RSS Feed Follow Me On Twitter Join Me On Facebook

Archive for September, 2011

September 9th, 2011

Doggies at the Beach, Rehoboth Beach, Doggie Day Care, Cage Free, Grooming, Training Courses, Discount Vaccination Vet Day, Saturday 9/10, Tomorrow!!

 

img_5098

Wait until you see the 2 Jack Russells that are currently being fostered by Doggies at the Beach.  They are up for adoption but until their forever home is found, they will be spending time at this much loved doggie day care facility. 

If you are interested in these 2 lovable Jack Russells, please have in mind that they need to be adopted together.  They are a bonded pair.

Here is Harley.

Harley_Safe_Haven

And, here is Mickey.

Mickey~_Safe_Haven

Jim, with Harley and Mickey.

Harley_&_Micky

Harley and Mickey have all their vaccinations and are both spayed.

If you have any questions, please call Doggies at the Beach, tel. 302-644-8200. 

Doggies at the Beach is located at 18806 John J. Williams Highway in Rehoboth Beach.  This road is also known at Rt. 24.  It is a 2,400 square foot indoor, cage free facility.  Overnight care, day care, grooming, instruction, and always a human on site.   Website?  http://www.doggiesatthebeach.com.

This is where I leave my dog Addy.  I cannot tell you enough about this facility.  Ever since I got Addy this is the only place where I have taken her.  Having been abandoned and in cages for many months, this is like her second home.

You know when they say “they are dog people”, well, they definitely are.  They are caring, friendly and fun too, by the way.  Very involved in the community, trying to make a difference; helping the rescue organizations that help abandoned animals.

Right at Doggies at the Beach there area food barrells for the following rescue organizations:  Dog and Cat food needed.  All donations are welcomed.

Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary – A no kill sanctuary.  Please check their website at www.safehavensanctuary.com.   You can find them on Facebook, as well.

Georgetown SPCA – It is a shelter in Georgetown, Delaware, our State of Delaware County Seat and only about 30 minutes from the Beach.  Websited?  You can find them on Facebook as Georgetown Shelter, Delaware SPCA. 

Saturday, 9/10 – Tomorrow!! It is Discount vaccination Vet Day from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m.  First come, first served.

Nicole, our own Delaware Dog Whisperer is holding puppy and doggie training classes, as I write this post.  Call for schedule and more info.

 

Note:  Rescuing Addy has been so rewarding.  She has added so much to our family.  At present, she is making sure the workers in my house are doing what they are supposed to be doing.

100_4706

 

Please note that Doggies at the Beach is one of my advertisers.  All you have to do is click on their site on the right hand side of this blog. 

Have a great day!!

September 8th, 2011

Spahr, Designer, Rehoboth Beach, Fashion Designer, Men, Women, Home, Jewelry, Delaware Beaches

 

img_7006

“The best color in the world, is the one that looks good on you.”   coco chanel

 

It was the beginning of the summer season when I was told that there was a fashion designer amongst us, located on trendy Baltimore Ave. in Rehoboth Beach.  That I should really visit him.

img_7005

The summer was hectic, Rehoboth got crowded and I probably got lazy.  So, there I was yesterday, just a few days after Labor Day, with plenty of parking in a very quiet Rehoboth Beach.

Spahr is located at 43 Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971.  Tel. 302-226-3804.  Website?  www.scottspahr.com.  Please note that you cannot order from the website, but check it out so you can see what to expect when you actually visit his atelier.  He opens year-round.

img_7030

By the way he does have a first name; Scott.  At times people can be intimidated by designers, but Scott is so friendly and unasuming.  I came unannounced and immediately a friendly chat ensued.

I introduced myself and asked if I could take pictures and could he tell me a little bit about himself.

