December 23rd, 2011
Out and about in the historic town of Lewes with my friend Jody. Just a few hours to catch up before Christmas and New Year’s keep everyone wrapping, cooking and entertaining.
Living in a small coastal town is, to me, perfect at this time of the year. I don’t have to be looking for my car lost in a big parking lot in a mall. Local shops have everything my family and friends would want.
Lewes is beautiful any time of the year. Christmas has an appeal on this historic town. It is the first town of the first state. It has great restaurants, friendly residents, and wonderful shops.
For example, take the house where the Lewes Historical Society Museum Shop is located. Right on the corner of Second and Mulberry Streets. Ryves Holt was probably born in 1696 and died in 1763. He lived in that house. He was the Chief Justice of Three Lower Counties on Delaware from 1745 until 1763. He was a Member of the Assembly and Speaker of the Assembly, as well.
The building is so beautiful in its simplicity. Definitely, a post for the future.
The Lewes Historical Society has tours year round. For more information, please visit www.historiclewes.org.
Continuing our strolling we ended up at The Cottage, which is located at 142 Second St., Tel. 302-644-1544. Its owner is Sally Lawton. The store has wonderful gifts. It was described as “a vintage gift boutique”. Another description would be “where past and present meet”.
I picked up a few last minute gifts. I loved the wine stopper. Bought it for nobody in particular. Thought it would be fun to attach it to a nice bottle of wine. The candle smelled so good, I got it for a friend. Then, a customer was raving about the Fleurs Du Jour Rice Body Powder. She said she buys it for herself and friends. It smelled delicious; talc free, soothing and moisturizing. Of course, I got it. I think I will put it under the tree. It said that it would revitalize my skin and lift my spirits, as well.
The Cottage will be closing at the end of the day today, Friday the 23rd. They will be reopening in February. At that time the store would have expanded to the next space, and a post will be more in depth then. Please note: Sales are on-going today.
If you have little ones that might want to say hello to Santa. Well, today is also the last day to do so in Lewes. Right on Second Street, Santa’s House can be found. He will be there from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.
Walking through Main Street Jody and I met Lizzy, who was walking and shopping with her Springer Spaniel. Lizzy has a business and I am passing you the info. She is a licensed and insured property manager. Her business is Leave it All to Lizzy. She is a one person “does it all”. Home and office organization, event planning, house cleaning, rental preparation, linen service, grocery shopping, personal shopping vacation home opening/closing, holiday decorating, reservations and 48 hour move-ins. For more info. please e-mail leaveitalltolizzy@gmail.com or call 302-841-0917.
Chatting away…then we noticed the mini BMW with the tiniest of Christmas tree on top….so cute I had to take the picture.
We did have a late lunch….the post in a few hours…..
Merry Christmas!!
December 22nd, 2011
Some wanted chicken breasts and other wanted chicken thighs; everyone got what they wanted. This recipe comes courtesy of the Barefoot Contessa. Her recipes are so easy and always delicious.
I made it my own, as I usually do. A combination of chicken parts; a little bit of this and not too much of that.
Lemon Chicken
1/2 cup of olive oil
5 or 6 tablespoons of minced garlic
2/3 cup of dry white wine
4 tablespoons grated lemon zest
6 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
3 teaspoons of dried oregano
2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme leaves
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
chicken (I got a combination; 4 breasts with ribs and skin and 4 thighs)
2 lemons
Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees.
Warm the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, add the garlic, and cook for just 1 minute, but do not allow the garlic to brown.
Take it off the heat and add the white wine, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, thyme and 1 teaspoon salt (optional). Pour into a baking dish.
Pat the chicken dry and place them skin side up over the sauce. Brush the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle them liberally with salt and pepper. Cut the lemons in wedges and tuck them among the pieces of chicken.
Bake for 1 hour, depending on the size of the chicken breasts, until the chicken is done and the skin has browned. Baste it a few times while cooking. If the chicken has not brown enough, put it under the broiler for a few minutes, which is what I did.
