September 29th, 2015
For many years I have know Alice Klein…her husband, Bryant, as well. Don’t want him to get jealous. I am a fan like many other of my friends that have come to enjoy Alice’s designs. Always so nice to chat and see what new designs she might be working on.
On this particular day I was so glad to congratulate Alice on her 35th year in the jewelry business. Her designs are so unique and recognizable. In celebration of her 35 years as a desinger she has an exhibit….memory lane shall we say. If you stop to see her, ask her to tell you what her original designs are all about, materials, concepts, etc. etc.
Alice says she draws her inspiration from customers, mentors, and art history.
TKO is open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 100 Garfield Parkway. Tel. 302-539-6992. Website? http://www.alicehklein-tko.com.
TKO offers a wide variety of price ranges…from fun to fine jwelry. Something to complement a casual outfit at the beach or maybe something for that special occasion.
The holidays are around the corner….please note that Alice can reset anything you already have and give it a fresh look.
Have a great day!!
September 25th, 2015
Opening Day for Sunfest in Ocean City, Maryland was Thursday, September 24, 2015. It is ranked the number one arts and crafts festival in the nation!! It was filled with crafts, arts, food and entertainment. Everything for the whole family to enjoy.
Walking on the award-winning boardwalk the visitors were enjoying a beautiful day at the beach.
Passing the ever popular Thrasher’s French Fries, already the line was so long. To tell you the truth I am not such a big fan of them because I like my fries crispy.
Hundreds and hundreds of people were checking out this first day of Sunfest. Apparently, the weather might be a little crazy on Saturday evening, so if you get a change today and tomorrow, please stop by.
The tent we were looking for was the Food Tent and we immediately found it.
One food vendor after another. If you have been at Sunfest before you probably have your favorites.
You can sit down in the many tables available or just stand and use the tall tables as well.
Funnel Cakes anyone?
We decided on some Seafood Bisque with Lace chips!! Perfect combination. They were so light.
Ross decided on pulled chicken and regular just made chips.
Sunfest will be opening Friday and Saturday from 10 1.m. until 10 p.m. and on Sunday from 10 .am. until 6 p.m. During the day you can enjoy the live entertainment completely free, either in their open air venue or inside the tent. In the evening the live entertainment is by ticket holder. Depending on the entertainer you tickets could be as low as $15 to $60. Please visit http://www.ococean.com
 
Stop Mr. Elvis himself, local color in Ocean City for many years. Known to all the residents. Take a photo. He loves it!!
Some of the crafts that caught our attention:
Wire Sculpture by Devin Mack of Drawn Metal Studios.
 
The lady that works with clay. She has been at the festival for years. You can see her working the clay with such minute detail.
The driftwood sailboats and ships were really cute. The company is Art Sea., from Pasadena, Maryland.
The painted ostrich eggs were very detailed. Loved Starry Nights.
This next company’s baking is not your usual. It looked so real, you could taste it…The Fake Baker.
The beautiful Adirondack Chairs, Hinkleys Chair Art….whatever you want, they will paint it.
Grabbing beers and on our way to listen to Skinny Leg Pete. Definitely a party band. Their genre? soul, funk, blues and rock. And, yes, people were dancing.
And then followed by Teenage Rust on the outdoor stage.
Thanks Cindi for inviting me…It was a great time with a BFF.
Have a great week-end!!
September 22nd, 2015
Discovering Reykjavik was a highlight of this summer of 2015. Was not even in my bucket list. That was even better. So surprising to find myself on my way to Iceland. Make sure you take a waterproof jacket because the Icelandic weather is very unpredictable.
The capital city of Reykjavik is so easy to maneuver. You will learn it in not time. You can bike, jog, or stroll. Some years ago Iceland was in financial trouble. They have been recuperating quickly and there is plenty of new buildings going up in this quite modern city.
The Sun Voyayer is a sculpture of a Viking ship located by the ocean on a small peninsula close to the Reykjavik center. It symbolises the Viking past of the Icelanders and an ode to the sun.
The Harpa is at the edge of the Reykjavik Harbour. It is Iceland’s biggest concert hall. It is also used for other cultural events, as well. It opened in 2011. If you get a chance please visit and view the 360 degree Cinematic Experience. That stranger on my photo…no idea who he was.