He opened Spahr 11 years ago in Rehoboth Beach.  He is, originally, from Pennsylvania.  The atelier is small, comfortable and so quaint.  It is also Scott’s home.

img_6988

He told me that I caught him at a time where his inventory was low.  Scott is the whole package; designer; sews every piece himself in-house.  You can actually watch him work as you talk to him.  He learned his trade himself but it helped that his grandmother was a seamstress.

img_7028

img_6989

His specialty and what sets him apart?  It is the ability to find and mix fabric prints and patterns together.  You can see his details in his own tags on every design, as well as in the pocket of pants, and in the trim of a t-shirt or the borders of a skirt.

img_6971

img_6974

img_6982

img_6987

For women, his designs come in Small (4-6), Medium (8-10) and Large (10-12)  He usually makes 3 for each size.  He will be the first to tell you that his designs run small.  You can also be confident that you will not find a twin when you buy one of his pieces, at least not in your size.

 img_6994

img_7002

img_7004

img_7017

For men, the sizes for pants are 32, 34, and 36.  A size 38 might be in the works at some point.  Just like he does for women, he only makes about 3 for each size.  He had just finished a pair of cordless corduroys in blue.

img_6996

img_6966 img_6975

His inventory is one that changes rapidly.  Therefore, check often for updated designs.

Spahr has women’s jewelry, as well, with original works by Susan Davis Terry.  Her designs are bold and contemporary. 

img_7000 img_7018

img_7025

img_7027

Scott does not stop at only fashion designs.  He also make bags out of cotton rugs and quilts and pairs them with unique fabrics.

img_7013

He also designs his pillows and just as the clothing they change frequently as he finds the right print or design.

img_7003

Spahr has also accessories for the home; candles, soaps and books.

img_7008

img_7010

It was so nice meeting him.  One of the advantages of writing my blog is that I get to meet the wonderful people that make Rehoboth Beach my home.

img_7012

Oh, I almost forgot.  He was looking at me wondering how much longer I would be staying.  Will he be able to go on his walk, afterall?  His name?  Morgan.

img_6991

September 6th, 2011

1776 Steakhouse, Rehoboth Beach, Restaurant, Review, Delaware Beaches

 

img_6942

Definitely, this post is not for Vegans or Vegetarians.  You really have to love beef when you decide to have dinner at a steakhouse.  It is not that you could not find something else, besides beef, to eat there; vegetables, salads, soups and seafood.  It is just that if it is not your thing, then don’t bother.

1776 Steakhouse has been in existence at the Delaware Beaches for many years.  But, since 2007 they have been under new ownership.  And, it is a good thing.  This restaurant was so popular for many years.  It was the place to go if you wanted a good solid steak.  I had not been since they changed ownership.  The truth?  Last time I did not have a good meal.  That simple

img_6943

So, the other night when the family decided that it was going to be a steak night, we chose 1776.  I was curious and so were they. 

1776 is located on Highway One (Rt.1) at the Midway Center.  Right in the same shopping center as the movie theater.  Tel. 302-645-9355.  Website? www.1776steakhouse.net.

The decor of a steakhouse is a little more formal with subdued lighting.  Someone said “they are manly”.  Who knows?  But, they all follow the same decor.  1776 was no different.

img_6932

Two entrances; one directly to the bar and a more casual atmosphere.  The other, being the main entrance, went into the dinning room.

1776 has plenty of parking available.  People enjoy eating at the bar before or after catching a movie.

Our waiter was John Purple.  He has been working at 1776 for many years and knows the menu well.  He was attentive and very friendly.

Warm bread with two types of butter suddenly appeared.  One was a whipped butter and the other a honey and basil butter.  I love it when the bread is served warm. 

img_6933

Michael decided to have the Baked Brie as an appetizer.  The Brie was wrapped in puff pastry and served with sliced apples and grapes and a raspberry champagne reduction.  This appetizer was delicious, but, very filling.  The combination of fruit, reduction, cheese and pastry was perfect.  Good for sharing.  Or, even as a meal with a salad. 

img_6936

I decided to order their Mixed Field of Greens.  It had apple smoked bacon, dried cherries, walnuts, crumbled gorgonzola with a maple vinaigrette.  It was light and fresh, which was good because a steak is a heavier meal.

img_6937

We had ample time to enjoy a drink and the appetizers before making our entree choices.   The entrees at 1776 come with a starch and a vegetable.  The steaks are cooked to the preference of the diner.