Serve the chicken with a vegetable. I chose sauteed spinach. Rice with toasted pine nuts is a great addition. Make sure you serve plenty of pan juices.
Note: To toast the pine nuts just place them on a low heat, dry skillet; watch it so they don’t burn.
All you have to do is enjoy it. This dish looks good, it is so easy, and perfect for a large crowd.
December 21st, 2011
Warm in Rehoboth Beach. I like it that way, even though at this time of the year I really do like winter to show its face for the holidays.
Rehoboth is known for its good restaurants; great chefs introducing their innovative cuisine is what a lot of foodies in the area want to experience.
Delray Beach, Florida is known also for its restaurants. One after another you will find them on Atlantic Avenue, which is “Main Street”. Italian, Japanese, American, French, and Latin.
Years ago another street was introduced in Delray Beach. The street is NE 2nd Ave. This is known as Pineapple Grove, due to the produce that was grown in years past. It looked, at the time, that it would end up being an extension of Atlantic Ave.
Well, it has turned out to be one of the hippest parts of town; sidewalks are lined with art, sculptures, bookstores, eateries; downtown living at its best. The residents of Pineapple Grove have everything accessible to them, including gyms and postal service. Oh, and don’t forget that they are pretty close to the beach, as well; a bike ride or a short drive.
 Early Sunday a.m. One thing that Delray Beach has taken to the next level is the availability to dine “al fresco”. A temperate climate in South Florida is so conducive for this type of dining. In Delray you might find yourselves dining right on the sidewalk or in some private garden, as well. The sidewalks are wide enough to let the pedestrian activity run smoothly.
Brule Bistro is located at 200 NE 2nd Ave., Suite 109, Delray Beach, FL 33444. It is right on City Walk which has retail on the bottom. Tel. 561-274-2046. Website? http://www.brulebistro.com.
This past summer I went on a hot day and thought it was delicious. Again, just a few weeks ago, it was the choice for my son and I on a perfect day in the Village by the Sea.
Brule has a casual atmosphere. The bistro is known for its extensive collection of wines. It has take out; no reservations, though. It opens early and closes late. The website has a full menu for you to check out. And, specials every day.
The staff was friendly and knew the menu well. There was an excitement as I asked my server what the dish that he had just served to another table was. I ordered that lunch special of salmon over roasted beets. It was considered a salad and I did not want it to end.
I first started with a Chilled Gazpacho with a yogurt creme. The gazpacho was homemade, no canned tomato juice there.
Then came that salmon over the roasted beet salad. I usually write down what I am eating but it the excitement of it all, I forgot. At least, the photo says it all.
My son started with a Shrimp Ceviche in a citrus and chili marinade, served with avocado and the thinnest of warm house chips.
Then an order of their Brule Club with roasted turkey, bacon, arugula, tomato, avocado, Asiago and pesto aioli on a multigrain bread. It was a handsome portion, perfectly displayed. Gone in not time.
 
No desserts for us….we were perfectly happy.
If you are in the Village by the Sea….check it out and let me know what you think. You can write to me to the blog or visit AboutMyBeaches on Facebook.
December 19th, 2011
I sat at my computer; ready to write the post on Something Comfortable. Should I start with some funny quote about “underwear”, or should I get down to business. Down to business I chose.
There is nothing better than the feel of intimate apparel. We women do love that. And, there is nothing worse than an ill fitting bra or let’s be honest; underwear is tops. Call it thongs, hanky panky, etc. etc. If it does not fit, you must get relief.
 Hanky Panky Thongs That’s when you visit a store like Something Comfortable. It is going to be almost a year since they moved to their present location at 122 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. Tel. 302-227-6180. Website? www.something-comfortable.com. On Facebook? You better believe it, just like everyone else, including AboutMyBeaches.
Granted, good quality underwear is expensive. Almost like you get what you pay for. At Something Comfortable you will find a wide range of prices and brands, as well. In their website you will see the brands that are currently in the store. You might find yours but it is always fun to try something new too. Some of these are P.J. Salvage, Bamboo Nights, Betsey Johnson, P.J. Harlow Dreamwear, Oscar de la Renta, among many others.
