February 10th, 2015
Walking on Ashford in Condado is a past time for many that are visiting the island of Puerto Rico….plenty of upscales shops, restaurants, and hotels on this very popular Ave. I hear the community is involved in making sure Condado lives up to its name.
Ashford Avenue is within walking distance of beaches and everything else to make your vacation a special one. As a matter of fact Ashford Avenue is parallel to the beach. Taxis, and public transportation can take you to Old San Juan, a city over 500 years old.
The Art Deco Buildings are beautiful and one in particular is the Miami building located at 868 Ashford Avenue and built in 1936. The colors are peach and light blue.
“The Art Deco style represented luxury, glamour, exuberance and faith in social and technological progress.” Bold geometric designs, lavish ornamentation, and colours characterized this style.
Congratulations to San Juan, Puerto Rico since the National Register of Historic Places has recognized 3 iconic hotels and has welcomed them as members. They are the Caribe Hilton San Juan, built in 1949, Condado Plaza Hilton built in 1963 and the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel built in 1919.
The Condado Vanderbilt is located at 1055 Ashford Avenue. http://www.condadovanderbilt.com The style? Mission/Spanish Revival. This is a 5 star hotel, known for luxury and special services. Ballrooms, banquet meetings…the hotel is oceanfront. So, I stopped to check it out with my Puertorican cousins, Sonia, and Margie. Resort wear is the choice for dressing.
The hotel has been updated completely. The marble floors, I believe are the original ones.
 
We stepped into the Vanderbilt Court…here are some of the photos.
Please visit http://www.condadovanderbilt.com/our-story-condado-en.html to learn more about the history of this gorgeous hotel, which is very interesting.
LOCALISTA – Puerto Rico Disena. Location? Condado Vanderbilt Hotel.
A must stop shop for everything designed by independent designers. Local brands and Puertorican designers, promoted by Localista. Website? http://www.puertoricodisena.com. Catching our attention…..
La Mantilla by Marx Rosado is a modular surface that works well as a wood carpet, a flexible parquet, a non-permanent wood flooring or a cover for horizontal and vertical surfaces. It is open modular assembly.
Jewelry by Marcia Budet. You can find Marcia Budet on Facebook as Designer Marcia Budet.
The clutches made in crystal clear acrylic Plexiglass with original photography, I loved. They were made by designer Natalia Subira.
Promoting Puertorican designs, buying local…http://www.puertoricodisena.com/localista-a-design-store.
And then, as you come out of the hotel head over to Ventana al Mar….and forget that is winter at home. Have a good one!!
December 18th, 2014
Savoring the dishes prepared tableside by the area’s top restaurants, shopping beautiful works of art by local artists and artisans….just in time for the Holiday Season, enjoying the soothing sounds of live music, and sipping martinis, beer, and wine.
 Bluecoast All for a good cause. The event was to benefit Children & Families First, an organization that has been in existence since 1884. Focusing on children and families Children & Families First goes the full circle; from helping moms have healthy babies to supporting healthy aging for older adults….and everything in between.
To know about them, and to give a much appreciated donations by the end of the year, please visit http://www.cffde.org. They have locations in Wilmington, Dover, Seaford, and Georgetown.
Two events happen every year in Southern Delaware. The office located at 410 South Bedford Street in Georgetown, Delaware was in charge of putting the 2 events in Sussex County. At the helm? Marcie Urgo. Tel. 302-856-2388.
In its fith year a Taste for Art of Southern Delaware is an event not to be missed. It is a fun night! This year’s event took place at Indy Hall at Independence, accessible to all Delaware Beaches and beyond.
It was a festive atmosphere with guests mingling as they sampled delicious tapas style presentations, shopping and listening to music.
Thirteen local artists set up shop around the rooms, along with the restaurants. Here are some photos.
Basket Whimsies by Mary Morton – Beautiful fabrics making a variety of items.
Kevin Fleming – A Delaware native and international photographer. http://www.kevinfleming.com.
Magpie Design – One of a kind figues made from papier mache. Peggie Gielis creates them and they were one of my favorites. Visit her shop on http://www.etsy.com/shop/magpiedesignltd.
I found at A Taste for Art one of my favorite toffees….Taylor’s Toffee is made in Selbyville, Delaware, a few miles of Fenwick Island on Rt. 54. This is a family operation and it is so good. Please visit http://www.taylorstoffee.com.
And a Silent Auction for those that wanted the excitement of watching their bids for pretty nice things.
 