For his main meal Michael decided to have the Delmonico.  He chose it to be blackened.  Temperature?  Medium rare.

img_6939

Delmonico steaks are delicately marbled.  It is a boneless sirloin.  Usually, a Delmonico is about 2 inches thick.  The sirloin is a cut from the rear back portion of the animal.  The top sirloin is the best.

My husband eyes were set on a filet mignon.  He chose a 6 ounce filet, rare.  The filet mignon is a steak cut from the tenderloin.  It is the most tender cut of beef; also the most expensive.

img_6940

I decided on the New York Strip, medium rare.  The strip steak is known internationally as a club steak.  It is cut from the short loin.  Particularly tender but not as much as the ribe eye or tenderloin.  Can be sold with our without the bone.

img_6938

All of us decided that the three steaks were delicious; tender, juicy with excellent taste.  Happy to have come back to 1776  on that night when we all wanted a solid, good steak. 

Too full to enjoy dessert, we decided to get our bill, pay, and take off with our doggie bags. 

Note:  Even though 1776 Steakhouse is a traditional steakhouse, it does have very good seafood, as well.  I have heard that the scallops are very good.  Maybe next time.  They open for lunch and dinner.

Sharing a meal…best if it is with family…priceless!!

September 5th, 2011

The Freeman Stage, Bayside, Open Air Performing Arts Venue, Near Fenwick Island, Delaware, September Events

 

img_3287

Soon we will be entering our Second Season, here at the Delaware Beaches.  Every town has something going on most week-ends.  It is a matter of finding what interests you.  You can do as little or as much.  To tell you the truth, it is the best time at the beach.  And, it does get crowded but not crazy.  Warm water, everything open. Oh, well, the meters are still on-going for a couple of more months.  Not everything is perfect; almost, though.

If you have not stopped by to see a performance at The Freeman Stage, is about time you attend one.  Performances are under the stars, weather permitting.  Bring your chair, neighbors, friends and family.

img_3279

The Joshua M. Freeman Foundation was established in 2007.  It is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.  The Foundation was established to honor him, after having left his family too soon.  He was the former Chair of the Carl M. Freeman Foundation.  He would have been so proud. 

img_3286

The Freeman Stage is located at 36097 Sand Cove Rd., Selbyville, DE 19975.  It is about 4 miles west of Fenwick Island.  You can visit http://www.freemanstage.org and see what they are all about.  You can also purchase tickets through the website.  The Foundation’s website is http://www.freemanfoundation.org.

After having a full schedule this summer, this is what you will find in September at The Freeman Stage. 

 img_3283

Saturday, 9/10 – Joshua M Freeman Foundation Golf Tournament, from 8:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.  Join them for a most exclusive golf event on the shore.  Celebrating its 5th year, it is held at the renowned Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course at Bayside Golf Resort.  At the same time you will be supporting the philanthropic work of the Joshua M. Freeman Foundation.  Sign up and reserve your foursome for a fun filled day.

 

Saturday, 9/10 – Arts by the Sea – 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.  The Arts by the Sea Party is the most exclusive event of the year.  This Joshua M. Freeman Foundation Golf  Tournament kick-off fundraising party features live music, live and silent auctions, heavenly food choices, an open bar and unforgettable memories at a breath taking location.  The Freeman’s Family Beach Home is located in North Beach Beach, Delaware.

 

Broadway_Rhythms

Saturday, 9/17 – Broadway Rhythms – 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. – Clear Space Theatre Company from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, puts on a lively revue of standards and new favorites from the Great White Way.  An ensemble cast of great voices, beautiful costumes and fancy footwork are guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages.  $10 per person.  Kids 18 and under are free.

Have a great time!!  Talk to you later….