A FAQ page will answer practically every question regarding, bras, care and fitting.
I, actually, came to the store to find a present for my sister in law, besides the Chia Pet I am giving her for Christmas. Phyllis was as welcoming as ever. I have not seen her in such a long time. She has been working for Sue Petty, who is the owner of Something Comfortable, for quite awhile. Phyllis is a fitting professional. I also met Carol who is working at the store, as well.
 
You can call Something Comfortable for a customized fitting appt. Phyllis will guide you and make suggestions. Something you might not thought about will probably look and feel great. You can also just walk in and have a fitting in no time.
I found such a beautiful robe for my sister in law. She had given me a hint. You know how it is. In the process, I also bought a few things for myself. I bought something from Verena Designs which is from High Point, N.C. Made in the U.S. That’s what I am talking about. Women do love to buy and get intimate apparel.
Sitting by the fire on Christmas morning wearing new pj’s, loungewear, or whatever your choice might be, is really nice. I already wore mine, but cannot wait to see when Susie, my sister in law, feels her robe.
Guys, do not despair. The store has about 3 shelves for you. That’s all you need, right? Tommy Bahama boxers, that’s it!! Different colors and styles. Don’t be embarrassed; just go in.
 
Contour bras are expensive and traveling might cause them to lose their shape. At Something Comfortable they have the bra bags. Again, in different sizes with plenty of protection.
So many of my friends are planning weddings, at the moment. A bridal party is welcomed to shop at Something Comfortable. Just call them up and make an appt.
 
For the bride they have so many beautiful things; for the honeymoon and every day during that special time.
 
Wish Lists can be set up through their website; either for a bride, an event or for yourself.
So, if you have been thinking of updating your intimate apparel, this is the place to go. So many colors, varieties, sizes, for every day or for a special occasion.
And last but not least; there is always Spanx. Shapeware, a must for this time of the year and they do have different amounts of compression, if you get my drift.
I had a lot of fun talking to Phyllis and Carol….The store is complete full; so many choices, and quite a store, it is.
 Naughty, or, Nice? Talk to you later….have a good one!!
December 18th, 2011
The last time I was in Delray Beach, I took off walking late in the afternoon, just before dusk. It comes to mind today as I wake up in Rehoboth Beach on a cold morning. Thinking that walkers are already out and about in Delray enjoying some warm weather. It is a great town for walking, biking or jogging.
I have mentioned before what a beautiful beach Delray has. Walking on A1A you can get a full view, and on a pretty day it just breathtaking.
The entrance to someone’s house or patio always attracts my attention; the beautiful and colorful bougainvilleas are one of my favorites.
Another favorite of mine are the seagrapes. I noticed they were getting ready. The darker, the sweeter they are.
Then I was at the intersection of A1A and Atlantic Avenue. This is a major intersection for this town. The ocean on your left and heading west on Atlantic to all the shops and restaurants. I found it so odd that it was so quiet.
I then took a left on Gleason, when the church that I had seen so many times caught my attention. I don’t know if it was that time in the late afternoon, or that the moon had shown its face. It was so pretty. I took its picture.
I did not go in but I have a feeling that is was probably closed. Long gone are the days where churches stayed open 24/7.
The Church is very interesting and I have made a mental note to stop by the next time I find myself in town.
“In 1924, a local Baptist congregation built a new sanctuary where the Church is now located. It was the only one built on the Delray Beach barrier island; considered by many to be one of the most beautiful in the city. The architect was F. J. Schrader. He was also the builder and financial underwriter. His inspiration? A church in Florence, Italy. This church was less ornate, though.
Mr. Schrader, and a small crew consisting of a carpenter, a plumber and an electrician faced the difficult task of building the church’s large cypress trusses. At the time, it was said this was the most Floridian of all churches in Florida.
