Lydia's Little Corner of the World

Italian Red Seafood Sauce over Mussels & Pasta

2012-02-05T10:15:00.000-08:00

This is My Homemade Italian Red Seafood Sauce served over Mussels and Pasta I made this Sunday night for my dinner and trust me there were no left overs

You will need

2 dozen mussels frozen all ready in butter and garlic
1 dozen scallops
1 dozen med shrimp skinned and cut up
1 Sm can of tomato paste
2 lg cans of tomatoes sauce
2 can of Italian season stewed tomatoes seasoned in garlic Basil and orangeno
1 cup of sugar
1 lg onion cut up
olive oil for frying onions
1 lb of Linguini or fettachhini
2tlbs sweet basil
2 tbs of powder garlic

Directions:

In your sauce pot put olive oil and salte your onions
add tomatoes paste and melt down
add the rest of your sauce
add the rest of your spices and simmer low add sugar

add your seafood except for your mussels they are separate
allow sauce to simmer very slow or a couple of hours but no more remember on a low heat

In a separate sauce pan take frozen muscles and place in a sauce pan cook over low heat while boiling your pasta the muscle have there own sauce once muscle have been cooked and pasta is ready
place pasta in your pasta bowl add sauce to it and serve muscle over the past

This is really wonderful meal and easy to make

Enjoy
Always
Lydia

My Simple Mini Semi Homemade Boston Cream Pies

2012-02-05T09:54:00.000-08:00

My Simple Mini Semi Homemade Boston Cream Pie

You you will need;

1 box of yellow cake mix( with the pudding inside)
1 lg Box of Vanilla instant cream pudding
1tsp of real vanilla
1tsb of almond extract
2 extra lg eggs
1/4 cup of oil
1 cup of whole milk
1 cup of water
med dark semi sweet chocolate 2
1/4 cup of corn syrup
6 muffin pan

Directions:

Follow directions on box for cake
as well as for instant pudding I did list the ingredients but added
more for the pudding
line Muffin pan with cupcake liners
fill almost to the top with cake mix
bake at 350 until done
cool cake and slice off the tops
mix pudding adding vinniale and almond allow to chill while cake is baking and cooling
with a small ice cream scoop place pudding on the cake place the tops on the cake

In a double boiler melt chocolate add corn syrup until all melted
spoon over the tops of the cakes allow to cool

This is a simple and very tasty Mini Boston Cream Pie your family and Friends will love

Enjoy
Always
Lydia

My Homemade Raspberries Jam

2012-02-05T09:35:00.000-08:00

My Homemade Raspberries Jam:

This was a big hit this Sunday Morning with my family and is so easy to make However, it is lenthy so be prepaired to spend some time over the stove but it is worth the wait

You will need:

2 cups of fresh or frozen Raspberries
1 1/2 cup of white sugar
1/4 cup of water

Directions;

In a sauce pan over a low to medium heat
Place berries in pan add sugar and water
allow to simmer Slowly until thickens
stirring occasionally once thick take off
stove cool in place in refrigerator serve chilled
over biscuits or toast. A true delete

Enjoy
Lydia

My Standing Rib Roast Recipe

2012-01-03T00:45:00.000-08:00

Now what can be more delicious then a Standing Rib Roast and so festive around the Holidays I have found that it is one of the easy roast to bake

You will need

8-10 lb Standing Rib Roast
1 pkg of Lipton French Onion Soup
a tablespoon of garlic powder
a tablespoon of fresh pepper
1 cup of Italian Bread Crumbs\
2 tablespoon of Olive oil

Directions

Heat oven to 450 along with the roasting pan
Mix Lipton Soup. garlic.pepper together
rub roast down with olive oil
rub roast all over with your blend
add bread crumbs last make sure you cover the entire roast
Remove roasting pan from hot oven and place your standing rib roast
in roasting pan cover the expose bone with aluminum foil
place in 450 oven for at least 35 min
turn heat down to 350 bake for another 40 min or until crust has formed and inside in slightly pink
depending on how you want your your meat I like my roast medium rare.
Once you have a good crust and meat is ware you want it to be remove and allow to rest for 20-30 min
Serve with your favorite sauce and side dish
Serves 6 with some left over

Enjoy
Always
Lydia

A Day Shy from a Year

2012-01-02T01:38:00.000-08:00

It has been over a year since we were robbed yes robbed. I have not mention this in my blog as it happed on December 23 2010 Two days prior to Christmas and a day after the Winter Solstice. A morning I don't think I will forget but a morning I learned a valuable lesson.

My sister and I were on our way to take the dogs to the groomer this was a rarity as it is usually me bringing the dogs so it was a morning of great planning. Dropping the dogs off, Breakfast, and last minute Christmas Shopping. Now don't get me wrong, Our family is not big on gift exchanging. Just getting together for a wonderful Christmas Dinner.Cornish Hens were on the menu so I wanted to pick up the Appetizers and last minute things I would need and looking forward in sharing the day with my sister.

We left late for the groomers usually I have to be there by 8 am but we were late. Calling the groomer and letting her know off we went.
Enjoying the morning and completing all of the last minute shopping we headed home knowing I would have to return to the groomers to pick up the dogs..

Driving into the driveway I notice that the Screen to the window was by the garbage can and the window opened. Both my sister and I were staring at it but it had not hit not for a couple of minutes. Then it hit! OMG we were robbed!! We went into the house and low and behold everything gone!! All of the computers, cameras, TVs everything gone!! Our home was torn apart such a horrible feeling. My sister called 911 and we got out of the home waiting for the police. Our cats were in the house but the police advised us to wait until they arrived before entering the home so we waited. Finally they arrived and we walked through the house to find our cats. One by one they came out pretty shook up but OK and very happy to see us.

They took everything of my sisters who worked very hard for all she had. Our Moms jewelry everything gone that quick, gone.

Since then a day shy of a year we had to go to court for the sentencing of the person who robbed us and yes justice was served somehow the Gods saw it and gave back to my sister what he had taken . It is a road that this person while have to journey and faces hard times but hopefully he will have learned his lesson.

We have since move to a quiet town a town not know for gangs or high crime but like I believe it can happen anywhere. Where we are now my dogs are happy my cat Spike loves it here and both my sister and I feel more at home and safe then ever a feeling I had lost living in the town we came from.

For me I still Lock my doors. Make sure the windows are closed and locked but somehow it is safer and cleaner A Day Shy from a Year

Christmas Day 2011

2011-12-26T08:01:00.000-08:00

Our Cyber Fire Place

Dad & Maggie Enjoying
The Hot Crab Dip

Our Dad could not get enough

My Simple but Elegant
Christmas Table setting

Pretty Table

Awe The finished Biscottie

The Biscottie Once Baked
and sliced

In the Oven we go
for the second bake

I hope your Christmas was as wonderful as ours. The parents here and our dear friend Dot
My sister finally arrived after a day of call for Trauma. It was good having everyone together in
my sister new home

Merry Christmas and looking forward to a healthy Safe Prosperous New Year!!

Always
Lydia

Merry Christmas My Chirstmas Menu

2011-12-24T23:07:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas

          Wishing you and your family a wonderful Christmas and a safe and healthy New Year

Our Christmas Menu

        Appetizers
Warm Crab Dip
Assorted meat platter
Assorted Cheese Platter
Stuffed Cream Cheese Celery
Cocktails and Eggnog

         Dinner
Bake Ham in Vermont Maple Syrup
Steamed Asparagus
Homemade Scallop potatoes
Fresh Herb Salad
Warm Potato Rolls

          Desert
Warm Fresh Raspberry Tart with homemade Whip Cream
Cream Puffs
Coffee

Childhood Memories Waiting for Santa

2011-12-24T04:50:00.000-08:00

I cannot tell you how many dreams I had as a child with great anticipation for Santa's arrival. Living in New England on the out skirts of Boston I can remember one Christmas that stood out. It was extremely cold that year and snow was predicted to happen on Christmas Eve making for a long over due White Christmas.
Oh don't get me wrong it is always cold in New England around Christmas time but to have a fresh blanket of snow Christmas Morning was not happening to often. As a kid I loved the snow and was out in it as much as possible

This Christmas I was so excited about the Holiday not that I had a huge gift list because I usually did not but the legend was always built up with great suspense about who is this man that comes every year and leaves a gift or two
I had seen many Santa's along the way in different locations. Even our small town of Sagus held a town Christmas Party and our neighbor dressed up as Santa with that, every child received a gift but I new when Santa came to your home it was the real thing.

Christmas Eve finally arrived. Our Mom had made all of the final arrangements for Christmas dinner with the family. Our tree was all decorated and lit up. The wreath hug on the door and it was almost time for my sister and I to go to bed. It was predicted to snow Christmas Eve so we will have a blanket of Snow On Christmas Morning. Mom was putting the cookies on a plate and she had bought huge carrots for the reindeer Mom also made a Thermos for Santa with Hot Chocolate so out all of this went on the front porch awaiting for Santa's arrival.
I was up so early that morning and pulling the drapes away from the window I saw snow white snow and I remember how beautiful it was I looked up and saw Ice on the side of our house I quickly ran to the front door and opened only to find the carrots gone cookies gone and the Thermos of Hot Cocoa empty.
I ran to the end of our walkway only to find footsteps huge much larger them my dads feet ever could be I followed them up to the porch then a nother set of prints away and off once hitting the curb they just disappeared.Could it Be? Was it? I wasn't sure. Not even concerned about the gifts that were left under the tree only this mystery of Santa and the footsteps. I woke my sister and showed her by them it started to snow and the prints soon disappeared.

Mom and Dad finally woke up and coffee was made I then asked Mom about the foot prints and explained what I saw. Mom just smiled and said "Lydia we don't have a Fireplace Santa has to come in somehow, This is why I put everything on the front porch. and is it all gone"? "Yes" I said "Everything" "Good" Mom said "Then Santa did not have to travel on a empty tummy"

To this day I still remember that Christmas Eve the smell of the cookies the carrots for the reindeer the Cocoa as it it was just yesterday. I don't kn ow who's footprints appeared but they were magical so magical it left a sweet memory of Santa Clause and a special Christmas Eve!!

Merry Christmas
Always
Lydia

A Cristmas Poem

2011-12-23T01:22:00.000-08:00

Can anyone explain the glow of Christmas?
Holidays are candles in the night.
Rebirth comes from family and friends
In one bright blur of food and talk that ends
Still burning as a peaceful inner light.
There is no way to substitute for Christmas.
Miss it and no circumstance feels right.
All my heart's with you, yet I must miss this
Season thick with love and rich delight.

By:
Un Know Writer

Twas the Night before Christmas by Clement Moore

2011-12-18T01:55:00.000-08:00

Twas the Night before Christmas Poem

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.
And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below.
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight tinny reindeer.

With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St Nick.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!

"Now Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, on Donner and Blitzen!
To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!
Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!"

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky.
So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,
With the sleigh full of Toys, and St Nicholas too.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,
And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.
A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.

His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.
He had a broad face and a little round belly,
That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,
And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself!
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight,
"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"

Zeppoli, An Italian Christmas delite

2011-12-10T06:06:00.000-08:00

Zeppoli are to me the most easy of an Italian Cookie to make. Around the Holidays, Our Mom use to make this all the time at Christmas or right before. It is so tasty and hits the sweet craving you might have .

I will give you our Mom's recipe

You will need...

Pizza Dough
Rolling Pen
Flour to dust with
Powder Sugar for dusting
oil
deep frier or deep pan for frying

Directions...

On a flat surface roll out your dough
cut your flat dough with a knife or pizza wheel
twist your dough with the palm of your hands one going one way and the other hand opposite direction until it is twisted
heat oil
place twisted dough in oil and fry until golden brown all all sides
remove from oil and place on paper towel to absorb the excess oil
allow to cool then dust with powder sugar

This is a yummy cookie and so festive around Christmas time. I hope you will enjoy this treat as much as we did when our mom made them for us.

Enjoy!
Happy Holidays
Lydia

Our Mom's French Toast with Warm Maple Syrup

2011-11-12T23:39:00.000-08:00

This is a simple but great and tasty recipe Our Mom's French Toast. She usually made this on a Sunday Morning then I started making it on Christmas Morning. Either way it is extremely tasty.

You will need!

Old thick bread a couple of days old
2 jumbo eggs
butter
Vermont Maple Syrup
1 cup of Heavy Whipping Cream
1 tbs if Cinnamon
1tbs of vanilla
Sugar to sprinkle or powder sugar

Directions!

Mix eggs and whipping cream together
add Cinnamon and Vanilla
place on a greased frying pan on med low heat and let brown on both side
take Maple syrup and heat over stove in can or bottle in a pan of water make sure bottle is open and do not let it boil
Place toast in a serving dish and dust with sugar or powder sugar and place a pad of real butter in between toast. Enjoy!

The Florida Rose!

2011-10-24T01:18:00.000-07:00

Florida Roses have been around for a very long time and have taken on almost all of the major rose groups such as, climbers, trees shrubs, and of course the standard rose bush.
Being a Gardener myself and have grown some of the most beautiful Florida Roses I can honestly say they are not cheap by any means. Plan on spending around $50.00 a bush depending on its type but it is well worth the investment as Florida especially in southern part the soil is mostly sand but that is OK for the Florida Rose as this fine flower has been grafted and rooted for such a event as Florida Soil.
Some nursery in Florida will carry the Florida Rose and mostly they come from a well know nursery called Nelsons this nursery is family owned and has been around for a very long time grafting and growing some of the richest and finest Florida Roses one can imagine!!!The one thing that I love about this rose stock that it is very adaptable to Florida's climate and soil with little work involved their life expectancy is a very long time and just keep producing the most fragrant flowers one can imaging

So if you life in Florida and love to garden and have had little luck with roses Try the Florida Rose I think you will be amazed and surprised how well they do

Always
Lydia

Its Dots Birthday!!

2011-09-18T03:33:00.000-07:00

Both my sister and I have know our dear friend Dot for just about 30 years maybe longer. Today is here birthday and we are celebrating it with family friends. Good food and wine.
Come stroll with us through the pages and see what was in store for a fabulous evening!!

                                                          The Menu

To start off were cocktails and appetiser which were spinach wrapped in Filo Dough with
Fresh Figs.

                                                       Soup & Salad.

Just before dinner my family recipe of Escarole Soup or Italian wedding Soup.
and my sister fresh Herb Salad .




                                                       Dinner.

My Homemade Fettuccine with Alfredo Sauce Hot Crusty Italian Bread.

                                                    Desert

Chocolate Cake with White and dark chocolate on the outside of cake.
And Butter Pecan Ice Cream topped with Kaulua.