It is almost the end of 2014, but a new year is just around the corner with many activities and events covering the Delmarva Peninsula…..when you see A Taste for Art of Southern Delaware….make sure you pencil it in. It is usually in the Fall. Don’t worry, I will let you know.
Merry Christmas!!
December 7th, 2014
 
Plenty of times I don’t attend parties where they are going to be selling something. These invitations always say that they love to see you, that you can check things out and don’t be pressured to by anything and on and on. I should be happy that someone, actually, invited me, right? But, I always feel I have to buy something. That changed a couple of weeks ago, when my personal friend, Jade McClure, invited me to a Sip & Shop, Stella & Dot Party. I invited my friend, Paula, to come along, as well. The beginning of the Holiday Season with friends and meeting others in the community sounded like a good proposition. Jewelry?, Accessories….Sip, Shop, & Chat!
Jade McClure is an Independent Stylist for Stella & Dot. Her Stylist ID is 183187. I am giving you her info. now because you will want to come back to it after the post. Tel. 302-245-9502. On Facebook, please find her as Stella & Dot Stylist, Jade McClure. Her email is jadestelladotstylist@gmail.com. Website? http://www.stelladot.com/jademcclure When the website opens, you can see her name under Stella & Dot. And, if you don’t just click on Stylist and put her name on. Congratulations to Jade on her new venture.
Stella & Dot is a designer of jewelry and accessories for every woman on your list, including young girls. Independent stylists host parties showing what this company has to offer and friends also get to hosts parties, as well….getting all kinds of goodies too. A comfortable setting at someone’s house, appetizers, drinks, and shopping.
Ordering was easy. It took no time to receive it. The jewelry is well made, and the pieces I bought show that I was in the Holiday Spirit. The recipients of these pieces are going to love them.
 
On the left is the Rory Necklace. With that particular person in mind living in the tropics….perfect! The one on the right is the Mae Necklace. It is also for someone living in the tropics and the color reminded me of the island’s Flamboyan!
Loved these: Necklace & Bracelet!!
 
Jade’s Sip & Shop was very well attended. Sipping the Sassy N Simple Apple Pie Sangria, tasting some delicious finger foods…and trying some of the samples that Jade had on display.
The Apple Pie Sangria was so good and light…perfect for the Holidays.
2 bottles (regular size) white, sweet wine like Riesling or Moscato
5 cups fresh apple cider
2 cups ginger ale
2 cups caramel vodka (less strong? 1 cup and add more if desired)
3 honey crisp apples, chopped
3 pears, chopped (pears are so good this time of the year)
2 cinnamon sticks
Cut the fruit and place in bottom of your pitcher or jug.
Combine all of the ingredients except the cinnamon sticks. Stir, and stir, and stir again.
Let sit overnight, or at least a couple of hours. Then, about 4 hours before serving, throw in the cinnamon sticks. Again, the stirring process…a few times. Serve over ice and Enjoy!!
NOTE: You may save the ginger ale until just before serving, making the Apple Pie Sangria a bit crisper.
So, what are you waiting for? Have a Good One!!
December 4th, 2014
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4TH – MERCHANT’S HOSPITALITY NIGHT – It is an event for the entire family, taking place in the Historic District. Stroll Historic Lewes, visit with the local merchants, grab a few holiday gifts….shopping with the merchants hosting this event offering complimentary refreshments and live entertainment.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4TH – ZWAANENDAEL MUSEUM HOSPITALITY NIGHT – A free Holiday themed program from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Seasonal refreshments, demonstrations, and festive decorations to get you in the Holiday Spirit.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5TH – CHILDREN’S BEACH HOUSE – SHARE A MAGICAL NIGHT – HOLIDAY ART SHOW & SALE – A tradition in Lewes, this event kicks off a wonder week-end at the beach. Funds raised will help support the Children’s Beach House general operating budget. Auction, Dinner, Cocktails, Live Music and Dancing!! 6:30 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. Please note that the Art Show will follow on Saturday and Sunday, so please stop by 1800 Bay Avenue. Tel. 302-645-9184. Tickets for Friday’s event can be purchased online by visiting http://www.cbhinc.org. If you would like to make a donation to this wonderful organization, you can always do so by visiting the mentioned website. Thanks!!
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5TH – FULL MOON HIKE – 7 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. During full moon nights it is a beautiful time to visit Cape Henlopen State Park. Explore it at night by the light of the full moon as you search for the sights and sounds of animal activity. This hike is perfect for ages 7 and up with a paying adult. Dress warmly. Pre-registration is necessary by calling 302-645-6852. $2/person. Cape Henlopen State Park is located at 15099 Cape Henlopen Dr. in Lewes.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6TH – LEWES IN BLOOM CHRISTMAS MARKET – Location? St. Peter’s Church yard in the Historic District, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. They will be selling fresh greens, pine cone trees, swags, roping, holiday bows and other handmade items.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6TH – THE 41ST ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TOUR OF LEWES – 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Adance tickets are $20 each. Tickets on the day of will be $25. Children under 12 are free. Online ticket purchases can only be made until 4 p.m. on Friday, December 5th. After that time, tickets will only be available at The Ryves Holt House and Lewes Chamber of Commerce Office. If you ordered tickets online or by phone, all ticket orders will be held at The Ryves Holt House Museum Gift Shop at the corner of 2nd & Mulberry Sts. They will be available for pick up 48 hours after our order is placed. Please pick up all tickets prior to the tour date. More info. 302-645-7670. Please visit http://www.historiclewes.org/events/2014-christmas-tour-lewes.
Tickets can also be purchased at: Community Bank Delaware, The Zwaanendael Museum, The Inn at Canal Square, Habersham Peddler’s in Lewes, Browseabout Books on Rehoboth Avenue in Rehoboth Beach, and the Rehoboth Beach Museum in Rehoboth Beach.
This is a self-guided tour. The historic houses will be decorated for the season. There are several private homes that are selected each year to bring even more Yuletide to this historic town. Please visit the above mentioned website for details on this most popular week-end of the year in the First Town of The First State.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6TH – 83rd ANNUAL LEWES CHRISTMAS PARADE – This year’s theme is Santa’s Workshop. The parade will be Saturday but in the event of rain, it will be Sunday at the same time. It will start at 5 p.m., with a line-up beginning at 3:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. The parade will begin on Savannah Rd. at Sussex Drive and will end in front of King’s Ice Cream Shop on Second St. The Chamber Board of Directors will be leading the parade, carrying a huge helium balloon. After the parade, stand by because the Christmas tree in Zwaanendael Park will be illuminated followed by candlelight caroling in the park. NOTE: DUE TO THE FORECAST, THE PARADE HAS BEEN CANCELLED FOR BOTH DAYS. SO SORRY!
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7TH – DELAWARE DAY – Merchants in Lewes celebrate the day in 1787 when the First State ratified the Constitution. 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Front Street, the merchants will have available Delaware items, as well as refreshments. More info? Please call 302-645-0567. On Facebook please visit the page Front Street.
Have a good one!!
November 30th, 2014
 
