October 31st, 2011
“Glassblowing is a glassforming technique that involves inflating molten glass into a bubble, or parison, with the aid of a blow pipe, or blow tube.” It was invented by the Phoenicians at approximately 50 BC. A person who blows glass is called a glassblower, glassmith, or gaffer.
I spent so many years going to Berlin that it seemed like a second home to me. Since those days the town has so many more stores and an artist village has emerged. Just like in Rehoboth, Bethany and Lewes, the shopkeepers of Historic downtown Berlin are friendly and a joy to talk to.
I cannot draw, paint, or sculpt; I am in awe of anyone that can express him or herself in such a way. There must be sensitivity that I do not pocess.
So, there I was in front of Jeffrey Auxer Designs, located at 19 Jefferson St., Berlin, MD 21811. Tel. 443-513-4210. Website? www.jeffreyauxer.com.
The building was pretty neat. It looked like it had been a garage at some point, but I am not sure. The Gallery was not very big; just perfect. As you come in be prepared for a burst of color. You will smile; you can’t help it.
Slowly take it all in. Check the pieces because each has been individually hand blown. A work of art by Jeff, who I found to be reserved but friendly. I also met Adam the first time I visited.
Jeff is a local guy, having graduated from Stephen Decatur, Berlin, Maryland, and then attended Salisbury University. In business for more than several years.
In his studio you will find home decor, lighting, vessel sinks, hanging platters, centerpiece bowls, vases, jewelry and many other items for gifts, or for your own personal indulgence.
 Sink 
I asked Jeff what pieces he liked the most. He mentioned the lamps. They truly are works of art and very unique.
 
In the middle of the Gallery there was a case with golf putters. He can customize them with pretty much any sport’s team. They are $125. You would have to call him to the above telephone number and tell him if you are right or left handed and tell him what logo you would like.
Jeff is also making jewelry. Loved the ring holders.
On Friday, November 2nd, his Studio will participate in the 2nd Friday Art Stroll. This is an event that takes place the 2nd Friday of every month from 5-8 p.m. Shops and galleries in Historic Berlin open late to give the visitors a time to get to know them better.
From November 12th until December 17th – Saturdays, there will be a hand blown glass ornament making class. $15/ornament. Ages 4 to……Just call the Studio at 443-513-4210 to reserve your spot.
Glass Blowing Classes are held every other week-end, as well. Just call the number above mentioned for class times and pricing.
A Party Experience – Bring your party to the Studio. Make a paperweight for $75. All info. regarding this unique experience can be found by visiting www.jeffreyauxer.com.
So, to my friends in Rehoboth and Lewes I just want to let you know that it only takes about 45 minutes or so to get to Berlin. Not a bad drive.
From Ocean City is just 10 or 15 minutes and from Salisbury, it only takes about 25 minutes.
I really enjoyed it…..more to come from Berlin…as I was strolling through the town…
Note: Some info. for this post was taken from Wikipedia.
October 30th, 2011
It started with a beautiful day; thank God. We deserved it, after the “witchy” weather we had yesterday.
Even my trees suddenly started changing their leaves. But, on my mind was that much awaited dog parade that is the highlight of the Sea Witch Festival; in my mind and the minds of many others, as well.
Rehoboth looked good. It did not even look like it had rained. The ocean was a little wild; not much, though.
I almost could not find parking. It was like a summer day minus 60 degrees.
Even though it was a dog parade, their human counterparts were also dressed.
 Pirates looking out to sea 
Here are some of the pictures of the Monsters on Parade:
 
 
There were so many dogs….some decided that a parade was not so cool, afterall and maybe a swim was the thing to do.
Then, there was the dog parade crasher; a Bunny!!
And, there was the company, a poop patrol, that wanted to remind you that if you cannot pick up your dog’s poop…..they will do it for you, at a price, of course.
On that note….have a good one!! Talk to you later….
October 30th, 2011
The word “curry” is an anglicised version of the “Tamil” word “kari”, which means sauce.
Tamil is the official language of Sri Lanka and Singapore. It is also one of the 22 languages of India. In 2004 it was declared “a classical language” by the Indian government.