Originally, it was called the Gibson Memorial Baptist Church. After the real estate crash of 1926 and the hurricanes that followed, the congregation was unable to finish paying Mr. Schrader.
After the 1928 hurricane, local Presbyterians rented the church; then, they bought it.”
In 1977, after a new sanctuary was built, the original church became the Fellowship Hall for the First Presbyterian Church. It is located at 33 Gleason St., Delray Beach, FL 33483. Tel. 561-276-6338. Website? www.firstdelray.com
The new Interim Senior Pastor is Rev. Dr. Lawrence McBride “Mack” Sigmon. Sunday worship is at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.
Saturday, 12/24 – Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship Services will be from 7 p.m. until 8 p.m. and at 9:30 p.m. until 10:30 p.m.
Sunday, 12/25 – Christmas Day Candlelight Worship Services will be from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m.
This church has a historic designation. There are 26 buildings in Delray Beach with such designation due to their age and architectural or historical significance.
Have a beautiful day!!….Talk to you later.
Note: Information for this post was taken from the Historical Marker and from the Church’s website.
December 17th, 2011
Tiramisu is an Italian dessert that uses Ladyfingers dipped in coffee. The layers in between are filled with a mixture of whipped eggs, mascarpone cheese, a little liquor and a sprinkle of cocoa on top.
My goodness, there are so many varieties!! I like the traditional one the best. Some still follow the classics; others have evolved from those methods and have different additions.
For the person that has to eat gluten free, then there is the question of the ladyfingers. No way.
Gluten intolerance or sensitivity is one of the most common conditions at present. Celiac disease is an allergy. Both have to approach food in a very different way. No wheat or its derivatives.
Adhering to a gluten free diet is the only way to go and the only remedy. Once the diet is started the results are amazing; you start feeling so much better; tests results will show that, as well.
The most important thing to know is that it is not a fad diet. People with no gluten issues that follow the gluten free diet do feel better; I do.
Some time ago I found a company called Schar. It is from Europe. Their gluten free products are fantastic. You can find these products at Giant in Rehoboth Beach. I am sure you can also find them in nature stores, as well.
They do make ladyfingers that are gluten free. In the back of the box there was a recipe for Tiramisu. Ha…finally!!
This recipe is so easy. No cooking is necessary. At this time of the year, it can be made ahead of time. Everyone will love it.
Sweet endings; dessert. It is the final chapter of a meal…I love a good ending.
I always change a recipe, making it my own. In the ingredients on the box it said 3 egg yolks. But, in the preparation it said 4 eggs. I figured it was a typo and just used the 3 egg yolks.
Another ingredient I changed a bit was the sugar. Instead of 4 tablespoons, I only used 3.
It said to use rum but I used white wine. There are gluten free rums; I just did not have any in the house.
The glass container could have been a bit larger. I had some of the mascarpone mixture overflowing,
Other than that, it was really good.
Tiramisu
3 egg yolks
3 egg whites
3 tablespoons of sugar
8 ounces mascarpone cheese
2 tablespoons white wine
A whole package of Schar Ladyfingers
1 cup of brewed espresso or coffee
2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
Beat the egg yolks with sugar; then add the mascarpone cheese and the wine.
Beat the egg whites until stiff and carefully fold into the mixture.
Dip ladyfingers in the coffee. Arrange them closely together in a flat glass or ceramic dish.
Cover them with half of the mascarpone mixture, then add another layer of ladyfingers and top with another layer of the mascarpone mixture.
Sprinkle with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 4 – 6 hours.
It makes about 6 servings.
A little tricky cutting it but it is very delicious and light…..well it does have plenty of calories.
Note: Schar’s Ladyfingers are not quite as big as regular ones. If you want to buy 2 packages, do so and add a few more. I just used one package, though.
Have a good one!! Talk to you later. You can find Schar and AboutMyBeaches on Facebook.
December 17th, 2011
I think the experience of visiting Santa right on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk with a backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean is so much better than when I used to take my young ones to a Mall. Plenty of screaming is what I got.