This is one of my favorite stores at the Delaware Beaches. My friends do know so because I give them some of these baubbles to them. And, some have come to know TKO, Alice, and her husband, Bryant, as well. Love stopping by when in Bethany Beach to check what’s new. Usually, there is plenty to see. Alice and her husband, Bryant, who is also an artist and designer, as well, design and make their jewelry in-house.
TKO is located at 100 Garfield Parkway in Downtown Bethany Beach, Delaware. Stores 6 and 7. Tel. 302-539-6992. Website? http://www.alicehklein-tko.com.
Since 1980, Alice has been in business and she has quite a following. Her designs are recognizable; many customers collect her pieces of art.
Alice can customize any of your current pieces of jewelry. Maybe a little “facelift” is all that is needed.
 
From fun to fine jewelry, there is something for that special person in mind or for your own indulgence. Traveling? Her fun jewelry would be perfect!!
Alice has a line of wedding bands. She tells me during the summer, men and women come in because they have lost their wedding bands. That turns into a shopping event; all putting their 2 cents into the conversation.
You may also shop online, but at this time of the year TKO is open Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. You can also call for an appointment, as well.
 
Women love accesorizing with jewelry. Jewelry can add so much to a simple dress. And, at times just that special piece is all you need to make that entrance.
And, for that Caribbean vacation, when warmer climates are just what is in your future….this line is very cool.
Tax free shopping at the Delaware Beaches….oh, I love it!!
November 29th, 2014
It might be so gray and cold today at the Delaware Beaches, but if you want to see some color and get into the Christmas Spirit, take a Drive to Milton, Delaware….just about 20 minutes away from the Delaware Beaches, where Pepper’s Greenhouses are warm and cozy…stroll through the isles and get ideas for your holiday decorations.
 
