Rednesday Wednesday!

I don't know if my love for red is because of my mother...

But this would be something she'd be wearing in the kitchen...
Perhaps it's why it catches my eye & makes me smile...

There's something with red & the vintage past that gives me that warm, fuzzy feeling...

Even a pitcher of lemonade tastes better in vintage red...




Perhaps this is why I like to decorate my boutique with it...
It's so appealing to the eye...

These valances would look lovely in a vintage-styled kitchen...

And this vintage apron perfect for welcoming guests this holiday season...

Just a touch of red here ...

and a little there...

... throughout the home..

Makes it feel warm, inviting & cozy...


Come by TesoroFino.com to find your touches of red...

and click the Cherry Button above for more touches of reds!

Do-It-Yourself Serving Tray

Are you a hoarder and keep things and say "when I get around to it, I can do something with this piece; I'll keep it!" Well, here's one of those pieces and I have lots of them and like Santa, I've been busy creating....

Take a great old frame...

Some wallpaper too...

Get out some of these materials & start painting...

And add some fine touches like some glass-knob feet...


And there you have it! A Serving Tray for Tea!



Here's another great project with an old frame. Same procedure; just add caulk.
Don't have time for projects; this one is On Sale & Reduced at TesoroFino.com! Just a quick click, add to your cart & check-out! It's that simple.


Go to these blogs by just clicking on the button for more great ideas.

OH HECK...WHAT SIDE OF THE PLATE DOES THE FORK GO?

Lots of people don't set their table for fine dining every night at dinner. So, it's very possible that when preparing your formal dining table for the holiday gatherings, you just might forget where the silverware and glasses go. So here's a quick reminder how everything should look:

Lots of different glasses that we don't normally use on a daily basis can be confusing.

And here is our table setting at our home for the holidays...

Be sure to visit We Are That Family Blog by clicking the button below to see more exciting posts for works for me Wednesday!

Thankful for Your Business Sale!!

At Shabby Lane Shops, we are thankful for our customers and would like to do something special for your continual patronage. On the Eve before Thanksgiving, all the boutiques will be promoting specials sales to show you just how special you are to us.
Not only will there be sales throughout the shopping mall, but you can also win $50.00 to shop just by clicking the button above to enter the contest. The rules are simple:

1. Just click the button above. It will take you to Shabby Lane Shops Blog
2. Leave a message at the Post regarding the sale Beginning Nov. 20th
3. And that's it! It's That Simple!

No purchases necessary to win $50.00 to shop at the sale event.
You could be the luck winner; no purchases necessary! To see which stores will be promoting the sales, just click on this link:

http://www.shabbylaneshops.com/pages/thankful.htm

Again, we thank you for your patronage. Have a Happy Thanksgiving. Don't forget to enter the contest by clicking the button. Go to the above link to see which boutiques want to save you money for your patronage!

It's All In the Name!

When I started thinking of a website design for my online boutique, I wanted it to be meaningful and that was the beginning steps to my creation of my boutique. Born in America, but raised by two Italian-speaking parents from Italy, it was uncommon to speak English in the home. Back then, speaking another language was embarrassing, but I have truly embraced it as I matured and realized how valuable it was to be bilingual and what a truly beautiful language it is; hence, the title of my store is in Italian.

Tesoro Fino means "Fine Treasures". Yes, sounds nice and simple. I sell some sort of Fine Treasures, but if you visit my website: www.TesoroFino.com , you will see many items on the introduction page that catch your attention, such as old photos of people and places in Italy, a treasure box, a painter's palette, a paint brush, rosary beads, etc. These are all the ingredients that helped develop who I am today and were the foundation of what inspired me to create my online boutique today. And if it weren't for the people and places I've been, Tesoro Fino would not exist. I wanted to honor and give tribute to those special people and places.

The photos are of my parents in their younger years, my father an artist who painted cathedrals in southern Italy, inspired me to create and also paint throughout my life. In America he worked for some of the top Interior Designers inside the homes of the rich and famous. As a child, I grew up inside these spectacular homes surrounded by these talented designers. Hence, my love for home decor.

My mother was the nurturer and an ,incredible cook who showed her love to all through the use of food. And so now I do the same and have incorporated Mama Rosa's authentic secret family recipes in my boutique. Her genuine love for family and people and food was her treasure that she handed down to me. Therefore, this was one more treasure I needed to add to my Boutique of Fine Treasures at TesoroFino.com.

I wanted to show people that Tesoro Fino encompasses many treasures, not just material treasures for sale. It's not just a place to shop, but a place to connect. The birth of Tesoro Fino would not have happened if my father did not instill his love for painting, if he did not take me into the beautiful homes to give me a love for fine home decor, if I didn't have the opportunity to absorb incredible knowledge from the top designers, etc.

If it wasn't for my mother, I would not have wanted Tesoro Fino to be more than a place to shop. Like Mama Rosa, I wanted to nurture people. So, at Tesoro Fino, I ask people to stay a while and browse through Mama Rosa's incredible authentic recipes of real Italian cooking, I share many interior design articles, I post events happening in our area, I post contests and give-aways, I have a page for inspirational quotes. Like Mama Rosa, I want to show my love to everyone through good food, good conversation and sharing.

Come by Tesoro Fino and browse a while. It's not just a place to shop, but also a place to connect. That's our motto at TesoroFino.com and if it weren't for all the fine treasures of people and places in my life, Tesoro Fino would not be here today.

Go to Sare's Blog Event today by clicking the button at the top of this post to hear more similar stories about names.

NOVEMBER'S GENTLE REMINDER LIST

Deadhead Hydrangeas - Use for Indoor decorating. Great for making wreaths.

Continue to cut back perrenials

Restore Car Kit: Be sure to have flashlights, flairs, warm blankets and clothing, first aide kit is restocked, quick tire repair kit, etc. for cold-weather emergencies. Make sure you have AAA, especially for your college students.

Update Christmas Mailing List

Pick up Greeting Cards & Holiday Invitations

Plant bulbs

Clean Window & Mirrors: Be sure to use warm water and dishwasher detergent to clean windows and then squeegee them dry.

Organize Magazines & Catologs: Place outdated magazines on shelf in date order to reuse every season. Throw out all old and outdated catalogs; keep the newest at your desk.

Indoor Plants: Make sure to give less water and fertilizer in winter. Signs of yellowing are lack of light in this instance. So, move to a south west window for better growth.

Rotate Light-Weight Curtains: Use heavier curtains in winter. Helps with utility bill savings.

Replace Warm-Weather Bedding with Cool-Weather Bedding

Replace Warm-Weather Clothing with Cool-Weather Clothing

Scrub porch, ceilings, and walls

Scrub outdoor decks and patios and walkways and driveway

Scrub outdoor furniture

Cover outdoor furniture with plastic tarps & burlap

Wash light fixture cover

BEFORE - HOLIDAYS - CHECK LIST (FOR OUTDOORS)

Bring in Dahlias, Cannas, Caldiums

Drain Outdoor spigots, pipes and sprinklers

Wrap ferns and shrubs with burlap

Mound and wrap roses

Service-test snowplow

Cut back perennial beds and cover with leaves

Rake & Blow Leaves

Clean out gutters

Check weather stripping on all doors and windows

HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING CHECK LIST ~ PLAN AHEAD

Polish Silver: Start with mild cleaner and work your way up.

Take Inventory: Plan ahead and make sure you have enough place settings, stem ware, napkins, and other table-top items to be sure there is enough for guests. Be sure linen is stain free and iron linen ahead of time. Plan centerpiece & table decorating ahead.

Purchase wine, liquor, firewood ahead of Time.

Send invitations out now for people to mark their calendars ahead of time.

Send out an email for address and phone updates for your Christmas Cards.

Plan holiday menu in advance.

Clean oven in preparation for the Holidays.

Organize Pots and Pans.

Clean out pantry and refrigerator so that there is plenty of room for the abundance of food for the holidays.

Replace baking soda in refrigerator.

Order Turkey.

Pot amaryllis & hyacinth now for Christmas.

Update Christmas Card Mailing List now so that contact information for sending out invitations is correct.

Make room in the freezer. Discard food that is expired or freezer burned.

Organize pantry; things you know you won't eat or prepare, donate to food pantry. Make sure cans are not expired.

Before guests arrive:

1. sweep out fireplace & vacuum fireplace screens
2. wipe insides of medicine cabinets
3. vacuum floors, baseboards, windows and sills
4. dust ceiling fans
5. wipe switch plates
6. wipe telephones before and after
7. wipe kitchen ceiling
8. wipe down refrigerator, microwave & recycle bins
9. vacuum upholstery
10. Launder machine washable rugs
11. wipe hand prints from windows, walls, doors especially around door knobs & light plates
12. clean toilet
13. Check out bar to be sure everything is in check
    
14. light scented candles
15. Turn on soothing music
16. Have a drink; you've earned it.
    

FRUITS & VEGETABLES IN SEASON

SWEET POTATOES: These great-tasting potatoes are also called yams Choose ones that feel heavy for their size. Keep in a cool-dry place. Will last for one month or a week at room temperature.

PEARS: Pears ripen after they are picked. Choose blemish-free fruit with intact stems. Let them ripen at room temperature. Once ripen, put in refrigerator.

CRANBERRIES: Great for muffins, sauces and bread. Keep in resealable plastic bags in the refrigerator for two months and in freezer for up to a year. Great for Holiday Decor. Place in clear vase as a base for candles for color. Make a wreath or garland out of them.

POMEGRANATES: Rich in antioxidants ~ Helps prevent disease and reduce aging time. Refrigerate for up to two weeks. These grow on cactus plants throughout the southern hills of Sicily and remind me of my heritage.

Have You Ever Seen Hoarders on TV??? Well, Check This OUT!

Have you ever seen hoarders on TV? Well, I'm not that bad. But when you have a creative mind you know that you can transform just about anything you find to give it new life. My problem is just finding the time to make each and every transformation. So, those of you who can't relate to people who can't throw things away, think again.

Perhaps growing up with parents that lived through the depression had an impact on me. I can remember my mother reusing tin foil. It drove me crazy. Well, during these hard economic times, I don't find myself reusing tin foil, but I am very aware of wasting paper, water, plastic, electric, etc.

Times like these are good for us. Times like this make us reflect on our past spending habits and cleanse us of any bad habits we had formed in the past. It's time for everyone to become frugal. Don't just throw everything away. ...Before throwing something out, let your mind wonder as to how to give something "new life". Reuse..Recycle...Recreate!

...Here's an old vintage box with little life...
With a black base and sanding to keep that vintage worn look, I've hand painted some roosters to transform this boring piece.

CLICK TO ENLARGE FOR BETTER VIEW

These boxes are wonderful gift givers for hostesses. Fill them with dish towels and pot holders and things for the kitchen.


Stay tuned at my boutique for some hand painted items for sale soon!

KEEPING HALLOWEEN MEALS SIMPLE & LEAVE TIME FOR TRICK N TREATS

To keep life simple is important to me and reusing and recycling items is something I'm passionate about. Don't just let those gourds and pumpkins sit there....use them in other ways that are decorative and functional.