Our Dear Friend Dot

Our dad mixing my Martina I might add our Father was a restaurant owner for many years owning the Village South in Vero Beach Fl he has won many Bar Masters Awards and feels right at home mixing a drink

Awe... The finish product

Our dad and his loving wife Margret

Now that is a drink

our dad is 84 can you beleve that

getting the olives ice and glass ready for my dad

A great picture of Dot and look who is in the background my sister Valerie

Dad giving Dot a warm Greeting

My sister modeling off her new Hair Piece... Really! Seroulsly!

Margret & Dot talking

Some yummy apitizers

cought in the act my sister is the only one who looks busy but gets nothing done lol

Dot cutting the cake

A great Picture of our Dad

Cake and Coffee anyone?

Looks yummy

My Table Setting for Dot

Since we were having soup and I did not have any soup bowls I used my Spode Coffee Cups and Socer pretty shabby I though

this was Lamoge cake plate and Spode cup and saucer but a differnt pattern

Love my pink Candel Opera

Sauce anyone? The Gravy Boat is un mark but the server spoon is Nappone

This is one of my Soup Terrine

a great view of my Spode Coffee Cup and Saucer with a Dresden Cake Plate

Wine anyone?

I hope you have enjoyed your visit through our Birthday Dinner for Dot. It was a lot of fun and everyone had a great time. It is always good when family and good friends get together.

Always
Lydia

Black Eyed Pea Salad

2011-09-16T05:43:00.000-07:00

Fresh Black Eye Peas right from a local church group

How fresh is that?

Finished Product

This is a very simple recipe to follow I used fresh black eye peas that were pick that day and given to me from a local church group . The Recipe is as follow

You will need

Fresh Black Eye Peas as many as you can stand

patience to shell the peas

cold water to rinse

2-4 cups of shelled Black Eye peas

1 large tomato sliced small

1 cup of arugula

3 tbs of lemon juice

6 tbs of olive oil

pepper

a pinch of salt

Directions

soak beans in cold water over night

cook beans no longer then 5 min

place in your lg salad bowl after rinsing beans

add your oil lemon and salt and pepper

mix

add your arugula and tomato lightly toss

serve cold and Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do

Always

Lydia

My Differnt Table settings

2011-09-14T03:54:00.000-07:00

A Brunch for my Parents

What a great table setting 1950s Pyrex

Special Dinner fot my Parents

Mothers Day Brunch

I love to set my table for all different occasions here are just a few!

Its Tea Time!

2011-09-13T12:25:00.000-07:00

Both Tea Pots I found at my favorite Antique Shop

This is one of my favorite Tea Cups I have many still packed away

I found this treasure in a local Thrift Store

Above are some of my Vintage Tea Cups. I truly adore the cups. They set such a beautiful table for an afternoon tea.Below are some pictures from the Internet giving ideas on decorating for a tea

The Rose Garden Tea Room

I thought this was a lovely display of Tea Snack's

very pretty table display

Now this is more me!

One of my own Vintage Aprons

which would be fabulous wearing as a host for a Tea Party!

Would anyone care to join me? I went on line and some of the Pictures are from the Internet Ideas for a delightful Tea Party

Where was I on Sept,11

2011-09-11T03:46:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of the Internet

I think all of us can remember where we were and how we found out about that day on September 11 10 years ago. Even thou so many years have gone past and each year of its anniversary the haunting memory still runs chills up my spine.

I was working in the operating room and it had started out like any normal morning. Getting all the patients for our 7 am starts and making sure all of the equipment is there and ready to be used. I was assigned to a latter case which I loved as this gave me extra time to get my room ready and making sure all of the final touches are made.
While in the central supply room. I was getting small items for my case when One of the Doctors Surgical Assistants approach me and informed me that a plane had hit the World Trade Center. Wow I said someone was off in the control tower.
I continue on with preparing for my case when going to the front desk the Chief of Surgery who happened to be operating that day said The sound tower was hit at this point and shortly after it was determined we were under attack.

Surgery came to a halt. No new cases were started and the ones in progress finished out and set to recovery.Our Chief of surgery finally gave the OK to proceed on it was so hard to keep from talking to it in front of our patients but we did it.
One of our surgery's was CX as her husband was in the Pentagon OMG so said and frighting.

I was friends with a Agency Nurse she and I were running partners and we were planning on running that evening while walking out to the parking lot she said to me " This is going to change America" we decided to run a little earlier that evening as things were so UN settled.
While driving home listening to the radio I felt so afraid. Never in my life had I felt this was about our Country. Afraid! I was almost in a state of shock. Once home I turned on the television and watched I could not move I was mesmerized of what had happened to America. Before I knew it it was to meet Mary to run. So changed and off to the beach side for our Tuesday Run.

Our run was filled with the talk of what happened and Mary coming from a Military back ground talk about how in Germany where she was stationed how it was retinue to have a bomb check under the car you were going to ride in. I just could not image.
We finished our run and said our goodbyes. We were schedule to work together on Wednesday in the operating room.

The morning came and I arrived at work. I went into the locker room and found Mary crying I said to her " Mary are you all right? We did not run that hard last night" She looked at me and said " My Aunt and Uncle were on the first plane that hit the world trade center" My heart fell to my feet it was as if time had stood still and the room was spinning. OMG Mary I am so sorry so sorry I gave her a hug and my own tears showed face. Why are you here? she explained that she could not reach her recruiter and our Hospital had to release her from her contract. Our Nurse Manager had arrived I went with Mary to tell our manager. Her face was of shock when told of Mary's News. Mary was released.

She had to drive to Alabama to pick up her children and wait in her home of any information from the airlines. I knew how painful it was going to be for her and her family. I told Mary if she needed to talk to call me no matter how late it is.
Mary came back to us 3 weeks later and we continued our runs together. One evening she stopped in the middle of our run and broke down and cried. I know they did not die right away they felt it they felt it!
Trying to comfort Mary and explain the science behind it I just felt at this point it was best to let her grieve.

Ten years have past but the memory will never leave me. I know Mary was right 911 did change America. It made us stronger and Smarter it made us come together in a different like. Oh sure there are those that say 911 was a conspiracy. That I will never understand. But what I do know is 911 made me truly grateful that I live in this country I do and believe in the Constitution and thank God everyday that our military guards our gates we Cherish so greatly!

Always
Lydia

My Pretty Breakfast Table

2011-09-04T11:11:00.000-07:00

My Table with all of the different Vintage cake plates I use nothing on my table matches and I love it!!

Another view of my Table

Here are some of my Vintage Jelly Jars which for this Breakfast will be filled with Tangerine Marmalade Blueberry Preserve and Fig Preserve all fresh from Nelsons Family Farm.

It was a wonderful Sunday Morning preparing breakfast for my parents and there dear Friend Annie. But prior to breakfast, I walk all Three of my dogs one at a time completing Three and a half miles so I was ready for breakfast.
I love setting my table and love using my vintage china especially since none of my china matches.Makes it fun and oh so shabby.

They arrived by 10:30 in the morning and coffee was brewing filling the house with all the comforts of home. My menu was simple. Scramble Eggs, Italian Sausage real New York Bagels,Home Fried Potatoes and Fresh Jams and Preserves. Yummy, just what you needed after a healthy walk.

Breakfast was enjoyed with great conversation and lots of laughs and before we knew the morning was gone .
I love having our parents up and they love coming up it was a morning that was enjoyed by all and well remembered.

Always,
Lydia

Peach Cobbler End of Summer

2011-09-04T01:41:00.000-07:00

What a way to end the summer Then a Homemade Peach Cobbler. I have seen this delightful summer dish made many ways but for me I like to make it as simple as can be. For myself I add a crust but just on the top.
I'm sure you will enjoy this cobbler and it will be a huge hit on your Labor day picnic

You Will Need!

Fresh large soft semi soft peaches ( I like to use Fresh Georgia Peaches if you can get them )
About 4-6 depending on size and the size of your Cobbler

1 1/2 cub of sugar
1tsp of vanilla
4-6 Fresh Peaches sliced
a pinch of Cinnamon
a pinch of nutmeg
3 cups of Bisquick
1 1/2 stick of butter
1 stick cold butter the other room temp.
1/4 cup of half and half cold cream

Directions!

Rub some butter on your pie plate as you can see in the photo I used an old vintage casserole dish which looks great on a summer table
pre heat oven to 350
Cut 1 stick of cold butter in slices and add to your 2 cups of Bisquick:
with pasty cutter of food processor make your dough for crust getting it to the crumble stage or of using a pastry cutter make sure the butter is well incorporate. Add two tbs of cold cream or more if needed.
with the rest of your Bisquick add the remaining of cream sugar vanilla and spices remaining melted butter all to the batter take your slice peaches and mix real good into batter
in your pie dish or baking pan place batter and peaches ino it
place your dough on top so it will form a crust
Place onto a Cookie sheet as it will bubble over and put into your pre heated oven at 350 bake until crust is golden brown usually around 45 min depending on your oven
Be sure to place in center of oven to bake evenly

Sit back and enjoy the summer's last peaches with my tasty Peach Cobbler

Enjoy
Lydia

Stromboli Night!!

2011-08-28T03:17:00.000-07:00

2 lbs of fresh pizza dough rubbed down with olive oil and rested over a hour

Roll out dough until thin takes a while as the dough tends to have a lot of memory

fresh veggies

grated cheese

place filling in center of dough and then roll cut slits in center

bake at 350 until golden brown

My Sister making her salad which she is famous for

WOW

Her Homemade Croutons made from 3 day old Italian Bread

Now that is a salad

And now it is time to eat

Stromboli Night was Saturday night and Wow did we have fun! My sister and I decided to have the parents up and we decided to make Stromboli
This can be made many ways but I like a fresh Veggie and a Italian Sausage. it is very easy to make the hardest part is rolling out your dough.

Pizza dough has a lot of memory so you really have to work it. I found rubbing it down with Olive Oil helps and letting it rest outside the refrigerator is a plus.A well dusted flowered area is much needed when rolling your dough.

My sister is famous for her well defined Salads and this one was a huge hit. Singing songs while listening to our music we both were well at work on both of our creations.
Finally everything was read and into the oven the Stromboli went.

Finally our parents arrived cocktails were made and appetizers were placed on the living room while the Stromboli was baking and soon it was time to eat!!

Below I have posted the recipe

Stromboli:

You Will Need

1lbs of fresh Pizza Dough cut in half
4 tsp of olive oil
salt
pepper
fresh veggie of your liking
meat of your liking
garlic
grated fresh mozzarella cheese

Directions:

Roll out your dough after it has rested on a well flowered surface
roll your dough thin
bast with olive oil
add you salta veggies meat cheese or what you like for your filling to the center of the rolled out dough
fold in half to make a large log
cut 3 slits in log
bake at a hot 350 oven and place in center on a baking sheet until golden brown and cheese has melted
you can serve with a red sauce but I serve plane

Enjoy
Always
Lydia

Fettuccine Alfredo My Homemade Recipe

2011-08-24T15:25:00.000-07:00

This is my Homemade Fettuccine Alfredo Sauce it is so simple to make and takes no time at all.

You will need.

1lbs of hard Fettuccine pasta
boiling water for pasta
1tbs olive oil
pinch of salt
11/2 cup of half and half cream
1 stick of UN Salted Butter
2 cloves of garlic crushed and cut up
1 shallot cut up
1tsp of nutmeg
1/4 cup of fresh Parmesan cheese
sprinkle of parsley

In a sauce pan melt butter and add garlic and shallot once butter is melted
add half and half cream
add cheese and let simmer add nutmeg
still constley until sauce gets a coating

Serve of Pasta

Enjoy
Always
Lydia

A Sunday Afternoon with the Brevard Symphony Quartet

2011-08-21T15:31:00.000-07:00

Evan & I setting and waiting to here the Quartet

The celloist performing a song from Handel

Talking about Scott Choplin

Evan listening to the Brevard Symphony Quartet Perform

A little girl asked me permission to pet Evan as did her Mom as well I said it was OK and this moment was captured

Evan and I sitting and waiting he was very good and like everything around him all the children were very polite to both Evan & I

Two violinist performed such beautiful music

This little boy and his mom came over and he performs with the Children's Orchestra he plays the violin

The Conductor of the Brevard Symphony Orchestra Christopher Confessore

The Brevard Symphony Orchestra conducted by Christopher Confessore gave s sneek preview of the up and coming season. There Quartet performed this Sunday at Barnes and Nobel and it was a perfect setting to bring Evan along with me.

It stared out my sister and I picking up our dear friend Dot and of course Evan and I rode in the back seat. We headed for Melbourn taking US1 as it runs along the River and is such a scenic drive. Arriving in Melbourn we headed for lunch to Olive Garden but it was packed and I did not want to miss the concert. TG Fridays was right across from Barnes and Nobel so it was a hit.

Evan was a perfect gentleman and we all had a wonderful lunch. Now it was off to the mini concert.It was wonderful!! Evan was great he was at my side the whole time. The children were so respectful and asked permission if they could pet him and I felt it was OK

It was such a wonderful afternoon with special moments I was able to capture with the camera. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did taking them

Always
Lydia

A Fun Saturday August Morning

2011-08-20T15:29:00.000-07:00

A great sign for Italian Ice Cream Shop

I loved her display for her cupcakes at the Farmers Market

The Old Sunrise Theatre

I managed to stop in at my favorite Antique Shop in Vero Beach

An Adorable Vintage Suite Case

I really liked this 1950s Patio Set

This was always my favorite Beach Humesten Beach

My Favorite Road
Painted Bunted Road in Vero Beach the Live Oaks just wrap around the whole street

A Fun Saturday Morning!!

Wow what a busy morning. It first started off with house cleaning. After of which I walked my Three Standard Poodles. Thomas Evan and the youngest Jacob. As usual it was a hot and humid August morning and I wanted to get my boys walked before it became to UN bearable.

After the walk it was off to the Farmers Market I wanted to pick up some Lavender Soap for my Laundry Soap and pick up some veggies and bread so I thought I will bring my camera as you never know what you may find.

Evan

2011-08-15T10:16:00.000-07:00

Evan and I at Walmart

Evan came to me at the age of Three years old. He was the full litter mate brother of my Standard Poodle Thomas.
I had bought Thomas at the age of 8 months of age so I had completed the hair raising puppy stage. Evan, I received when they both had turned Three taking Evan off the hands of the breeder who had just lost her Mom in a sudden death.

Evan was special and so full of love and devotion from the moment I brought him home and quick to embrace to his full brother Thomas was amazing.
It took a year before I ever attempted the training of agility with him. There was a whole new world for him to explore and he was eager to achieve it.
I do remember his first go at agility foundation work lots of game playing and balance and his big factor trust!! On one small piece of equipment for strengt it took Evan over 20 min to even put his front paw on the equipment. Now he has earned his title in K9 CPE level 1 and ended last season with Qualifying scores in Level 2 and will soon start his agility career in AKC Novice Agility.
What I am trying to write about is the Heart, Spirit and his willingness to please.

