Curly and Straight although opposite, paired beautifully for my vegetable Conorno (side dish) at Dinner last night. Being in New York always put me in a creative mode for cooking and presenting. With the weather being so cold I decided to grab Pork Chops and Fresh String beans for a quick easy dinner. Add a Salad and a Glass of Wine and sit back and enjoy. I was delighted to find a Cauliflower in my Daughter's refrigerator when I got home and decided to incorporate it with the String beans. I loved the visual of curly and straight! Instead of Television I turned on NPR radio so we could listen and relax while eating. When your eyes are on your food you can truly Relish(LOL) and take time to admire the presentation of colors and shapes that become artwork on your plate. I don't invent the wheel when creating dishes but rather spin the ingredients and hope for a Masterpiece! I could not end this post without sharing that by the time Stephanie came home for dinner, I was sketching the String beans and Cauliflower in my mind as the background for a Dish towel for the Britalia Way line coming soon!
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A few days ago I left sunny Florida headed to New York for a visit with my Daughter Stephanie. I was looking forward to seeing the snow that had fallen and experience Winter in the City. Upon landing I glanced out the window and could see the white blanket of snow that covered the ground. I was immediately energized and began planning a walk through Central Park to take some beautiful pictures of this white delight. I know it may sound strange to some, but I miss the winters of New York. The cold crisp air, the smell of chestnuts from the vendors and seeing the ice skaters and the horse drawn carriages all add to the excitement of this great City!
I planned this trip around the Trade show New York Now that I will be attending . It is being held at the Javits Center for five days and Stephanie will join me for Saturday and Sunday. Imagine 2800 vendors from all over the Globe converging together to bring every gift imaginable for the home. My job is to show up early and try and see it all. Specifically Shop till I drop!!! LOL! Stay tuned for Updates! Do your work with your whole heart, and you will succeed-there's so little competition.~Elbert Hubbard Dee's Response
Listening is a Gift that costs little, but appreciates in value very quickly! Dee's ResponseI remind myself every morning: Nothing I say this day will teach me anything. So if I'm going to learn I must do it by listening.~Larry King If your like me and hear the phrase Chances Are, you break out singing the familiar tune by Johnny Mathis. His voice so distinctive and a demeanor of kindness make up this truly gifted man. We had the pleasure of seeing him the other night in concert and left with such happiness in our hearts.
To be in a beautiful Theater, watching his performance along with a full orchestra was truly a treat! At 79, he still delivers an extraordinary performance. The quality and tone of his voice haven't changed much at all. He still hits those high notes and with his impeccable style is captivating. I was singing along at times (although not to loud to annoy the people around me Ha Ha) and with each introduction by the orchestra reflected back to when I heard them in the past. Truly he is a man that enjoys his passion for singing and for me it was an opportunity to engage in the great feeling of a live performance. Many times a song can bring you back to a memorable time and your body sends a signal you know like a song comes out of the heart!!! One that comes to mind right now was when the Beatles had just come out in the States and I remember going to Roosevelt Field Shopping Center to buy the album. I can remember Sam Goody's record store, the weather that day and the excitement. My Dad had driven me and the day was so much fun. A simple time yet remembering it vividly today, makes today special as well! Listening to great music with sincere words for me is like a meditation where the only objective is to enjoy that moment! We had the opportunity to meet Johnny after the Show and once again was touched by his sincerity. Look at us enjoying the Red Carpet with him! Thanks again Johnny for a wonderful evening of Music and making hearts like mine continue to sing! The meaning of Life is to find your Gift..... Dee's ResponseWhen pondering a serious thought such as this, I don my Tiara and expect that all my Conclusions will be Brilliant! Like a great Movie Debut, I decided the first Conversation of the year shall be named "The Orsini Connection". Back in September of last year our first stop on our trip to Europe was London. We had decided to stay in a small lovely Hotel, The Rembrandt by the Victoria and Albert Museum and walking distance to Harrods! Yes, Yes, Yes, strolling in the area was divine and made us feel oh so Royal! From fancy Boutiques, to Pubs, Restaurants and yes one special store that sold Kitchen Stoves that cost as much as a Mercedes Benz in the States. Of course I was excited over the thought of how much fun I would have creating Recipes, while realizing usually the people who purchase them have professional Chefs. Oh well, remember the idea in your mind can be dreams of enjoyment and certainly fascinating Conversations. LOL! After checking into our Hotel we set out on foot to check out places to have Dinner over the next few days. Virtually a few steps from the Hotel we came upon Orsini. A small Italian Restaurant with a rustic feel like you would see in a Trattoria in Italy. We decided to take a look for a possible choice for Dinner the next day. Having a cup of Espresso and a sweet would give us time to look over the menu as well. As we approached the door we saw a couple sitting with a man who was busily telling a story with such enthusiasm. Being a people person I could see the enjoyment he was having sharing this story. I was watching and really wanted to just take a seat and listen as well. I was surprised as he caught my eye and immediately excused himself from the table and asked if he could help us. I explained we had just arrived and asked if we could order an espresso and sweet. Absolutely, come on in he gestured as he introduced himself as Leonardo. He told us of the sweets he had and we decided on the Cannoli with our Cafe Macchiato. A few minutes later, he was back with the coffee's and sweets and then sat down with us. He inquired where we had traveled from and what we thought of London so far. I told him of our backgrounds and my Husband being Italian and thus a connection began. He was excited to hear of our upcoming trip to Italy. He had explained he had opened the Restaurant with his wife (from Naples) and his in-laws. He was actually an Engineer by trade and had worked in Abu dhabi. The Family had decided on moving to England and begin a Family business one that he, his wife and son could enjoy and have his in-laws to be part of it as well. He suggested that we come back the next day so he could prepare a special dinner that would excite our tastes for our trip to Italy. We were so happy as we left knowing we would be enjoying a great meal and sharing good conversation with a fascinating man. The next day was an enjoyable sight seeing day which included a tour of Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Seeing the London Needle and of course shopping! We were so happy to actually see Buckingham Palace as the Queen was away. I guess she didn't get the memo I would be in Town. LOL! The Palace is truly a majestic place and the outdoor grounds are magnificent. As we approached the Restaurant that evening we were so excited for our Culinary experience to begin. Leonardo was there to meet us and brought us up to the front of the restaurant so he could keep an eye on us, as we enjoyed each course. He started us out with a delicious Antipasto atop a Carving Board with Prosciutto, Salami, Fresh Buffalo Mozzarella, Bruschetta and Pecorino Romano Cheese with Honey to dip the cheese in. They were served individually as seen in the opening picture.