For Halloween, plan a meal menu to be simple and easy to serve. Kids are on the go and don't have eating a sit-down dinner on their mind. They want to roam from house to house collecting candy. Prepare healthy foods such as these to keep it simple. Perhaps a pot of soup or chili in the crockpot and a few vegies and dip to pick at. Use the KISS THEORY: Keep It Simple Silly and your kids will be glad you did!

Just click on the f Buttons above and head on over to We Are That Family Blog and A Soft Place to Land for More Ideas!

PINK SLIEGH PROJECT ~ HAVE YOURSELF A SHABBY PINK CHRISTMAS

Take an old sleigh...

...prime it...paint it a shabby color...and transform it and give it new life!

Please click on to Enlarge Photo!
For sale at TesoroFino.Com!



Voila!...add some hand-painted accessories and you have a masterpiece to display for the holidays!

Looks lovely by the fireplace with matching accessories!

Don't forget to read the next post to see a true Masterpiece! My Papa's Hand Painted Frescoes in the Cathedrals of Southern Italy!

Papa's Hand Painted Frescos In The Churches of Southern Italy

Way back in the early 1900's, my Papa lived in Agrigento, Italy and worked as an Artist painting frescoes in Cathedrals of Southern Italy. Above is the church of Saint Francis where his worked was recently photographed to share with all of you.


Growing up in America with Papa, he never bragged or boasted about what he did, nor did he even have photos to share. I was able to learn about and see his work on my first trip to this cathedral when I visited his home town as a teenager. Relatives were the ones to share with us because Papa's most strongest attribute was his ability to be humble...hence he barely spoke of it.

I was in awe when I laid eyes on his work for the first time. Each strand of hair on my body stood to attention and tears began to trickle down my face. You see, I knew my father could paint and I was able to see so many homes of the rich and famous he painted for in NYC and the Hamptons, but this was different. . .these were truly works of art; these were masterpieces!


As I stood there dumbfounded, my relatives began to reminisce and tell me stories, which my father never shared with us. I felt so fortunate to be able to share in this part of my father's past. My relatives explained to me that my father took photos of relatives and friends to use when creating the faces of each saint in the frescoes.


What he did share with us was his love of God and the Blessed Virgin Mary which he painted above in this photo. He told us countless stories how God and Mother Mary watched over him in his life through the difficult times. But these stories of sorrow, he only shared with us when we were in our 20's, sparing us the pain that he endured. He was a Holocaust survivor, a prisoner of war for two years of his life, where he would crawl out a tunnel at night to feed him and the others potatoes to stay alive. He shared the countless times his life was spared by Mother Mary when he was blind folded and given his last cigarette, when he was thrown out of a plane and swam for days until he reached land, when he barely made it for cover in a foxhole only to find every other person around him dead after the bombings. So many of his stories weren't told until he was interviewed by a Jewish Organization of Holocaust Survivors just a couple of years ago. That was a very painful day for Papa. As his stories unfolded for the first time in approximately 68 years of being stuffed deep inside him, he began to shake and cry tears of horror and sadness. He began to share how his body was sardined into a train car pressed against the other prisoners, left for days inside the train car amongst their own fecal matter. Papa hasn't spoken of it since that day, nor do we ask.
Growing up with Papa was an ordinary life in suburbia Long Island, New York. There we happily played in the streets with many children and friends. Watching us play was great joy for Papa and seeing him buy each and every child in the neighborhood ice cream numerous times was an ordinary part of a hot summer day. What we didn't understand was .....why? Why he would purchase for each and every kid. Now we know, he had a difficult life and many of those days during the depression and as a malnutritioned prisoner of war, he spent hungry. He spent the rest of his life eating well, sharing large meals with family and friends and continued to feed each child ice cream to spare them the pain he went through. But every time he did those acts of kindness, not once did he explain as to why he did them.

Today, Papa just turned 90 and for his 90th, we gathered at his home and shared his happy and successful past with him and mamma. We shared the photos from above, that we share with you, to let Papa know how very special we think he is. What an extraordinary man he was as a boy, as an artist, as a painter, as a prisoner, as a husband, and most of all as a father.

Shortly after this photo was taken, Papa was rushed to the hospital for an obstructed bowel. Due to medical errors and lack of hospital care, Papa ended up in Critical Care and Life Support. My brothers and I didn't leave his sight for a minute. We have been doing shifts around the clock, 24/7 for Papa. He is now off Life Support and trying to recover and rehabilitate in a facility so that we can take him home again. We ask you all to keep him in your prayers that he may recover to be taken home or that God takes him home with Mother Mary soon so that he does not continue to suffer, as he has already endured enough suffering throughout his life more than most.

Oh My Talented Papa Who Painted Frescos in the Churches of Southern Italy is now 90 Years Old! Happy Birthday Papa!

Way back in the early 1900's, my Papa was an apprentice and an artist in the hills of Southern Italy. As he grew up in the small village of Agrigento, he matured into a fine painter and artist after many years of training under the care of master artisans. Down the cobblestone streets of Agrigento, Italy lies a cathedral that I was able to visit in my youth to admire the fresco paintings done by the hands of my father! It brought tears to my eyes! To this day, I treasure that memory, which remains always vivid in my mind!

Arriving to America by ship penniless, with just a bag of artisan tools, he glowed with enthusiasm as he entered the New York Harbor. In later years, he became well known throughout Manhattan and the Hamptons working in conjunction with some of the finest Designers and Decorators.

For me to visit the spectacular homes of the rich and famous, with Papa's ornate works of art and finishes, was an ordinary part of my life. Today, my father is 90 years of age and still here to share his wisdom and knowledge with us. His stories and lessons are priceless.

Here is a photo of his recent 90th birthday! Soon I will post the photo of the cathedral fresco he did with his own hands which was taken on a recent trip to Italy.

SOME GREAT IDEAS FOR THOSE PUMPKINS YOU PICK THIS SEASON

To Die For Pumpkin Lid Soup Tureen Makes a Statement at any table...

Pumpkin Centerpiece Masterpiece to adorn your home...

Pumpkin Potpourri to fill your home with a Fall Fragrance...

Wonderfully spray painted a rich gold and ribbon attached for place setting on your Fall Harvest Table...

STOP BY AND JOIN IN ON THE FUN

TODAY'S INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE

"Have confidence that if you have done a little thing well, you can do a bigger thing well too."

AHH VINTAGE! IT MAKES ME SIGH! IT'S VINTAGE THINGIE THURSDAY & THRIFT STORE THURSDAY

Are you crazy about vintage? Well, if you are, this post is for you!
It's Vintage Thingie Thursday & Thrift Store Thursday today. Many of my blogger friends will be posting items that are vintage and special to them. So, all you have to do is head on over to COLORADO LADY'S blog and also at HOMEBODY HOLLY'S BLOG look for the list of participants and click on their name. It will take you to there site and show you what they have posted for Vintage Thingie Thursday AND Thrift Store Thursday. Then go back to blog and go down the list of participants to see the many wonderful vintage items my blogger friends have chosen to share with you.

Here is a vintage apron in mint condition. I purchased it with its tags on and in its original store box and it's never been used. What a shame!! I find such pleasure in using all my vintage and antique collectibles for its beauty. What's the sense in having such gorgeous items, if you can't share in its beauty with others?

Not only was it an apron I found in the box, but there with it were two matching pot holders!

Here is a close-up shot of the fabric print. Don't you just love the combination of reds and yellow. To me those colors work wonderfully in a french country cottage setting. The print is a delicate flower bud. Because of its impeccable state, I wanted to share this one with you! That's right, I have this listed in the boutique at TesoroFino.com. So, dash on over before everyone else and shop under "Vintage Treasures" to see this item on Sale right now! There's something special to me about owning a thing from the past! Each piece has a story and a past of its own and I think that is what intrigues me most about Vintage. Have fun browsing through the list of participants and have a beautiful day.

JUNE'S THINGS-TO-DO REMINDER LIST

My siblings tease me about my lists. But I can't seem to function without them. It keeps me organized and it helps out a lot. So, I share my list with all of you! Just in case I forgot something, please leave a comment and list it and I will add it to our Reminder List. Thank you all and have a productive day!

Put out outdoor furniture

Deadhead Roses

Order your bulbs for Fall planting now

Tune up bicycles

Recheck emergency kits in cars and restock and add sunscreen and bottled water and non-perishable snacks

Paint porch and stain deck

Change curtains for lighter weight and dry clean heavier fabric curtains

Replace cool-weather bedding for warm-weather bedding

Steam clean upholstery

Shampoo carpets

Wash windows

Remove storm door and replace with screen door

Finish planting perennials early in the month so they can adjust before the heat arrives

Edge garden beds

Water lawn

Weed gardens

Open windows to air out the house before the hot weather arrives

Stake tomatoes, eggplant, and peppers

Continue fertilizing roses monthly with granular fertilizer. Stop this process in August so they can get ready for dormancy.

Plant annuals

Get ready for Father's Day ~ Plan a special meal and/or event

Have a Tag Sale. Clean out closets, basement, garage. Invite neighbors to participate in a block-wide sale. Consider donating proceeds to charity.

Get guest room ready for summer guests. Stock room with essentials before guests arrive.

Get beach chairs out of storage

Purchase your beach, pool, and park stickers

Check temperature on your refrigerator. It should be at 40 degrees and freezer should be set at 0 degrees.

Check for local events such as Antique Shows, Craft Fairs, etc. and place in your day timer.

Pick strawberries at farm and make jam. I love to do this here on Long Island at the farms with the kids. Don't leave your bushel outside or it will be gone from the squirrels. Take this from experience. Go early in the morning before the day heats up, like 6am.

Open pool

TRANSFORM SOMETHING SIMPLE INTO SOMETHING GRAND!

I just love taking something simple and finding a way to transform it into something functional and appealing to the eye! Below are several cans that I recycled after using them from the pantry...

I primed the cans with a sponge brush...painted


Painted them soft pink....


Added some embellishments....



To adorn it, I added polymer clay yellow roses with craft glue...



And voila...



Vases to place throughout your home...



When all those flower start quickly blooming, bring them inside. Don't have enough vases??? Be creative and use your imagination and you'll be surprised with what you come up with! Now head on over to REINVENTED blog to see many other terrific ideas from my blogger friends and you'll be amazed how you can reinvent master pieces with the simplest of items! It's where real people, with real budgets, create!

TRANSFORM THE LOOK OF YOUR SPACE WITH JUST A COAT OF PAINT! IT'S METAMORPHIC MONDAY; SO GET BUSY!

IT'S METAMORPHIC MONDAY! WHAT HAVE YOU TRANSFORMED LATELY?? IF YOU HAVE, TAKE PHOTOS AND SHARE WITH THE REST OF US ON BLOG WORLD!

The amazing thing about paint is that with very little or no money, you can completely transform the look of a room. Take a look at the first photo and notice the brown dresser. Very pretty but wait til you see the same vignette in a completely different color....


Same dresser with the same items, but such a fresher and cleaner look with a coat of primer and a coat of paint. The space feels brighter and airy with the antique furniture painted white. My father used to tell me to leave an antique in its original state. But for me, brighter and cheery make me feel more alive in my space. So, "whatever works best for you is just right" is my theory. This look fits in perfect in our beach guest cottage. Our guests seem to enjoy the space and their surroundings a lot!

