive, Rehoboth Beach.   

Hosted by Tanger Outlets, it will be an event for all ages.  Choose a timed 5K Run, a 5K Walk or a 1 Mile Fun Walk.  There will be awards for all age groups.

You can be creative and have team names and attires.  Wear PINK!!

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All proceeds will benefit the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition.  To register, please visit www.defeetbreastcancerwalk.org, or http://www.debreastcancer.org/walk/.

You can find it on Twitter and Facebook.

 

Seashore Striders – “Running & Racing at the Beach” will also be participating at the 2nd Annual DE-Feet Breast Cancer 5K Run & Walk on Sunday, May 22nd starting at 9:00 a.m., rain or shine.

The venue will be Applebee’s Restaurant at the Tanger Outlets at 36470 Seaside Outlet Drive in Rehoboth Beach. 

Distance:  5K Run/Walk (3.1 Miles) and 1-Mile Walk.

You can view the course map at www.usatf.org/routes/view.asp?rID=414702.

Event Qualifier:  6-Pack Trail Series in Cape Henlopen State Park

Registration during race day will open at 7:30 a.m. until 8:50 a.m.  $20 if paid by Friday, May 20th or $25 on race day.  You can register on line by visiting www.defeetbreastcancerwalk.org, or http://debreastcancer.org/walk/.  Also for more info. on this event and others, please visit http://www.seashorestriders.com or contact Tim Bamforth at 302-644-8952.

Awards will be presented to Overall and Master Champions, as well as the top three finishers in “14” age groups:  9 and under to 70 and over.

 

Have a great time….

April 16th, 2011

German Pork ‘N Cabbage Casserole, Comfort Food, Recipe, Easy

 

I don’t know what happened to our spring weather.  It seems, no sooner do I put my fleece in the closet, I have to take it out again.  Damp, chilly, soon to be a rainy day.  I tried this recipe, changed it and added a few things.  You know, made it my own.  Hope you like it.

 

Pork ‘N Cabbage Casserole

 

6 slices bacon

6 country-style pork ribs

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 bag of coleslaw mix (14 or 16 ounce bag)

1 large onion

1 cup sauerkraut, drained

1 apple, chopped (I chose a Gala because I am hooked on those apples)

1 cup julienne carrots (easier from a 10-oz bag than doing it yourself)

3/4 cup apple cider

2 tablespoons brown sugar (I used Splenda blend)

1/4 to 1/3 cup of Apple Cider vinegar

1 1/2 tsps. caraway seed

 

Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.  Butter a deep 13 x 9 baking dish.

In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crisp.  Remove from skillet, place on paper towels and then crumble and place in a small bowl. Wait, don’t throw the grease out.

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Sprinkle the ribs liberally with pepper.  You do not need salt; there is enough in the bacon.

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Then, in the bacon grease, sear them over medium high heat 3 to 4 minutes.  You might need to do them in 2 batches.  I know, bacon grease, is not good but everything in moderation right?  You would not eat this every day.  So splurge a little.

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Cook the ribs on the skillet turning them just once.  Take out and put it the baking dish.  Continue with the next batch, if you need to.

Don’t throw the drippings out, you still need them. 

In that same skillet, cook coleslaw mix and onion over medium heat for about 3 minutes, or until softened and wilted.  Remove from heat.

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Add to the cabbage mixture, bacon, sauerkraut, apple, carrots, cider, brown sugar, vinegar, and caraway seeds.  Mix well and adjust seasonings.  You might want more vinegar, brown sugar or caraway seeds.  If you do, then you know what to do.

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Then, spoon that mixture on top of ribs.

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Cover, bake for 45 minutes.  I baked mine about 1 hour, though.

I did not serve anything else with this dish.  If I had served it for guests I would have added a salad or a green vegetable but it was substantial and enough for my family.

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Make sure you spoon some of the juices on top.  They are so good; a little tangy.

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 Note:  This recipe is gluten free.  Make sure you read the sauerkraut and bacon labels.