We then moved on to an Eggplant Tart which was like our eggplant parmigiana but in stacks as opposed to a tray where they cut in portions. This presentation looked great. The skin was left on the eggplant and had the consistency of a crispy baked potato and it was delicious! Next was a Trio of Pasta. On the left was Ravioli with A Bolognese Sauce with Pasta Neapolitan in the middle and Rissotto Porcini Mushrooms with shaved Parm on the right. On a separate dish was Lasagna with homemade Pasta sheets and Sauce. At this point after tasting the homemade bread and several glasses of delicious wine we were content and wanted to leave room for Dessert. Leonardo had been coming over and was ready to go on to a meat course and we had to tell him we could sample that on another visit. Throughout the meal he had visited and we shared stories of our Families and traditions One favorite was that of my Mother-in Law hanging Fresh Sausage on a Wire Hanger in the Kitchen Window to dry out for Soppressata. Whether you live in Italy, London or Brooklyn (where my Husband grew up) Italian Families like Leonardo's carry on the tradition of making food and conversation the focal part of family life. We looked forward to our sweets for Dessert and certainly were not disappointed. Once again tastefully presented came a board with Cheesecake, Ciambellone (a cake made by his Mother in Law) Gelato and cookies and of course Cafe Macchiato. I made a Toast to Leonardo to a new Friendship and that "the meal was only exceeded by the charm of our Host". To describe Leonardo's personality, would be to equate his soul is Food. The evening for us will always be remembered and hopefully we will return and make this Special Connection again. Grazie Leonardo per una splendida serata! I Love Beginnings! There is an energy and excitement that I feel at the start of each New Year! The new ideas, plans and schedules begin! Then Reality hits and you realize that sometimes Life interrupts and you fall off the balance beam you've been walking. Happily I get up and realize there's always a new beginning whether a new day month or Year!
With this Year comes a new look to Britalia Way. I love quotes and I love to interpret the meaning so I plan to have a Crowing thought for each day. I've labeled my thought as Dee's Response. An update on my Britalia Gardens with pictures will be added as well. We had a strong start with the addition of the walkways, but a very hot summer and then our Trip to Europe slowed us up a bit. I continue to develop my Gardening skills with the biggest drawback being afraid of Bugs!!! LOL! With all the delicious foods we had in England and Italy on our vacation, I am excited to share recipes in the Taste section. In addition I am offering cooking classes in Florida. Email me www.BritaliaWay.com for class dates and times. I am so happy to be sharing my first blog experience and hope you enjoy it as much as I do. My favorite part is sharing the beautiful moments with special people and I hope to create many for us to enjoy! To a New Beginning! Denise Sending New Year Wishes To All My Family and Friends for 2015 to bring Health, Happiness and New Adventures to Remember! May Smiles, Winks and Laughter be a Part of Each Day!
Denise "A Friend Is A Gift You Give Yourself "~ Robert Louis Stevenson Dee's ResponseMy Holidays Never End! Meeting and Making New Friends Is Like Receiving Presents Throughout The Year. I Consider My Friends My Best Collectibles!
"Don't Judge Each Day By The Harvest You Reap, But By The Seeds That You Plant." ~ Robert Louis Stevenson Dee's ResponseWhen Enjoyment interrupts the To Do list, Stop and Carry on with the Festivities knowing that tomorrow will be back to work again! Our trip to England and Italy were filled with special moments shared with special people who each have a place in my heart. I am always in awe seeing the beautiful sights, but enjoy the feeling when you share your adventure and connect it to a person who made it feel real. I’m never one to pick the best but rather enjoy each chance meeting and reflect on its own unique experience. I have written in earlier posts of how I love Lace and link it to my past from beautiful pieces made by my Grandmother Charlotte. It is so amazing that I would travel to Venice and stay in Hotel Fontana and meet Nonna Lena and feel a connection to memories past. All though she doesn’t speak English and my Italian is limited, we connected heart to heart. Her face is true beauty holding love, appreciation and kindness with every smile. Nonna Lena is 92 and still comes to Hotel Fontana each day to sit and greet the Guests and make everyone feel like Family. Her Grandson Diego is now in charge of the Family Hotel that was established in 1967. Many years ago it had been a home to a group of German Nuns. While sitting in the lovely reception /bar area I could hear the Church bells from the Duomo in the Square and I was immediately taken back in thoughts of years past. I know I have read too many romance novels and go off on tangents of oohs and aahs but this truly was a magical feeling. While lost in thought a small woman appeared from the back and presented me with a beautiful smile and greeting. Diego introduced Nonna Lena to me and I knew right away I wanted to spend time with her. She held so much warmth in eyes and this is truly the History of Venice to me. A lovely family keeping alive the tradition of a business being created by a wonderful couple and now her Grandson and his cousin are building it for hopefully the next generation. With pride she showed me the painting of she and her Husband Nino that hang on the wall of the reception area. With Diego translateing she told the story of how she and her Husband had owned a Restaurant Da Nino adjacent to the Hotel from 1947 to 1967 when they opened Hotel Fontana. They enjoyed many years working side by side building a wonderful reputation in the Hotel business. Our room like I’m sure of the others was filled with lovely antiques and a very comfortable bed. They have a lovely Breakfast room and we enjoyed the delicious rolls and buns each morning. They also have traditional hard boiled eggs, yogurt and salami and cheese as well. Breakfast is complete with either a Cappuccino or Café Maciado . One afternoon Nonna Lena and I were sitting together and she brought out a big book and placed it on the table between us. As she opened it, I could see it contained doilies she had made. I enjoyed looking at the beautiful pieces she had created and she could see how much I liked them and then picked out three pieces and gave them too me. My eyes filled with tears as I felt so special to be given these lovely pieces that of course I will treasure and hand down in my family with this lovely memory as well. Venezia is truly an amazing place to visit with its art, culture and delicious food !From our arrival at the Venice Airport to the Water Taxi to the Hotel and our visits to the Doge Palace, St. Marks Square and the Duomo, we will forever remember this exciting City. I feel like I experienced the best of both Worlds both seeing the beautiful sights, tasting the fine food and leaving with the special Friendship of Nonna Lena that will be laced into my memories.