It's always fun to see before and after photos. And there are so many of my blogger friends who are talented and creative. So, grab a cup of tea and a seat and head on over to BETWEEN NAPS ON THE PORCH blog and visit the many sites of fellow bloggers to see what they have in store for you!

BLUE MURANO JEWELRY FOR BLUE MONDAY!

Last summer on our treasure hunting in Italy, I was amazed when I discovered the art of murano glass making. I couldn't believe how each piece was truly unique and no other was alike and each one a truly beautiful work of art.

This is a set of earrings and matching necklace that I fell in love with and wanted to share for Blue Monday because of its amazing shade of robin egg blue!

Working with a kiln, glass & gravity becomes for most artisans, a new & exciting skill. Handmade glass beads are made using a process called lamp work that first began in Venice around 1615 and is still used by Murano artisans today. It is a labor-intensive method, demanding concentration & skill as the glass is melted over a hot flame and at the same time wound around a steel rod. Different colored glass is melted and combined to give different designs & effects. Beads are kiln annealed to give strength to the glass.
Another form of glass work is dichroic glass, which is a glass with a very thin layer of metallic oxides sprayed on it in a vacuum atmosphere, resulting in layers with a total thickness of 3 to 5 millionths of an inch. As the angle is changed, so do the colors.
As each is a study in individuality as no two pieces are the same.
Here are some photos of artists creating Murano Glass:

Murano is just a short vaporetto (water taxi) ride from Venice, where murano glass is made, but this quiet island is a world away from often touristy Venice. Murano has its own Grand Canal, along with fascinating shops and sidewalk cafes. Murano also has a marvelous glass museum and several glass factories where you can watch these artists work in their own environment.

So, if your ever in Venice, don't forget about visiting Murano and visiting the factories where these talented artists create for you right before your very eyes! And if you can't get there anytime soon, visit TessorFino.com, my boutique, and browse under "Treasured Jewels" to see more jewelry from Murano! In the meantime, don't forget to head on over to SMILING SALLY'S blog to discover many posts today with the theme of Blue and see what my many blogger friends have in store for you!

FOR ALL YOU FOOD LOVERS OUT THERE! GET YOUR INDEX CARDS & PENS READY & JOIN THE JOURNEY!

I love joining in on the fun at Overwhelmed with Joy and Gollums blogs on Friday. So many bloggers share their great love for food and list some amazing recipes. After checking my recipe out, be sure to visit the hosts of the event by clicking on their photo buttons above. On their blog you will see a list of participating bloggers; just click on the names and travel from one great blog to another discovering passionate food lovers and their great recipes. But be sure to check out one of My Mamma Rosa's Recipe from Southern Italy below:

Artichokes were found to contain more antioxidants per serving than blueberries, raspberries, spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes and a host of other fruits and vegetables (only blackberries, walnuts and strawberries had more).

The phytonutrients (compounds in plants that have antioxidant properties) in artichokes are known to:

*
Help prevent cancer
*
Help slow the signs of aging
*
Keep your heart healthy
*
Boost your immune system
*
Lower your cholesterol

Current research is showing benefits to the liver from cynarin, a compound found in the artichoke's leaves. Silymarin is another compound found in artichokes that has powerful anitoxidant properties and may help the liver regenerate healthy tissue.

Artichokes are nutrient dense, so, for the 25 calories in a medium artichoke, you're getting 16 essential nutrients!

Artichokes provide the important minerals magnesium, chromium, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, iron and calcium.

The artichoke is a perennial in the thistle group of the sunflower family and is believed to be a native of the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands. In full growth, the plant spreads to cover an area about siz feet in diameter and reaches a height of three to four feet. The "vegetable" that we eat is actually the plant's flower bud. If allowed to flower, the blossoms measure up to seven inches in diameter and are a beautiful violet-blue color.

They are available twelve months a year with the peak season in the spring and fall.

Italy, where Artichokes are grown in practically everyone of the 20 regions, is responsible for almost 2/3 of the world production, followed by France, Spain and the USA. Artichokes were introduced in California by Italian farmers in the early 1900s. Today California produces most of the artichokes grown in the United States. Although California artichokes are available all year round the season peaks in March, April and May.

Some tips about artichokes:
* Fresh artichokes are solid when squeezed and have compact leaves.
* Don’t use aluminum or iron pans or tool because they confer an unappealing color to the artichokes; use stainless steel instead.
* Artichokes contain a substance called Cynarin with taste modifying properties. Most food will taste different, sweeter and more desirable, but after eating artichokes it will be impossible to taste wine properly.
* The stems of the artichokes are also edible. If those you buy have long stems, just peel them, cut them into pieces, and cook them together with the rest of the artichokes OR put them in the stuffing recipe below but they must be sauteed to do so.

How To Select Artichokes
Choose globes that are dark green, heavy, and have "tight" leaves. Don't select globes that are dry looking or appear to be turning brown. If the leaves appear too "open" then the choke is past its prime. You can still eat them, but the leaves may be tough. (Don't throw these away you can always make artichoke soup). Artichokes are available throughout the year with peak season being from March to May with a smaller crop produced in October.


How To Clean and Prepare Artichokes
1. Tap the choke upside down in the sink. This will remove anything that may have made this artichoke a home. With most commercial grown chokes this is not usually an issue. But, if you or a friend grow artichokes you'll find earwigs love to live in the leaves (if grown organically).

2. Rinse the choke under running water.

3. Some of this is preference. I do not cut away the entire stem (because it tastes good). I leave about 1 1/2" or so, trim then end and peel the top layer off the stem. You may remove the entire stem, at the base, if you prefer.( You may want to do this for "presentation" purposes.) Remove the really small leaves along the bottom of the choke. Some people whack off the top inch or so of the choke to remove the thistles and to even out the top prior to stuffing the choke. You may also use scissors or a sharp knife to trim away the sharp tips. Prepared artichokes should be placed in a bowl of water with the juice of one or two lemons added until you are ready to cook them.

Now for the recipe from Mamma Rosa's Kitchen

Carciofi Ripieni ~ Stuffed Artichokes

6 medium artichokes
2 cups seasoned bread crumbs
1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1/4 pound hard salami, finely chopped
1/4 pound provolone or other hard cheese, finely chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
small amount of lemon juice

Have 6 teacups or similarly shaped receptacles set out. Cut off stems of artichokes to within 3/4" from base. Cut off tops about third down and gently spread leaves apart. Remove the toughest outer leaves and drop artichokes into acid bath (1 gallon water with squirt of lemon).

In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, onions, garlic, salami, and cheese and mix thoroughly. One by one take the rtichokes and, holding them over the bowl, proceed to stuff with filling between the leaves. When the gps between leaves have all been filled, gently shake excess crumbs into bowl and proceed with the next artichoke.

As each artichoke is stuffed, you will find it easier to handle if you set each into a cup that is half filled with water.

Place the cups in a saucepan or pot with a tight cover and add enough water to the pan to immerse cups (about an inch is fine). Slowly dribble olive oil over the top of each artichoke. Grate some large pieces of provolone on top for garnish. Cook with cover on over high heat until water boils. Reduce heat to a slow simmer and cook covered for approximately 45 minutes. Test for doneness by pulling a leaf from an artichoke. When it pulls out easily, remove from heat and let cool before serving.

Serves 6

You can be creative with your stuffing. You can saute bread crumbs, butter, parsley, and add whatever you like. For instance, instead of the provolone and salami, I have used crab meat and lemon. Some use capers and crushed anchovies.

Enjoy!!!

It's Tablescape Thursday Event ~ Be sure to Join in on the Fun!

You' ve got to head over to Between Naps On the Porch blog for this event. There are so many people who participate for this event. So, many creative and talented people who share their wonderful ideas on setting a stunning table. Before you click on the Pink Tablescape Thursday Button, which will take you right over there, be sure to view the spring table setting below. I love to use vintage linen and china to share their beauty with my guests!

Vintage Linen in robin egg blue and yellow are so cheery for Spring!...

Be sure to set your table with vintage silver to accessorize your table!...

And don't just leave your lovely china in the cupboard, but serve your guests food in your lovely bowls such as this. Note how the rose pattern is incorporated with the tablecloth print of roses...

And this Parisian ornament is used to decorate the table for name setting. Place name tag at the top of the ornament. Be creative...who says you have to use each piece for just one function? Your items can have multi purposes if you just allow yourself the freedom to be creative.


Be sure to get your prettiest tea cups out while still incorporating the rose pattern to match everything else...

And remember that when using your vintage china, it's ok if each piece is not a perfect match...

And don't forget to send out your invitations. Be sure to carry on the same theme as the event! Now grab yourself a cup of tea and head on over to Between Naps on the Porch to view more table settings!

REINVENTED WEDNESDAY!

In today's economy, it's important to recycle, reuse, and re purpose items to create your very own works of art. Check out the other participants' ideas and reinventions by clicking on the "Reinvented Button" above and take a look at some of their very own creations. But wait... First take a look at the transformation below...

On one of my treasure hunts I found this very heavy and ornate frame. Of course it didn't look like this. It was an old and dingy color. I primed it and painted it white to give it a fresh look and installed some caulk board instead of a picture. I used vintage earrings and converted them into push pins and voila a shabby chic ornate caulk board that would look lovely in any room of the home!

Something that looks like this, but no where near the same quality as this antique frame, can be found in Pottery Barn for way over $150.00 and remember it's not the same quality as something antique. I am selling this for less than $50.00 at my boutique ~ TesoroFino.com ~ Only $48.99! Don't miss out!

THE BIGGEST LOSER RIGHT IN OUR HOME TOWN

Hitting mid life isn't always easy! Whether suffering from peri menopause, menopause , slower metabolism, less muscle mass, excess pounds, and eating poorly due to always being on the run, all of that can really take its effect on our bodies and over all health. Ever feel like you just can't get motivated, you'll start that diet on Monday, and you never seem to get around to it? Well, that's where I was at before I got the call from my neighbor Lorraine.

Our great neighbor and friend always seems to concoct the best parties and events. This time Lorraine has outdone herself. She has created two teams of twelve women from two separate towns. Each team has there own Personal & Professional Trainer and both teams will be competing against one another. Each member contributes $100 to join. The Biggest Loser after six weeks of vigorous training will receive $1,000! The winning Trainer will receive $1,000.00 also for their professional training and experience and commitment and time to our team!

At our first meeting we were weighed in, measured, our body mass index was taken and we were photographed for our Before Shots. We had Professional Guest Speakers who have volunteered their time to the two teams to give us sound advise about nutrition and eating right from Dr. Dave Gentile and great motivational tips from a Life Coach and author, Michelle Gentile. Both professionals have made a commitment to our teams so that we can attain our goals in a healthy and sound manner. You can visit their personal websites by clicking on their names.

Our first official workout was last night where we sweat the pounds away by jumping rope, lifting weights, cardio exercises, and yes, even given professional salsa lessons to sweat the night away. We worked hard, laughed hard and motivated one another to get the job done.

For the next six weeks, we will be jogging, cycling, lifting weights, dancing, jumping rope, swimming, and running the bleachers at the track together as a team, helping and motivating one another that anything is possible no matter what age you are!

Here are some photos from the evening and I will continue to post and keep you all updated on our accomplishments! So, stay tuned in often so you can enjoy and be a part of our healthy journey!