Pepper’s Greenhouses are located at 13034 Cedar Creek Rd., Milton, DE 19968. Tel. 302-684-8092. They close on Tuesdays but Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday they are open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. On Sundays they open from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Website? http://www.accentsforhomeandgardens.com. Find them on Facebook: Pepper’s Greenhouses or Accents for Home and Gardens. Online business? Yes do have it. This is a family business, operating since 1985.
The Greenhouses change with the season. During the summer months there is a lot going on outdoors, as well. At this time, it is mainly indoors unless trees and shrubbery is what you are looking for.
Their poinsettias are gorgeous. All sizes, colors and variations. Hard to make a decision.
Pepper’s Greenhouses have pots, baskets and their staff is so helpful. Add a bow, making the containers look just right for gift giving.
Poinsettias are indigenous to Mexico and Central America. They were introduced in the U.S. in 1825. I am from Puerto Rico and they do love the weather there. They are trees flowering at different times of the year.
Pepper’s Greenhouses have forever wreaths and Holiday decorations. Don’t have that touch? They can help.
Fresh wreaths and garlands are also available, while they last.
Other popular plants like lilies, the easy to take care of cyclamen and violets are available this time of the year.
 
So, if you are tired of fighting the shoppers in town, now you know where to go and get away for a little visual relaxation.
Have a great Small Business Saturday!!
NOTE:
Santa Comes to Town – Welcome Santa with music by the First State Harmonettes. Santa will be in town from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Santa will reside in Milton from today, Saturday, November 29th through December 21st: Fridays 6 – 8 p.m., Saturdays 11 a.m. until 3 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Holiday Stroll – Friday, December 5th from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. – An enchanted evening downtown. Horse-drawn hay rides, Santa House, Refreshements, Carollers, Music and more.
November 28th, 2014
 
A tradition in Southern Delaware, this is the 20th Annual Southeastern Delaware Artists Studio Tour. It covers the towns of Bethany Beach, Ocean View, Dagsboro, Selbyville, and Fenwick Island. So, are you awake? Because, today and tomorrow are the days where these talented artists open their studios. Get to know them up close and personal. Thirteen full time artists will be participating this year. Some you already know, but also there are a few new faces, as well.
The doors open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. This is a self guided free tour. You can visit http://www.artstudiotour.com for more detailed information.
Click on http://www.artstudiotour.com/artists.htm to see the participating artists, and also their bios.
“Art in the Hat Raffle” – In each studio you visit you can purchase raffle tickets for $4.99 each or 5 for $20.00 100% of the proceeds from the raffle will benefit art programs and education in the Indian River School District. Each particpating artist has donated a work of art. And, they will all be raffled. Put however many tickets you want on your favorite piece or try your luck and put a few in each one. To find out what work of art each artists is donating, please visit http://www.artstudiotour.com/raffle.htm.
Over the years I have crawled the tour, always stopping by to visit one of my favorites. His name is Fom Frey. He is a Woodturner, located in Dagsboro. Using mostly local woods he turns them into beautiful pieces of art.
His miniatures are just gorgeous and so delicate.
Meet Tom Frey, the Woodturner.
 