The Old Harbor. It is the first lasting harbor in Reykjavik. You can find shops and galleries on the eastern pier. Whale watching tours will be leaving for this harbor, as well.
The Einar Jonsson Museum located at Eiriksgata and Freyjugata. Website? http://www.lej.is
Einar Jonsson was Iceland’s first sculptor. His home is part of the museum and is preserved in its original condition. No photos inside were allowed. The museum has about 300 art works spanning a 60 year career. The garden outdoors has about 26 bronze casts. This location is the highest point in Reykjavik.
He drew inspiration from the Icelandic folklore heritage for “Outlaws”. He also used mythological and religious motifs.
I have more to tell you but for now I think this is enough. Maybe some Fish & Chips on the next post from Iceland.
NOTE: From September 24th until October 4th the Reykjavik International Film Festival (RIFF) will be taking place. It will be showing a wide range of dramas and non-fiction films from over 40 countries and is becomming bigger and bigger every year. Please visit http://www.iceland.is.
Talk to you later…Have a good one.
September 19th, 2015
“Because there’s nothing more beautiful than the way the ocean refuses to stop kissing the shoreline, no matter how many times it’s sent away.” sarah kay
Southern Delaware is lined up with beaches. Up and down the different towns you can pick and choose which beach to park yourselves. Just simple pleasures to be able to spend a day at the beach. Each beach has its own personality.
Today was a gorgeous day in Rehoboth Beach. Once again even though we are in the Second Season, the week-ends bring the visitors and it looks like we are back on the summer schedule.
My choide of beach was Whiskey Beach located at the Cape Henlopen State Park on the north side of Rehoboth Beach….also called North Shores. The entry fee is $5 for in-state vehicles or $10 for out of state. If you purchased your parking pass then by all means go right through.
In the 1920s, during Prohibition, this beach was a rendevous for rumrunners. Also it had been a place for soldiers to party while stationed at Ft. Miles up the road with no one to bother them.
I love being near the WWII Towers. They stand guard, as they have always done. These two are on Whiskey Beach but there are six others around the area. These towers were used as artillery spotting locations.
As you can see, you may bring vehicles (with permit) and park right on the beach. Perfect if you want to go surf-fishing.
Today they dolphins were playing in the ocean.
People watching….that’s always fun….a book, and just enjoying this beautiful spot we live in and not taking it for granted.
Awesome weather this summer, for sure!!
September 18th, 2015
“Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.” booker t. washington
With that quote I begin my post by reminding you that Delaware is a Small Wonder with a Big Heart. Fundraising events happen all year round, but it seems that as the Second Season takes hold of all of us living in Southern Delaware, we set records for fundraising. It is incredible the amount of money raised to help others.
I got an invite to a Kick Off Party for the Southern Delaware Wine, Food and Music Festival which will take place on Saturday, October 17th (noon until 4:30 p.m.) at Independence Hall located at 23767 Samuel Adams Circle in Millsboro, Delawared. Even though the address is Millsboro, it is, actually, closer to the beaches.
 
The Kick Off Party took place at (a)Muse on Baltimore Avenue in Downtown Rehoboth Beach, on Thursday, 9/17. My friend, Susan DiMondi came with me to see what all the commotion was all about.
Let me tell you a little about What is Going On…
This event is being billed as the “ultimate wine, food and music event on DelMarVa”. It will be hosted by former Bad Company bassist, now food, wine and music aficionado, Paul Cullen. It will be a fun and refined afternoon of food, beer and wine samplings and pairings, cooking demos, and a great musical line-up.
This is a benefit for Rotary’s Global Polio Eradication Initiative and Lewes-Rehoboth Meals on Wheels.
This is an inaugural SoDelFest. The culinary Theater will host the chef showcases/demos, where you will find Neil Fuentes, The Singing Chef and Food Rewrapped Champion and 5 of our top local chefs including: Hari Cameron, Lion Gardner, Doug Ruley, Ronnie Burkle and Sean Correa.
The festival will also offer wine and food pairings with 13 local restaurants including; Abbot’s Grille, Bluecoast, Seafood Grill, Bramble and Brine, Cultured Pearl, Grandpa 9Mac), JD Shuckers, Lupo’s Italian Kitchen, Michy’s Relaxed Dining, Nage, Palate, Semra’s, Summerhouse and Touch of Italy.