Our coach had us strength training...

lunging...

Jumping...

sweating...

crunching....

lifting...

burning...

running...

and proud of ourselves and our accomplishments!


Even though our coach really is a pit bull, she gets the job done....And in the end we really aren't the biggest losers, but winners for taking the first step to making life-long changes!!..Thanks Lorraine our ring leader, and thanks to our coach for her knowledge & know-how and to Dr. Dave for his great seminar and his informative website and to Michelle Gentile, a great Life Coach who emulates nothing but positive energy and to our great team of women who support one another!
Don't forget to click the "Follow" button on the right column so you can get continuous updates on our team and our End Results!

It's Blue Monday! Join in on the Fun!

I love this set I have listed at the boutique. It's a 10" plate with serving plates to match. It's perfect to serve guests pastries with a cup of tea. The picture doesn't do it justice. The color is extraordinary! They are Copie De Limoges! There is nothing that excites me more than vintage china!

Stop by SMILING SALLY'S BLOG and see everyone elses blues this Monday. Just click on the Blue Jay and it will take you right there! I look forward to seeing what everyone has listed and can't wait to visit all of you!!

FOR THE "LITTLE MISS PINK" IN YOUR LIFE!

CLICK TO ENLARGE


Here's an adorable new poodle purse that just arrived for only $18.99!
Let me know if you're interested before it's listed in the boutique.

CLICK TO ENLARGE

And a lovely new outfit for your Little Miss Pink for only 22.99!
Let me know if you're interested before it's listed in the boutique.

CLICK TO ENLARGE
Let me know if you're interested before it's listed in the boutique.


And new on arrival is this Vintage Pink Piggy Bank for $14.99!

CLICK TO ENLARGE

And for our special sales: This handmade card with gift charm included reduced to $ 7.69!

CLICK TO ENLARGE

And this lovely hand made mosaic pink Tooth Box reduced to $25.90~Exquisitely Made In Italy!

All happening at TesoroFino.com
CLICK TO SHOP!

Head on over to Pink Saturday over At Beverly's blog to see everyone's Pink lovelies! Just click on her Pink Button banner above and it will take you right there!

WHAT'S ITALIAN COOKING WITHOUT BASIL?

IT'S FOODIE FRIDAY AT DESIGNS BY GOLLUM BLOG

IT'S "FAVORITE INGREDIENT FRIDAY" AT "OVERWHELMED WITH JOY BLOG" AND HOW APPROPRIATE FOR AN ITALIAN LIKE ME TO LIST BASIL FOR "FAVORITE INGREDIENT FRIDAY".

Basil is one of the most used herbs in my Italian cooking. Some tips on basil:

Be sure to buy basil with roots and replant the roots to grow your own basil for reuse all summer long.

Be sure to look for fresh green and healthy leaves with no brown or discoloring.

Be sure to pick and nip from the top when using as it will re-grow better.

Use it frequent enough so that it does not flower.

Bring in the house in the winter and continue to use all winter long.

Now for an Italian Recipe of Mine: PESTO!! It's quick and easy to make. You can freeze it in ice cube trays and pop them out and put in a ziplock bag. Then add just a frozen cube of it to spice up your recipes.

CREAMY ITALIAN PESTO

2 Cups Fresh Basil
2 Cloves of Garlic
1/2 Cup of pine nuts
1 Cup of "freshly grated"
Pecorino Romano Cheese
2/3 Cup of Good Olive Oil
1 hard boiled egg

Remember to use the freshest & good quality ingredients for fantastic tasting end results!
Papa used to always say, "Never buy already grated cheese; you never know what they put in it"! And he is right. Go to the cheese section of your grocery store and purchase a large chunk of good quality hard cheese and grate it yourself as needed.

Use a food processor to whip the basil, garlic, hard boiled egg and pine nuts into a paste. Add the cheese and olive oil a little at a time. Whip until creamy. The hard boiled egg is what makes it creamy and tasty!

Goes well over linguini. Use it at room temperature. Use it also in soups or salads or even as a dip. Enjoy Papa's Recipe!


Head on over to Overwhelmed With Joy Blog for more Favorite Ingredient Friday! Just click on her pic above and it will take you right there!

VINTAGE THINGIE THURSDAY

It's Vintage Thingie Thursday at Colorado Lady's Blog. Just click on the photo above to take you there to see many great vintage items.

CLICK ON THE PHOTO TO ENLARGE FOR BETTER VIEWING

Nothing is more feminine than vintage aprons! Next time you are a guest, why not bring your hostess a special gift like this? Nothing is prettier than the hand embroidered works of art from the past. Look at its fine detail. For more vintage favorites head on over to TesoroFino.com and enjoy your shopping experience!

SPRING TABLESCAPE THRUSDAY

It's all about decorating at the table! Head on over to Between Naps on the Porch Blog by clicking the pink box to see other ideas of many different talented bloggers.

CLICK THE TABLE SETTING TO ENLARGE PHOTO

I simply love using vintage linens and plates at my table settings!
Using a monochromatic color scheme is pleasing to the eye and welcoming to your guest. Adding a little gift for your guest adds to the day. Red gift box at each setting.

TEA TIME TUESDAY!!!! THIS IS RIGHT UP MY ALLEY! I LOVE TEA PARTIES!

Sorry, this item has already sold!

My First Tea Time Photo
When serving guests, I love to take from my collection of tea cups. I also sell a lot of tea items that I hate to part with. This one is the last tea cup I have listed for sale at TesoroFino.com. Please head on over to Grits and Glamour Blog to see the rest of the people attending & sharing for Tea Time Tuesday!

NOTE THIS ITEM IS FOR SALE FOR $13.29! IT WON'T LAST LONG, SO JUST CLICK ON THE TEA CUP & SHOP UNDER "VINTAGE TREASURES" SECTION!

It's Second Time Around Tuesday & Reinvented Tuesday!

And Also For, Reinvented Tuesday

Always recycle, reuse, & recreate your very own work of Art!
Next time you think about throwing away vintage bits & pieces of fabric, think again!
Old vintage fabric & lace & rhinestones used a second time around to create this gorgeous pillow. For sale at TesoroFino.com

Head on over to A Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words Blog for more Second Time Around Ideas to get your creative juices going! Just click on the pillow and it will take you right there. Then click on "Reinvented Tuesday" and it will take you over to that event!

It's Metamorphasis Monday! Just click on the butterfly to see more transformations!

It's Metamorphosis Monday on Between Naps on the Porch Blog!

An old vintage box...
After its transformation...





I love to take old vintage things and give it new life!

Blue Monday at Smiling Sally's

It's Blue Monday from Smiling Sally. So head on over there to see everybody's favorite blue items. Here are some of my blue items.




Robin Egg Blue Capo Di Monte
On sale at TesoroFino.com

Blue Mardi Gras Mask

Vintage Glasses in Robin Egg Blue
For sale at TesoroFino.com

REUSING OLD VINTAGE FABRIC & LACE TO RECREATE A TOUCH OF FEMININITY

Do you have any vintage fabric items that are stained or soiled or have a tear? Should you keep them? Well, sure. Just cut out the portions of fabric that are in good condition and create something new! Here is a purse made out of vintage fabrics and lace and inside are two pouches of old lace filled with lavendar to create sachets. This one is for sale at TesoroFino.com. Just click the photo to take you there!

MADE OUT OF A WINE BOTTLE???!!!

Click the Photo to Enlarge

Yes, and I have plenty of these around. Being Italian, wine drinking starts earlier than most. I love to paint on its smooth surface. You can paint just about anything and purchase a spout and use it for whatever you like! Ah yes, recycle, reuse, and recreate! Now that's the way to do it!

USING OLD VINTAGE PARTS TO CREATE DECORATIVE VIGNETTES

In our Powder Room we have taken a portion of an old mantle and used it to adorn many new pieces. The contrast of the old chippy mantle and the pastel colored modern vases makes a bold statement.

Notice the old chippy windows. One hangs from above to create a partition between dining area and living room. The other window hangs above the mantle displayed as a work of art between two old green window shutters.

An antique ornate frame used to frame out a more modern work of art.

Using an old post from a mantle to display a vase of flowers or plants.

So, next time your about to throw something out, think again...It's always best to recycle and reuse!

STORE & ORGANIZE YOUR BROOCH & JEWELRY COLLECTION IN AN EYE-CATCHING WAY!

Do you have enough room for all your jewelry and accessories? Do you find that you're running out of room to store them? Are they hard to find when you need just the right piece but you forgot where it is? Well...think no more. Create a pretty way to store your pieces. I created this for my closet so that I can hang my vintage brooch collection. Just find an old vintage frame, spray paint it gold, or pink, or white, or whatever you prefer. Then, get some felt backing and some of that quilt filler or a caulk board and glue it or staple it together and "voila", you've got an eye-catching jewelry display. Now you'll know where to find that special piece you've been searching for!

IT'S A PARTY AT MARCELA'S & CLARA'S; DON'T MISS IT!

So...Marcela & Clara want to know What Makes Your Heart Skip A Beat. Just click on the above banner to attend the event! BUT WAIT....DON'T YOU WANT TO KNOW WHAT MAKES MY HEART SKIP A BEAT???? ...READ ON...

Anything Parisian makes my heart skip a beat...

And vintage lithos, prints, & paintings make me feel weak...



And my love for vintage jewelry doesn't compare to today's bling, bling....


And I am always on the lookout for old bisquit jars instead of a new thing...



I'll come to a screeching to a halt for any Capo di Monte large or small...



But what makes my heart skip a beat most of all...


My husband....
And the big or little things he builds for us to make our family smile...


And the look on one of my children's face really lasts me a while...

MY HAND PAINTED GARDEN ROOM COAT RACK!

And voila, I hand painted this garden room coat rack & can't seem to part with it. What do you think? And whoever thought rain boots could look so pretty displayed as wall art?

CACTUS IN A SEASHELL; PERFECT FOR ANY BEACH COTTAGE!

Next time you're at the beach, look for a large shell and add a cactus inside it. It looks so pretty in my guest cottage by the beach.

BRING IN THOSE WONDERFUL FLOWERS IN BLOOM

Now that Spring has finally arrived and your gardens are beginning to bloom, bring some inside to brighten things up a bit.

And who says you have to be traditional and just use a vase? Get creative. Search your home for some of your favorite pieces next time you need to make an arrangement.

And who says it has to be simply gorgeous to make it all look good. Even the simplest items like an old milk bottle can make any arrangement look pretty.

And why do you assume you need a yard full of flowers to make an arrangement that gives an extra punch to a room?

So, before you throw out that old mason jar, think again.

Just a simple bloom from here and there and placed in some small objects like egg cups can dress up any table.


And why must a flower arrangement simply look just like an ordinary flower arrangement. Wouldn't a few of these arrangements be a perfect setting for a tea party?

Or perhaps this creamer for your next tea party?


And why must it be a flower and not some greenery to make a statement. Next time you find a large shell at the beach, think of converting into a vase or plant a cactus inside it.

And why not grab a few of the same items in different shapes and sizes and display one bloom in each all arranged together?

So, get those cutting sheers and gardening gloves on and have fun and get creative!