Getting older I have developed really bad knees bone on bone on both and very arthritic. I am facing total knees and my runs in agility are getting harder and harder with increase pain. I decided to teach Evan as my Service Dog
allot of the back ground Evan already had Agility really teaches a dog allot if they are taught the foundation work.
Evan knows how to go back forward pivot Right and left to side and heel. and understand his release word Evan is great for my balance

The other evening I joined six of my friends for a dinner at a restaurant in Vero Beach I took Evan and when we were seated Evan imedntly laid down at my side. As the other guest arrived Evan was calm and relaxed but focused on me. Three hours had come and gone and it was time for us to leave when I went to get up my knees locked never ever having this happened I froze bent over Evan imedently went behind me and stood to his side in case I would of fallen back. The manager came over and help me up the rest of the way. I was so embarrassed as this has never happened before but I was also proud of Evan for trying to help. The manager complimented Evan and at that point Evan walked beside me in the most regal way exciting the resturant

Service Dogs are special in every way as they seem to sense what is correct for you. Evan does not pick up things but can turn a light on and open handicap doors as I taught him but it is not necessary for me

I still continue his agility training as I do his brother Thomas for agility season is vastly approaching Continue freshening there obedience and enjoy my walks with my boys knowing that my knees will be replaced but for now I have one more agility season to complete.

Always,
Lydia

Getting ready for my Above Ground Garden

2011-08-15T04:06:00.000-07:00

The first two is my yard after weeding it

Here are some designs I am thinking off

Getting the soil ready for any garden is the key to a successful garden. Where I live it is hot and humid during the summer months which usually last from June until October this time is usually wet and humid filled with Tropical Storms and an occasional Hurricane warning so a summer garden is out of the question.

Sunday was a day that I knew I needed to weed and start to lay out my plane for a above ground vegetable and herbal garden. Adding a design that would have hagging as well as containers and framed out area for my veggies. My Soil is not the greatest so an above ground is my choice..

I do have some annuls that were planted last sping and are hagging in there but they will be removed come fall and a whole new group will be planted along with new soil.
The hardest part was weeding in the Florida heat of 96 and a heat index of 101 and very high humid I continue on a quest to complete the task.

Finally I was done and able to see where my beds are going to go. It will be a small garden enough for a family of four.
Once I harvest the lovely veggies it will be canning time looking forward to this a great deal.
I feel with the high cost of food and the issue with contamination it is the right time to start harvesting my own and sharing with my family and friends.

But for now I can only plane, prepare , design and watch the weather for storms for we are in the heigth of Hurricane Season.

Always,
Lydia

Above are some design I copied from the Internet that I may incorporate in my yard

Roasted Whole Chicken with my old fashion Buttermilk Cornbread

2011-08-11T16:09:00.000-07:00

How do you roast a Chicken? well it is pretty easy. This is my simple recipe for Roasted Whole Chicken and my Southern Old Fashion Buttermilk Cornbread

For the Chicken you will need

1 whole Roasting Chicken
3 tbs of ground garlic
2 tbs of course black pepper
1 whole lemon
2 tbs of UN salted butter

Directions

Wash chicken and pat dry
rub butter all over chicken inside and out
squeeze lemon and pour over chicken
rub pepper and garlic all over chicken
place a meat thomator in center of chicken
place in a roasting pan with a rack
bake at 350 until brown and leg can pull apart easily

Old Fashion Buttermilk Cornbread

You Will Need

2 1/2 cups of Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Corn Meal Mix( Self Rising)
1 1/2 cups of Buttermilk
1 egg
3 tbs of cooking oil
1/2 can of cream corn
1/4 cup of sugar

Directions

Grease a 9 inch cake pan
mix all of your ingredient in a blender
pulse to get all of the batter on the side you will have to spoon the edges
mix until batter is completely mixed
Pour into your Cake Pan
Bake at 350 until brown and done in the center you can use a tooth Pick

Enjoy
Lydia

My Homemade Laundry Soap

2011-08-07T06:10:00.000-07:00

This is a very simple recipe. and I use it allot. It does not lather like commercial laundry soaps but it really cleans.
It takes no time to make.

You will need:

1 small bar of your favorite soap
1 cup of Borax Mule cleaner
1 cup of Baking soda Boaster
a cheese grater
a cute container that will seal tight

Directions:

Mix all of your powder first very well.
Grate all of your soap either fine or course it is up to you
Mix well and store.

All you have to do. You only have to use 2 tbs per load. Remember it will not suds .
This is a great project for Moms Little Helper

Have Fun
Lydia

My Homemade Blueberry Coffee Cake

2011-08-07T03:49:00.000-07:00

This is a very simple recipe that I found on the Internet however I change it around and it turned out tasty

You will need

2 cups of Bisquick
1 cup sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup of half and half cream
2 eggs slightly beaten
1 tsp. vanilla
1 cups fresh or frozen blueberries

ICING:Optional
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 tsp. almond extract
3-5 tsp. milk

DIRECTIONS:
Heat oven to 375. Grease a 13x9 inch pan. In large bowl, combine bisquick, sugar, baking powder, salt and Using pastry blender or fork or food processor, cut in butter. Add milk, eggs and vanilla. Stir well. Pour 3/4 batter into greased pan.

Top with blueberries. Spoon remaining batter over blueberries. Bake for 35 minutes. Cool 30 minutes

Enjoy
Lydia

An August Saturday Morning

2011-08-06T11:24:00.000-07:00

It started off a great Saturday morning minus the heat and humid in Sunny Florida. I was at the beach by 7 and It was already hot and humid lets say 89! I had all three of my boys with me and they enjoyed the comfort of there crates in the AC. My youngest one Jacob had not really seen the ocean so this was going to be a real experience for him since he is on the shy side. My other two boys Thomas & Evan are old pros.
Arriving it was hot and humid as I got out of my van I thought I would take Thomas out first. As I figured he was so excited and rearing to run so it was hard to keep him at bay but he finally settled and enjoy the ocean. I then took Evan and he rally loved it. He watched the ocean and the few folks who were enjoying the early morning Sun and heat.
When taking Jacob out he was excited and very eager to meet his new adventure until the City ground keeper came by with a very loud garbage can which he was dragging around. I kept very calm and every time Jacob look at the individual I rewarded him with a treat thus after a short time he realized it was just noisy so he Begin to look at me. Once he was comfortable I walked him around then with lots of treats for him he was settled and back into the van.

The heat started to get to intense so I thought it was time to head home. The drive was a pleasant one as I took the coastal highway and soon we arrived home.
I had plane to take Evan Antiquing but with the heat it was best he stayed home. I did not go as plane but instead my sister and I ran to the farmers market where it was buzzing with folks. I wanted to get some fresh veggies for tonight's Homemade Fettuccine but there was very little as we got there too late.
A Latino band was playing great Latin music and it was wonderful it made you forget the heat folks were dancing and I managed to get some pics
My sister even spoke to a pooch inside a stroller.

Leaving to head to Nelson Market for some veggies it was a quick dash for a few things ending in a wonderful morning
Truthfully as hot as it was I really did 't notice it

Always
Lydia

My Homemade Ravioli

2011-07-31T08:45:00.000-07:00

What better way and Fun then to make Homemade Ravioli. My Mom use to make it when we were kids however she was not Italian but German she was taught by my dads to sister My Aunt Gloria and Aunt Louise so she learned form the best

In this recipe it is very old fashion there are faster ways to make this but I only have the old equipment me my Moms baking rolling pen and a small wine glass. So lets get started!!

You will need:

Filling..

2 cups of good ricotta Cheese
1/2 cup of Fontanel Cheese
1 tbs of black pepper
1 tsp of salt
2 lg eggs
1/2 cup of fresh or dried parsley

mix well and wrap in serum wrap and chill in refrigerator

Ravioli Dough..

2 cups of all purpose Flour
pinch of salt
2 tbs of extra virgin olive oil
2 eggs

on a flat surface or a wooden bowl place flour and form a well in the center
brake your eggs and place inside
add salt and oil
mix with fork the eggs then with your hands add the outside of the flour slowly incorporating all of the flour until completely mix
form into a ball and Knead a good strong 10 min using the palm of your heads
After kneading cut dough and warp in Saran wrap and rest dough for 30 min OR so
take out and roll dough on a heavy floured service until it is the size of a dime make sure you get the center as well as the edges tend tp be thinner
once rolled out take your wine glass or cutter and cut into even portions as you need two for each Ravioli
place a small amount of filling on every other one and form edges so the pasta looks like a UFO then taking your knife press very hard on all the edges to seal

you can freeze or cook right away you also can use other fillings
A great project for Moms little helper in the Kitchen
Have fun and Enjoy

Always
Lydia

Breeders Vs Puppy Mills

2011-07-31T05:34:00.000-07:00

Where to begin?? Breeders have been long time accused and taken for Puppy Mills and now as a pet owner you are only a reputable person of you rescue or buy a dog from a shelter. This I challenge.

There is a great difference between A Puppy Mill and a responsible breeder. Breeders,who only try to improve the standards of there chosen breed and to breed out the indifference's and weakness. These dedicated people have a tremendous love and concern for there breed and have dedicated themselves to up hold the highest standards in perfecting a well balanced beautiful healthy puppy.

Most breeders have a select list they sell to for reason to Finish off there off off springs so there champion lines may continue and those that do not fall into this category are sold to wonderful safe and loving homes as pets. These responsible breeder usually breed only once a year or less depending on there goals. Puppies that are sol;d as pets to a family usually have a Spay and Neuter Contract and most owners follow the contracts .
Puppies you buy from these breeders have had there bitch and sire tested for diseases that may develop especially in your large breed dogs. Usually the test will have includes Hip, Elbows, Eyes, Thyroid, Skin and the list goes on. Now some breeders even considered Bloat genetic and ask owners to report any bloat in there dogs as certain studies are claiming and being regarded as genetic. However, they still have no guaranteed reason for this occurrence.

Most important a well established breeder has he Bitch or Both parents in there Kennel and when going to pick your puppy you can see that the grounds are clean and dogs are healthy well groomed free of ticks and fleas and all well bred Puppies have been to the vet and a certificate and guarantee comes with the dog. Usually a good breeder waits about 3-4 months before letting the pups go and some the ones that are still with the breeders if older usually are crate trained and walk on a leash very well .

Lets talk about Puppies Mills.This amazes me that people still buy and support this These are not breeders and should be punished by the law.
How would you know if your puppy is from a puppy mill to me this is not hard to figure out.
If you did not go to the site where your puppy was born. Did not see the parents. Did not see the lines of championship of there family tree and have the proof by looking on line with the AKC and UKC Did not see the grounds where the Dogs and Puppies resign. Do not have the proof of genetic testing on both parents. Then I would question and red flags would go up.A health Cert. does not cut it with me I want more proof.

Puppy Mills are mostly found in Amish Country but that dies not rule out back yard breeding or the person who wants to make a quick buck.The conditions to the dogs are cruel and UN speakable. I can't even understand why a person would want a puppy from this enviorment. I can hardly stand to look or view the pictures. it more then heart breaking it is painful.
Laws are being past to stop and punish those who harbour and run facilities such as these but it is not happening fast enough. The law should also include the stop of Pet Stores to purchase and sell puppies as this is the hear beat to most Puppy Mills. Also it fall on the responsibility to all of us the consumer and pet owner STOP BUYING FROM PET STORES OR BACK YARD BREEDERS the buck stops with you and I. Be a responsible pet owner do your home work know who you are buying from ask questions and report cruel and UN healthy conditions.Know what you want in your breed and take your time in finding the right breeder. If you are not showing your dog SPAY & NEUTER your pooch be smart and wise.

The most important factor in the whole scheme of things is to love and take care of your pooch if you are doubtful you can truly care for this little one then please wait until you are the shelters are filled with bad deciouse from folks who where not sure.

I hope I have cleared up some of the controversy of a Breeder vs Puppy Mills as you can see there is no comparison

Here is the Ten Commandments that I found off a website against Puppy Mills in Amish Country in Ohio

Ten Commandments of Animals
1) My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you will be painful to me. Remember that before you bring me home.
2) Give me time to understand what you want from me.
3) Place your trust in me - it's crucial to my well being.
4) Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You may have your work, your entertainment and your friends. I have only you.
5) Talk to me sometimes. Even if I don't understand your words, I understand your voice.
6) Be aware that however you treat me, I'll never forget.
7) Remember that before you hit me that I have teeth that can crush the bones in your hand. Yet I choose not to bite you.
8) Before you scold me for being uncooperative, obstinate or lazy, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, or I've been in the sun too long, or my heart is getting old and weak.
9) Take care of me when I get old. You too, will grow old.

My Homemade Old Fashion Pasta!

2011-07-26T15:24:00.000-07:00

What better way to entice your family or guest to a old fashion homemade pasta a very simple recipe that you will truly enjoy.
I have gone back to making my own pasta as it is fun easy to make and in today's economy en expensive.

You will need:

2 eggs
2 cups of flour of all purpose flour
1tsp of Olive oil

place your flour on a board or flat counter service
form a well in the center
brake open both eggs and place in center of the well
stir with a fork the eggs until broken up
with your hands start to mix flour into eggs
form a ball with your hands and knead for 2-3 min.
rub Olive Oil on dough then wrap in plastic
let rest on counter for 30 min

after resting dust counter or board with flour cut dough in half
using a rolling pen roll out dough until flat as a dime keeping your surface dusted
with a sharp knife or pizza slicer cut flatten dough into strips or squares

boil salted water place in water and cook until done. Serve with your favorite sauce
you can use this recipe for your base for Ravioli as well

Enjoy
Lydia

My Buttermilk Pie

2011-07-24T13:14:00.000-07:00

My Buttermilk Pie

Simple easy recipe no time at all to make

You will need

6 eggs
2 cups of Bisquick
11/2 cups of sugar
2 tsp of vanilla
1/2 stick of butter melted
2 cups of buttermilk
powder sugar (optional)

place everything except powder sugar in a blender blend until smooth pure into a prepared 9 inch deep dish pie plate
heat Oven for 350
Bake for 30-40 min until golden brown a little soft in middle take out and cool then chill it will firm up
dust with powder sugar

Enjoy
Lydia

A Day at Nelson Family Market

2011-07-23T17:23:00.000-07:00

What a way to shop... Nelson Family Market is located in White City Florida just only 20 min from my home ...

Lots of fresh Veggies Fruit and bread . Jams and preserves line the shelves and you might just find a Key Lime Pie in the freezer .