What a tremendous Holiday we had and what delicious food we tasted. They always say pictures are worth more than a thousand words so here they are. You will see we take our Pasta seriously and while in Italy had it almost everyday. With all the walking we were able to burn it off or that’s what I told myself everyday LOL! Back in May of this year my girlfriend Ann called me and told me of her upcoming vacation plans. She was going to spend the month of July touring Italy with her son Anthony. I enjoyed hearing of her plans and thought I too would love to see Italy and enjoy a true food fest eating my way from North to South and of course in between bites seeing all the sights that Italy offers. For many years we discussed a trip and I always said Id like to travel during the Harvest. So in July we made the decision we weren’t going to miss another September Harvest and I soon began planning our exciting journey. We had decided that we would tour on our own as I’m never ready when the tour starts and never ready to leave when they are either. I get caught up in the moment and have to share another story with a local from the town we’re visiting or have another glass of wine or just can’t seem to hit all the shops and touch all the goodies. You get the picture by now that I can be a problem with time RESTRAINT LOL! It was a wonderful trip and I’m so excited to share so many memorable stories of all the magnificent places we visited and all the delicious food we tasted but most of all share the wonderful stories of the beautiful people we met. I always say I can ooh and ahh over scenery and monuments, but they don’t speak to me the language and the love like the local people themselves do.
From London to Venice to Florence to Tuscany to Rome to Naples to Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast back to the London Countryside we journeyed for 22 fabulous days. For the exception of three hours of rain in Venice we only saw the Sun and the beautiful Moon each evening. To be greeted by each City with its breath taking scenery, and richness in culture, followed with the best food ever plays out an experience of a lifetime! Of course I will also start by saying with all this joyous bliss there was only one struggle we had to endure……LUGGAGE!!!! With all the warnings I did over pack and of course you know me and all my grand ways(remember I act like British Royalty if not the Queen herself LOL) only to get a reality check that I had to drag my 65lbs of bags around with me!) My Husband and I each had a big piece of luggage and one carry on plus my pocketbook. This journey was actually a European version of the Survivor according to my Husband Rocco! I will break down the itinerary and then over the course of the next few weeks share the details of this great get a way! We began with a British Airways flight from Orlando Florida to London Gatwick Airport. We then spent the next 3 1/2 days in London and then flew to Venice. We enjoyed 2 1/2 glorious days in this magical city and then took the Frecciargento High Speed rail to Florence where we rented an apartment for four nights and 5 days with day trips to Bologna, Modena and the Ferrari Museum in Maranello! So exciting! Next we rented a Fiat to drive the Mountains of Tuscany and our first stop was Montalcino and Castello Romitorio Winery. We had a private tour of the winery and Danielo had a lovely lunch (actually a Feast) served and then we walked the grounds and tasted the grapes off the vine. I will detail in a later post. From Montalcino we went to Montisi where we were staying in a Bed and Breakfast and this is where I realized that my eyes saw sights that changed my heart and mind forever. From being torn away from a dream we next drove down the mountains toward Rome. One big point Id like to make before I go off on my tangents of Romance is Never Drive In Rome!!!!!Its not the driving actually, the fact there is no place to pull over to stop. We got to our Bed and Breakfast by Via Veneto but had to pass the street at least 5 times and then my Husband literally pulled on the sidewalk to drop the luggage and then return the car. We were so lucky that the Avis rent a car was only two blocks away. For 2 1/2 days in Rome we did like the Movie Eat, Pray and Love….. and danced as well at Cafe Veneto. The Vatican, Sistine Chapel and St Peters were beautiful and the Coliseum as majestic as a ruin can be. Of course secretly I wish they could have vendors at each level reenacting an outdoor festival rather than think about all of what really went on there! By this point on our vacation my brain was on overload on facts and knowledge. You know you can’t remember all the facts, yet we don’t want to miss a word. I’m always amused when we walk away of how much I don’t know yet seem to enjoy my little world just fine :))) From Rome we took the high speed Italian train to Naples.We dragged our luggage across from the station and went to a local little restaurant so I could sample the pasta and tomatoes from this region. It was outstanding, actually I think the best in all of Italy. They say the ash from Mount Vesuvius is what makes the tomatoes the best and I totally agree! After our lunch break there was no Siesta for us as we had to catch the Ferry to Sorrento. Once again boarding a Ferry with luggage gives you a workout of sorts. A beautiful trip seeing the coastline and a breeze blowing thru our hair was refreshing. We were in Love again and the thought of luggage didn’t blur the beauty of the Coast with its villages steeped in the Mountains. Reality was forty minutes away when we arrived in Sorrento! Upon arriving we called Palazzo Montefusco and Angelo and Giovanni came to meet us and took over the luggage. Needless to say we were Happy! We walked thru narrow winding streets with vendors of Fruit, Lace, Ceramics, Paintings, Leather and so many beautiful Restaurants like in a Movie. I was in love at first sight and happy to know we were here several days! We went to Capri the next day by Ferry and walked the streets and took the trolley up the hill. We had attempted to walk the steps to Ana Capri but it was really warm that day and I realized I would need oxygen any minute. :))) The following day we hired a Driver who picked us up and took us on an all day excursion to the Amalfi Coast stopping at Positano, Amalfi, Rovello and Grotto dello Smeraldo. We were enchanted with each stop and vowed to return to this beautiful region of Italy. At this point it was time to say Arrevederci to Italy and return to the UK. We had a driver take us to Rome from Sorrento as yes we didn’t want to handle the Luggage! It really was relaxing and we enjoyed our Driver who helped with my Italian lessons and just seeing the scenery. We said our goodbyes and boarded our flight to London Heathrow and off we went. We were excited to explore the countryside and take a leisurely ride to our Bed and Breakfast. We had to rent a car big enough to carry the luggage which by now was a standing joke between us. Driving was a little tricky as well as scary as your on the wrong side of the street with a six speed manual transmission and everybody but you knows where their going! At one point my Husband was grabbing my Soda Bottle sitting in the slot next to the shifter and trying to switch gears saying there’s a problem and then realized and went hysterical laughing. It was truly one of the funniest moments of our Journey. We enjoyed the Countryside for 3 1/2 days and then we headed back to Orlando and reality. Our trip was truly a dream come true with so many experiences I will share and hope you enjoy. In the meantime here are a few pictures of the wonderful people we met. Ciao and Grazie to