Comments Off on The Freeman Stage, Bayside, Open Air Performing Arts Venue, Near Fenwick Island, Delaware, September Events

September 4th, 2011

What’s Going On?, Bethany Beach, The Quiet Resort, Activities, Events, Entertainment, Delaware Beaches

 

Bethany Beach by Jack Lewis '93

Bethany Beach by Jack Lewis '93

 

The town of Bethany is a small family resort town right on the beach.  It is what you would want to expect of a seaside resort.  The center of the town is its Boardwalk and Bandstand.  Shops, restaurants, basketball courts and playground are just a block a way from each other.  It is the perfect town for walking, jogging or strolling.  And, let’s not forget that beautiful beach that stretches for miles.  Each street in Bethany seems to lead its visitors right to the water’s edge.

100_4087

img_3315

img_3357

Prior to the early 50’s, it took some time to get to Bethany Beach.  There was no railroad connection.  You really must have wanted to visit Bethany because you had to travel first to Baltimore, Maryland.  Spend the night in Charm City and then travel by boat across the Chesapeake Bay to the Delmarva Peninsula.  Then, take the train across the peninsula to Rehoboth Beach.  Until 1910, the visitors would have to take the steamer, Atlantic, across Rehoboth Bay to Ocean View and travel by horsedrawn carriage to Bethany.  After 1910 the Loop Canal was completed allowing the motorboat to dock directly in Bethany.

100_4100

100_4103

If you are visiting Bethany during this Holiday Week-End, this is what you will find.

 100_4082

Sunday, 9/4 – Jesse Garron’s Tribute to Elvis at 8:00 p.m.  The entertainment will be at the Bandstand.

Monday, 9/5 – Yoga at the Bethany Beach Bandstand.  This is the last day for yoga right on the Bandstand but Yoga at the Beach has a year round schedule.  If you would like to check it out please vivist www.bethanybeachyoga.org.  On Labor Day be there from 6 a.m. until 7 a.m. and if possible, bring your own mat since they are limited.  Drop in fee is $5.

Monday, 9/5 – Tai Chi, which is also called Meditation in Motion is at the Bethany Beach Boardwalk.  From 7:30 a.m. until 8:30 a.m.  Drop in fee is $5.  More info?  Please call 302-363-4500.

Monday, 9/5 – Labor Day Jazz Funeral at 5:30 p.m.  Saying “so long” but not forgotten to another summer at the beach.  Be prepared to wail and carry on.  Then, the lifeguards will do their celebratory swim at around 6 or so.  This swim used to be quite different years ago.  Some of those in Bethany remember it so well…

100_4083

Saturday, 9/10 – The 33rd Annual Bethany Beach Boardwalk Arts Festival.  One day only when more than 100 artists will showcase their best along the Boardwalk and 2 adjoining streets.  10 a.m. until 5 p.m.  Look for the silent auction at the Bandstand from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.  All proceeds from the silent auction will benefit the art programs at 4 local elementary schools.

 

100_4090

The Bethany Beach Cam is still running.  To view what’s going on on the Boardwalk, please visit http://www.bethanycam.com.

 

Note:  Bethany Beach Trolleys run through mid September.  It is the best way to get around in Bethany and avoid those meters.  Please check www.townofbethanybeach.com for the schedule.

 img_3970

Have fun!!  Talk to you later….

September 2nd, 2011

Road Trip, St. Michael’s, The Crab Claw, The Bellevue-Oxford Ferry,The Treasure Chest, Oxford, The Creamery, Maryland’s Eastern Shore…A Reunion and the Perfect Get-Away

 

Someone said that a blog is like a home.  That it shows personality and passion.  You know…all the things that decorate life.  I could not have said it better myself because when I started this website which is written in a blog style, I wanted to make sure that it was honest, fun and from my heart.  Sometimes I think I write too honestly, and others I can’t believe I wrote that on paper.  But, hey, it is a diary of sorts.

During the past year some of us have met in Miami, others in Puerto Rico, Colorado, Philadelphia and just before hurricane Irene, in St. Michael’s, Maryland.

When I tell you I have not seen Tita in probably about 40 years, I am not kidding.  It took her to visit St. Michael’s with her family and for me to drive over to reconnect.  The funny part is that even after all those years, we just started talking like I had seen her the other day.  Her family?  Just as easy going.