I have had this recipe for a long time; courtesy of my mother in law, Louise, who is an accomplished cook. You know how I am, I change recipes all the time and this one is one that is probably going to be changed by anyone that makes it.
From mild to spicy, there are so many types of curry. I am sure you will find the one you’ll love.
I have bought loose curry powder from Indian shops and to me those are the best. Otherwise, I just buy directly from my grocery store. The one bought at your favorite grocery store is yellow in color and that comes from ground turmeric and ground coriander seed. Other ground spices like chilies, cloves, black pepper, ginger, cinnamon, mustard, fennel seeds, cardamon are included in the mix.
What I love about curry is that is so colorful. The condiments adding a specific taste to each bite.
The other night I was in the mood for this “comfort” food. If you like curry, this will be easy for you to make. And, if you don’t , then you might have to skip this post.
Chicken Curry
4 cups cooked chicken, cut into bite size pieces
1 cup chicken broth (I used low sodium)
5 tablespoons of margarine or butter
1/2 cup minced onion
5 tablespoons flour (I used a gluten free flour)
3 tablespoons curry powder (hot or mild and a bit more, if you want to)
1 1/4 teaspoons salt (optional, but not for me)
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Melt butter in a large pot. Add onions and simmer a minute or two.
Stir in flour, curry powder, salt, pepper, ginger and sugar. Slowly stir in chicken broth and milk. Cook slowly, stiring until thickened.
Stir in the chicken. Heat it up slowly, again. Then, keep it on low while you assemble the condiments.
Basically, the condiments could be anything you have in the kitchen: chopped peanuts, raisins, sliced bananas, mango, chopped eggs, chopped sweet pickle, currants.
I chose pineapple chunks which I grilled on the stove. I love coconut with curry, so I spreaded shredded coconut on a cookie sheet and browned it in a 350 degree oven. Just watch it; you don’t want it to burn. Crumbled bacon, love the combination with the rest of the condiments. Raisins and dried cranberries, tomato chunks, and chopped onions. My favorite condiment? Mango chutney.
Even though any long grain rice will do; the best would be an aromatic rice.
Serve the curry on the rice and pass the condiments around.
Note: Even though I used chicken, you can make this dish with 2 to 3 lbs. of shrimp and adjust accordingly.
Also, some info. for this post was taken from Wikipedia.
Enjoy!! Make it your own and…. Have a good day!! Talk to you later…
October 29th, 2011
You only have to look out the window to see that the parades, at the Delaware Beaches, have been rained on today. Don’t let that nor’easter dampen your spirits. The first Wags, Witches & Warlocks Parade to be held in Bethany Beach has been rescheduled for Sunday at 11:00 a.m.
Can you imagine? You will be in Bethany without having to pay the meters. Park wherever you want and enjoy this beautiful coastal town, also known as the Quiet Resort.
As I was driving by yesterday afternoon, I noticed the thickening clouds. I had to stop, first to take the picture and then I noticed a person working on the bushes, winter pansies and new perennial plantings right by the ever present Chief Little Owl.
I finally got to meet Melinda. She is the person responsible for the beautification of Bethany Beach. As the seasons change, so are her plantings. I told her how gorgeous everything always looks. That I hoped people gave her credit. She said people do.
 New perennials.  Winter pansies
That was it…she got on her truck and off she went….this is my post too…see you later…
October 29th, 2011
For the first time in its 22 years the Sea Witch Festival had to cancel the Costume Parade. Due to the high winds and rain conditions, it was going to be unsafe. Another decision? It will not be rescheduled.
Nevertheless, even though the Parade is one of the main attractions, the Sea Witch Festival has grown so much that there will be plenty of other activities to be enjoyed throughout Saturday and Sunday.
Please visit www.seawitchfestival.com. You may also call 800-441-1329, ext. O or 302-227-6446.
You may also tune to WGMD 92.7 FM or call 302-227-6446 or 302-227-2233, ext. O.
Free Shuttle Service by Jolly Trolley between the Outlet Bus Stops, Park & Ride and Downtown, from 1 to 7:00 p.m.
Have a good day!!
October 27th, 2011
It has been a long time since those days when “fire protection consisted of leather buckets and a town bell to alert citizens of a fire in the community”.