all our Friends! We will be back……………………………………….and Yes with Less Luggage. After leaving the Parade I decided to check out the display of China and Linens at Bergdorf Goodman’s! It is always so special to walk the Home Furnishings Floor and just look at all the eye candy! They are truly magnificent and give me ideas as to what I can look for in TJ Max or Century 21 that look similar! I actually got caught up in the moment and was looking at some beautiful china by Ann Weatherly and decided to inquire about a place setting for four. It reminded me of China my Aunt and Uncle had years back, Flora Danica and I thought of starting with a place setting for four and I could always add, right? I would save it for tea parties and special occasions. When the saleswoman approached me she first looked at my head and I then realized I still had my Garland from the parade on my head. I started to laugh as although it wasn’t a look of horror on her face, I could read her thoughts of ” Oh my she really is in over her head! It really was so amusing and another New York moment I wish I had a picture of! Here is a picture of the China set up just like I would LOL despite my green garland or maybe then I would set this place setting each St Patty’s Day as a reminder of my shopping spree at Bergdorf’s! By the way I decided to pass on the china which runs around $2000.00 per place setting. I thought to myself with that $8000.00 I could take a trip to Europe and have many more memories with which to write about! Yes indeed another day spent in the Big Apple! March would not be complete without observing St. Patrick’s Day and this year as many before I enjoyed taking in the parade on 5th Avenue. All the hustle, bustle and Bagpipes are so exciting and even though I was freezing , I did enjoy all the glory and spirit the Irish offer us on their Special Day! I met two great ladies a Mother and Daughter team from California that were visiting and staying at the Plaza and I had to take a picture to share their enthusiasm with you! I couldn’t end this post without sharing yet another St Patty’s Day garland story. Stephanie and I had gone to the parade two or three years ago and I had the same garland (we bought a huge roll, that will last for years!)on my head and after the parade we went to Macys. We were happily shopping on the shoe floor where there was a lot of commotion going on, and I didn’t realize that there was a fashion show in progress. I was admiring a shoe on a mannequin and touched it slightly and all of a sudden the foot moved. I was shocked and looked up and realized it was a model not a mannequin. I had been just looking at eye level and she was standing on a table just like a mannequin! I found it hilarious that I touched her foot, and was thinking Thank God I didn’t do what I always do and try and pick it up LOL! Well anyway here’s the really fun part of this story. I was walking a little further down and you have to realize there are probably two hundred people walking around when out of know where two hands are holding me back. I looked up and saw this man saying you cant go any further and looked at me like I was trying to crash through a line. Needless to say I was startled and with my NY attitude I said “What are you Doing?” to the man “take your hands off me before I call Security” Then he said I am security. I asked him to explain his actions and he immediately apologized and explained that Ivanka Trump was coming down the aisle and they were setting her place up! I said Well that’s nice I was just trying to shop and was really quite annoyed at his manhandling of me. He realized he was a little over zealous as well and said please excuse my behavior and escorted me over to meet Ivanka Trump and take a picture with her. He really felt bad and I realized he just panicked at that moment as they were filming her coming in, so we went over and I was introduced to Ivanka. She is really so beautiful and so cordial and enjoyed taking a picture with me. We talked about her new shoe line and as I was leaving she said I really like your festive hair headband for St Patty’s Day. I remember laughing as here she was so elegant and I’m in a Jean jacket and garland having been at the parade, and now I have a beautiful picture of shall I say elegance meets train wreck………… so so funny………memories…..memories……..memories!
Although March has come and gone it will be one that I remember always. Special people, special times and of course new tasty delights enjoyed and savored. It started with a visit from my girlfriend Carol. She and I were neighbors when I lived in Commack and have remained close with visits back and forth throughout the year. Im always visiting my Daughter Stephanie in NYC so its a treat when she visits Florida like she did last month. It gave us time to catch up from the Holidays and of course shop and our favorite pastime decorating. We scoured the antique stores this visit and made some pretty candy dishes out of candlestick holders and glass plates as well as a makeover for my pool bath. We always cram as much as we can into our visits and this time was no exception. For the makeover to my pool bath we used the theme of Crowns! We spent time antiquing and I got a great little table and my Husband sprayed it Black and then I had a tray that fit on the top just perfect with my other favorite theme Toile. It is in the Black and White and really looks great. I gathered all my crown accessories and scattered them around and love the new look. Of course there is a throne, but we wont go there ! LOL! Carol arrived with several new Queen accessories for me, and the pictures will be in the Gallery. From Mugs to Pitchers to a Pink Tiered Dish and of course the greatest gift a Friendship to cherish. She shares my new love of Gardening and we spent time both cleaning up and adding to Britalia Way. Queen alley has some new touches that I will post pictures to In the Garden. We truly enjoyed our time together and now I look around and say to my friends that the house has been Carolized! She really has a knack for detail and our tastes are very similar so the finished look is a collaborative effort with the labor split between us. That’s the fun part when you can say hold this while I look for the 10th time (something men don’t understand)! Carol had arrived on March 5th and we flew back to New York on the 14th. We said our Goodbyes at JFK Airport and I headed to my Daughter’s apartment and she back to Long Island. Arriving on a Friday night at 11:30PM and seeing the excitement of the city is exuberating! Stephanie and I woke up early the next day and headed to the Metropolitan Museum to see an exhibit on Dressing Tables and Perfume bottles. It really was lovely and you appreciate the beauty of such simplicity. OK well simplicity at its finest with an elegance all its own. The furniture was accented with the Perfume Bottles and several artworks depicting grooming. It was really interesting seeing the different styles from several Countries and imagining time back in the day. The art and sculptures at the Museum capture the detail of people and an era that was rich with culture. It was a time I might have enjoyed with its formality and grand atmosphere without the mention of Google and Facebook! Ok back to reality we had a lovely lite lunch at the Museum and then wandered about the City and stopped at Fairway to pick up some Codfish for Dinner. I made Codfish Puttenesca and we enjoyed a quiet night relaxing and thinking about all the beautiful art and furniture we had seen that day. A beautiful day in a grand Museum viewing priceless art reminds me of Oscar Wilde’s statement, “My tastes are simple. I simply like the Best.”