You will be able to experience the Man Cave….don’t worry we are all welcome for cocktails, a raw bar and Cigars! Join Rob Bagle from Bramble & Brine and representatives from Wigle Whiskey, Dad’s Hat, Benromach Scotch, George’s Bloody Mary Mix (a new local favorite from Berline, Maryland) and 16 Mile Brewery. There may just be oyster shooters there!
30 wines will be offered by Teller Wines and the distributors for pairing and additional tastes. Dogfish Head and Mispillion Breweries will be pouring their fall favorites at the bar!
There will be 2 special wine education seminars in the Wine University; Mike Zygmonski (Level II Sommelier, Sodel Concepts) will present a blind tasting and John McDonald (Wine Columnist, Cape Gazette) will present Wine 101 for anyone who wants to learn about the art of Wine Tasting.
General Admission tickets are $75 and there is a VIP upgrade that includes two special tastings at 95+ point wines and exclusive cheeses and a seat on-stage during one of the chef showcases. The press is invited at no charge with advance notice. Please visit http://www.sodelfest.com
Presenting Sponsor: Ocean Atlantic Companies
Major Sponsors: Schell Brothers, Sysco, SoDel Concepts, Coastal Style
Sponsors: Good Clean Fun Life, Sposato Family Vineyards, Active Adult Realty
Event Chair is Stacy LaMotta
Event Coordinator is Carlene Roche
Volunteer Coordinator is Meg Gardner
Arriving at (a)Muse Susan and I were invited to taste some of the wines offered by Sposato. For 6 years the Sposato Family researched, studied and visited South America. In 2012 the family purchased their farm in the heart of Argentina’s wine country, Mendoza.
Based on their 23 years of experience in working with land, soil irrigation and plants, by running their top rated landscape company, Sposato Landscape Co., they saw this as a great opportunity to further their experience in the agriculture industry. The farm was purchased as virgin ground. A new irrigation system, electric and other improvements have been installed with more to come.
The farm is 250 acreas located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains, 3,000 ft. above sea level. Sposato Family Vineyard has some of the best and most popular wineries in Argentina as neighbors. The farm is located between two notable wineries, Bodega Septima and Vina Cobos by Paul Hobbs with more just around the corner.
We tasted 2015 Chardonnay. This fruit focused Chardonnay has an attractive color with aromas of tropical fruit, apples and peaches. Also a 2015 Sauvignon Blanc, from their prize winning high elevation vineyards has aromas of grapefruit, passion fruit, herbs, species and orange blossom notes that are persistent through the finish. The 2013 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon has intense red with blue shades. Another one was their 2013 Reserve Malbec…intense violet color, typical of Argentine Malbec. And the 2014 Malbec had deep purple color, with high intensity of black fruits, raspberries and violets. Please note that you can get the wines in the Rehoboth Beach and Lewes area.
A presentation was given by all of those that are involved and making sure that this will be an unforgettable event.
 Stacy LaMotta, Event Chair  Paul Culen, Host  Lion & Meghan Gardner, Blue Moon  Hari Cameron, (a)Amuse Paul Cullen entertained us while we tasted delicious offerings by Blue Moon, Nage, and (a)Muse.
So what are you waiting for? Call your friends, pass the word, share in social media and get ready to have some fun!!
 
September 15th, 2015
Generating electricity with geothermal energy has increased significantly in recent years in Iceland. For space heating, Iceland is a pioneer in the use of geothermal energy. Geothermal power facilities currently generate 25% of the country’s total electricity production.
Iceland went from what was one of Europe’s poorest countries during the course of the 20th century. They were dependent upon peat and imported coal for its energy. It is now a country with a high standard of living where practically all stationary energy is derived from renewable resources. In 2014, roughly 85% of primary energy use in Iceland came from indigenous renewable resources. Thereof 66% was from geothermal.
Traveling with the Gray Line to see the Geyser….this was the Golden Circle Tour. This part of Iceland is the southwest and it is the warmest part of the island. The most important horse breeders are also in this area, as well.