Anyway, this week-end Santa will be at his house and you can bring the kids:
Saturday – 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
Sunday – 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.
Santa wants to meet your pet, as well….just bring him or her to meet Santa, on Sunday…from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.
Sunday, 12/18 – Journey of Promise is a Christmas Concert to be taking place at Epworth United Methodist Church. Soprano, Mary Anne Barcellona-Collins with the Epworth Church Choir and the Safe Habor Presbyterian Choir of Stevensville, MD will perform Joseph M. Martin’s cantata as well as solos from Ms. Barcellona-Collins’ Christmas repertoire. The audience will have the opportunity to participate in a very special Carol Sing-Along.
Address? 19285 Holland Glade Rd., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
The concert is open to the community. A reception will follow. A donation of $15 is suggested.
More info? Please visit http://www.epworth-rehoboth.org.
Have a great week-end!! Talk to you later….chilly isn’t it?
December 17th, 2011
It was another night at the Delaware Beaches, when the inevitable was avoiding the nightly ritual of cooking….
Did you know….that bowing represents humility? You elevate, honor and respect the other person by lowering yourself. A bow should always be returned.
And, did you know that the shredded raddish or daikon is there for a reason? To nibble on between sushi orders. Use chopsticks to eat it. Daikon is also served under sashimi or as an edible side dish.
So here was another night hitting Saketumi instead of cooking. Saketumi is located at 18814 Highway One, Rehoboth Beach. Tel. 302-645-2818. Website? www.saketumirestaurant.com.
As I came in, Kim, who is the Manager, greeted us. We had not seen each other since before Thanksgiving. At that time I told him about the Turduckens from Louisina. Guess what? Not only did Kim ordered one, but he also deep fried it!! He said it was awesome. Another convert ordering from Cajun Grocer.
But, tonight it was all about trying new things. At times I get into a rut; ordering the same old thing.
Tanaka was behind the bar. He is the Main Event. He is such an artist. His preparations do not leave his side until they are just perfectly arranged.
Then, James was there too. He was our server. His suggestions were right on target.
We decided to start with some Sashimi Tapas:
Kampachi – Amber Jack Fish (yellow tail amberjack). A carpaccio with yuzu lime dressing. Yuzu is a citrus fruit from East Asia. Looks like a very small grapefruit. It also has a tart flavor.
This was so delicious. Delicately sliced; almost transparent. The lime dressing adding that citrus taste.
The next one was the Torched Tuna. Also in a carpaccio style with jalapeno, red tobiko, chive, masago cracker, and spicy ponzu sauce. My husband was salivating at the looks of this dish, until Kim said that it had gluten. A sudden long face appeared. Kim immediately said “it’s not very good”. We all laughed. Guess who had the pleasure of eating it? Moi…and I savoured every single sliced.
The Seared White Tuna Tataki with yuzu citrus vinaigrette, with fried shallot, mango salsa and cilantro was another successful tapa. This one, my husband could eat and thought it was very good, as well.
These 3 tapas were light and the perfect appetizer. My favorite was the Kampachi, then the Torched Tuna and then the Seared White Tuna Tataki.
People were coming in and I was getting cold so I ordered a Miso Soup. James asked me if I wanted the clams, as well. I had never had it with the clams and I found that including the clams gave it a different dimension to the soup. I liked it!!
We did not stop there. An order of their Tropical Thunder had a beautiful presentation and had a fantastic taste. Mango, salmon, topped with lobster salad and tobiko (fish eggs).
My husband likes to order a crispy eel sushi; the crispier the better….loved it as well.
I can recommend Saketumi with confidence. I have never been disappointed. They are friendly, the food is fresh with beautiful colors, appealing to all your senses. The service, prompt….and I love the sushi bar. Sitting there lets me converse with the chefs, see the fish and watch their talent.
 Fresh Wasabi Have a good one. Talk to you later…Please remember that AboutMyBeaches has its own Facebook Page…Comment, and discuss any topic…I welcome you.
 
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