Oh yes that old cliché Less is More and how true, how true! I decided last December as the New Year was upon us I would try a new approach to Resolutions for 2014. My son Stephen suggested to have monthly resolutions and spread them out over the Year! I thought what a great idea and then I would not feel so bad about giving up so easily. Well anyway my first resolution was not to deprive myself, rather introduce myself to changing my dietary needs. Rather than to overcarb as my personal choice has been, to actually reward myself with a new unique carb and limit it to once a week and making the pleasure not only a gastronomic delight but taking the time to enjoy the moment! For the month of January the experience came about when I went to meet my good friend Adelina for Tea and the Tea House was closed, so we stopped at a French Patisserie and I had my first Gibassier. It was truly love at first bite and I will forever savor the moment not only for the taste of the delicate French pastry but the lovely shop with its European Decor with Blackboards, Metal tables, French music and the aviance that is so French! The walls were white with local artists paintings and baskets of Bread everywhere and the most beautiful pastry’s I have ever seen. The decision was to try a chocolate cookie and gibassier and we would split them between us. Well we had the Gibassier first and as we both took our first bite the smile of sweet satisfaction was unbelievable. Adelina is Italian and a tremendous Baker. I look forward to Christmas and Easter when she sends over a taste of the treats she has baked. She remarked right away of the delicate taste of orange that married so well with the fennel in this delicate French pastry. We then had the cookie which was also wonderful but the taste of the Gibassier was unforgettable and I knew I would return to have another the next week. I went home and researched the French pastry and read about its origin generations ago from Lourmarin village in Provence. It has been said to be named after the mountains Le Gibas which form part of the village’s horizon. The pairing of Orange Blossom water, anise seed and olive oil lend a unique taste as well as a texture that being the cross between a danish and bread. The olive oil allows it to stay moist and does add a good fat right??? LOL! I realize I’m going on and on about a single pastry but after I read all the articles I seem to be lucky to have tasted this delightful treat as it is not available all over. It requires a preferment (starter dough) and patience. I laughed at one article, that wrote it could create a cult like following if your lucky to find them. I fully agree and immediately called my nephew Sal (the chef and baker) and he visited two weeks later with a starter dough and completed the dough the next morning and baked them for our dessert that evening. They were delicious and he agreed with me that a single serving of something great is far better than several of things that are just good! But remember before just trying one please play some French music and place it on a beautiful plate and sit back and enjoy the moment! Here we are enjoying a Martini waiting for the Gibassier that were baking!
Remember the song “On top of spaghetti all covered with cheese I lost my poor Meatball when somebody sneezed.”………………………. OK I can’t believe I just printed that in a post LOL but I thought I’d share with you my story of Lost Meatballs! When I was first married we would to go to Brooklyn early on Sunday mornings so I could watch my Mother in Law prepare the Sunday Gravy. My Husbands family lived in Brooklyn and they called their Tomato Sauce, Gravy. On Sundays the Family would all get together for Sunday Dinner at 2PM that would last for hours. There was always lively conversations, lots of food, and always room for anybody that might stop by. I will always remember my first Sunday Dinner in Brooklyn with the funniest thing being watching everyone at the table talk at the same time. It was hilarious as I think I was the only one listening and there were about 16 of us at the table!
My Mother in Law was a great cook and even a better teacher. I will always treasure the time we spent cooking together as with all her technique for her recipes, she sprinkled in stories of the Family so I would get to know their background and traditions. One of my first lessons was on meatballs. She used a stainless steel pot to mix her meatballs in and always started by grating hard bread right in to the pot as the base. She always said it should come up about 2 inches on the side as she was using 3lbs of chop meat which was added next. Then went in the seasonings Salt, Pepper, Fresh garlic, Fresh Parsley, Cheese and 6 Eggs and a dash of milk. Mix all the ingredients together being careful not to overwork the meat, (mixing too much) and then roll into golf ball size meatballs. She would fry her spareribs and sausage first, followed by the meatballs. The house always smelled so good on Sunday mornings and family would start arriving by noon all looking for Grandma Rae’s fried meatballs. She would keep out a bowlful and put the rest in the Gravy. She always said cook your sausage and spareribs in the Gravy for an hour and then add the Meatballs and cook another hour. One Sunday I invited my Brother in law Red over for Sunday Macaroni and Meatballs. I had watched my Mother-in-Law so many times and now I was ready for the real deal! The big day came and I started with the Breadcrumbs as she did and then proceeded with all my ingredients and then went to mix. It seemed too wet so I kept adding breadcrumbs till it was dry enough and the meat would stay together. After they were fried I added them to the Gravy and then set the table. As time was passing I decided to look and stir the pot and boy did they look good. After another 1/2 hour I went to stir the pot and my meatballs were gone! There was no sign of them bubbling in the tomato sauce. I quickly put it my spoon and realized to my horror they were on the bottom of the pot and had stuck and now were burning. I tried to get them loose which made matters worse as chunks of black burnt meatballs started floating everywhere. Now I’m totally frustrated and embarrassed that I had just ruined Dinner when the doorbell rang and there was Red arriving for Dinner. I quickly took the whole pot and put it in the refrigerator and told my Husband who had been inside getting ready, we were going out to Dinner as everything was ruined and not to say a word to Red.We would keep this little disaster to ourselves and then share it with him some other time. So Red comes in with a great bottle of wine and says boy it smells great in here. He sees the table set and says I’m starved, shall I open the wine. Well I look at him cool as a cucumber and said there’s a change of plans and were going out. He says but it smells so good in here. So I replied that was from last night, and I was too tired to cook today so we would be taking him out. I went to get my coat in the bedroom and Red yelled out could I grab a soda out of the Fridge before we leave, and I yelled back sure I’ll be right there. As soon as I said it I