MY SON'S LATEST KUNG FU TOURNAMENT

It's so rewarding watching my son compete in Martial Arts Tournaments. Thomas started martial arts five years ago when I needed to find a way for him to express himself and feel confident.

Children at a young age are mean to one another and Thomas' beginning days in the public school system was not always easy for him. Because of his incredibly kind demeanor, he was always teased by other boys. He didn't want to argue or fight back because he did not understand why people wanted to hurt each other. After years of constant attack, verbally and physically in school, Thomas had his day to shine.

Thomas' work-out schedule for martial arts is six days a week and sometimes for 3-4 hours of training. He has not only excelled in martial arts and public school wrestling, but he is undefeated in competing. As his physique continues to define itself into a incredibly physically fit young man, his confidence shines. He no longer has to put up with those bullies who spend their waking hours teasing others, while Thomas commits and dedicates his waking hours to physical fitness and martial arts and his studies.

I am so proud that a young man of his age is so committed to something on such a constant basis. That has a lot to say about him. He confronted his issues dead on and persevered through the difficult times at school and now his commitment has shown its fruits. Bravo Thomas! And bullies....watch out!

Thomas is wearing black. Each time the ref waves his hand towards one, that equals a point. Notice Thomas walking away with the trophies.

CALLING FOR HELP FROM FELLOW BLOGGERS & COMPUTER~SAVVY FRIENDS

Today, I was informed from a fellow blogger that my Blog name keeps appearing as a link under her posts. First, she lists her post; then "comments" shows everyones' comments; then "links" appears under comments and my blog name is linked to her posts.

Due to the fact that I am not as computer savvy as some of you, could anyone explain as to why this happens on her blog. Am I doing something unintentionally to be linked to her blog? Does she have her blog listed with certain settings allowing my blog name to appear under her posts under the title "Links to this Post"?

Please, all help and advice explaining this would be greatly appreciated. I am always open to learning new things.

HAPPY EASTER TO ALL OF YOU!

EARTHQUAKE JUST OUTSIDE OF ROME LEAVES MANY HOMELESS (SHUT OFF BLOG MUSIC IN RIGHT HAND COLUMN BEFORE PLAYING VIDEO)

NIAF (National Italian American Foundation) has set up a fund for this purpose; Relief Fund. Another option is through the Italian Red Cross: Croce Rossa Italiana.

In a panic, I contacted friends to make sure all are ok. They tell me, they did not feel it, yet their neighbors did. My friends were 80 miles away from the devastation. All are doing well. If you can help out those victims who are not doing as well, please just click on the sites above and it will take you to the red cross where donations would be greatly appreciated by many victims.

PIZZA RUSTICA IS ANOTHER EASTER TRADITION FOR ITALIANS

This is great served warm or cold. Great for an appitizer. Terrrific for lunch served with a Mediterranean salad served on the side. It's rich and filling and the taste is scrumptious.


Ingredients

* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 8 ounces hot Italian sausage, casings removed
* 1 teaspoon minced garlic
* 2 (12-ounce) bunches fresh spinach, stemmed, coarsely chopped (about 12 cups), or 1 (10-ounce) package frozen cut-leaf spinach, thawed and drained
* 1 (15-ounce) container whole milk ricotta
* 12 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
* 1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan
* 4 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto, coarsely chopped
* 4 large egg yolks, beaten to blend
* Pastry Dough, recipe follows
* 1 large egg, beaten to blend

Directions

Position the rack on the bottom of the oven, and preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a heavy large frying pan over medium heat. Add the sausages and saute until golden brown, breaking the sausage into pieces, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and saute until fragrant, about 1 minute. Transfer the mixture to a small bowl and set aside to cool.

Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in the same frying pan over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook until the spinach wilts and the juices evaporate, stirring often, about 10 minutes. Cool to room temperature. Squeeze the spinach to drain as much liquid as possible.

Into a large bowl, add egg yolks and beat lightly. Stir in the ricotta, mozzarella, and 1/3 cup of Parmesan cheese. Add the sausage, the spinach and prosciutto to the mixture and stir to combine.

Roll out larger piece of dough on a lightly floured work surface to a 17-inch round. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch springform pan. Trim the dough overhang to 1 inch. Spoon the ricotta mixture into the dough-lined pan. Roll out the remaining piece of dough into a 12-inch round. Place the dough over the filling. Pinch the edges of the doughs together to seal, then crimp the dough edges decoratively. Brush the beaten 1 large egg over the entire pastry top. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons Parmesan over the top. Bake on the bottom shelf until the crust is golden brown, about 1 hour.

Let stand 15 minutes. Release the pan sides and transfer the pizza to a platter. Cut into wedges and serve.
Pastry Dough:

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces

1/4 cup cold solid vegetable shortening, cut into pieces

1 teaspoon salt

3 large eggs, beaten to blend

2 to 4 tablespoons ice water

Blend the flour, the butter, the shortening and salt in a food processor until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Blend in the eggs. With the machine running, add the water 1 tablespoon at a time until the dough forms. Gather the dough into a ball. Divide the dough into 2 pieces, with 1 piece twice as large as the second piece. Flatten the dough pieces into disks. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate until the dough is firm enough to roll out, about 30 minutes.

Yield: 2 dough pieces (enough for 1 Pizza Rustica)

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Inactive Prep Time: 30 minutes

HAVE YOU EVER WEAVED PALMS? IF YOUR ITALIAN, I'M SURE YOU'RE FAMILIAR WITH THIS PHOTO!

Way back, when I was a small child, on Palm Sunday which is before Easter, I can remember coming home from church with our Sunday Palms that we received at Mass. I can still smell the delicious scent of the sauce that was simmering on the stove and its aroma traveled throughout the house. When we entered the kitchen, my mother would take our palms from church and start making crosses with them. She would tell us stories about how talented Zio John, her brother, was with palm weaving. She would tell us how creative he was with these dried out things that didn't look like you could make much of anything. I couldn't even imagine what could possibly be made with these palms until I started to search the internet. Italians have a tradition to weave the palms and place them throughout the house. When next season arrives, the palms are returned to church where they are burned for Ash Wednesday to commence the new Lenten season. Still today, I can visualize vividly these palms placed in our bedrooms by a religious icon of some sort.

Italian Easter (Wheat) Pie ~ In Italian known as "Pastiera di Grano"

This is perhaps the most famous traditional Italian Easter dessert. Originally from Naples, it's very common on an every Italian Easter table all over Italy, known for its delicate and fresh flavors of orange, lemon and ricotta cheese. The recipe is very ancient and the ingredients (eggs, wheat, etc) are all part of both the Pagan symbols of the Romans and the Christian ones too. They were foods used 2000 years ago to celebrate the arrival of Spring and, right up to the present time, they are still linked to the festivity of the Resurrection of Christ. The recipe can have some variations, depending on the exact area of origin. This tends to be my favorite food during the Easter season. In New York, you can find this in some, not all, Italian Bakeries. It's worth searching for if you don't have the time to make it fresh. You won't regret taking the time to do so. It is only found at this time of year and in my home it was only made and eaten at this time of year.

INGREDIENTS:

* 1 pound of pre-packed frozen short pastry dough
* 10 oz of ricotta cheese
* 1 1/2 cup of milk
* 1 ounce of salted butter
* 6 oz of boiled wheat berries (easy to make, but can be found canned at the supermarket or at Italian delis)
* 2 oz of candied mix citrus fruit
* The grated peel (not the white part) of 2 oranges
* The grated peel of 1 lemon
* 10 oz of sugar
* 2 eggs and 1 yolk (2 or 3 depending from the size of the eggs)
* A dash of cinnamon powder
* 1 teaspoon of vanilla
* 1 tablespoon of Limoncello liqueur (or any citrus flavoured water)

Step1
It's best to prepare this recipe one or two days in advance to allow the ingredients to blend and the flavors to intensify. Leave the short pastry at room temperature for a few hours to defrost. Meanwhile, cook the boiled wheat (if you can't find it canned at an Italian deli, pork store, or supermarket), then just boil wheat in water until tender over very low flame in 1 and a 1/2 cups of milk, with half of the grated lemon and orange peel, the butter, the cinnamon and vanilla, for about 2 hours, or until the wheat has absorbed all the milk and is soft.
Step2
Then, in another pan, mix the ricotta cheese, the sugar, the eggs and the yolk, the vanilla, the Limoncello or flavored water and the cinnamon. Mix to a thin and smooth consistency. Add the remaining grated lemon and orange peel, plus the candied fruit, which should be diced into very small pieces.
Step3
Add the wheat and mix well. Roll the short pastry dough with a pin until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Put the short pastry in a 12 inch pan, which has been buttered before hand. Cut the extra edges off, roll them with the pin and cut in strips.
Step4
Pour the mixture of ricotta cheese and other ingredients in the pan, folding in the borders of the dough. Lay the short pastry strips over the top. See photo as to how to to place top pastry strips. Bake for about one hour at 370 F. Dust with powder sugar before serving. Enjoy!

IT'S TUESDAY; TIME TO PLAY 2ND TIME AROUND TUESDAY!

I just love recycling, reusing, recreating new treasures from something from the past, like this vintage material that was used to create this hand bag &/or tote bag. This has always been a passion for me and these days it has become the latest trend and fashion. You will be able to find this for sale at my boutique at Tesoro Fino ~ Fine Treasures along with many other vintage and recreated items from the past. In today's economy, the trend of reusing is stylish and now very practical. Wouldn't you say so?!

Thank you to A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words blog for hosting this event. Please click the Picture for this event or the title of this post or "A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words" and it will take you to the event so that you can see who participated and what surprises they have for you this Tuesday!

A Person That Influenced My Life

"Nonna"
This post was written by my daughter regarding memories of my mother, her Nonna, her Grandmother. Enjoy!