Tonight, Thursday, October 27th, if you are planning to dine out, please consider going to the Wharf Restaurant, located at 7 Anglers Rd. in Lewes, right there by the bridge.
It is a Fundraising Event for the Lewes Fire Dept./Station 82. 10% of all food proceeds will be donated to the Lewes Fire Dept. It is a great cause. The Fire Dept. is there when you need them the most.
Just go and have something to eat, but, make sure you tell your server that you are there in support of the Lewes Fire Dept. Thanks!!
Friday and Saturday – October 28th and October 29th from 6 to 8:30 p.m. and Sunday, October 30th from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
It is the 23rd Annual Children’s Fantasy Trail at the Cape Henlopen State Park. Follow the signs as you enter the Park. Trick or Treat for candy and toys with your favorite storybook characters on their Jack o’ Lantern lined trail.
Enjoy entertainment such as singing, juggling, magic, and so much more. It will be great fun under the Tent each evening.
$5 per person; children and adults. More info? Call 302-645-6852 or visit www.destateparks.com.
Saturday and Sunday, October 29th and 30th – Halloween with the Alpacas. It is the first event for this farm located at 17219 Sweetbriar Rd., Lewes. It will be from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
I visited this farm just recently. If you would like to see pictures and read my post, please click on the month of October, on the left hand side of my website, and scroll down to the 19th.
There will be trick or treats, spinning, dying and just plain fun. Check them out.
There is not date for this one. I think it is pretty much available all the time; more so in the summer. At present, just ask to see if they have all the ingredients.
Lewes is the home of Agave. It is a really good Mexican Restaurant, right on 137 2nd St. Tel. 302-645-1232.
I was there on Tuesday and one of my fellow diners ordered an Avocado Martini. Caramba!! I thought. Well when it came, I thought it looked beautiful. Apparently, the avocado is strained to get the juice then, lime, cilantro and vodka!! I found that the taste was clean, refreshing and light. That’s not salt on the rim; it is sugar!!
Hey….talk to you later…have a great day!!
 At Cape Henlopen State Park, just relaxing and eating
October 25th, 2011
The Rehoboth Beach Museum and the Rehoboth Beach Historical Society have one home; The Old Ice House, in Rehoboth Beach. Both are a starting point to better know this seaside community. It is a great place to dive into its local history. Afterall, this is the Nation’s Summer Capital.
The location? 511 Rehoboth Avenue, right by the roundabout, and next to the Rehoboth Beach Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Center. Tel. 302-227-7310. Website? www.rehobothbeachmuseum.org.
Rehoboth Beach is a year-round resort. I was just telling a couple of ladies that were having dinner last night at the Blue Moon, how different it was when we came to the area in the mid-1970s. After Labor Day, the scene was completely, shall we say, subdued. When I mention in my posts the “Second Season”, this season is just those months of mid January until March. The rest of the time? Well, it is quite a busy town.
The Rehoboth Beach Museum and the Historical Society deserve their own post; just check out what’s in store for you if you are visiting.
Wednesday, 10/26 – Surf Board Shaper’s Forum at 6:00 p.m. – Ever wanted to know what goes into the making of a surfboard? Did you know that many boards used in the 60s and 70s were not mass produced and some were even made right here in Delaware? Some boards are still made here today. Come and join members and friends as they explore the making of surfboards throughout history and the surfboard shaping scene going on right now. Meet some folks who are making and decorating boards in Delaware. You will also get to see the latest exhibit: Skimming the Surface.
Light refreshments will be served. Free for members. $5 donation for non-members. Questions? Please call 302-227-7310 or visit www.rehobothbeachmuseum.org.
Friday, 10/28 – Jolly Trolley Teams with Museum and Bake Shoppe for Sea Witch Treat – The start of the Sea Witch week-end could give you the opportunity to take a “Magical History Tour” on Friday at 10:00 a.m.
Meet at The Rehoboth Library at 226 Rehoboth Avenue at 10 for a 40 minute trolley tour of historic sites around the downtown area. The cost is $10.
Stop into the Bake Shoppe at 222 Rehoboth Ave., for a special treat at a special price and bring it with you on the tour. Sites seen from the Trolley will include the Boardwalk, the Anna Hazzard Tent House, historic businesses and the Rehoboth Beach Museum.