realized the pot in the Fridge and ran to the kitchen and there was Red standing there with his glasses fogged as when he opened the door there was so much steam from the pot it was ridiculous. I took one look at him and laughed so hard. All my embarrassment was was gone as it was hysterical seeing him look at me like what just happened. Of course we all started laughing and I explained. We had concluded I had used only one pound of meat but I had added 6 eggs as if I had used 3lbs of meat like my Mother-in-law did each week. I realized that’s why I had to add so much breadcrumbs and eventually they were more like bread balls that sunk in this big pot. Needless to say, I still smile from time to time when making meatballs recalling that memorable day! I Love City Dogs! When I’m in New York, I always take pictures of them and usually get the owners feet as well. It’s so cute to see the outfits and expressions on their faces. As I said in one of my earlier posts, their owners talk to them as children. I understand this as I talk to my Sheltie Dylan all the time. They set up play dates for them, take them to Doggie Day Care, as well as have walkers come to their apartments while they’re at work. The number of specialty stores that carry homemade treats, organic food, designer outer ware and toys is incredible. In some areas there is one on practically every street. It is so sweet to see how the dog owners meet up in the Park and discuss everything from training,day cares and yes even therapy! LOL! Most restaurants that have outdoor seating, all have water for the dogs as well. I was so surprised at how many stores allow dogs even full size in Department Stores. I’m talking about Saks Fifth Ave and Bergdorf Goodman! Have you ever heard that statement that some owners resemble their Dogs.. Of course in my Family nobody looks as good as Dylan! But anyway I was walking down Fifth Ave in New York and people watching and realized this statement is so true. One very well dressed woman with blondish gray hair walked into to Bergdorf ‘s with a beautiful Afghan and their hair color was almost identical ! Here is a picture of my Daughter Stephanie with our Beautiful Dylan! They kind of match too! So funny ! The picture at the top of the page is Floyd. I was walking thru the West Village and he was outside a coffee shop waiting for his Owner. He was so patient and so quiet, and as I stopped to say Hello and get a picture you can see his eyes were looking thru the Glass window. Well not even 30 seconds passed when out walked this gentlemen who turned out to be Floyd’s Dad. We chatted for a minute and he formally introduced me to Floyd and then he went back to get his coffee. Below I will share some other City dogs and Owners feet for you to enjoy!
Happy Happy New Year to all my Family and Friends! I hope you all enjoyed your Christmas Holidays as much as our Family did this year and are looking forward to a great 2014! We were so lucky to have spent Christmas in New York City and then came back and rang in the New Year in Florida! Part of the fun this year was the quest to find the perfect Martini! Each Holiday along with new ideas for recipes, I also like to try a new cocktail. There’s something magical about white twinkling lights, glittery clothes and a Dry Martini with olives straight up not stirred. Even the glass evokes that feeling of the old days of New York City when style was elegant and traditional cocktails were enjoyed. A simple Martini or Manhattan compared to the LI Iced Tea and Apple Martini’s of today LOL! Well anyway I had four separate occasions where I tried one and the best one for me was a Dirty Martini with olives. Creating special moments and enjoying conversation is a lost art and I’m happy to be part of a movement to restore the art of relaxing. My Family and I created a host of Christmas Memories starting with a Christmas Concert at St Patrick’s Cathedral, several trips to see the Tree at Rockefeller Center and enjoying the Christmas Market at Bryant Park. Our first Saturday my Sister in law Terry, her Daughter Kathleen and her two granddaughters Samantha and Jessica came for dinner. I created a Pasta dish with fennel, onion, roasted peppers and swiss chard that I named Christmas Chitarra. I will post the recipe on In the Kitchen at the top of the page. On Christmas Eve we took a horse and carriage ride around Central Park, and then walked over to the lobby of the Plaza Hotel and took our picture with their Christmas tree and of course the picture of Eloise. We then went back to Stephanie’s apartment and had the Feast of the Seven Fishes for dinner, an Italian tradition. We had Fried Calamari and Baked Clams for appetizers. Next was Linguine with Shrimp and Mussels in a Marinara sauce, followed by Codfish, Fresh Tuna and Scallops baked in the oven. The Tuna was plain with a little extra virgin olive oil, capers and lemon and the scallops and codfish had olive oil, butter, breadcrumbs, lemon and parsley. After we finished our delicious Feast and cleaned up, we walked to the local Catholic Church and went to Midnight mass. Christmas Day we took the train to New Jersey to visit our niece and nephew Peggy and Dominick and two of their sons Nicky and Dom. Peggy’s Brother Gerard and his wife Dee and Daughter Kaitlyn were there, and he made my first great Martini ! Well Gerard being a great Bartender jumped up and before you knew it viola a martini with olives in a special glass and I was sipping away and then out came all these Martini stories from everybody. It really was a riot how everyone knew someone that drank them and the consensus was I should only have one! The three Martini lunch that they all referred to must have been crazy! They were right as its quite strong but its something you sip and should appreciate! Its actually so festive in a stemmed glass and I felt great being the guest and just having fun and was living out those Queen like moments again. LOL! We had a lovely ham dinner and a Holiday bread I made stuffed with Sausage and Vegetables. Later on my husbands Brother Sonny stopped by with his wife and we had a nice visit.The time flew by so quickly and we were back in Manhattan the next morning but not before we reminisced about a Christmas we spent three years ago. Innocent snow flurries turned into an accumulation of 27 inches the day after Christmas. We were stranded for three days but had so much fun! Thursday evening my husband and I had dinner with a friend of his since elementary school Mike and his wife Betty. We decided on a local Italian restaurant and I had Bucatini amatriciano and my husband had gnocchi. Our next food adventure was Friday when my son Stephen and I took a trip to Williamsburgh Brooklyn to the famous Acme smoked Fish Market. It is only open to the Public on Friday mornings from 9 to 1pm. They ship smoked Salmon all over the United States. We tasted several samples and were on our way after getting Gravlox, Pastrami Lox, Plain Peppered Nova,smoked White Fish Salad and Herring. Check back again to read a post I’m going to write about Acme Fish market. Later we met Gerard downtown at Jim Brady’s for Lunch and I had my second Martini a dirty-one