I am supposed to be the one that knows the area, the ins and outs.  Well, I got so lost.  I even got lost in St. Michael’s.  The town is so small, how could I?  They knew their way around much better.

St. Michael’s looked good.  It dates back to the mid 1600s.  It was a trading post for area tobacco farmers and trappers.  St. Michael’s is keeping its colonial past pretty much intact.  Tourists love the town.  It is so pretty and the streets are lined with trees and plenty of restaurants and shops.  A longer visit will have to wait.  This one was strictly for my friends.  And they were hungry.

If you want to know more about St. Michael’s, please visit www.stmichaelsmd.org.

We stopped at The Crab Claw right in town.  Some wanted lobsters; other fish. I just wanted them to try a blue crab.

The lobsters looked good.  The crabs ordered were on the small side.  A lesson on how to eat open a crab followed.  The other dishes were okay. 

img_6625

The Crab Claw has been the place to go in St. Michael’s for years but I found it a bit too commercialized.  It is located at 304 Burns St., St. Michael’s , MD 21663.  No credit cards are taken; cash or check.  Website?  http://www.thecrabclaw.com.

img_6627

Our next destination?  Take the ferry over to Oxford, Maryland.  You can drive it but it is more scenic and fun on the ferry.  Tita and her family were looking at me skeptically.  I am sure they were thinking, could she even get to the ferry?

img_6629

And, they were wondering where it was.  Then, almost in no time it was right in front of our eyes.  This ferry is called the Bellevue-Oxford Ferry, and it is very small.  It can fit more than a few cars, though.  It only took about 10 minutes to cross the Tred Avon River.  The view was gorgeous. It was such a pretty day and some sailboats were anchored at Port Oxford. This area is practically known as sailing capital.

img_6636

The ferry was established in 1683 and it is the nation’s oldest privately operated ferry.  More info?  Please visit www.oxfordbellevueferry.com.

img_6631

Arriving by ferry to Oxford is the way to go.  You really get to appreciate the beauty of this quaint town that dates to 1694. 

img_6637

From The Treasure Chest in Oxford

From The Treasure Chest in Oxford

It is the perfect get-away.  And, you really are away from it all; nature, water, and beauty surrounds this historic town.  Its residents want to keep the town the way it is; retaining its charm is on all residents minds.  They even think that St. Michael’s is too big.

Walking around Oxford you could feel the wonderful breezes and enjoy its quietness.  I am sure my friends were really feeling it because having come from San Juan, Puerto Rico, where noise is a way of life, this was a welcomed change and a haven from the hustle and bustle of that city.

 

img_6651

We stopped at The Treasure Chest.  This shop is located at 214 N. Morris St., Oxford, MD 21654.  Tel 410-924-8817.  You can find it on Facebood as The Treasure Chest in Oxford.  It is a small shop; Susan is the shopkeeper. 

img_6652

Just like everyone you meet in Oxford, Susan is friendly and ready to tell you about Oxford.  Her store has art by local artists, nautical gifts, tee shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, jewelry, hats, bags and souvenirs that promote the port of Oxford. 

img_6645

img_6642

We bought a few things.  You could not help it.  You can find something for a friend, for your boat or just your own little indulgence.

img_6647

img_6639

img_6643

In her storefront window, The Treasure Chest is keeping one of the 2011 Picket Fences called Don’t Fence Me In by Joanne Boughner/Sara Koch.  These artists’ charity is CaringBridge.

Picket Fence "Don't Fence Me In" at The Treasure Chest

Picket Fence "Don't Fence Me In" at The Treasure Chest

Early photos from the town of Oxford showed that there were picket fences gracing lawns around the mid 1800s.  The town does not know who installed the first picket fence or who imagined its distinctive and exotic design, which is an onion dome with a center hole. 

2011 marks the 3rd year for this popular event.  Half of the profits from the picket fences will be donated to the favorite charity of the artist whose fence raises the most money at the Auction!!  If you are interested in purchasing a fence but cannot attend, then, please visit www.portofoxford.com to find out how.

img_6670

As you walk around the town you will be able to spot the fences.  There are 18 in all.