For Florida in the summer this is the place to shop

Always
Lydia

Jacob a Sensative Poodle

2011-07-23T03:36:00.000-07:00

Jacob came to me last June as a Bright and Beautiful Standard Poodle. You might be thinking? What is she crazy? She has two others Thomas and Evan. Yes folks that is true. But I thought one more would and I could correct the mistakes I made along the way with my first Standard Poodle in agility but sure enough Jacob is a whole different Poodle.

He was shy from the begging and coming home to two large standards and two Shelties plus 3 cats was a bit over whelming so his intruding to the family was a slow process Looking back at everything I did it correctly and very happy I did .

It was a good 30 days before I really started working with Jacob mostly it was getting use to everything Different smells.and removing him from his litter mates was a big adjustment. Jacob took to allot of my basic easy methods right away but I notice he was really shy around folks he did not know so I realized I had my work cut out

The one thing that I have realized is I could not put any pressure on him as he would fall apart even when making a game of it he would shut down so I did not introduce him to anything new until he was ready.

From 3 months of age to now 13 months he has developed into a sturdy boy and having him neutered has helped. As he got older I started some small agility games which he took to right away but not applying pressure he seem to have fun but if someone came in the ring that was not suppose to he would worrier. I saw that I needed help with him as he was becoming too shy so I asked the help of a Local Dog Behaviorist and took classes from her and her team of experts WOW he has come out and his becoming a confident dog

Allot has to do with personality on the dog and how the owner response to the behavior I really liked how Cissy handled the behavior of Jacob always positive and rewarding the moment he showed a bit of confidence. Jacob has a lot of body language which most dogs do so it was very easy and important to read how he was processes of what was taking place it was my job to be ready to reward the good and change the weary.

One might think why didn't I take him to lots of busy places and let lots of folks pet and handle him? Wrong!! Taking him to the invoirment such as that can only hinder a dog. Taking him for long walks and allowing him to see busy things from a distance worked best for Jacob. Along the way I would always incorporate some obedience exercises and it worked he seemed to build his confidence and start to trust.

It came a time when I had to separate him from the pack in working Jacob he became to dependent on them to protect him so walking all the dogs together came to a halt which truthfully was better for all the dogs walking and working one dog at a time is better for them as well as me

Jacob has and is still maturing and developing in a positive nature I have only Cissy Of Best Behavior and her team of trainers I know understand and have learned and still learning how to help Jacob become a stronger and more confident Dog I mean who Knows he just might be my next Agility Star

Always Lydia

Lets go to the Farmers Market!!

2011-07-21T01:31:00.000-07:00

What a way to start your Saturday morning then a trip to the farmers market. Usually when ever I go I always say to my self that it only is going t be a short trip but that never happens. I t ends up a morning event and at this time of year that is pretty good as I hate being out in this heat!

Ft Pierce Florida where I live offers this great farmers Market.10 years ago it started out very small now it has grown to a huge Saturday regular divided by, vegetable plant and food section to crafts books jewelry and even some vintage textiles.At any event there has to be something for everyone including your four legged family member.

I love the different smells and aromas of everything and the eye catching booths with lots of fresh veggies. Orchards plants in bloom. Fresh herbs line the pathways to your choice and always smiles and friendly greetings from strangers you meet.

The Ft Pierce farmers Market is located right off the Indian River waterway and is surrounded by beautiful walkways and fountains. The Ft Pierce Marina is nestled right off to the side of the market with great water ways cafe and restaurants. Down the road from the Market is the well know Bacchus musume home of the famous Highway Men Paintings.

So wither you are planning a Saturday Night Dinner and want something fresh the Farmers Market is the place to shop

Always
Lydia

My Biscotties

2011-07-20T00:18:00.000-07:00

                                                                     Recipe calls for

2 eggs room temp
1 stick of UN salted Butter room temp
1 1/4 cup of sugar
1 tsp of vanilla extract
1tsp of anise extract
1tsp of almond extract
1tsp of baking powder
2 and a little more cups of all purpose flour
1 cup of almonds or pistachio chopped large

cream butter sugar eggs and all of your extract together in a mixer using the paddle blade
add slowly flour and baking powder and then let mix adding nuts
with wet hands form two flatten logs or at leash a quarter inch high
on a cookie sheet lined with Parchment paper
place in 350 pre heated oven and bake fir at least 25 min or less I usually watch closely until cookie is firm remove from oven and allow to cool
slice cookie about 1 inch thick place back into heated 350 oven and bake until golden brown

Serve this with coffee and you are good to go

Enjoy
Lydia

Thomas Evan Jacob and Family

2011-06-22T13:10:00.000-07:00

There is nothing better then to have a slide show of the things that mean the most to you.. For me, it is my family and Standard Poodles Thomas Evan and the newest member of the gang Jacob.

I hope you enjoy this small slide show as much as I did making it.

Always,

Lydia

Mom! Happy Mothers Day.

2011-05-07T03:24:00.000-07:00

Sunday is marked as Mothers Day! But truthfully it should be everyday as should Fathers Day.

In our home our Fathers Wife Margret will be coming over and enjoying the day. But for me our Mom who passed away over 30 years ago it is always a hard day..Why? I miss our Mom terrible. Her life was taken from a Massive Heart Attack at the young age of 52. A Baker by trade in our family bakery she was a twinkle in everyone eye and lots of fun to be around. Firm but fun.

Our Moms was full of life as diverse as it was she seem to capture life most powerful moments.Raised both her daughters to take care of themselves and defend the most obscure beliefs if it is what you believed in and especially take responsibility for them.

Many years have gone by and it seems like yesterday she was alive remembering so many events that she created like Full Moon trail ridding with our horses then home when the sun came up and a awesome breakfast. I'm sure all of us have memories that are special with our Moms. One that sticks out in my mind was in High School my junior year I was in a state contest for voice and I had a bad flue and still had to perform a solo My Mother wanted to come and I told her no!! So when it came time for my solo my voice was shot. It was horrible and very embarrassing. I was excused by the judges and my VB Choir did not win in solo because of me I was so devastated I ran out of the room and guess who was standing there My Mom!!! I ran into her open arms and she embraced me. To a kid in High School this can be awful to let down your school but for some reason my MOM new she needed to be there and she was even thou I asked her not to she saw beyond and knew as all moms do she needed to be there.This among many are found memories I have of our Mom.

I do believe Mothers are Gods angels here on earth to guide us and arm us with Wisdom Teach us how to understand life greatest adversity and conquer them.But Moms are not here forever so cherish your Mothers, as soon they leave and go home to the Heavens to watch and Guide us from a different view.

Some of you are Moms, Grandma's and even Great Grandmothers what ever role you are in cherish what you have and know that you are blessed to have given the greatest gift of all, Life...Have a great Mothers Day

Always

Lydia

Thomas and I

2011-04-30T15:13:00.000-07:00

Summer is fastly approaching and as for my agility it has come to end with a season of vast deversity. Gosh where shall I begain? As not to boure you I will be as simple and short as can be.

Thomas was my first Standard Poodle ever to enter the world of performence as was I so it was very bumpy and truthfuly it still is.

Thomas is a handsome and well bred Standard Poodle I think if he was show in the breed ring he would of received his championship but I choose a differnt route and very happy I did.

Agility was the sport that I choose. It is a long journey that builds great team work between you and your dog. It also can be very humbling. Its not about who the mom and dad are. Who is handling your dog. It is about you and your dog, a team!

Thomas was and still is full of life. He is now almost 7 and has not slowed down.But he has taught me a great since of humlity that keeps me open to this sport which has show me how to run my other Poodle Evan.

The main venue I have choosen to run both my poodles is called K9 CPE (cainine performance events). There are many more but this is my main. The other is AKC and USDAA. We have just started AKC which is harder courses and more demands on you and your dog as a team.

This year as been one of many change first I injurned my knee so a friend a awesome handler ran Thomas for me and they did great but as he said you need to run your owne dog and after knee healed I did

Thomas is extremly fast and I'm not so this brings a big learning curve for both Thomas and I. He has to learn distance and to trust and know his job when I'm not at his side. He is learning this and so am I to get him to this point but it is not easy so trials for us as a team have been a process. The only qulifing scores this season was when Olaf was running him. I'm Ok with this as this is a sport that you have to be a team and you and your dog buld a bond of trust and this takes time.

I have seen alot of stress this year with Thomas. I moved him a level harder with bigger demands and he had major surgery for obstruction and had to take time off from his training with Olaf this all happened in the middle of show season so this put his training behind.

He injoyed running for Olaf but he always looked for me.. Where is Mom?and as time progressed it was the obviest I needed to be running him as much as I am a novice handler he still wanted Mom so it was time. Time for me to run my own dog.

It has not been easy but it has tought me to understand the sport and to enjoy my time out on the field with Thomas.

Yes he fast! Yes he is challinging but it is not about the quilifing scores but the journey to them. Together we will acomplish what is needed to acheive the foundation for a great agility team.

Lydia

Our Family from Boston

2011-04-16T01:14:00.000-07:00

It is always a joy to have our family from Boston come to visit. Especially for our dad. He and his sister are very close.The countdown started when our cousin called and said she had booked her tickets and were planning a trip to Florida...

April was the target month as it gets them out of the cold damp New England weather.

Family is very important to me however it is always hard to gather everyone as it is like herding cats we all have such busy lives bit the unique thing with our family we all seem to understand.

The day finally arrived our family was here. I drove up in our driveway and saw my cousin unloading the trunk of her rental car and had to laugh as only family will do bring lots of stuff for you to treasure Food Paper Towels things but it did not matter I was so happy to see them .

Our Aunt look wonderful in her early 80s she was full of life and my cousin never ages it must be the New England Sun or lack of it.

Our Dad called and they were on there way up.. We order the Pizza and broke open the wine and played Italian music. It was so much fun even my poodles jumped in.

My Aunt and Cousin are true dog lovers my cousin having a awesome Standard Poodle name Lilly truly enjoyed my boys and it was nice that my Poodles could be around my family from Boston in fact my Aunt spoke Italian to my one Poodle Jacob and he just sat there quietly and listen.

Several dinner were planned and enjoyed. Much fun was had but it had to all come to a end as it was time for them to go home.My Cousin and Aunt climbed back into there rental car left for the airport and our now nestled back in the home in Boston. I miss the both of them all ready.

Our house is quiet all the dishes put away. My baking has stopped and a quiet weekend is planned. I look back and and will always remember my dad smile and laughing, My Aunt speaking Italian and my dear cousin a comfort to have in my home there memories always in my heart forever

Always

Lydia

Where Shall I begen

2011-04-05T00:39:00.000-07:00

Let me see... Where shall I Begin? How about the middle of November! I had just had surgery at the end of October on my knee from a slip and fall from work which surgery was successful but painful. Mind you, I still had to care for my three lovely standard poodles Thomas Evan and Jacob. Moving around on crutches it was a nightmare but I did it. My Parents were a great help but to manage the poodles was hard for them so it was up to me and Jacob just thought the crutches were a joke so at times I had to hobble without my crutches which I might add was painful As the month of November pressed on so did the coming of my favorite Holiday Thanksgiving!! But a week before was Thomas first AKC Agility Trial of course I was unable to run him so a trainer and friend Olaf Brell ran him and for his first AKC trial he did awesome but I notice he was a bit under the weather. He never was a big drinker of water especially at trials but he was all to quiet. The next few day proved to be a nightmare. Thomas began to vomit and become shockey I then on Tuesday morning called my vet office and brought him right in Yes folks my big guy had obstructed.My regular Vet was out of town on a conference so his associates handle his surgery and it was a success!! They were able to remove the objects before it traveled into the bowel... Of course this did not stop Thanksgiving from it arrival and with Thomas just home from having major surgery and me on crutches I manage to pull of a fabulous dinner. After the guest left Thomas develop bad acid reflux and aspirated into his lungs so it was another trip back to the vets and at this time my vet was back and took over the case. Relieved, Thomas was x-rayed from head to toe and found the fluid on his lungs to major antibiotics for him and a very large glass of wine for me... I should of canceled Thanksgiving dinner but I did not it was very hard on me and too mush for Thomas he needed rest and quiet a lesson well learned. Timed marched on Thomas December trial was CX and I could not run Evan so it was getting ready for the Winter Solstice and Christmas . My Knee was on the mend and so was Thomas. I decorated the house and place my reefs outside and planned my Christmas menu. Had a lovely Christmas gathering when my cousin from New Hampshire arrived and we all gathered it was so nice... Then it happened, Two days before Christmas we were robbed!!! Yes robbed everything was taken,including my old standard poodle Timothy ashes this broke my heart it devastated both my sister and I our beautiful home was trashed!!! I did cancel Christmas dinner and since my sister had to work I sat at home by myself with my phone in my hand and lots of fear. How did we get robbed with all of my dogs? They were at the groomers so they must of been watching us leave. Allot has happened since then. I back running my own dogs for agility back at work and my knee has healed quite well. My sister and I are recovering from our robbery and little by little the things we lost are being replace. But the one thing that cannot be replace is the loss of Timothy. he can't be replace. And as far as the robber? He sits in jail waiting his judgement.

My Hot Hot Cinnamon Buns!!

2010-10-27T02:00:00.001-07:00

These are very simple to make in fact I make them quite often but I do alter some things as living in Fl the humidity plays tricks on you when wanting anything to rise or using yeast. So this is what I do
I pre heat my oven to 350 for 10 minutes then I shut off this allows the oven to be warm and dry as if you had a proffer for bread it works very well

You will need!

1 box of Pillsbury Hot Rolls Mix
3 small package's of chopped pecans
1 stick of butter melted
1 cup of sugar
1/2 cup of brown sugar
4 tbs of Cinnamon
2tbs of nutmeg
1tsp of ground cloves
4 cups of powder sugar
1/2 cup or more of milk

Directions!

follow the directions on the back of the box for making the dough very simple make sure when kneading the dough you knead the proper amount of time very important

form into a ball cover with a towel and let rise for 10-15 min.
Flour a surface of your counter and roll out dough first cutting dough in half roll out into a large rectangle.
Brush all of the melted butter on all of the surface of the dough.
Add sugars both brown and white over surface of dough and all of your spices sprinkle pecans 2 pkg over dough.
Roll up dough and cut with bread knife 1 1/2 inches wide place in a butter cookie sheet place in warm oven and let rise for 1 hour or till double or larger in size.
Bake at 350 until golden brown

Glaze
Add your powder sugar and milk slowly make a thick glaze spoon over buns then add the rest of your pecans make sure you add the glaze when the buns are completely cool

I hope you enjoy this as much as we do makes a great Sunday Morning breakfasts with hot coffee

Enjoy!

October is finally here!!