made with the olive juice straight up and I really enjoyed it! Friday night our nephew and his new Bride Nicole came to the apartment and I made Pork Tenderloins for Dinner. My husband made Martinis that evening and Nicole and I rated them high on the scale too! It was a full day and so much fun. Being on vacation gives you energy you seem to lose at home right? Well Saturday was spent with Friends going to Grand Central Station for sandwiches and cheesecake at Juniors. Next we walked back to Rockefeller Center to see the Tree for one more time and listen to the Music and watch the light show on the building at Saks Fifth Avenue. As we flew back to Florida we all thought how nice it will be to enjoy the peace and quiet of our little town and enjoy the Palm Trees and walks down by the Jetty. We are truly blessed to live in a lovely town and still get to see New York as well. By the way my fourth Martini was Sunday night as my Daughter said she wanted a try at making me one as well. She did a great job and chose a Tomato Vodka and used the olive juice and olives for garnish and it was so delicious. What an exciting Christmas vacation! We lived in the moment enjoying delicious food and lively conversations with our Family and Great Friends. Now we look forward to the celebration of Little Christmas on Jan 6 ( Italian tradition). Then we will pack away all our glittery ornaments and think of all the wonderful memories we will make in 2014 which I’m sure will include a good Martini! LOL! Years ago when I was first married I enjoyed our weekend trips into Brooklyn and having Sunday dinner with the family. I was born and raised on Long Island where you drove to stores and really enjoyed the contrast of the tight knit community’s of the City. I loved all the little Grocery stores, Butchers and Bakeries and watching the interaction between the owners and their customers was really nice! Most of the owners knew their customers by first names as you had to walk home with your grocery’s, so you frequented the local stores for convenience. One such place was Georges Meat Market in my Husbands neighborhood. It was a Butcher shop that also carried some Italian grocery’s although not too many, as there was Tonys Grocery store across the street and both had their own territory so to speak! One day my mother in law asked me to go get some Black Coffee. She always would say after a big Sunday afternoon meal shall I make Demitasse? She always referred to black coffee or espresso as Demitasse. Another word lost in the shuffle remember when Pasta was referred to as macaroni! Well anyway she asked me to tell them to give me my darling daughters coffee as she thought I wouldn’t remember the brand Medaglia d’Oro Coffee. She was so cute. I walked over and asked for it like she said and they all burst out laughing. I actually thought it was funny too but decided it was better to remember the name for the next time. Several weeks later I went over to the market for a few items for Mama and while on line (it was really busy) I decided to have some fun with the owners son Frankie. I leaned over the counter and in front of a big line yelled out”‘hey Frankie did you say the Italian bread was 4 for a Dollar?” I had seen the sign for 2 for a Dollar but wanted to have some fun teasing him. Well at that minute all the people dove off line to get the Bread. It was so funny to see the look on his face from smiling to shock (OK you know what I mean) and then back to laughing out loud and he said OK we’re even now for all of us laughing at you for the coffee! It was really a great moment that I will always remember that made me feel connected to the store and with Frankie and now considered a regular. Oh and by the way I did offer to pay for the bread that “I” had put on sale, but his reply was absolutely not and I could still hear him laughing as I walked out the Door. After that day whenever I walked into the Shop he would look at me and give me a wink and then wave his finger and said Be Good today! Although George’s shop closed and has since reopened with new owners, on a recent visit as we passed I think I could still hear the laughter coming from behind the counter! Such Happy Memories! The celebration of Holidays give us the opportunity to look back and appreciate the way things began and then reflect these sentiments to those we love and cherish. It is that time of year when people of all faiths, ages and customs share and delight in their own special way. Each year as I sit down to write my Christmas cards I’m always reminded of three favorite stories. Even though we keep in touch and updated with all our technology today, I still enjoy writing and receiving a pretty card in the mail. You know that phrase reach out and touch someone, well that’s how I feel! Several years ago while writing my cards, I poured myself a glass of wine and put on the Christmas Music and imagined I was up North in the cold weather. I wrote my usual notes and sang along with the songs (I’ve never out grown my quirky ways well anyway…) I finished the cards and got them mailed feeling like I was so ahead of myself. I could tick that off my list to do and move on. Well several days later the calls started coming in and asking what I was doing while writing my cards! I said Singing and having a glass of wine. They all laughed and said that explains why I had signed them Merry Christmas and Happy New York! I still laugh every time I think of it and yet also enjoy that I was caught up in my New York memory moments! Now I could say its in the genes, as another funny story was the year my Uncle Wilbert wrote out his cards and mailed them in New York City. He had the just opposite of my experience , as his friends and family all called to see if he was OK as they hadn’t received a card that year! He was equally surprised as he mailed them in the city and thought they would receive them faster. Well it turns out he had put them in the fancy gold boxes on the poles in New York (somewhere on Park Ave) and they were actually trash bins in the exclusive neighborhoods. He had assumed they were fancy mail boxes! We laughed so hard and realized that although it was like throwing money in the garbage, it actually was a priceless memory that brought a good laugh each year. My third Christmas card story was when one summer a few years ago we were cleaning our garage and found a box with cards in it. We checked the postmark and realized they were from ten years ago.We were about to throw them away when I realized one had not been open. I quickly opened it and to my surprise came money falling out of it. It had been from a very good friend Joe from Long Island. As we picked up the money we were laughing so hard and feeling embarrassed that we had never thanked him and he had never mentioned it. We immediately called him and explained and told him of our plan to order Chinese food that night with the money so we would have a memory that we could enjoy each year at this time! Three mistakes that have brought such laughs and now traditions as well. I have my husband proof read my cards, we mail them at the post office and when we get them, open them right away!