It was hot and Susan sent us to the Scottish Highland Creamery (the Creamery) on 14 Tilghman St.  Website? www.scottishhighlandcreamery.com. You can also find them on Facebook.

img_6656

As we approched the Creamery, we heard a customer say “this is the friendliest ice cream store we have ever been”.  It was true.  Susan (different from the other Susan) was the owner. 

img_6659

One taste of the coffee and I was sold.  It was delicious.  That true coffee flavor with chips of dark chocolate.  The Creamery also has sugar free and gluten free ice creams.  All homemade using local ingredients, fresh milk, cream.  We ate our ice creams in a most relaxed atmosphere; by the water with not a care in the world.

img_6657

img_6662

Soon we were back on the ferry again.  I had to get back to Delaware.  Seeing Tita was great.  Friends are priceless!!

 

Note:  Oxford’s 1st Nautical Festival and Flea Market will be Saturday, September 3rd from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at Causeway Park.  It is free and open to the public.  Please, also note, that The Treasure Chest will have a table selling brand new Oxford t-shirts (short and long sleeves) and Oxford sweatshirts (crews and hoodies).  The Treasure Chest will also be open at their location.

 

From The Treasure Chest, Oxford, Maryland

From The Treasure Chest, Oxford, Maryland

See you and have a good one!!  Talk to you later…

Comments Off on Road Trip, St. Michael’s, The Crab Claw, The Bellevue-Oxford Ferry,The Treasure Chest, Oxford, The Creamery, Maryland’s Eastern Shore…A Reunion and the Perfect Get-Away

September 1st, 2011

Jake’s Wayback Burgers, Rehoboth Beach, Restaurant, New Burger Joint at the Beach, Delaware Beaches….”Best Burgers under Bun”

 

img_6955

Lately I have had this love affair with burgers.  It is part of the summertime grub.  A new “burger joint” has just opened in Rehoboth Beach.  It is the perfect location because it has plenty of parking.  So, Michael and I decided to check it out and taste it ourselves.

Jake’s Wayback Burgers is located at 19324 Lighthouse Plaza.  Very visible from Rt. 1, which is the main route in and out of the beaches.  Their website is www.waybackburgers.com.  In it you can check out their menu.  You can even order from your nearest location and once your order is completed you can pick it up.

img_6946

Jake’s Wayback Burgers first opened in 1991. Here, in Rehoboth Beach, they opened a few days ago. Their hours of operation are 11:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m.

Every month they will be featuring their “burger of the month”, as well as the “shake of the month”.

So, for having just opened, we were surprised that there was a line at the register.  We thought we would be the first ones to discover them.

img_6947

I decided to order one of their signature burgers which was the Big Jake’s Cheeseburger with all the trimmings.  I also added their in house made potato chips.

They asked for our names; our order would be brought to our table.

My burger was big, juicy and perfectly cooked.  I like my burgers medium, but you can request them to be cooked whichever way you want to.  The chips were light, not greasy and so warm.  Very good.

img_6951

img_6953

Courtesy of the restaurant, we were brought some of their French fries.  They were crispy and tasty.

img_6954

Michael had a junior burger which was, actually, a very good size as well.  But, when I tasted his malted milkshake I died.  It really was so good.  Just a taste is all I had.  I wanted some more; no way.  I already knew I would be paying for getting one of their bigger burgers.  I had to order it, in order to write this post.  You know how it is.

img_6950

The term “wayback” came to mind as in way back when.  The milkshake was served in those old fashioned containers used when I was growing up..  And, it was thick, creamy and cold.

Jake’s Wayback Burgers also has turkey burgers, marinated chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, salads and specialty sandwiches.  The majority of the customers were ordering the burgers, though.

It is great to have more choices at the Beaches.  We welcome them and wish them much success.

 Note:  You can find them on Facebook and Twitter as Waybackburgers.

Have a great day!!…Talk to you later….

Comments Off on Jake’s Wayback Burgers, Rehoboth Beach, Restaurant, New Burger Joint at the Beach, Delaware Beaches….”Best Burgers under Bun”

Search the Archives