The sun had not yet risen as I awoke to the feel of my Nonna’s full lips on my cheek. "Muahhh" was the sound it made as her lips made contact to my cheek. Trying in vain to make as little noise as possible, she crawled out of the creaking bed and shuffled out of my bedroom. Every time she would come to stay, I insisted on her sleeping with me. Pretending to still sleep, I secretly loved being woken up before the sun slipped through my windows by my little, old grandma. I listened for the water falling from the kitchenfaucet and the removal of the carving board out of the cabinet. As soon as I was positive she had begun the preparations, I slipped out of bed and tiptoed into the doorway of the kitchen.
I stood there in my fleece nightgown, hair a mess, one sock on, and crust still implanted in the corners of my eyes. I waited a couple seconds longer until Nonna put on the eyeglasses latched around her neck on a brightly beaded chain. I bought her that chain at the school’s book fair; “Where’sa my glass?!” had become a daily phrase in the recent years. After the glasses reached the tip of her nose, only a few seconds remained until she caught sight of me out of her peripheral vision. After all, this had become our Saturday morning routine years ago.
“Nonna? Can I help you?”, I said to her.
“Buon giorno," said Nonna. "Viene qui. Come here. You don’t say ‘Good morning, Nonna’?”
“Buon giorno, Nonna.”, I repeated as she wanted me to greet her first thing when I laid eyes on her. It was a sign of respect.
“Brava. Ok, finda the flour…”, Nonna said.
I did not realize how much time had passed until a bright beam of light shot me in the eye. I had come to think this was how the sun said “Good morning, Jessica”. Nonna saw my balance falter, and watched me stumble as she giggled to herself. I scrunched my face at her as to say, “Be quiet” and she chuckled louder.
“Fungia face”, she said as she took my tiny cheeks in her hand and squished them together.
“I’m not FUNGiA FACE! You’re FUNGA FACE!”, I grumbled angrily. This only made her laugh louder. She loved to tease me and to watch me get angry. She bent over, squished my cheeks yet again, and kissed my cheeks as she whispered, “My Jessica. Mine.”
She walked me back to the table and held my hand as I crawled onto the wooden chair. She stood next to me, enveloped my hands in hers, and slowly taught me how to work the dough in between our intertwined fingers. Some time later – I was never able to determine how much time actually passed whenever we stepped foot into the kitchen – she placed the dough into a bowl in the darkest corner of the kitchen and covered it with the blue American Airlines blanket she carried with her off the plane the week before.
Then the blue blanket hid underneath what looked like a Christmas tablecloth. The plaid red and green cloth, folded over about three times, covered the bowl for the next few hours – much to my disappointment.
“The yeast must rise. It becomes big,” Nonna would explain. Yet my Sicilian stubbornness refused to allow her to realize that I knew that. Nonna chuckled and ripped off a piece of the dough beneath the blankets, handed it to me and kissed the top of my head as she started her hobble over to the couch to rest. She knew raw dough to me was like jewels to Anastasia. The grin conquered my face and, knowing that Nonna needed to rest her legs, I sprinted past her to my bedroom to retrieve her pillows.
I wobbled out of the little hallway back into the living room emerged in full body pillows made for adults. I threw them on the couch and insisted Nonna sit at the opposite end. I placed one behind her head and searched the room for the ottoman. No sooner had I found then it dragged to her feet. I created a tower of pillows to elevate Nonna’s feet above her rapidly beating heart. She had suffered from high blood pressure and I had seen my parents do the same routine enough to know how to take care of Nonna and why I must. I sat on the corner of the ottoman swinging my feet while looking at the veins bulging from her ankles. A sign of a lifetime working on her feet had taken its toll. Her ankles had swollen and as I sat there I could see the little ball of sweat slide down her forehead. An early morning start in the kitchen, which had once been nothing but protocol for the average day, drained Nonna to the point of exasperation now. She was getting old.
As I grew older, those mornings in the kitchen had lessened, but her lessons from those mornings stayed with me until this day. Nonna had taught me the way around the
kitchen, how to kneed dough, make sauce, and the basics to every other culinary skill I have. During those mornings of cooking adventures, Nonna taught me so much more. Just as the dough must rise, everything takes time. Patience is essential in the kitchen and in life. To reduce swelling and high blood pressure, ankles need to be elevated above the heart. Taking care of one another is vital. “Fungia face” does not mean anything bad, my grandmother just liked to tease me. Most important, the lesson that stayed with me most is this: there is no love like that of a grandmother and no love reciprocated like that of a granddaughter… even if I am still called “Fungia face”.

USE YOUR CREATIVITY TO DECORATE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Here's an old vintage box that I decided to use for a piece of canvas to paint on. I think roosters look so lovely on vintage items and I love to paint them for a french country kitchen and also for the Spring holidays. I filled it with some vintage linens with rooster print and the same type of themed kitchen items and gave it to a friend as a house-warming gift. So, the next time you decorate for the holidays, use your own creative talents to spruce up your home, whether it be painting, scrap booking, crafting, baking, etc.

ROOSTERS INSTEAD OF EASTER BASKETS??

I always think of roosters at this time of year. Wonder why???.... Well, if you read the post underneath this one, you would understand that Easter in an Italian-speaking home was a little different than the average American home. As the neighborhood kids rejoiced in excitement because of the chocolate and candy they received, I was in awe cuddling little baby chicks that Papa brought home as Easter gifts to his children to keep as pets. Yes, being an animal lover I was so ecstatic. But this was not the usual pet in our suburbia neighborhood. One of those chicks grew to be a rooster who crowed loudly, very loudly at approximately 5am in the morning. I don't think the American neighbors were too fond of Harry the rooster. But I was beside myself!!! Grazie Papa Bello! Ti voglio bene tanto, tanto! (Thank you beautiful Daddy! I love you so, so much!) Perhaps this is why I love to paint roosters so much?...in memory of Harry the rooster.

EASTER BUNNY IN ITALY??...I THINK NOT!

I just quite couldn't understand a lot of the Italian traditions during the holiday. It wasn't as if we were in a segregated neighborhood; everyone was American. All the children would receive colorful Easter baskets from the Easter bunny with lots of candy and colorful items. They would have egg hunts and jelly beans. They would take their picture with the Easter bunny and so on. And then there was our family....Mamma would spend many days in preparation for the special day with various food traditions such as the Italian Easter Bread (recipe listed below), cassata cake (my favorite), stuffed artichokes (carciofi repieni), grain pie (another favorite of mine) known as Pastiera di Granno in Italian. But most of all it was a holiday where lots of pasta was hand pressed through the machine and laid out on clean white linen to dry on the extra long dining table. This was for the lasagna and manicotti.

Oh, how I remember mamma wearing a house dress and a clean white apron, mamma's hands and face and hair full of flour, carrying the long pieces of pasta, which required two hands, holding it carefully like a child and proudly carrying it from the kitchen to the dining table to dry. Where would she store this afterwards you wonder???.....In leftover Christmas gift boxes with tissue paper and then she placed each box in the attic for storage. I'm assuming the temperature was just right up there. And as she came down from there, passing the Virgin Mary statue with all the photos of the dead (her family members of course, not just anyone) with fresh flowers in a vase in adornment and respect to the Virgin Mary, she would stop.. and pause.. and pray. During Easter, she would place lilys instead of the usual flowers. Along side of that were candles that were lit in memory of the dead, which she prayed for often.

Does she still do this today you ask???...Well, of course she does, but we do not allow her to leave the candles burning like she used to.(LOL) As she approached the Virgin Mary Statue standing approximately 3-feet high placed on an end table on the second story, she would stop and say her prays, sometimes crying, sometimes saddened, and with great affection continually kissing her hand and then placing her hand on the Virgin Mary's face. Easter was a time to pray, a time for reflection and fasting and then celebrating new life on Easter day. It was a serious time up to the day of Easter.

You see, Catholics believe that on Good Friday (the Friday before Easter) that Jesus was scourged, beaten and spit on and then placed to suffer 3 long hours crucified on the cross with nails that were pounded through his hands and feet. When you reflect on that belief, you can understand the seriousness of the Italians during holy week. Well, now I finally do. I just didn't fit in with the rest of the neighbors because it was about tasty and Delicious American candies, Easter bunny stories, pastel color decorations everywhere, Easter baskets and lots of fun and shiny and kid-friendly stuff. What little child wouldn't be jealous of the other children in the neighborhood?

Yet, in Italy, the children don't feel out of place and for them it is a more serious time right before Easter. Now I can understand why it was all about the spiritual side. Easter bunnies and jelly beans do not exist in Italy and I don't think they do throughout Europe for that matter. To get a feel of the seriousness, yet beautiful and profound spirituality of these people, please take a moment to watch this You Tube Video to celebrate and admire and appreciate a culture and tradition unfamiliar to us here in America. Throughout Italy, processions of thousands of people carry statues weighing tons throughout the village, some even reenacting the Passion of Christ (which is the scourging, beating, crowning Him with thorns, Him having to carry His own Cross, and sadly His death on the Cross). But on Easter morning, Italians rejoice and feast on many wonderful foods and pastries, fresh fruits and nuts, spending hours upon hours sitting together at the dining table after church for today Jesus has risen from the dead and everyone is happy again.

You're probably wondering which traditions I use today with my children?! Well, both, of course. I can't live without those colorful and tasty treats myself!

Please take a moment to enjoy the video:

JUST CLICK ON THE TITLE OF THIS ARTICLE JUST RIGHT ABOVE(CALLED "EASTER BUNNY IN ITALY??? I THINK NOT!!!) TO VIEW THE VIDEO; IT WILL TAKE YOU RIGHT TO YOUTUBE!!!!

FLYING THE COOP ISN'T ALWAYS EASY... WELL SOME OF US MAKE IT LOOK EASY

Went to visit my daughter at college yesterday and I cannot tell you how proud I am of her. Throughout the years of motherhood from projectile vomiting and runny noses to scraped knees and long nights of no sleep, it hasn't always been easy. Actually, motherhood can seem humdrum and exhausting at times. Well, now I get to see the fruits of my rewards after nineteen years of hard work and dedication.

I cannot take all the credit for Jessica. Let's say she received some of the good genes. Jessica started reading the newspaper and following news stories at three! Yes, I did say reading at 3. Even scarier was the content of what news stories she was following. Remember Mary Jo Buttafuoco shooting and Long Island's Lolita, Amy Fisher? From that day on, I had to remove all newspapers, screen all television viewing and monitor the radio. For years I was concerned at what Jessica was attracted to following, such as the Mary Jo Case. Now however, after so many years, Jessica is going to school for Law. Now it all makes some sense. Go figure.
Anyhow, I am so happy to be able to finally embrace these fruits of my rewards. I couldn't have asked for a better daughter!! Because of her maturity and wit and intelligence, flying the coop for Jessica was pretty smooth. Because of her independence and responsible ways, her transition went well. As a proud mother, I couldn't have asked for more.

DID YOU EVER NOTICE THAT INTERIOR DESIGN COLOR TRENDS TRANSFER OVER INTO THE FASHION WORLD ALSO?

WHAT BETTER WAY TO WELCOME SPRING WITH THIS YELLOW GREEN COLOR....

TESORO FINO ~ FINE TREASURES HAS BEEN GIVEN AN AWARD

Saturday, March 7, 2009
We've got an award!
We have received a Friendship Award from Clara & Marcela, from "Nice & Easy Antiques"
and we are soooo happy receiving this award. I thank you ladies for such a lovely gesture. Clara & Marcela ~ I very much enjoy your tutorials, travels, boutique, and friendship! This is what Clara & Marcela have to say about Tesoro Fino's Blog:

"Some dream of Paris, I dream of going back to Italy. Rita takes me there every time I read her blog!"



“These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers. Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award.”

Now we pass this award on to the following great blogs:

NYC/CARIBBEAN RAGAZZA BLOG A fellow New Yorker living my dream in Italy. Through your blog, I get to live my dream!

VOSGES PARIS BLOG I have such a great love for people from the Netherlands mostly because of their great faith and their blog style is to die for! Check it out!


FABRIC, PAPER, THREAD I just love your tutorials and creativity. Thanks for sharing your talents!


SHABBY FUFU You are one of the most talented and creative people on line. I love to keep up with what you are up to next.


THE QUINTESSENTIAL MAGPIE To one of the kindest and friendliest bloggers ~ You are a wonderful person! Thank you for your friendship!

THE OLD PAINTED COTTAGEYou are a trend setter and your Cottage of the Month is loved by all.


MILLE FIORI FAVORITI For being my neighbor and sharing such wonderful posts that we both can relate to.

TALES FROM AN OC COTTAGE The name caught my eye being an OC Housewives viewer and I've been in love with your blog ever since!