2010-10-03T16:53:00.000-07:00

October is finally here! I have waited all year for this time to come why? Well it is pretty easy. After a long hot humid summer this time of year is more then welcome it is a necessity!
I love this time of year. The temperature starts to drop at night instead of seeing the same 81 degree I am starting to see 68 at 5.30 in the morning such a welcome change. The Sun is not as bright and the air is less humid all welcome changes for our Florida Fall Weather.

Now I know in other states the leaves start to change and the color is just beautiful but we do have the Florida Maple Tree and yes it will change but not in October but in January if it is cold enough.We don't have pumpkin patches or apple orchard but we do have the ability to swim in the Atlantic Ocean or the Gulf all year round Hmm not so sure that is a great trade off?

Baking I seem to enjoy more in the fall. It is wonderful to smell all of the spices such as Cinnamon All Spice & Nutmeg it fills your home with a warmth and comfort that summer just does not seem to have.
Walking through the stores all of the bright oranges and reds are such a welcome sight and a comfort to my eyes.

Although we do not have all of the Amitie's that other northern states and mid west states have I still like this time of year
as October is finally here

Apple Pie and Apple Sauce Wow! Fall is on its Way

2010-09-17T04:17:00.000-07:00

September marks the closing of Summer and now the dawn of Fall as it is right around the corner. For myself living in the tropics the cool and dry air is pressing against the warm tropic breezes with the constant threat of some kind of tropical storm but to the true Floridian we can feel the and see the early signs of Fall.

UN like our neighboring states who now are feeling the cooler temperatures and are seeing the apples and pumpkins and most of the fall fruits and berry's that bear in the trees and vines for this time of year. Our heighten since of fall is the dryer air. Sun not so bright and a warm dry breeze that covers our Sunshine State. So with all of this in mind I thought I would share some of my fine recipe's of fall baking with Apples

My Homemade Apple Sauce

You Will Need

2 Lg Granny Smith Apples Peeled and Cored
3 Lg Mackintosh Apples Peeled and Cored
1tbs of Cinnabar
1tsp of vanilla
1/2 cup of sugar
1/4cup of light brown sugar

Directions

Core and peel all apples
you will need a food processor for this
Slice apples with a apple slicer place in pot with all of your ingredients and come to simmer until tender but not mushy you want a bite or crisp
choose your blade to the style of
apple sauce you want example chunky and smooth
I like chunky add to food processor then pulse let cool

Serves 8

My Homemade Deep Dish Apple Pie

You Will Need

6 Lg Tart Granny Smith Apples Peeled and Cored
4 Lg Macintosh sweet Apples Peeled and Cored
2 cups of sugar
1/4 cup of light brown sugar
1tbls of cinnamon
1tsp of clove powder
1tbs of vanilla
1tsp of pumpkin pie spice
Butter slices around 8
Instant Tapioca Pudding 6 lg Tbs or more
9 inch deep dish pie plate
pie bird (optional)
Pie Crust pre made or your own

Directions!

Pre heat Oven to 35o
coat pie pan with cooking spray
lay bottom of pie plate with your pie crust
Mix in a lg bowl all of your ingredients with your
core and sliced apples
Place pie bird in center of pie plate then
add your apples all mix around the pie bird until
plate is full
put butter all through out the pie
Place final pie dough over top of apples and cut a
hole to allow the top of the bird to be sticking out
this will allow the steam to escape
If you do not have a pie bird just cut a whole in center
Place pie in center of Oven with a drip pan to catch any of the pie that may spill over
ten min before taking out if oven brush with egg white
45mim-1hr keep an eye on it

This is a awesome Pie and I always make it for Thanksgiving and always for my Dad!

Enjoy and Lets Welcome the cool and Fun time of Fall!!

Always
Lydia

My New York Style Cheese Cake

2010-09-10T15:18:00.000-07:00

My New Your Style Cheese Cake

I like to use a Medium size springform pan

You will Need!

4 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese
1 1/2 cups white sugar
3/4 cup milk
4 eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F .
In a large bowl, mix cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Blend in milk, and then mix in the eggs one at a time, mixing just enough to incorporate. Mix in sour cream, vanilla and flour until smooth. Pour filling into SpringForm Pan
Bake in preheated oven for 1 hour. Turn the oven off, and let cake cool in oven with the door closed for 5 to 6 hours; this prevents cracking. Chill in refrigerator until serving.

Summer coming to a close

2010-09-06T04:21:00.000-07:00

Summer has come to a close time to put away the grill beach umbrellas and tanning lotion UN fortunately not in Florida in my sunny state we have those and more all year round in fact I have gone to the beach on Christmas day and laid in the sun to be honest it was beautiful. But in most states especially New England Labor Day marks the last day of summer so it is a great celebration beach beach and more beach.

Labor Day marks a special day for all. Now, it is a Federal Holiday and most of us have a day off and a great long weekend. Parades are happening and some use the parades for political exposure. But for most of us it is a day to enjoy with family and friends.

My Cousin's who live in New England go off to the Cape every year and bathe there white legs in the sun hoping to get a lifetime of tan in one day going back to there work with there skin still pale as ever. Laying out in the New England sun allows them to enjoy the last bit of sun as soon they will be indoors for many a month.
For me I stay in and drive by the beach as in Florida its too hot to be baking in the Sun in Florida you don't bake in the sun you sweat in the sun and time to time we have hurricanes so Labor day for me allows me to get caught up and preparing me for cooler days.

So wither you live in New England Alaska or the Florida Keys enjoy today and be proud of your Labors and what they have created

Hope you have had a great Summer

Always
Lydia

Eric Stuff Artichokes

2010-08-24T01:34:00.001-07:00

My Dear and good friend Eric made Stuff Artichokes and they were do die for! So I asked him if I could put his recipe on my blog and he said of course.
Now I have made Stuff Artichokes but not like this his are superb so get your printer ready as I think you are going to enjoy making these

You Will Need

2 cups of Italian Bread Crumbs
2tbs of extra virgin olive oil
4 whole garlic cloves crushed and chopped
1 cup of dry white wine
2 cups of chicken broth
2 eggs
4 artichokes cleaned and ends snipped off

add your chicken broth and wine and garlic in a large pot
Simmer
mix all ingredients including the olive oil and wash and spread the artichokes
and stuff
place in simmer broth and wine cover and let steam for about 40 min
you may need to add more wine and broth
you can place in broiler for 10 min to get your stuffing brown but I do not
Serve makes 4
ENJOY!

Linguine with White Clam Sauce Our Dads Recipe

2010-08-23T12:49:00.000-07:00

Most of you that know our Dad knew of our Fathers Restaurant called The Village South. Our Dads restaurant was famous for its superb culinary food and warm atmosphere and you can thank our Father for that. Both my sister and I have such warm memories of family gatherings enjoying mouth watering dinners.

I have written one of our Fathers recipes for his Linguine with White Clam Sauce it was and still is a favorite recipe that is shared in his home as well as in ours
Our Dad loves to serve this with a Dry red wine and hot hard crusted Italian Breed a true delight that is simple to prepare and a true culinary delight to enjoy

I hope you enjoy this as much as we do!
Always
Lydia

You will need

1 lb of Linguine pasta
1/8 cup of olive oil
4 lg cloves of garlic chopped
1 lg fresh lemon squeezed
1 bottle of clam juice
2 cans of minced clams
1/8 cup of white dry wine
1/2 cup of fresh chop parsley
1 lg loaf of hard crusted Italian bread
1tsp of red pepper (optional)

In a pan add olive oil garlic and clams lightly stir fry your garlic and clams adding parsley and then claim juice add lemon and let simmer adding your wine slowly
add your cooked pasta and toss in a bowl and serve
Heat your bread and serve with your favorite red wine
this makes a awesome dinner

Lammas, the End of Summer

2010-08-21T13:43:00.001-07:00

August 1st marks the nearing of the Summer Pagan Holiday called Lughnasadh or the First Harvest
Those that follow the season and Mother Earth very closely know what this bountiful holiday is all about.It is the first of the three and one of the cross quarter of the Pagan Calender Year.
So what does this Holiday mean? Back in ancient time the pagans were very much ruled by the earth and how the season could govern there out come of life.So giving thanks to there Gods for a vital crops season was so important

Crops of this time of year were berries corn wheat and fruits pretty much what we have today out of this fed there live stock and there family's so you can see how important it was to have a good crop. It meant survival!!

The word Luganasash comes from the Celtic God Lugh and today all through Europe this Holiday is very much celebrated as this marks the ending of summer and the first start of the fall.
How could we of strayed from honoring such a festive holiday? Oh it is so easy it is called mass production and convenience. Sometimes I think we have gotten away from the simple and fruitful way of life. Oh lets face it it is so easy to swing into a fast food restaurant drive through and get our hamburger and fries eat in a hurry and yes even throw the paper out on the road not even caring or looking back Sad but this is true. who even knew that a holiday was ever celebrated on August 1st and some might think well what is in it for me.To me, it is a special time it is a time of festive! I seem to love to bake my pies and prepare some Jams from the fruits and I love seeing Corn and breads perhaps I am feeling what my sister of days gone past.

Foods and Fruits that are prepared on this Holiday.

Cornish Hens
Chicken
Corn Bred
Corn
Breads from the wheat
Berries of all kinds

How can we in today's world celebrate a festive Holiday as the First Harvest? Easy a Simple meal of any of these ingredients and especially if you have a garden. Take from your garden and prepare a awesome dinner for your family and friends and before eating this feast have everyone join hands close your eyes and give thanks Honor your spiritual believe and thank Mother Earth for giving life so you can continue with yours

I hope you have all had a wonderful Summer and remember always be kind to mother earth and all of her children

Always
Lydia

My Lime Sugar Free Jello Salad

2010-08-19T02:48:00.000-07:00

Hello my Blog Family and Friends I have not posted in a while as I have been very busy and with my Knee injury I have not been able to get out as much as I wanted to So I have decided to give my recipe for My Lime Jello Salad

It is very easy to make just a little time and since I am Diabetic I have revised this wonderful light salad so a Diabetic can enjoy it I made it during the Holidays and it was a hit!

I hope you enjoy this salad as much as I have.

You will need.

6 small boxes of Lime Sugar Free Lime Jello
1tbs of Pineapple extract (have to get from a specialty store I manage to find it in Publix but this is rare)
6 cups of boiling water
6 cups of cold water
1 pint of heavy whipping cream
1 cup of chop pistachio nuts
1/2 cucumber sliced and diced
1 pt of cottage cheese

Directions!

Boil your 6 cups of water then add to your Jello
allow to dissolve
whip you heavy cream thick
add you extract to dissolve jello and add cold water
place in refrigerator and allow to chill for several hours
once chilled add your nuts cucumber whipping cream and cottage cheese and
mix well with a mixer.
Add to your pan allow to chill again
Cut into squares and serve over lettuce
ENJOY!

Summer Vacations

2010-08-01T05:03:00.000-07:00

Summer Vacations!

Summer is almost over and soon kids will be back in school telling stories of their summer adventures. Summer is a time to relax spend time with family and friends travailing to far off places or to near places.But mostly a time to regroup.

For myself I use this time to work on projects coming from the south and the tropics somehow a curse or a trip to the Islands just is not my fancy! But a Clambake on the shores of Cape Cod or Ferry Boat ride to Wale watch off Gloucester is fine by me and very relaxing! But truthfully some of my best vacations were relaxing at home and sleeping in.
Growing up I can remember going to North Florida for a week of Silver Springs Six Gun Territory and hiking in Ocala's National Forrest but after a week of all of Glass Bottoms Boats. Gun Fights at the OK Coral it was so nice to come home to sleepy Vero Beach to our own beautiful sandy beaches of the Atlantic Ocean.
Now days family's spend a fortune on vacations especially if you plane a trip to our Florida's very own Disney World which can and is very expensive. The last time I was at Disney in the Magic Kingdom is was 9.99 for Florida residents now it is almost 100 Wow! I don't know how they do it?But somehow standing in line in the heat of Florida's summer is not my idea of having fun so it was not a top priory for me.

Summer is a Magical time and differently a brake for kids in school. Summer Camp can and is a fun thing to do lots of activities for all at heart and a good brake for Mom & Dad and lets not forget the Family Reunions. How wonderful is that? Picnics and lots of spending time at the beach lake or pool Summer is diffidently a more lay back time of year.

So weather you are spending your Summer Vacation in some far off place or just painting your living room make it the best summer vacation you have ever had and one that you will always remember!

Always
Lydia

Bringing My New Standard Poodle Puppy Home

2010-07-22T13:19:00.000-07:00

Yes I went and did it I brought a Standard Poodle Puppy home Why because it was time.
He is from Black Tie Standard Poodles of Ocala Fl and is well bred however his color is just a tad off so he cannot be shown in the Breed Ring and that is OK with me.

His name is Jacob and is full of life. He is 3 months old and just starting his new life and sharing it with my two other boys Thomas & Evan.
Is it easy? No!!! it is a lot of work and worry.There is a lot to do and to be careful with. we are now learning to be crate trained and that was a big process but he is getting pretty good and feeling safe he knows his crate.

We are now enrolled in a Puppy class so he will be joining two other puppies but there is one small problem we have to drive and Wow does he get car sick so I was told by several people to give him some Ginger which I am going to do. Sometimes it is just hard growing up!

Now how do my older boys take to this new venture? Thomas seems to take the big brother roll he tends to watch over Jacob more then Evan. My other boy Evan is more leery of him and so I have to watch him carefully and Jacob seems to be very respectful of both boys. but they are always supervised. I make sure all of my dogs get equal time. When I play with the puppy my boys are put up in my room as play increases drive and you can get into trouble as they could pounce on Jacob and hurt him. When it is time for my boys Jacob is out in his crate then is all of us just hanging out and that is always nice

I took everyone to Dog Paws Agility Fun Run and we all had a good time especially Jacob who enjoyed seeing all the dogs and meeting new wagging tails and happy smiling faces it was a good outing just wish it was not so hot!

This is exciting times, fun times and times of great learning. Bringing a puppy into a home of older dogs can be trying however it is a good time to learn different behaviors and to interact on all of them. I k now it is going to be a challenge but what isn't? I look forward to each day and when I come home from work and see all my boys happy and a bouncing happy puppy poodle it is well worth the effort.