 

Enjoy!!!  Talk to you later…..

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April 15th, 2011

What’s Going On?, The Tulip Festival, Lewes, Delaware Beaches, Friday, Saturday, 4/15 – 4/16

 

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The historic town of Lewes is once again in full bloom on this beautiful, cool spring day.  It is the 2nd Annual Lewes Tulip Festival.  It celebrates spring and Lewes’ Dutch heritage.  All festivities are centered around Zwaanendael Park.  Cannot miss it.

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Trolley rides, photography exhibits, worshops and even a quilt exhibit.  More info?  Please call 302-645-8073 or visit www.leweschamber.com.  But, hurry, it might rain tomorrow.

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Talk to you later….have a good one!!

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April 14th, 2011

Cake Break, Rehoboth Beach, Bakery, Cake Pops, Cupcakes, Bread, Coffee, Vegan, Gluten Free, Nut Free, Delaware Beaches

 

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What a million dollar day!!  If you are here, at the Delaware Beaches, you know what I mean.  Just like everybody else, I am trying to spruce up my house for that time of the season when we enjoy that laissez fare type of living.  I could not believe that the guy that came here yesterday spent all day cleaning the gutters, power washing everything in sight.  My house could be a commercial for Bleach.

Today, I went to one of the favorite bakeries in Rehoboth Beach.  Cake Break is located at 7 South First Street.  The Tel. is 302-260-9264.  Check the website www.facebook.com/cakebreakrehoboth.   Cake Break is a gourmet cupcake company but that is not the only thing they bake.  They also have special orders, cakes, breads, and buns.  Coffee and light breakfast is available, as well.

I had ordered yesterday a special order bread for my husband who has to eat gluten free.  It is a vegan gluten free bread and it is sitting on my counter waiting for him. 

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I noticed that Cake Break had a few new beer cupcakes.  I took a few pictures of them so you could see them.

The Black-N-Tan Guinness Beer Cake with Baileys Irish Cream Icing and a Chocolate Rock on Top.

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Then, there was the Car Bomb which was a Guinness Cake with Baileys Irish Cream Icing and Jameson Chocolate Ganache filling.  They also have a Dogfish cupcake.

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They always have the cinnamon buns. 

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One of the newest additions that attracted my attention were the Cake Pops.  They are made out of vanilla, chocolate or red velvet.  Diane made me eat one; the vanilla.  It was delicious.  These Cape Pops were taken to the Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival and they sold hundreds of them.  They are easy to eat because one will satisfy that sweet craving without feeling like you ate the whole cake; perfect for a party or hostess gift.

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Open every day, Cake Break is a must stop bake shop in Rehoboth Beach.  Please remember that this bake shop is a nut free facility, as well. 

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Talk to you later……

April 13th, 2011

Anita Peghini-Raber, Paint On!, Artist Talk, Reception, Warner Gallery, O’Brien Arts Center, St. Andrew’s School, Middletown, Delaware

 

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Swiss Painter, Anita Peghini-Raber is considered to be a local in Rehoboth Beach.  Like me, she has lived here for a long time.  A local; but not a native. 

For years I did not even know that she was an artist.  Not only did I not know that, but I also did not know that she was self taught. 

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The Delaware Beaches and its artist community has embraced her wholehartedly.  She will be exhibiting a Solo Show at the Warner Gallery, in the O’Brien Arts Center on Friday, April 15th at 6:45 p.m.  The Exhibit is called Paint On!  If you want to know more about Anita and her art, please visit www.rehobothart.com.

The Warner Gallery welcomes visitors to the O’Brien Arts Center; opened to the public in 2004.  Location?  St. Andrew’s School, 350 Noxontown Rd., Middletown, DE 19709.

Several exhibits are on view every year.  Each exhibit opens with a reception and a gallery talk by the artist.  If you want to know more about this exhibit and future ones, please visit http://www.standrews-de.org/arts/warner-gallery/index.aspx.

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Have a great day…..talk to you later….

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