SHARING FAMILY TRADITIONS FROM MAMMA ROSA'S KITCHEN

ITALIAN EASTER SWEET BREAD

The Easter bread of Sicily (Italy) was a common site during the holidays in our home. Mamma was very much into tradition and now my daughter makes it every year just like her Nonna (Grandma).

Ingredients
2 Packets of yeast
1/2 cup warm water
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup butter
1 teaspoon salt
juice of 1 lemon
3 eggs
3 egg yolks
2/3 cup scalded milk (allowed to cool)
5-6 cups flour

Dissolve yeast in warm water and stir in a tablespoon of sugar. Set aside 10 - 15 minutes until mixture froths.

In a large bowl, cream butter with remaining sugar and add salt, lemon juice, and grated peel. Beat mixture until fluffy. Beat in eggs and yolks one at a time and then add cooled milk. Finally, add frothy yeast mixture.

Add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until dough is stiff. Turn dough onto floured board and knead, adding flour to keep from sticking, until dough is smooth and elastic (about 10-15 minutes). Place dough in large buttered bowl and turn it over once to grease the top. Cover bowl and set in warm place to rise until double in bulk.

Punch dough down and knead again to remove bubbles. Shape dough into desired form and set aside, covered, to rise again. Make sure you have placed it in the pan in which you intend to bake it.

Bake in preheated oven at 325 degrees for about 50 minutes. The length of time depends on size and shape. It's a good idea to remove loaf from oven and tap the bottom of it. If it does not sound hollow, return it to oven and check again n 10 minutes.

Brushing the surface of the dough with a mixture of egg white and a little water will give the crust a brown glaze. A deeper color will result with a mixture of egg yolk and milk. If the crust looks too dark, you might cover the loaf with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. Buona Pasqua!

VEGETABLES IN SEASON FOR MARCH


PINEAPPLE ~ Ever wonder how to see how this one is ready to eat? Go to the center leaves and try to pluck it out, if it is resistant, it still needs to mature. If it releases easily, it’s ready to eat. Pineapples are at their best beginning in March until July.

ASPARAGUS ~ This vegetable is a member of the lily family. Choose the thinner ones that are firm at the stalk and have closely tight tips. Place damp paper towel at the end of stalk and store it in an open plastic bag and put in the refrigerator vegetable drawer.

ORANGES ~ When choosing oranges, be sure to feel its weight. Try to find those that feel heavier than most. These will be the juiciest and tastiest.

READY FOR YOUR MARCH THINGS-T0-D0-LIST?? GET BUSY...

PREPARE GARDEN BEDS ~ Add three to four inches of good compost.


MAKE VETINARY APPOINTMENTS ~ Early Spring is the season that pets can suffer from heart worms, fleas, ticks. Talk with your vet to see which prevention programs works best for your pet.

CLEAN YOUR CAR WELL ~ After winter months of snow and dirt, your car is ready for a good cleaning. Do it yourself or have it done professionally and make an appointment and do a tune up at the same time.

SLOWLY START PREPARING FOR HOLIDAYS ~ Start ironing linens, plan table setting and polish your silver.

STOCK UP ON CLEANING PRODUCTS ~ Take inventory of your cleaning products, like glass cleaner and such, for your Spring Cleaning.

DEEP CLEAN CARPETS & RUGS ~ After the family has dragged in snow and mud in the cold winter months, your carpets are crying out for a deep cleaning. Rent a shampooer/extractor machine for a professional job.

OPEN WINDOWS ~ After cold winter months and closing ourselves in throughout the winter, open those windows on sunny days and air out the home of all those winter ailments.


CLEAN CURTAINS & BLINDS ~ Be sure to have them professionally done if labels say so. Replace heavy curtains with lighter ones. Bring those blinds into the tub for a good cleaning.

OUTDOOR YARD CLEANING ~ Clean away broken branches and debris from winter storms.

ORDER MANURE ~ Add generous amounts to beds to prepare for Spring planting.


HAVE SOIL TESTED ~ Just like the chemicals in your pool keep it running properly when balanced, it’s also important to have balanced soil to have hardy planting beds.


TAKE DOWN STORM DOORS & WINDOWS ~ Wash windows, including their frames. Store storm windows for season and mark them with a notation of where they are to be put throughout the house for next winter easy installation.

PREPARE LAWN ~ Reseed, aerate and fertilize

CLEAR GUTTERS OF DEBRIS ~ Check for clogs from winter storm debris.

APPLY SLOW-RELEASE FERTILIZER TO BEDS

BRING GARDEN FURNITURE OUT OF STORAGE ~ Clean and repaint those that need to be freshened up. Apply a coat of car wax to metal furniture to avoid rust.


CUT BACK ORNAMENTAL GRASS ~ Do this before they resprout from the base.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME ~ Set your clocks ahead and Spring into warmer months.
PACK & RESTOCK CAR BREAKDOWN KIT ~ Remove gloves, mittens and such and replace with childrens’ accident change of clothes that are more geared toward warmer months. Restock flares, tire inflator kits and such.


CLEAN CEILING FANS ~ Switch off the breaker switch before beginning cleaning.

SCHEDULE TREE WORK EARLY

TOP 100 ROMANTIC MOVIES

Don't have anything planned for you and your love???...
Hurry, you're out of time!
Well how about renting a movie, buying some champagne, truffles, chocolate covered strawberries, light a fire in the fireplace, get a big comfy blanket and your sweetheart will adore you! Women love romantic movies; from when they are little, they are immersed into love stories such as Cinderella, Beauty and The Beast, The Little Mermaid and so on.... So, you see we started early expecting to find our Prince in shining armor. I am married to the same man for 20 years now. When I was a little girl I had said to my Italian-Speaking Mother, "I am going to marry him", as she mumbled and cursed under her breath and did the sign of the cross and kissed her fingertips. I was just a little girl and my Prince was 21 at that time! That age difference wouldn't make any mother very accepting, especially a strict Italian mother no less. And years later, he came to visit me in another state and we fell deeply in love. Well, he did. I was already there for many years now. The most difficult thing, when he used to come and visit, was see him off at the airport. I used to sob loudly as I performed in front of the flight attendance, how embarrassing! Well, one time, my Prince did something very romantic that I tell my children about over and over again. As he boarded the plane and I could no longer see him, I put my head down and sobbed. When I finally found the strength to look up and leave the airport, there was my Prince with that manly walk of his, firm and steady and confident exiting & leaving the plane and walking towards me. The flight attendants were in tears this time as I smiled from ear to ear as my Prince scooped me up in his arms and carried me out of the airport. Oh, so romantic. These days, when I ask him to carry me upstairs, he tells me he can't. He's getting older now. So, for all you men out there that don't have a clue as to what to rent, this list is for You!

ONE HUNDRED MOST ROMANTIC MOVIES

1. Casablanca - 1942 - Humphrey Bogart
2. Gone With the Wind - 1939 - Clark Gable
3. West Side Story - 1961 - Natalie Wood
4. Roman Holiday - 1953 - Gregory Peck
5. An Affair to Remember - 1957 - Cary Grant
6. The Way We Were - 1973 - Barbra Streisand
7. Doctor Zhivago - 1965 - Omar Sharif
8. It's a Wonderful Life - 1946 - James Stewart
9. Love Story - 1970 - Ali MacGraw
10. City Lights - 1931 - Charles Chaplin
11. Annie Hall - 1977 - Woody Allen
12. My Fair Lady - 1964 - Audrey Hepburn
13. Out of Africa - 1985 - Meryl Streep
14. The African Queen - 1951 - Humphrey Bogart
15. Wuthering Heights - 1939 - Merle Oberon
16. Singin' in the Rain - 1952 - Gene Kelly
17. Moonstruck - 1987 - Cher
18. Vertigo - 1958 - James Stewart
19. Ghost - 1990 - Patrick Swayze
20. From Here to Eternity - 1953 - Burt Lancaster
21. Pretty Woman - 1990 - Richard Gere
22. On Golden Pond - 1981 - Katharine Hepburn
23. Now, Voyager - 1942 - Bette Davis
24. King Kong - 1933 - Fay Wray
25. When Harry Met Sally - 1989 - Billy Crystal
26. The Lady Eve - 1941 - Barbara Stanwyck
27. The Sound of Music - 1965 - Julie Andrews
28. The Shop Around the Corner - 1940 - James Stewart
29. An Officer and a Gentleman - 1982 - Richard Gere
30. Swing Time - 1936 - Fred Astaire
31. The King and I - 1956 - Deborah Kerr
32. Dark Victory - 1939 - Bette Davis
33. Camille - 1937 - Greta Garbo
34. Beauty and the Beast - 1991 - Paige O'Hara
35. Gigi - 1958 - Leslie Caron
36. Random Harvest - 1942 - Ronald Colman
37. Titanic - 1997 - Leonardo DiCaprio
38. It Happened One Night - 1934 - Clark Gable
39. An American in Paris - 1951 - Gene Kelly
40. Ninotchka - 1939 - Greta Garbo
41. Funny Girl - 1968 - Barbra Streisand
42. Anna Karenina - 1935 - Vivien Leigh
43. A Star is Born - 1954 - Judy Garland
44. The Philadelphia Story - 1940 - Cary Grant
45. Sleepless in Seattle - 1993 - Tom Hanks
46. To Catch a Thief - 1955 - Cary Grant
47. Splendor in the Grass - 1961 - Natalie Wood
48. Last Tango in Paris - 1972 - Marlon Brando
49. The Postman Always Rings Twice - 1946 - Lana Turner
50. Shakespeare in Love - 1998 - Gwyneth Paltrow
51. Bringing Up Baby - 1938 - Katharine Hepburn
52. The Graduate - 1967 - Anne Bancroft
53. A Place in the Sun - 1951 - Montgomery Clift
54. Sabrina - 1954 - Humphrey Bogart
55. Reds - 1981 - Warren Beatty
56. The English Patient - 1996 - Ralph Fiennes
57. Two for the Road - 1967 - Audrey Hepburn
58. Guess Who's Coming to Dinner - 1967 - Spencer Tracy
59. Picnic - 1955 - William Holden
60. To Have and Have Not - 1944 - Humphrey Bogart
61. Breakfast at Tiffany's - 1961 - Audrey Hepburn
62. The Apartment - 1960 - Jack Lemmon
63. Sunrise - 1927 - George O'Brien (No longer available)
64. Marty - 1955 - Ernest Borgnine
65. Bonnie and Clyde - 1967 - Warren Beatty
66. Manhattan - 1979 - Woody Allen
67. A Streetcar Named Desire - 1951 - Vivien Leigh
68. What's Up Doc? - 1972 - Barbra Streisand
69. Harold and Maude - 1971 - Ruth Gordon
70. Sense and Sensibility - 1995 - Emma Thompson
71. Way Down East - 1920 - Lillian Gish
72. Roxanne - 1987 - Steve Martin
73. The Ghost and Mrs. Muir - 1947 - Gene Tierney
74. Woman of the Year - 1942 - Spencer Tracy
75. The American President - 1995 - Michael Douglas
76. Quiet Man - 1952 - John Wayne
77. The Awful Truth - 1937 - Irene Dunne
78. Coming Home - 1978 - Jane Fonda
79. Jezebel - 1939 - Bette Davis
80. The Sheik - 1921 - Rudolph Valentino
81. The Goodbye Girl - 1977 - Richard Dreyfuss
82. Witness - 1985 - Harrison Ford
83. Morocco - 1930 - Gary Cooper
84. Double Indemnity - 1944 - Fred MacMurray
85. Love is a Many Splendored Thing - 1955 - William Holden
86. Notorious - 1946 - Cary Grant
87. The Unbearable Lightness of Being - 1988 - Daniel Day-Lewis
88. The Princess Bride - 1987 - Cary Elwes
89. Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? - 1966 - Elizabeth Taylor
90. The Bridges of Madison County - 1995 - Clint Eastwood
91. Working Girl - 1988 - Harrison Ford
92. Porgy and Bess - 1959 - Sidney Potier
93. Dirty Dancing - 1987 - Jennifer Grey
94. Body Heat - 1981 - William Hurt
95. The Lady and the Tramp - 1955 - Peggy Lee
96. Barefoot in the Park - 1967 - Robert Redford
97. Grease - 1978 - John Travolta
98. The Hunchback of Notre Dame - 1939 - Charles Laughton
99. Pillow Talk - 1959 - Rock Hudson
100. Jerry Maquire - 1996 - Tom Cruise

HAVE YOU BEEN TO THE "VINTAGE SHOP OF THE DAY" BLOG? JUST CLICK THE PHOTO TO GO THERE IN A SNAP!!