The Jolly Trolley originated in 1970. A group of “jolly” locals wanted to create a vehicle that would share the sights, smells, colors and characteristics of the Rehoboth Beach/Dewey Beach resort area with visitors and locals.
The Rehoboth Beach Museum was opened in 2007. On November 1st, the Museum will start its winter schedule, closing on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
For more info. on this tour, please call Jolly Trolley at 302-227-1197 or the Museum at 302-227-7310.
 Skip Savage outside Surf Shop East Wednesday, 11/2 – Surf Movie Double Feature – At the Movies at Midway ‘s upstairs screening room, starting at 6 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. This event is free for members of the Rehoboth Beach Historical Society. For others? Just $5. Please call to reserve your spot at 302-227-7310.
The Historical Society is the sponsor of these two short films. “Waves of Reflection is a tribute to the world of surfing here in Delaware during the 60s and 70s. George Pittman and Bill Wise, pioneers of Delaware surfing, are featured along with regional surfers and East Coast Hall of Fame surfer Skip Savage. After a short break, “Surfing at Summer’s End” another tribute to regional surfing that features Skil Johnson and Roxie Houston Brown and others. Both films show classic home movies of surfers and commentaries from the people that made the surf scene so much fun.
Saturday, 11/5 – Tastes of International Wines & Cheeses – 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. An evening of tastes of wines and cheeses from Italy, Argentina, New Zealand, and the United States.
Local businesses are helping to transform the Museum into an international center of flavors. Works of art with an international flair from local artists will be available for sale. Music from the countries represented and decorations will be part of this event.
I don’t know if you knew that Rehoboth Beach was founded by the Methodists for the purpose of holding camp meetings in the late 1800’s. Later, after the camp meetings ended, there were a number of families who came from far away places and who started businesses in the city. Germans, Greeks, Russians and Italian families whose businesses helped make the city a vibrant, bustling destination for summer visitors.
So, this is a celebration of the city’s international connections with a tasting of wines and cheeses from around the world.
Proceeds from this event will be for the children’s educational room at the museum. Tickets are $40 per person, or $75 per couple. More info? Please call 302-227-7310 to make a reservation by phone with a credit card.
Saturday, 11/19 – Fall Luncheon featuring a Lecture on Delaware’s Role in the War of 1812 and Preservation Award. The public is invited for its annual Fall Luncheon. The featured guest will be Dr. Charles Fithian, Curator of Archaeology for the State of Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs. The title of his lecture is “The Honour of the State has not been tarnished”: Delaware in the War of 1812.
Dr. Charles Fithian has directed the research, conservation and curation efforts of the H.M. DeBraak shipwreck project and was a consultant to the director of the naval historical film Master and Commander. Prior to working with the State of Delaware, he had several key positions with Historic St. Mary’s City, Maryland.
The Society will also present the annual Preservation Award to an individual for outstanding work in preserving the cultural assets of Rehoboth Beach.
The luncheon will be held at The Captains Table, 3206 Highway One (Rt. 1), Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. A cash bar will be available at 11:00 a.m. Lunch will be served at Noon. The cost is $25 for members and $30 for non-members. Please call 302-227-7310 to register by phone with a credit card and to make your meal selection. Or, you can stop by the Rehoboth Beach Museum and fill out a reservation form.
Your choices? Crabcake, One-half Baked Chicken with gravy and mashed potatoes, or, Meatloaf with mashed potatoes. All meals include salad and dessert, coffee, tea, or soft drink. Please make your reservations by November 16th.
Have a great Autum Day!!!! Talk to you later…
October 24th, 2011
The beginning of November marks that time of the year when the “snowbirds” are either getting restless or too cold. I know some of them that are already there and some that already have their date on their schedule.
Delray Beach, is that Village by the Sea that has had 2 designations as “All American City”. It is the only city in Florida to have won it twice. They have so many activities and events year-round. But, they really step it up more than a few notches when the season kicks in.
Already more events and activities are found. Here a some, if you happen to be in Delray Beach or in Palm Beach County.
Delray opened this year their new bed and breakfast; the Historic Hartman House located at 302 NE 7th Ave. If you are looking for a place to stay, check them out. Website? www.delraybeachbedandbreakfast.com. They are a great addition to the Delray community and are already immersed in this unique coastal town.