Always
Lydia

Some more of My Vintage Aprons & Hats

2010-07-04T17:51:00.000-07:00

Some of my Summer Fun Recipes

2010-07-04T17:00:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share some of my favorite recipe in the summer I enjoy making.
They are fun fast and delicious. Are they from scratch? No, but never less they are tasty! So get ready to print or jot down some of my fun recipes to share on your next Summer gathering!
Enjoy
Lydia

A Summer Pound Cake

You Need!
1 box of your favorite pound cake mix
1/2 stick of butter
3/4 cup of whole milk
2 lg eggs

Spray bottom of loaf pan with cooking spray
Line bottom of loaf pan with parchment paper
heat oven to 350
add all of your ingredients mix well and bake
until golden on top and done
Now how easy is that!!
I added tropical fruit such as mango peach and strawberry
and of course Ice Cream

The Fourth of July

2010-07-03T01:22:00.000-07:00

OK, I'm going to be perfectly honest The Fourth of July is not one of my favorite Holidays Why? For several reasons. It is Hot Hot Hot. In Florida where I live it can be brutal and of course the days in July are very long. Yes it is a grand Holiday as we gained independence and I'm all for that but truthfully it hard especially when you live in a neighborhood that loves to set off fireworks at a drop of a hat but Mostly because it disturbs and frightens my Poodles.My one standard Thomas will not leave my side and shivers my other boy Evan is the same so I have to stay home with them. In my neighborhood the fireworks are very intense and they can last as long as well into the early morning ...Lets say 3 or 4 it gets to b e too much

Their was a time I loved the Fourth and had so much fun enjoying the fireworks. Living in Northern California it was wonderful and in July it was always cool. sweater weather so off to a block party then to see the towns display of fireworks and wow how beautiful to watch Fireworks on a cool crisp night a typical summer only Northern California could offer.

I'm proud of our country and especially with all of its diversity it what makes us so special.
History has proven its strength and discipline to make us to what we are today so a celebration is in order and much enjoyed.

Barbecues and picnic are happening everywhere with all of our favorite summer recipes and for some people family reunions are celebrated it truly is a time for outdoor fun.

As a child I always remembered the fireworks I really loved them they were so powerful and loud but that was the fun of it. Sparklers were a must for all of the kids in the neighborhood and Mom made sure there were plenty around.
But today I celebrate different I appreciate all of our Great nation and very proud of who we are. But I choose to remain quiet and stay home with my boys I just wish I could convince my Poodles how fun and great Fireworks can be

Happy 4
Always
Lydia

My Cold Icy Homemade Lemonade

2010-07-02T01:43:00.000-07:00

If your hometown is Hot like mine there is nothing like a cold and refreshing glass of Ice Cold Lemonade Its a simple recipe that I think you will enjoy

You will need

8 large lemons
1 cup of sugar
crushed ice
8 cups or more of water
fresh fruit I use raspberry or you can use lemons
or oranges

Roll out lemons for juicing
slice your lemons in half
juice
add sugar then water and ice
garnish with fruit

Sit back with a good book and a fan and Enjoy!

Our Family Celebration!!

2010-06-27T07:53:00.000-07:00

My Boys and My Cat Spike Enjoy Sunday Morning Outside in
our back yard

My Sunday Morning 1950s all Pyrex Breakfeast Table setting

Our Dear friend Dot who came for our celebration

My Dear Friend Eric who came for our celebration
My Father and Erich sharing a piece of bread and my Dad
tradition of pouring the wine
All of us around the table laughing and enjoying the cake!
My Sister preparing the salad and all of its fixing!
Sitting around in the living room enjoying the conversation!
The Table is set and ready for everyone to enjoy!

Our Family Celebration!

It was so nice to Celebrate such wonderful events such as Fathers Day and yes My Birthday.
We Celebrated both occasion as my Birthday was only a week from Fathers Day so we thought why not have one big weekend of Family fun.
Of course I had to make dinner so it started Friday evening with the making of Paula Dean recipe for Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream Which by the way was easy and fast to make.
I was up early Saturday Morning with the baking of the Birthday cake which was German Chocolate Cake which is my favorite and ot turned out wonderful I was happy with it.

The dinner was my homemade Italian Red Sauce for my Chicken Cacciatori. Garlic Bread a a herbal salad that my sister made was to die for!
Finally my family and good friends arrived! We had such a wonderful evening and shared many of stories and laughs and before we new it the evening had ended.

My friends had left and only my family stayed then it became movie time. My sister had chosen the movie and she was narrating through the entire DVD it was
painful but we had good laughs.

It was so good to have everyone over and to share birthdays and Fathers Day. A time that seemed without borders it was wonderful. I cherish all of these gatherings and would not trade them for the world as it was the greatest gift that I ever received was family being together

Always
Lydia

My French Country Table Setting!

2010-06-23T12:47:00.000-07:00

I just love setting a beautiful table and what more inviting then a French Country arrangement!

Tea Anyone?

2010-06-23T12:43:00.000-07:00

A Small Jelly Jar I just Love it and so dainty for tea
and cookies.

I have always liked this miniature Teapot I found it at
Goodwill

A Beautiful Tea Cup so royal to sip tea from a Delight
This is my favorite of all my Tea Cups was my first
of my finds 8 years ago at a Garage Sale
Pretty Tea Cups
Tea Anyone?

Nothing like a hot cup of tea to sooth the savage beast. I love collecting Tea Cups so I put together some of my favorite Tea Cups to show and share with you. I have so many that most are packed away but the ones I like the best I have on Display I guess I could rotate them

Anyway I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

Always
Lydia

Some of My Vintage Finds

2010-06-22T14:25:00.000-07:00

Notice the 1950s Pyrex Coffee Pot with Warmer

I found this High Chair several years ago and
I do not have children I use to have a vintage doll
but one of my poodles got it so Dolls are out

This is my little Candle Opera I just love this !

I just love this Teapot! Simple and very pretty

I found this clock at a Garage Sale What a find don't you
think?
Here is a clock that has a shabby look to it I Just
Loved it when I found it. This Clock is in my Kitchen

This is a Chocolate Pot with a Hydrangea that I dried myself
it is on my dinning room table
I just love this chair it is one of many that I have
found! This Shabby Chair sits in my dinning room

This Painting I found at a Thrift Store several years ago
this Painting is hung in our dinning room

I just love this Vintage Enamel Pan it was hand painted
by a Artist and sits on my divider in my dinning room

Now you have seen some of my vintage finds! My whole house is full of my treasure. Sometimes my close friends come over and they tend to browse Hmm.
I wonder Why?

My Small Vintage Poodle Collection

2010-06-22T09:51:00.001-07:00

I just love my Vintage Poodles Now not to confuse you with my real boys.
These are nicely displayed in my kitchen holding up some of my Cook Books.
From time to time I run across these treasure but not to often as I thing everyone has caught on!

Always
Lydia

Jars Jars and More Jars

2010-06-22T09:38:00.000-07:00

I thought when I saw these adorable Jars I had to have them.Here are old vintage Jelly Kerr Jars and Ball Jars. I fell in love with and have been collecting. When I come across a hand painted and distressed jar such as these it is a must.

I have many of the Jelly Jars which has taken me a long time to collect. I use these jars around the Holidays and special occasions and sometimes as a gift but truthfully I hate to part with them.
This is just one of several of my vintage collection I thought I would share with you!

Always
Lydia

Playing with my poodles

2010-06-22T05:15:00.000-07:00

This free scrapbooking design made with Smilebox

Dad!

2010-06-19T17:29:00.001-07:00

Photo album personalized with Smilebox

Vero Beach

2010-06-12T19:23:00.000-07:00

Lets Go To Market! Yes right across from our beautiful
beach is the Beach Fresh Produce Market. Here you can buy everything
fresh as well as specialty items. A great outdoor place to shop.
A beautiful old Florida Home on Painted Bonted Road
build in the early 20s
The Drifwood was here since Our Mom was a little Girl
it was built by Mr Waldo Sexton and he hired our Great Uncle
Winne Harsberger to manage it Our Parents had there Wedding
Reception in the restaurant was and still a beautiful place rich with
History!
The Ocean Grill Restaurant which sits right on
the Atlantic Ocean it is been here since I was a
Little Girl.and has survived many a hurricane
This is a house that is on the beach and
is on my favorite street Painted Bonted Road

Here is my favorite road on the beach called
Painted Bonted Road here are many old homes
that were here as early 20s and 30s.
This building is new and sits right on
our beaches. Prior to this building were
small stores that were destroyed from our
twin Hurricanes Frances and Jean.

Aww the beach!! as you can see Vero Beach
has some of the most beautiful Beaches around.
The Inter Coastal Water Way this river runs and meets
north with the St John River this is in Sebastian. This river
south so you could leave from Miami and travel north and
up in New England. Happy Sailing!

Our Pappy Our Father Our Dad!

2010-06-08T00:52:00.000-07:00

Every year Hallmark manages to put out a holiday for our Moms and Dads and each year we scurry to figure out what to get for Mom and Dad but for my sister and I we take it a step further it is not just once a year but it is a everlasting event that takes place in our house hold. Why because they are family.But since it is Fathers Day I going to bring out some things about my Dad that I think you should Know.

Our Father was born in the North End of Boston Ma. If you are not familiar with the city of Boston it is the Italian section and I mean Italian. Dad was a part of six children in his family and mostly girls his brother Bill was the only other boy in the family.

Our father came to Vero Beach Fl in his youth working in a restaurant called the Old Parkway which he meet our Mom and thus they fell in love and got married.

Dad was determine to establish himself in Vero Beach as this was our Moms hometown but it was hard for him as there was very little work for any young man in the restaurant business and especially of Italian Decent! So back to Boston they went.

Our parents moved back to Vero Beach as Mom wanted us to grow up in a sleepy small town and Vero Beach was it. However, both my sister and I long for New England and hopefully we will migrate back to the area we fell in love with.
Our Father seemed to work 2 and sometimes 3 jobs in order for us to have a good life. Our Mother worked in our family bakery as she was a baker by trade so I guess my sister and I were taught to take charge of your life in a very early age. Oh don't get me wrong our Mom did not go to work until both my sister and I were in school but never the less Mom or Dad did not car pool for us. We had Bikes.

Dad love being around his family and taught both his daughters the key sense of Pride. He was and still is a very open minded man and believed there are more sides to a story then what is being told. He encourage both my sister and I to have dreams and to achieve them. He understood the diverse personalities both my sister and I have enjoyed each of our humor of how we displayed it and encourage us to move in the direction we wanted.

Today our Father is 83 and is as full of life as ever he still is the same as he was when in his younger days but wiser. Both my sister and I love his company and enjoy spending time with him
I know that our father will not be around in days to come and I thank each and every moment that he has with us. He has blessed us with so many charitable memories that I can only think of us now.So on this special day both my sister and I cherish this day spending with Dad and the many days to come

Happy Fathers Day Pappy!

Memories!

2010-06-07T01:45:00.000-07:00

Our Aunt Gloria at our home in Vero Beach
Myself in Boston
Cousin Denise and Debbie
Cousin Wane hiding around his house
Cousin Sharon not sure of who she is holding and I think our
second cousin James or Billy at Grandmothers house
Grandpa Oteno and Grandmother Theresa at our house
Aunt Luise and Uncle Reno our home in Vero Beach
Cousins Sharon and Wane with I think the Law girls
Grandpa Tom and Grandma Barbara
My sister at the Beach in Vero
My Uncles Reno and Eddie
My Sister and I at the Beach in Vero
My Aunt & Uncle and Cousins Debbie &
Denise

Our Mom in 1970s at our Dads Night Club

What Memories this has brought back as when I found these pictures.
So many things I remember about growing up!
Some in Boston, but mostly in Vero Beach! We did spend a lot of time at
the Beaches and what fun did we have.

On the picture of my Uncle Eddie and Uncle Reno I remember when they all came down from Boston to visit us.Our house was full of Music and the smell of the Italian Red Sauce was through out our home. Everyone was a cook then.
My Uncle Reno Loved Al Martenio and he played the album and song over and over Spanish Eyes until we all knew the words without missing a beat.
My Uncle Eddie was always giving me money and asking me to hold it.

The other picture of my Auntie Phillis and Uncle Bill with our two cousins Debbie and Denise I still can remember my Aunt she was always so proper and dressed always so nice and our cousins they were always fun to be with and still are.

Our Mom!! She was a beautiful woman all the way through her entire life I can see why our father fell in love with her.I know if Mom were alive today she would be very proud of her two daughters and there drive for life.There love for animals and compassion and strength it takes to achieve in life today

I will be posting time to time old family pictures as I find them with hopes you can sit back and enjoy in Lydia's Little Corner of the world!!

Always
Lydia

Its Hurricane Season!!

2010-06-04T01:56:00.000-07:00

June 1st in Florida and most of the Easter Seaboard marks the beginning of Hurricane Season which means time to get your hurricane planes in order and trust me if yo live in a Hurricane Regen you best do so.

Growing up on the East Coast of Florida I have been through many Hurricanes and I can tell you each one is different.But there are three that stand out in my mind and I will share the experience with you.Hurricane Floyd was on the scene and since I work in the operating room we have teams that we are on and I was on the team to stay at the Hospital during the storm. Floyd was dancing off our coastline and so close to coming to shore but thank God it did not unfortunately it made landfall elsewhere. Floyd like any Hurricane you wanted to stay out to sea and not make land fall it hit as a category 5 that is in itself is scary!

Three weeks later another Hurricane was making itself know and was supposed to make landfall over more towards the Gulf side but at the last minute it turned and headed up the eastern Atlantic and made landfall in Vero Beach my home town! Yes it was only a category 1 but that was a scary sight when you are living in a Mobil home which I was at the time a Mobil home park called Farlane Harbor. This storm came on us so fast and no one was told to evacuate so yes I stayed in my mobile home I was never so scared in my life I might as well been outside as the whole mobile home was bending and bowing in and out. I got my dogs and cats and in the car we went with the engine on until I felt it was safe to go back inside which was when the Palm Trees were not bending in half.

Finally the storm ended and I was able to go back into the home but there was so much debris which was all in my yard as I thought it was my roof that had come off so I neatly stacked it all in my carport which was not damaged in fact my Mobil home had not a hair out of place. However, my neighbors around the corner which was right on the water had his whole roof removed and God love him he and his wife slept through the whole storm and was not hurt.

I since moved out of the Mobil Home and into a house. It was a couple of years which had gone by before we were hit with Florida's record of storms. It started with Tropical Storm Bonnie and ended with Ivan and what came in between was a row of ruthless storms that attacked Florida from all angles.
Hurricane Charlie was a small compact storm that was forming fast and made landfall in Panta Gorda Fl as a Category 4.
My sister and I with several Nurses from the Teamsters Union put a huge truck together with supplies and headed for the Gulf Side and My God it was heart breaking but the people were strong. We met a lady by the name of Beth and she lost everything as her Mobil Home fell apart and she rode the storm out with a coffee table over she and her dog. Beth had many bruises and cuts from flying debris but her spirits and faith were strong. Little did we know Hurricane Frances was headed our way and as faith would have it Hurricane Frances would soon be our own disaster.