The Geysir geothermal area is the home of the Geysir, after which all geysers are named. Water blasts out every 4 to 8 minutes. Also there are signs warning visitors not to touch the water. It is 176 degrees to 212 degrees Fahrenheit.
It is called Iceland but in reality it is one of the hottest places on the planet. Volcanic activity still continues to feed hot thermal springs and spray gushing steam from the geysers. You can really smell the sulfur. This smell is due to the minerals that the water brings to the surface as it is heated.
The ultimate goal is to see the explosion…
This Little Geyser does not explode; it just keep bubbling up.
This is a must see when visiting Iceland.
Note: Information for this post was taken from chiff.com, and from nea.is.
September 13th, 2015
In Reykjavik, Iceland, the Hallgrimskirkja Church is one of the most iconic buildings in town. It is visible from almost anywhere in the city. Arriving in the city it was a good way to first stop and check this beautiful church that was designed in 1937. The construction began in 1945 and ended in 1986. It was designed to resemble the basalt lava flows of Iceland’s landscape.
In front of the Church is the statue of Leifur Eriksson, the first European to discover America. Records indicate that he landed on the shores of the New World in the year 1,000 a.d. That’s 500 years before Christopher Columbus.
Churches are places of worship. I always like to stop and give thanks and pray for my family and friends. Churches have heard the cries of those afflicted and the many thanks of those who have received graces.
At the end of this street you can see the church. This whole street in the center of Reykjavik is in rainbow colors for the capital’s annual Pride Festival. Iceland is one of the most progressive countries for LGBTI rights, and voted in the world’s first openly gay head of state. The rainbow will be there until the end of summer.
The church is very modern inside, and it did not exude warmth. The huge pipe organ was designed and constructed by the German organ builder, Johannes Klais of Bonn.
The following painting took me by surprise. Did not see any information about it, but plenty of people were having their photos taken next to it. It was one of those moments when you scratch you head and say “what the heck?”
September 12th, 2015
Arriving in Reykjavik so early in the morning, and, a bit comatosed. All I could think of was when will I be able to hit the pillow. I had the whole day ahead. My son said “Mom, you look tired”. You think? First a little sustenance to keep us going….Did I tell you I met my youngest son there? Yes, I would be in good company for sure. So out from the Alda Hotel we went, stopping at this little comfortable eatery in town.
My son had salmon with rice, sweet potatoes, veggies, salad and sauce.
I decided on the fish stew, which was different from what you would consider a stew to be. So good!! It also came with sweet potatoes, veggies and fruit salad. This is exactly what I needed, more so since we were going on a 6 1/2 hour tour.
Pingvellir National Park is the most important site in Iceland in terms of history, culture, and geology. It is a UNESCO world heritage site. It is home of Iceland’s largest natural lake and the place where the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia split and drift apart.
The property includes Pingvellir Church and adjacent farm.
It is also where the Althing, an open-air assembly representing the whole of Iceland was established in 930 and continued to meet until 1798. Two weeks a year to set laws, seen as a covenant between free men, and settle disputes.
A small hill marked by the Icelandic flag seems to be the location where these meetings took place. A rock outcropping called the Law Rock, or Logberg. The law speaker recited the laws. Public speeches and announcements were also made here.
The rock cliff behind the speaker directed his voice, allowing him to be heard. Laws and legal procedures varied from one Norse land to another. They changed and evolved throughout the Norse period. We know more about law in Iceland during this period than other lands because more was written about it.
Iceland is probably the only place in the world where the effects of two major tectonic plates drifting apart can easily be observed above sea level. The tectonic plates which formed Iceland, are the Eurasian tectonic plate and the North Amrican tectonic plate. We were on the North American tectonic plate and after walking we drove with our tour guide and Gray Line to the other side.
Please note that as the plates move apart, excessive eruptions of lava constructed volcanoes and filled rift valleys. Iceland is the largest island on the ridge because of the additonal volcanism caused by the hot spot beneath the country, which slowly moves towards the northwest. As we were driving back and the end of the evening, we saw orange lights and the guide told us that those were small eruptions which happen all the time.
This national park shows evidence of the way the landscape was over 1,000 years.
Next stop? The Geyser
Note: Information for this post was taken from UNESCO and Icelandic on the Web.
Traveling to Iceland? Do not forget your outerwear. Talk to you later.
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