Delray has the beaches, the restaurants, the shops, and plenty of roadway for exercising. At times, if you want to get away from it all, you can catch a cruise, right there on Atlantic Avenue and the Intracoastal.
Delray Yatch Cruises has a schedule, including menus that can be accessed by visiting www.delraybeachcruises.com. You can also call them for reservations or questions at 561-243-0686.
There is a Sunday Brunch Cruise that leaves at 10:30 a.m. going northbound. That part of the intracoastal is beautiful and quite wide at different spots.
If you are going to be in Delray during Thanksgiving, check their schedule since they will be having special Thanksgiving Day Cruises and Dinner Cruises. Being that it is a holiday, you should make the reservations way ahead of time.
Cruising on the intracoastal from Delray Beach started in 2003. One of their yatchs, the Lady Atlantic, was designed for South Florida’s Intracoastal Waterways.
Friday, 10/28 – It is the 14th Annual Pineapple Grove Bed Race in the Art District of Delray; Pineapple Grove, at NE 2nd Ave. at Atlantic Ave. The race will be f rom 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
A new addition this year will be the Beer Tent and the popular Food Trucks.
The Bed Race will be followed by a free concert from “Hard Liquor” on the Old School Square Pavilion. “Hard Liquor” is a high energy South Florida band whose genre is Classic and Hard Rock. They play popular rock songs from the 60s until today.
What can I say? Some of the teams have been doing this race every year. If you have a favorite, well, by all means go and be a cheerleader!!
Friday, Saturday, Sunday, 10/28-10/30 – Haunted Halls of Horror at the Delray Beach Community Center located at 50 NW 1st Avenue. It is presented by Hugs Not Drugs in conjuction with Delray Beach Parks and Recreation.
Friday and Saturday from 7 p.m. until 11 p.m. with last ticket to be purchased by 10:30 p.m.
Sunday from 7 p.m. until 10 p.m. with last ticket to be purchased by 9:30 p.m.
$10 per person. Family Fun from ages 8 to 80 years old.
This is a spine tingling charity event. It is an interactive walk through a haunted house with thrills and chills around every single corner.
More info? Check out the website www.hauntedhallsofhorror.com. Or, call 561-585-7771.
Saturday, 10/29 – Kidsfest of Delray & Halloween Festivities in Downtown Delray Beach at Atlantic Avenue, starting at 11:30 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.
11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. – Trick or Treat along the Avenue (between Swinton and the Intracoastal).
1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. – Halloween Parade – Line up at Old School Square at 1:00 p.m. Parade starts at 1:30 p.m. and marches through Atlantic Ave. to Veterans Park (right by the Intracoastal). More info? Call 561-279-1380 x17.
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Kidsfest of Delray at Veterans Park. A free family event. Live entertainment. More info? Call 561-243-7277 or e-mail Beardsley@mydelraybeach.com.
Another place that I enjoy when I want to get from it all is the Morikami and Japanese Gardens. Believe me they are so peaceful.
The gardens are “an invitation to stop momentarily and ponder anew what we are, where we have been, and where we are heading”.
The address is 400 Morikami Park Rd., Delray Beach, Florida. Website? www.morikami.org. Tel. 561-495-0233.
From Delray Beach you can go west on Atlantic Ave., turn left on Jog Road and head south for a bit and you will see the entrance on the right hand side. It is also the entrance for the Orchid Society.
The Park honors the Yamato Colony, a farming settlement of the early 1900s. It also celebrates the living Japanese culture.
My favorite garden is the Karesansui Late Rock Garden. Karesansui means “dry landscape”. In this style of garden, the rocks were arranged in a bed of raked gravel, while plants took a secondary role.
As the weather gets more comfortable in South Florida, these gardens are a great place to relax.
I hope you take advantage of some of these activities and events. Delray Beach, that little Village by the Sea, is also full of restaurants. I like a lot of them and I do have my favorites. I have written about them in the past, and just like I do at the Delaware Beaches, I will visit them again…you never know what unique dish will be on their menu….AboutMyBeaches…yes this is one of my favorite beaches, as well.
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