The teams were decided and I got to stay home so I secured our home and went to a dear friends home our dogs and cats went to our local Humane Society as they have a shelter that would with stand a Category 4 or higher. Francis started kicking up and as the stormed progressed the roof of our dear friend collapse so we spent the duration of the storm in her walk in closet! We had the brunt of the storm as we were in the North Side of the eye wall which was the worst so we never got a break and by no means was Francis a lady she made sure her winds blew at a high category 2 with many of spinners.

Finally the storm slowed down and we were able to come out of the house and review the damage. Afterwords we headed to her neighbors which had a huge generator and ran her AC and everything else. So it was relaxing to be able to get some cool air and oh yes a huge Vodka and Orange Juice.
My sister and I finally were able to head home and see if our little house made it and yes it did so we picked up our dogs and cats and home we went cleaning and stacking all of the broken limbs from the trees lit our candles and pored a glass of wine and listen to our radio which was on battery.
We went 14 days without power and all of us were grateful for all of those who came from everywhere to help us with our power

Our next Storm heading our way was Hurricane Jean and she was worse then Francis she was a Category 4 then moved to a 3 and was as fierce as they come so again we had to board up. This time my sister had to stay at her hospital and me home with my animals but a 3 not alone so I went to a friends house with my crew and my God she had a blue tarp on her roof from Francis!! But we made it and so did all of our neighbors and our house not a hair out of place.and this time only 1 week with out power so it was not bad. But that was not the end to the storms Shortly after Jean Ivan came on board and hit the panhandle of Florida Pensacola so all parts of Florida were hit and the Center of the state hit all times with at least a category 1 from all of the storms except Bonnie.

Each year comes with the UN certainty of a Hurricane but if you have ever gone through one you never forget and you don't take any of it for granted.Preparation is the most important and to have a plane of where to go and what to do and if you have animals you have a plan for them which is "if I go they go" and if you are buying a house you want to know what Grid you are on which depends on how long you are without power.

Living in Florida has it ups and downs but if you ever get to see the sunrise over the ocean or dangle your feet in the sandy white beaches of the gulf you know the beauty of mother earth can be as UN forgiving as the Hurricanes that bestow their wrath upon us

Always
Lydia

Vintage Aprons are they Making a Come Back?

2010-06-02T01:39:00.000-07:00

Do you remember the days when your Mom used to where aprons? Colorful and stylish aprons? I do of course Mom always wore a white bakers apron as she was a professional baker but never the less she wore a apron

Going back as far as the 1800 Woman always wore Aprons History shows that some of the most prestige women where in style to the most elegant aprons around.

The colorful Aprons started in the early 1930s especially during the depression era they were called Bib Aprons fashion after the 1920s however aprons were made from materials left over from day dresses that the average women wore and sense it was time of great depression it was necessary that these fine aprons were homemade and thus they were.

In the 40s women left the home and went to work. So Aprons were not as fashionable as the average women left the home and was taking jobs of the men that were sent to war.The 50s were the fab of fashion with Aprons colorful all cotton with bright floral . The Bib apron went out of style as the half high ended apron came in to place.

No matter what era it comes from I love the Vintage Apron I have them in my Kitchen and I have collected over 20 originals from the early 20s-50s and I change from time to time the display in my Kitchen so when my family or close friends come over they know somewhere in my vintage kitchen hangs a apron

Always

Lydia

My Summer Pies

2010-06-01T12:27:00.000-07:00

Now that the month of June is here it is time for Grilling, Homemade Ice Cream and Summer Pies.I have already posted my Summer Deep Dish Peach Pie so now are you ready for my Blueberry and Rhubarb Pie.

You will want to keep the recipes on hand so you can bake for your next summer picnic or Summer Pot Luck. These pies will promise to be mouth watering and the talk of your desert table.
So get your pen and writing tablet out and start copying.

Always
Lydia

My Homemade Blueberry Pie

Blueberry Filling

You will need 3 pints of fresh blueberry (you can use frozen which I like to use)
2 lg size pasty ( find recipe for pie crust in my deep dish peach pie)
1/2 cup of UN cooked tapioca pudding
2tbs of UN salted butter cut up
2 1/2 cups of sugar
2tbs of vanilla

Mix in a large pot all of your ingredients place Pie Pastry in a deep dish pie plate put all of the filling in then cover with top pie pastry cover edges with foil and bake 350 until done
you might want to have a drip pan for all of your pies if you have a pie bird you can use that to help to vent your pies or cut slits or a hole the size of a quarter

My Summer Deep Dish Rhubarb Pie

Rhubarb Filling

1 lg pkg of frozen Rhubarb
3 cups of sugar
2tbs of UN salted butter
2tbs of vanilla
1/2 cup of UN cooked tapioca pudding

Mix all of your ingredients in a large pot
use your pie crust from my peach pie recipe
fill your deep dish pie plate
cover your pie with your final pie crust
cut a hole the size of a quarter or use a pie bird
cover edges of pie crust with foil
place a oven liner on bottom of oven
bake at 350 or until done

Note Rhubarb can be bitter so taste your filling when adding 2 cups of sugar I use 3 cups but I like my rhubarb sweet

I hope you enjoys these Summer Pies and stop by soon for my Homemade Ice Cream

Enjoy
Lydia

The Village South Restaurant Recipe for Caesar Salad Dressing

2010-05-31T18:06:00.000-07:00

This is my dads recipe for his Caesar Salad Dressing from his restaurant The Village South which he started and owned for years in Vero Beach Florida

Dads recipe is

3 whole Eggs (jumbo eggs)
4 tbs Worcestershire sauce
2 tbs anchovy paste
fresh ground pepper
8 gloves of garlic pressed and chopped
2tbs extra virgin olive oil
grated Parmesan cheese
croutons
4tbs lemon juice
whole anchovy on side optional
whisk all ingredients together toss over your Romain lettuce
add croutons and whole anchovy if your like

My Summer Deep Dish Peach Pie!

2010-05-29T19:51:00.000-07:00

Home made Pie Crust recipe

3 cups of all purpose flour
1 1/2 stick of UN salted butter
2-4 tbs of Ice Water

mix flour butter and add water
cut with a pastry blade
then add into mixer using dough blade
form into a ball then roll
should make 2 pasty for a deep dish Pie

Peach Filling

I like to use Frozen Peaches
2pkg of frozen peaches thawed
2 cups of sugar
4 tbs of minute tapioca UN cooked
2 tbs butter broken up into small pieces
1tbs of vanilla

Mix peaches, sugar,Tapioca vanilla in a large mixing bowl
lay your deep dish pie pan with your pastry.
place your butter within your filling
place your mixture within your pie pan
cover final pastry over peach filling
cover edges of pie crust with aluminum foil
dust pie crust with egg white
Bake at 350 or until done

Enjoy Lydia

The Joys of having Standard Poodles!

2010-05-29T17:29:00.000-07:00

Wow where to begin? As you probable have figured out I have to wonderful Standard Poodles named Thomas & Evan. Both are related to each other as they are full littermate brothers.
I first received Thomas as a 8 month old bouncing Puppy and I might add Beautiful he was. His glowing white well groomed coat in puppy clip was just to me with out words.

The drive home was quite long as there happen to be a terrible accident on the Fl Turnpike so I had to be re routed. I had the radio on with the classical music playing to make my new Puppy comfortable he sat in the back seat like a little boy as quiet as a church mouse probable wondering what new smells and new life was he going to encounter? one getting him home he adapted right away and was happy in his new home.

Evan his full littermate brother did not come until 3 years later and Thomas had already started in agility so Evan had lots of catching up in fact we did not start Evan until this year and he is doing very well. With this season earning already one title in fun games in CPE.
When the boys were reunited it was as if they were never apart. They immediately started to play with each other and it was brothers from the get go so Thomas and Evan became a important part of my life.

Having Standard Poodles are wonderful as a breed they are smart,whimsical, and loyal to there owners and surroundings. They are very athletic and love to perform they are great jumpers in agility and can easily clear there required jump height of 26 or 24 inches. There is a saying Dogs jump Poodles fly.Poodles love to be with you and your family they are to me incredible dogs!

Grooming can be a issue. My boys are groomed every two weeks some folks do there own but I do not have time or the talent so it is best to leave the grooming to the professionals.Most of the Standard Poodles that compete in agility are clip very close in a hunting clip but I like a little style.
My boys have a great diet and are feed all organic food Orijen a food out of Canada I would feed raw but that is expensive so I do the next best thing, Organic.

Now you know a little about my boys and what great dogs they are and I hope you have enjoyed this little story in my little corner of the world

Always
Lydia

The Wonders of a Birthday!

2010-05-25T15:43:00.000-07:00

What makes a birthday so special? Could it be because you were born on that day? The day you came into the world and everyone was all smiles because of you? Your Mom and Dad. Your Grandparents. and oh yes, your sisters and brothers if you were second or third in the family. Birthdays are special and today is my sisters.

As we get older we tend not to celebrate as much epically if we are gosh I hate to say it getting older. We have to get out the old reading glasses to read the cards. and for some of us that have Grandparents they tend not to here as well so a lot of the conversation has to be repeated. Meals cannot be as spicy or chewy as we have to make sure we have Polly Grip on board but this is all a part of the aging process that comes with the glory of each year of having a birthday.

I love birthdays and I love celebrating them I don't care how old or young it is a special time and I love to recognize it with passion. In our small family my sister and I do not have any children so it is usually a small group that get together. Our parents and friends and I always make sure that a special dinner is at hand.But the most importantly I make sure the Birthday Person is well recognized and today that person is my sister .

We have been together for a long time. Through each others ups and downs, the good and bad times and we don't always agree. But through it all we are family and she is the most important person to me so her birthday is well celebrated.

So from all of the Birthday Balloons Gifts, Cakes and Dinners there is one thing for sure Birthdays keep coming around at least once a year

Happy Birthday Valerie

Lydia

My Aunt Gloria Italian Butter Cookies!

2010-05-22T19:08:00.000-07:00

My Aunt Gloria Italian Butter Cookies!

3 cups of flour
1 cup of sugar
1 1/2 sticks of UN salted butter room temp
3 tsp of baking powder
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
2 eggs room temp

Beat eggs add vanilla
in a mixer using the paddle blade add eggs vanilla sugar and butter slowly add your flower and baking powder at low speed.
Mix until all contents are blended

Line cookie sheet with parchment paper and roll dough into medium size balls place a thump print in the center

Bake at 350 until done

White Glaze
2 cups of powder sugar
1/4 cup of milk
stir until a glaze is formed dip cookies and let cool on a cookie rack

Enjoy
Lydia

My Recipe for Chicken Cacciatore!

2010-05-21T14:24:00.000-07:00

My Recipe calls for

1 small pkg of Chicken Drumstick and Thighs
1 medium jar of sweet red peppers.
6 Italian Sausage.
1 small red onion.
1 small package of mushrooms. ( optional)
2 lg cans of whole tomatoes or 8 lg fresh tomatoes
1 small can of Tomato Paste.(optional if wanting a tick base)
8 cloves of garlic chopped
1 small handful of fresh chopped basil
1 small handful of chopped parsley
2 tbs of sugar.
1 ts of black pepper.
1/4 cup of olive oil.
1 1/2 cup of flour
1 cup of dry white wine
1 egg
1/4 cup of whole milk

Clean and wash chicken. place in milk and egg batter coat.
Mix flour with all of your spices add more spices if you want more of a rich flavor dip coated chicken in flour and set on a deep cookie sheet and place in a oven until blistered and brown then remove.
take your tomatoes and onion and mushrooms cook until it starts to make a thick sauce you can add the tomatoes past of you like and sugar. once a thick sauce add chicken cover and let cook stir occasional cook about 1 hour or until done

Serve over pasta, rice or Italian Potatoes
Enjoy!
Lydia

Days Gone By A Tribute to my Family!

2010-05-18T18:10:00.000-07:00

Mom at the bakery when she
was 16
with my Great Grandmother
Miss Anna and Great Grandpa
Henry

Our Grandmother with
my sister and cousin
Tommy at bakery with
cousins
My sister and I at the beach
behind the Ocean Grill Restaurant

Days Gone By A Tribute to my Family!

In looking to my past going as far back as my childhood I remember such pertinent things about my family and the town that I grew up in. A sleepy little town called Vero Beach which resigned in the state of Florida.

I remember such details things about Vero Beach such as on what is know a major highway State Road 60 which brought you from one side of the coast to the other just go west and you were in Tampa go east from Tampa and the end of the line was Vero Beach. When arriving into the town of Vero Hwy 60 was a road covered in Spanish Banyan Trees and Live Oaks with bending huge arms that greeting and embracing you a pone your arrival as if never to let you go.

One of the most powerful memories was our family bakery run by my Uncle Kenneth. This was a family owned bakery and had been for 4 generations and everyone in town knew about this Bakery and its name was Langbhen Bakery. Our Mother was a baker and both she and her Brother work around the clock to put out some of the finest cakes pastry and breads there was to offer.

Holiday were its busiest time and everyone was put to work from bagging cookies to folding boxes and waiting on costumers.My job was bagging the cookies and all of us were know to steal a cookie every now and then it was to hard to resist.

I don't think that there wasn't any kid that did not work at the bakery. From the donuts boys to friends of the family learning the art of baking. Everyone had a feel of this incredible bakery.

Today Langbehns Bakery is no longer. However, my cousin Wayne is the only family member that is a baker by trade and is now retired. All of us have the talent to bake and do but the bakery was such a special and magical time.

Another found memories I have was Vero Beaches. Growing up in a coastal town is was normal to see us at the beach either snorkeling, diving or just lying in the sun which Florida is famous for.My sister and I would ride our bikes to the beach and stay for hours gosh it is amazing that I did not developed skin cancer because out in the sun I was.Mom loved to scuba dive by the 1st reeve she and Tommy Wood would head out to the beach and off they would go. Tommy was a friend of the family and worked at the bakery for years until moving away with his wife Pearl.

There were so many things about growing up in Vero Beach that I remember but mostly it was my family that made all of the memories so wonderful. We have the most colorful and divest family one could ever image. I always say getting our family together is like herding a bunch of cats. But once together it is as if we were never a part.

My Mom was a strong influence in our life she taught her daughters to be independent and have a open mind and stand true to what you believe in and to this day both my sister and I have this quality.

Our cousin were taught this as well and today each one is successful and happy with there lives.

I have so many memories that were special to me that I could write and share for ever but in this note I hope you have an idea of what a special time it was in my days gone by.

My Easy Calzones!

2010-05-18T15:02:00.000-07:00

My Easy Recipe for my Calzones!

2 cans of Pillsbury Pizza Thin Crust
1 lg or 16 oz ricotta cheese
1 tbs of ground garlic
1 tbs of black pepper
2 cups of mozzarella cheese
Peperoni your amount preferred
Salomi your amount preferred
mushrooms your amount preferred
Italian Sweet peppers your amount preferred

Directions

Pre heat oven to 350. Roll out your dough place on a baking sheet
Place your ricotta cheese down first .
then add the rest of your filling.
Mozzarella cheese last.
Fold over your dough and press all edges together
Bake until golden brown.