What a great Holiday week it has been! Last week at this time I was anticipating the arrival of my Daughter Stephanie and my nephew Sal. It is hard to believe it has come and gone although the extra pounds I put on are still reminders of all the great food we enjoyed. From the onset of making the pumpkin, mince and apple pies, mince tarts and homemade Blue Cheese crackers and Britalia Way stuffed bread, we laughed and reminisced of years past. The recipe for the Britalia Way bread will be on In the Kitchen above. The stuffed bread combines ground pork with Italian Sausage and Stilton Blue Cheese. The bread is a pizza recipe dough rolled thin and then stuffed. As usual the time passes so quickly and we were up baking pies till 2am! It was then a marathon the next day to get the Turkeys one traditional and one smoked (prepared by my son Stephen) in the oven and smoker and then prepare all the great side dishes while watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade then followed by the Purina Dog Show. Now you have to imagine my nephew Sal, a Hyde Park Culinary Graduate trying to maintain a level of productivity by assigning Kitchen stations and prep work while keeping an eye on the clock to stay on schedule. I on the other hand was flying around in my usual whimsical way creating my Britalia Way holiday bread with a Bloody Mary in my Hand! LOL! We all know everyone will be happy and not really care if Dinner is a little late, rather having a fun story to gossip about the following week! We pulled it off and Cocktails and Canapes (OK so sausage bread is not really considered a canape but you get the picture) were enjoyed by all (12 of us)! With lively conversations and a tour of the Garden the day was so much fun! I’ve posted pictures in the gallery for you to check out. A special thank you to Joe for the great cookies and wine Biscuits and Pennsylvania Potato Pudding! Thanks to my Brother Bob for a delicious Caprese Salad, and Sherry for the great Pickled Shrimp and beautiful Peace plant. Thanks Stephen for getting up extra early to get the Turkey in the smoker and making the delicious Oyster Stuffing. I always conclude Dinner with a toast that the meal was only exceeded by the charm of the company and this was so true! Thanks to my husband Rocky, Stephanie, Stephen, Bob, Sal, Joe, Dave, Roy, Mike, Sherry and Terry!
As I begin preparations for the big Turkey feast this year I am always reminded of my turkey in the snow story! Years ago living in New York we had a bad ice storm and lost our power. It was late in February so there was no need to panic as it was so cold outside ( as well as inside, LOL) so I decided to take out my Frozen Turkey and pack it in a snow drift to keep frozen! The storm knocked out our power for seven days, leaving us a lot of food to cook quickly. No problem as we had natural gas to cook with, so I called several friends and invited them to dinner.The evening of the impromptu dinner “party” we regained our power, so half the meal was cooked outside on the grill and half inside . I think what made it so special was that we were all together without expectations, sharing and caring and probably had more fun because of the circumstances! I always find myself running around before Thanksgiving worrying is this enough or is that what they will like, or will I be able to get it all done and still have a good time? You all know what I mean, it’s stressful just thinking about it now a few days in advance. Tomorrow I will start shopping and meet friends and neighbors in the store and will laugh and talk about the same concerns and then the day will arrive and all our traditions of running around getting it all together will happen! There will be lively conversations, laughter and a sharing of a great meal regardless if the turkey is dry, or the gravy didn’t pan out and we used Franco American Gravy or at the last minute we forgot the Peas in the microwave! Once again this memory will include remembering our past traditions and loved ones and creating a new chapter to be recalled in years to come. Oh and by the way……….. Remember the Frozen Turkey in the snow well we found it thawed out several weeks later right behind the shed where we had put it! After the snow had melted I looked out and thought what is that in the black garbage bag and then I remembered. We still laugh at how we could have forgot that we put it there!
Cranberries and kindness………
It is that time of the year again when we gather together with Family and Friends and celebrate the start of the Holiday Season. Whether you are cooking or invited to someone’s home or spending it at a favorite Restaurant, Thanksgiving seems to bring back memories of our childhood. Giving thanks is a gesture that comes from our hearts and Thanksgiving gives us the opportunity to share these feelings. As children we are taught in school of the Pilgrims and the early Settlers that gave us traditions as well as customs from our ancestors and their Countries. Our Family likes to enjoy the traditional Turkey Dinner with all the trimmings, and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and visiting with our Family and Friends. Actually the preparations have become some of the funniest memories over the years ! We look forward to the next day when you put everything between two slices of bread and just enjoy the blending of all the tastes together. My Dad used to say he’s was going to have a Dagwood the next day and combined turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes and cranberries and had it on rye bread. Oh my, no one talked about carbs back then! These memories and traditions I try to keep ( as if its hard to enjoy a great meal LOL! ) and add our special touches that we’ve added over the years. Once again I’d like to share with you a story of two people and the link that keeps us together. Many years ago we were celebrating Thanksgiving with family in upstate New York. Cousin Theresa and Billy and Cousin Maryann and Charlie and their Families had invited our Family to Dinner that year. Cousin Dominick and a friend John were there and John’s mother Elizabeth. Elizabeth was a lovely women who had been a Head Mistress at a private school in NYC and was telling us many stories which we thoroughly enjoyed. She also had brought along a jar of her homemade Cranberry relish. Well by now I know you are thinking this must have been great and yes it was the tastiest cranberry relish I had ever had. The funny thing is how simple it is to prepare. It is raw and has three ingredients , cranberries , an orange, and sugar. I can still recall just thinking about it how my mouth burst with this delicious taste. Needless to say this recipe has become one of our favorites and served as part of our Thanksgiving meal. Another memory was of a gentlemen who lived in my Daughter’s apartment Bldg named Joe. He was a very talented man who actually did Audio work at Lincoln Center and also loved to cook. He would send for the best ingredients for his dishes or cakes and then make them and give them to people to enjoy. One of his famous recipes and enjoyed by many was his cranberry relish . His recipe was cooked with orange zest and walnuts and sugar and was absolutely amazing. He would start preparing in early Fall with ordering the cranberries from Wisconsin and the nuts from somewhere else and getting his jars and canning equipment ready for the big day. On one of my trips I was lucky to be there while he was making it, and he showed me his cranberry canning operation. It was so obvious the love and enjoyment he had both talking about it ,and preparing , but most of all sharing. It became a part of his Holiday Tradition as well as many who received this bottle of joy! Of course we were on the recipient line that year and actually got two! Thinking and remembering these two special people are really what makes me enjoy this Holiday most of all. Maya Angelou has said “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” Although not related and when we met just acquaintances these two lovely people have left me with a special feeling of a time so thoroughly enjoyed! A link that has been added to a chain of wonderful memories. |
Welcome to Britalia Way! Thanks for stopping by. Please join me as I share with you a series about food, people and experiences that are special to me. English and Italian traditions are so enticing and were the inspiration for creating Britalia Way!
Regards, Denise BritaliaWay@gmail.comand follow me on...
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