Shopping season has started in earnest…..the Rehoboth Beach outlets were packed on “Midnight Madness”….but these artists offer something unique…a piece of art; all from their heart.
Stop by check them out, have some cookies and refreshments….they offer that too.
Have a great week-end!!
November 21st, 2014
I look out the window and it looks sunny…..but I don’t kid myself. It is chilly and windy. Oh, well it is that time of the year. Second Season at the DE Beaches is great. So, what are you up to? Or, better yet, what would you like to do? Here are a few of my picks.
THE CULTURED PEARL’S HOLIDAY GIFT CARD SALE – Until Monday, November 24th. Buy one, then get one for 50% off!! The card will be accepted by The Cultured Pearl, Pearl Essence Gift Shop, The Cultured Pearl Liquor Company and Grub Grocery. The Cultured Pearl is located at 302 Rehoboth Avenue in Downtown Rehoboth Beach. Tel. 302-227-8493. Website? http://www.culturedpearl.us.
HIKING THOMPSON ISLAND – Starting your Saturday, November 22nd hiking Thompson Island Nature Preserve with a park interpreter at 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Lean about the island’s Native American presence and observe the abundant wildlife that calls this island home. Space is limite so pre-registration is required. Call 302-227-6991. It is FREE!! Location? Indian River Life-Saving Station, by the Indian River Inlet Bridge.
REHOBOTH BEACH HISTORICAL SOCIETY – FALL LUNCHEON – It will be held at Kings Creek Country Club on Saturday, November 22nd. Cash bar starts at 11 a.m. and the luncheon buffet will begin at 11:30. The cost is $30 for members and $34 for non-members. For reservations, please call 302-227-7310. Dennis Forney, Cape Gazette Publisher will take the audience on a visually descriptive ride of his cross country bicycle trip in 2013. From “Sea to Shining Sea”. He wrote pieces for the Cape Gazette on his travels. The trip began May 10th and after many miles , Mr. Forney decided that America’s looking friendly and beautiful!!
SEASHORE WREATH-MAKING – Saturday, November 22nd from 1 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. at the Indian River Life-Saving Station, located at the Delaware Seashore State Park on Coastal Highway, by the Indian River Inlet Bridge. Please call to register at 302-227-6991. Ages 10 and up. Only $20/person.
THE METROPOLITAN OPERA LIVE IN HD – IL BARBIERE DI SIVIGLIA at Cape Henlopen High School Theater in Lewes, Delaware. The opera will begin at 12:55 p.m. Admission: $25 for adults, $22 for seniors, 65 years of age and over or Rehoboth Beach Film Society members, and MET members, as well. $15 for students with I.D., $15 for a child, 12 years of age and under. Gourmet lunches from Hobos will be available before the opera at Noon in the Atrium. To purchase tickets and more info., please visit http://www.rehobothfilm.com. Note: The Rehoboth Beach Film Society is looking for help: Office Associate needed for their office. Part time. Thursdays and Fridays 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Position involves clerical support functions. Must be proficient with Excel, Word, and Database programs. Customer service experience required. Resumes can be sent to administrator@rehobothfilm.com.
FESTIVAL OF TREES AT BAYWOOD GREENS – Saturday, November 22nd, from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. This is fun and festive fund raising event to benefit Delaware Hospice. Baywood Greens will be beautifully decorated, showcasing the creations of area decorators. An exciting menu of contemporary American fare awaits you. Entertainment will be provided by Keith Mack, a native of Rehoboth Beach. $75/person. For more information and online registration, please visit http://www.delawarehospice.org/events/festival-of-trees-at-baywood-greens.
SEMRA’S – BELLY DANCING PARTY – Saturday, November 22nd at 7 p.m. Asala will put a spectacular show. Please call to reserve your table at 302-226-4976. Semra’s is located on 19 Rehoboth Avenue in Downtown Rehoboth Beach. This show is being brough back by popular demand. Love Semra’s food, they offer dishes based on fragrantly spiced, sun-drenched Middle Eastern vegetables and beans, savory grains and homemade yogurt.
 Going South...too cold here!! “THANKSLIVING” DINNER – Cilantro Restaurant located in Downtown Rehoboth Beach is offering a 3-course, sit-down meal which will featured seasonal food creatively prepared by local chefs. Sunday, November 23rd, at 6:00 p.m. The garden meat-free Turkey Roast will be provided by VegRehoboth. You may purchase tickets at Good Earth Market located at 38121 Terrace Rd.
THANKSGIVING GABBY GOBBLE 5k – Thursday, November 27th at Irish Eyes Pub, 213 Anglers Rd. in Lewes. It is the first year for this event and proceeds from the race will go to the Get Well Gabby Foundation. This foundation started in honor and memory of Gabriella Vogel, who was a valiant fighter of childhood cancer, but passed away at the age of 5. Her family and the foundation have pledged $125,000 to the A.I. DuPont Hospital for Children to build and furnish a playroom in the new oncology department in Wilmington. They have also collected 14,000 new books and donated them to the Ronald McDonald House, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and the Hershey Medical Center. To learn more go to http://www.getwellgabby.org.
This course is USATF certified with chip timing. Entrants receive long-sleeved T-shirts and awards will go to the top 3 male and female finishers in 10-year age categories, 9 and under to 70 and over and to top fundraisers. The post-race party includes beer for participants over 21 years of age. Race participants are encouraged to wear festive costumes and enjoy Turkey Day!! Registration is availabe online at http://www.races2run.com for $25 until Noon, Monday, 11/14, or at the Rehoboth Beach Running Company. Packet pickup and late registration will be then at Irish Eyes in Lewes for $30 from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, November 26th. And, in case you decide to run on the day of….registration can also be done on the day of the event. Additional donations are greately appreciated to the Get Well Gabby website above mentioned. This foundation is a 501c3 non-profit organization.
SHOPPING – TANGER OUTLETS – Moonlight Madness Sales , Stores open at 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day! Finish your dinner, then it is time for some serious shopping…tax free!!. The stores will stay open until 2 a.m. so that you can find all those madness deals! Offers and specials savings? Visit http://www.tangeroutlet.com/rehoboth/events.
That’s all for now….have a great week-end!!
 
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