Serves 2 lg Calzones
I usually place my red sauce on the side.

Enjoy!!

Lydia

A Family Gathering!

2010-05-16T03:53:00.000-07:00

A Family Gathering!

What a weekend this has been. First off was my usual Saturday Morning rush. My Poodles having a Agility Class which is the first class of there Agility Summer Program and the class is a hour away so sleeping in on a Saturday Morning is not a option. Our class was to start at 7 Am do to the heat! SoI was up at 3Am as I needed that time to get everything ready.

What was the big event for the weekend? It was Family night and a celebration of Dad and Margret 17 years of marriage to each other. Now lets think about this. We have a beautiful guest room all shabby chic design with a lovely double bed very inviting so what do my sister and I go and do? We go and buy and twin air mattress and place it at the foot of the bed. Now this air mattress is the top of its line but not so top of the line when celebrating your anniversary

After a wonderful evening of my homemade calzones and Eddy's Spumoni Italian Ice Cream and many glasses of wine it was time for all of us to go to bed. Everyone retired to there bedrooms and a great night of sleep we all endured. When our parents woke and coffee brewing and my homemade Cinnamon Buns were in the oven Margret had to tell me. "Last night when your father and I went to bed he crawled into the comfortable double bed and I into the top of the line air mattress and he looked down and said Happy Anniversary!

Lydia

Hats Hats A Day of Hats!

2010-05-13T03:49:00.001-07:00

My private
collection 1940's Vintage
Hat
Late 1920's Lady's Day
Hat
Mid 1930's Hats
Early 1930's Hats

What better way then to start your day with Vintage Hats dated as far back as the late 1920's to the 1940's. Vintage Hats and Clothing have always been my passion of mine for a long time in fact I love displaying them through out my entire home. My poodles have learned not to touch them so I consider myself fortunate not to have them destroyed by my whimsical Standard Poodles.

You might wonder how on earth she has found such treasures? Lets put it this way, it has not been easy. My hunts were always plotted out carefully you had to get up very early to make you find and you had to be able to beat the Antique Dealers. with my passion I really did not have to worry to much as most Dealers were interested in China and Furniture so if there was any Vintage Hats I stood a good Chance of getting them.

I did not always find what I wanted and I passed up quite a bit as it was too damage for my liking and most of the time I came home empty handed but as I mention it is a hunt and that was the fun of it.

I do have a dear friend who has embellished herself in her Vintage Hats and Clothing and has been collecting for many years and sometime we talk about exchanging hats however it never comes to light as both of us do not want to give up our hats. But it is fun to talk about it.

Most of my 1920's Hats I sold to private collectors and only have a Lady's Day Hat left. Today I will not part with it.Pricing of a 1920's Cloche Hat is very expensive you can pay up too $200 or more so if your Grandma has one you might want to hold onto it.The average Lady's Vintage Hat from a Antique Dealer dating from the 30's -50's can be as high as $35-$125 or more depending of the condition.

The best places to find Vintage Hats or Clothing is Estate Sales but you better get there early as you will have to stand in line as you and every other collector has the same thing in mind "The Find"

Now I do not collect as much as my dedication is more towards my Standard Poodles but my passion and love is still there and every so often I drive by a Estate Sale and find myself trying to find a parking spot to park in run in.

Lydia

Mothers Day Pictures

2010-05-12T19:30:00.000-07:00

The History of the Standard Poodle

2010-05-10T04:18:00.001-07:00

History of the Standard Poodle!

You can see that my favorite breed of dog is the Standard Poodle. Why is this? Well, because they are intelligent,loyal, athletic, and beautiful. Now that is quit a bit to fall back on.So lets go back and take a look of the history of The Standard Poodle.

History shows that the Romans were first to show poodles as far as 30 AD they were also found on carvings on and around Roman Tombs and placed on Roman and Greek coins.
Egyptians and Romain artifact beer portraits of Poodles assisting there owners with herding hunting and retrieving .But who claims to developing of the breed?

You would have to say the Germans developed this noble breed as it was Strong and held to its name `Pudel or "Splash in Water"this dog became famous for it Loyalty intelligence and athletic ability to retrieve in the water thus becoming the first Duck Dog.
France wanted in in the game so they inherited the poodle made it its National Hunting Dog and from there the perfection of the breed started. The Frenchman decided that in order to make the Poodle more efficient in the water he decided that his coat needed to be shaved in areas that would not only produce speed in the cold waters but to protect the dog in areas such as the Kidneys, Heart and ankles so thus the Continental Clip was developed.

Due to its intelligence and grace the Standard Poodle Became a house hold dog. The aristocratic French Woman loved the beauty of this dog so The Poodle also went to side of the most elite Women of France and thus a smaller poodles was in the shadows.

By the 1930's the Standard Poodle had made its way to the United States and by this time there were 34 poodles registered and by 1935 a white Standard Poodle won Best in Show in today one of America largest dog show in the Country thus the popularity of this breed spreed.

Today the varsity of the Standard Poodle has proven it truth to its heritage. The Poodle is shown in many avenues not just the breed ring. Hunting,herding, agility, obedience, fly ball, dock diving Rally and oh yea just plan hagging out.
The Poodle has held on to its Intelligence and is the second smartest dog next to the Boarder Collie. The Poodle has a great sense of well being and is whimsical and fun at heart. They are very social and love to be with you they are the life of a party and always are seen having fun no matter what they are doing.The Standard Poodle has held it popularity remain top 10 of favorite breeds.

I guess you can see why I enjoy the Standard Poodle. From its very beginning to today it is the most beautiful and intelligent of breeds and hold true to its history and while I'm either on the agility field or at home my Boys remind me of why I love this breed.

Lydia

Mothers Day Brunch

2010-05-08T17:00:00.001-07:00

Mothers Day Brunch Menu

Broccoli Cheese Quiche
Home Made Cinnamon buns
Homemade Country Hash Brown Cassorole
Maple Baked Bacon
Country French Bread Toasted with Sweet Cream
Butter & Honey
Fresh Brewed Coffee with Heavy cream

Table will be set with a French Country Flare with an old
Vintage Charm!

I hope everyone has a great Mother's Day and for those that do not have Children but are like me have lots of pets they too enjoy being with you

Happy Mother's Day

To Have a Mom

2010-05-07T15:00:00.000-07:00

To Have a Mom!

Every year Mothers Day rolls around and every year I approach this day with some bit of sadness. Why? Because our Mom had passed away suddenly from a massive hear attack 25 years ago while I was in school for Surgical Technology. My sister and I were very close with our Mom although our parents had divorced while my sister in high school and I just entering Jr High it was a hard blow to be from a divorced parents but it all worked out.

We grew up with a Mom who had a strong love for animals epically horses and dogs so we always had such. Our Mom was a baker by trade along with her brother so it was usual to have Mom early to bed and very early to rise. Some of my most fond memories of my Mom was always during the holidays where Mom and her brother slept on flour sack at the bakery due to mass demands of orders.My sister cousins close friends and myself were always bagging cookies and wrapping coffee cakes the smell always filled their air with the scent of the Holidays.

To this day there is not a moment that I do not think of my Mom. What would she think of my poodles? Would she enjoy watching her daughter run her dogs in Agility? Would she be proud of my quest for baking? So many things that I have not been able to share with Mom. So many things I want to be able to share with my Mom but the force of Life and fate took Mom away and only left me with Memories.

I am blessed to have my father who is such a positive person and a joy to have as a Dad He is married to a wonderful woman who has been a positive influence in both my sister and myself life.To this day I do not call her my step mom as I find that a negative word and one that I have chosen not to use. Margret is such a kind and thoughtful person and her quest for life is always a adventure she is a gentle soul and has always been there for both Valerie and Myself.

Looking back at a time when my Mother had come out to visit me in San Fransisco we were standing in Larkspur Landing waiting for the Fairy and she asked me if there was anything that I ever regretted she had done as a Mom . Now if was younger I would of jumped on this question but No I did not see that opportunity at all I just looked at her and said " I would not have changed a thing"Oh don't get me wrong, My Mom was not a June Clever No not at all in fact she was very strong will and had a strong opinion about most everything and taught and believed that her daughters to be prepared for life and no how to navigate it. .And Thus both my sister and I did.

Mothers Day to me is special and like any other Daughter or Son who want to show some appreciation for everything that has been done for you.So both my sister and I always plane something for Margret this year is a Mothers Day Brunch and a gift of Ont of my vintage aprons from my personal collection. This will be a joy for her as well as me as I love to prepared a beautiful table setting for all to enjoy!

So all of your Daughter and Sons who have Moms take good care of them for in a second they can be swept away and never to be seen again. Cherish every talk, every walk, and all the laughter you can store. Hug your Mom and tell her she is the most important Lady in your life and most of all enjoy your Mom on Mothers Day and everyday!

Lydia

My Lessions Learned at my most recent Agility Trial

2010-05-03T01:36:00.000-07:00

I was excited! My Van was packed and Thursday I was headed to Palmbay To set up my tent and crates for the CPE Agility Trial.This is going to be the last trial for the season as it is too hot in Fl to run much past May However there are some trial held at night but if you have ever lived in Fl the Summer nights can be just as bad as the days.

My boys new something was up so I took them up with me to set up everything they watch me with great excitement as I started the process. Now I have a first up tent and it supposed to be very easy to put up but for some reason I seem to struggle but finally It was up and crates were set up I was finished!

Friday Morning came all to soon and up at 3 Am to feed my boys and load the cooler and other last minute items into my van . Going over everything that I needed for the trial I was ready oops my reading glasses need those I mean how am I going to be able to read the print sheets for my Q's.Cup of coffee in hand my boys loaded in the Van off we go to Mikamar Training Center for our last CPE trial of the season.

Apon arrive around 7 am the place was buzzing all ready. Handlers walking there dogs and hugs were giving to all of old agility friends that you have meet along the way from past trials.and much conversation of where you are in the course of your dogs training
Driving back to my spot I was I was happy to see that right next door to me was my good agility friend Susie and her husband that was filming for the trial Susie has Wheaten Terriers and always has her hands full with her Three.If ever there was a positive person and a true delite with her dogs it is Susie!

Finally it was morning briefing and time to meet the Judge Oh sometimes they can be lengthy but it is always good to here what each judge has to say as they are all different.

At each trial they alternate the different jump heights so Friday was big to little and always the upper classes run first we were not in the first class but I had entered Thomas in Standard Class Level 2 he only needed one more Qualifying score to have a move up to level 3 My class finally arrived and I was 3 in the ring Thomas was ready and off we went!! through the weaves over the A frame and had perfect contacts and was on it and yes we Q and got a second place. I was debating to move him up but I felt that it would be OK as I knew we would be at level 3 a while as the courses are harder and allot more is expected out of you and your dog so I did.
The rest of Thomas classes for that day were washes he was not focused and had to much of the poodle Zoomise plus it was so hot.But there was a catch to all of this and I did not see it until later in the day of trialing with him.

Evan was awesome he did not Q in Standard but he had a beautiful run but did Q and receive 1 st place in the game Wild Card He was so happy to be out there and doing it he seems to have a smile on his face the whole time and wanting to make me happy he was such a joy. He is a little slower then Thomas which allows me to catch my breath and give better direction! Hmm could that be the Key, better direction?

Saturday came boys were ready this time my classes were not as early and I had more time so I was able to leave a little later Wrong! I was lucky to get there when I did as My sister and I took the last spot for parking it was packed.
My Friend Marsha and her lovely German Shepard Chinook were my bukies and Marsha is such a great help with anything. I was lucky to have both Marsha and and Susie with her Husband Robert as neighbors.

Thomas had a level move up and he was in Standard 3 but he had class before it called Colors and yep we blew it he was all over the place just not having a good day it seems as if were going backwards I was becoming worried. Evan Q and took first Place had a beautiful run and he earned a title. But Thomas and I it seemed we were headed for some hard lessons I just could not figure out what was happening. Finally our class Standard and again he was all over the place so I stoped and called him to me and made him down ask the judge to be excused and she said OK so we were disqualify I walked with Thomas to cool him off and while doing so the Judge came over to me as she had the time since we the last dog to run and said " Don't give up on him he is a great poodle both your dogs are very nice he is showing allot of stress stick with him" I thought that was very nice of the judge to say that and to take the time to seek me out. Most Judges would of whistled us off way before I called him to down but I guess she as I were hoping I would get him back on course.

Finally the last class of the day and my favorite Jumpers! I ran Evan and he had a beautiful Run no faults and Q and them it was Thomas turn Oh Boy Wow what a job we both did a clean Run and a Q gosh I was so happy and so was Thomas everyone cheered and clapped he was awesome flew through the air and did it he was a joy and he was very happy I gave him the biggest kiss!!

Sunday the last day of the trial and we all were tired tired and tired! We were up first in Standard and we did not Q as he did not make his contac on the A frame but it was a good run I was so disjointed and not knowing if it was me or just a poodle thing. Finally Olaf showed up and he became my savior I asked him to watch my run as it was jumpers again and he did and I lost him but was able to get him back but not enough to have Q so olaf said to me go cool off Thomas off and I will come and talk to you. He watched Evans Run and Evan and I had a clean Run and a Q first place. Finally Olaf came over and I was sitting in the chair and he just stood and stared at me I stared back then he continue to stair then I turned my head away then back to him. Then he said did you know what you just did? I said yes I staird back he said you broke your consternation because I took to long to talk to you. The same thing with your lead out Thomas knows his job all to well and you beg him to stay. As soon as he looked at you that was the time to release him you were in perfect position For Thomas to take the five jumps and for you to get ahead of him but you waited and so you lost your dog!! MOVE You have move with Thomas he has a lot of drive and that is good you want that but stop not trusting Thomas He know what he is supposed to do.

It was like a weight lifted off my shoulder I felt that I was going to be able to do IT and put this explanation to work. We had one more class and it was Thomas and I a game of Colors. I walked the course saw the path I needed to take and presto brought Thomas up to the start line put him in a stay and walked fast to the position and as soon as he looked at me I release him and off we went yea folks a clean run and a Q and 1 st place.

Yes it was a big lesson for me not to give up on Thomas by giving up is giving up on myself as it was not just stress with Thomas it was I was not giving him the direction he needed to acehive his goals and mine. I do not have to beg him, nag him,I just needed to give him direction.

After the end of the day and the packing up the van and driving home I learned such a valuable lesson. Trials are nothing but big test for both you and your dogs and reaching home and UN loading my boys I gave each one big hugs and kisses and thanked them for putting up with me

Always
Lydia Thomas & Evan