I was so excited when the editor of this blog wrote me an email and said that she would like to write about my Boutique, Website and Blog. What an honor! Just click on the pic and go there in a snap to see what she has to say! Let me know what you think and leave a comment to show your approval!

Join my "Decorating With Antiques and Collectibles Group" At: "I Antique Online.Com"

If you love to buy, sell or collect antiques and vintage items and art, this site is just right for you! There are so many knowledgeable, friendly and talented people from throughout the world with the same common interests connecting together on a daily basis discussing and sharing their thoughts and knowledge with one another.

There are so many Groups to choose from and join. Come check me out on "I Antique Online" and become a member of my group called DECORATING WITH ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES. I Antique Online has close to 2,000 members. We are looking for members for the Decorating with Antiques and Collectibles Group. Our group of members is growing and we would like all people interested in home decor and decorating using vintage and antiques to come and share their thoughts, ideas and creativity with us. Come read a great number of posts about creative, exciting and practical design tips for displaying and creating your home and office with antique and vintage decor.

Don't forget to bring your photos to share and show us your creativity and style. We look forward to seeing you there and you'll be glad you came and joined us! Just "click" on the photo to this post and it will take you there in a snap!

IT'S THANKFUL THURSDAY AGAIN

I am sooo thankful that my son has had the opportunity to be an exchange student for two weeks this month in Spain!! Thomas was eager to go to live with a family who has a son his age but doesn't speak English. I am thankful that I have been successful in giving my children the courage and independence to spread their wings and fly on their own. I am thankful that all the years I have committed to my children that now I get to see the fruits it bares. I am forever thankful that the time, and sometimes they were difficult times, I have invested in my children as a parent and guide that it was worth the sacrifices I have made. I am thankful that my son has grown up to be an awesome young man filled with kindness, Independence, courage, strength, sensitivity for others, goodness and love. Thank you God! For more thankfulness, which is contagious, go see Rhondi's blog by clicking the daisy picture above.

HOW TO MAKE A VALENTINE DAY ROSE FLORAL ARRANGEMENT

WHIP UP AN EASY ITALIAN DISH FOR YOUR LOVER THIS VALENTINE'S DAY ~ GET YOUR PEN & PAD

IT'S BLUE MONDAY AGAIN

For blue Monday, I wanted to share with you photos of what I reflect back to most often that is blue...That would be the Mediterranean Sea that we lived off of for a month last summer and the blue skies that shown bright throughout most of our stay! What made me feel blue were two things: 1. Leaving! 2. Every time I saw my son and husband jumping off the cliffs and into the blue sea. Yes, if you look at the first photo closely, you'll see my daring 14-year old jumping time and time again! Watching them do this was about to give me major heart failure. For more on Blue Monday. Check out Smiling Sally's Blog!

COME JOIN US AT "I ANTIQUE ONLINE"; YOU'LL BE GLAD YOU DID!

If you have some treasures at home and want to learn more about them, stop by and list some photos and lots of informative people will give you advice. If you found something special and wish to share with the rest of the other antique/vintage addicts, please come and share. Don't forget to visit all the various groups and become a member. Stop by " Decorating with Antiques and Vintage where you will find me and my informative decorating listings.

ON THANKFUL THURSDAY, I AM GRATEFUL TO HAVE MET SUCH WONDERFUL PEOPLE WHO VOLUNTEER THEIR TIME TO HOUSE THE HOMELESS!

I'm thankful to have hooked up with some wonderful people who give up their free time to volunteer for this non-profit organization called Maureen's Haven, which helps house, feed, and empower the homeless. I am thankful to have the opportunity to be part of their fundraiser which is this Saturday Evening here in Long Island, Riverhead, NY at the Polish Hall on Marcey. I have always felt a calling towards the poor and have not been as involved as I used to be because the shelter that I was involved with was quite a distance from my home. I am grateful to have heard about Maureen's Haven. Because of its location being closer to home, I can again volunteer time to a great cause that I have always felt pulled towards. If you would like to contribute, please see the article below for address where you can send a donation to assist New York's Homeless. To see more thankful people, visit Rhondi's blog by clicking the picture in this post and see more thankful individuals. Beware: Thankfulness is Contagious!

I HAD TO SHARE THIS AMAZING SITE WHICH WE ALL CAN USE ~ PERFECT FOR THANKFUL THURSDAY

I AM THANKFUL I CAME ACROSS THIS SITE, WHICH I HAVE ADDED TO MY LIST OF INFORMATIVE BLOGS ON THE RIGHT. couponcravings.com I AM SO GRATEFUL I HAD TO SHARE IT WITH ALL OF YOU. FOR ME, I DON'T HAVE THE EXTRA TIME NEEDED TO SHOP FOR EACH AND EVERY SALE AND NOW I HAVE SOMEBODY TO DO IT FOR ME. THIS SITE ALSO ALLOWS YOU TO PRINT OUT COUPONS TOO! WHO DOESN'T WANT SOMEBODY TO HELP THEM DO THIS TASK OF SEARCHING, CUTTING & CLIPPING?! FOR MORE GRATEFUL THINGS GO TO THANKFUL THURSDAY BY CLICKING ON THE PIC AND SEE WHAT OTHERS ARE THANKFUL FOR THIS THURSDAY! DON'T FORGET TO BOOKMARK THE COUPON CRAVINGS SITE!

CALLING ALL BLOGGERS TO HELP HOUSE THE HOMELESS DURING WINTER MONTHS

Surprisingly on Long Island New York, out by the rich and famous, near the Hamptons, which is known worldwide, we have people sleeping on the street during these cold winter months! I don't think people who live here are even aware of it and I don't mean that in a bad way. That is why I am taking this moment to write this post ~ so that everyone becomes educated on this matter. We don't need to go to other countries or towns to feed the homeless; they are right in our own backyards!

An organization by the name of Maureen's Haven Outreach is having a fundraiser on January 24th to raise money for the rising needs of the homeless due to today's struggling economy. How can you help? Well, there's a number of ways:

Send a donation if you cannot attend or live too far ~ Make your check payable to: Peconic community Council, Attention Tom Gahan, 46 Riverside Drive, Riverhead, NY 11901.

Attend the Rockin for the Homeless Event on January 24th, at the Polish hall in Riverhead at 218 Marcey Avenue (Just across the street from Saint Isidore's Church). For just $20 (per ticket purchase before event at East Ender's Coffee House) or Just $25 at the door, that same evening, your admission cost will include light fare treats ~ Hot Dogs, Hamburgers, Kielbasa, fries, etc.,a chance to win a great door prize, dancing to 3 live bands, and a cash bar and Chinese auction. This is for all ages; so, bring the family!

If you live too far, cannot afford to donate, you can still help by keeping America's Homeless in your prayers. 1 out of every 4 children in America are hungry!!! Yes, that's right, hungry children right in your own backyard.

And now I will leave you with a quote from Albert Schweitzer: "You must give some time to your fellow men. Even if it's a little thing, do something for others ~ something for which you get no pay but the privilege of doing it."

Thank you for taking the time to listen and care!

IN THE EXCITEMENT OF RETURNING TO ITALY, HERE'S AN ITALIAN FAVORITE FOR "FAVORITE INGREDIENT FRIDAY"

THIS RECIPE IS FROM MY NONNA RITA WHO HAS PASSED NOW. NOT JUST ANYONE HAS HAD THIS RECIPE. SO, YES, YOU ARE GETTING AN AUTHENTIC FAMILY SECRET RECIPE!!
CANNOLI

3/4 C FLOUR 1 EGG
1/4 C SUGAR ABOUT 2/3 C WATER
1/4 C MELTED LARD 1/2 TSP CINNAMON
(COOL THE LARD) OIL (FOR FRYING)
1 TBSP. VINEGAR

Measure flour into bowl; make a well in center. Add egg, sugar, lard, vinegar, cinnamon, and water. Blend into a smooth dough. If too stiff, add water, a little at a time. Knead the dough on a pastry board for about 8 minutes. Cover and allow to rest for 1/2 hour. Roll dough out very, very thin and cut into 4-inch circles. Wrap each circle loosely around a cannoli tube or 1-inch wood dowel, cut into 5-inch rods. Seal the seam that joins with a little egg white to prevent the shells from opening while frying.

Heat oil in a heavy skillet to 375 degrees. Drop rods into hot oil and fry until golden. As the shell begin to brown, slide them off the rods so they cook on inside. Set rods aside to cool before touching. Drain shells on paper towels. Makes 40 to 50 cannoli shells.

If you don't have time to make these shells, you can purchase just the shells and just add the filling, which is below.

CANNOLI FILLING

1 LB. RICOTTA CHEESE 1 TSP. VANILLA
1 C CONFECTIONERS SUGAR 1 HERSHEY'S CHOCOLATE BAR
1 TSP CINNAMON TINTED COCONUT
1 TSP ALMOND EXTRACT CHOPPED WALNUTS

Beat ricotta cheese withe a mixer until creamy. If too stiff, add a little cream or milk. Add sugar, cinnamon, almond flavoring, and vanilla; blend well. Shave the chocolate bar and add to filling. (you can use morsels too as an option) Fill cannoli shells just before sering or they will get soggy. Use a teaspoon to fill shells from each end, pushing filling into center. (You can use pastry tube to create the look from photo).

Dip one end into chopped nuts and the other end into tinted coconut. (This is optional) Sprinkle with confectioners sugar. If desired, candied cherries and citron may be used. ( I don't; my mother always did). Fills approx 10 cannoli shells.

In Memory of my Nonna Rita

For more wonderful recipes, click the Favorite Ing Friday Photo and it will take you to the list of others.

IT'S BACK TO ITALY FOR SHOW & TELL FRIDAY

Well here's my gang in Italy this past summer. We were in a ancient village with cobblestone streets and filled with such charm. We were ecstatic to be there and it shows in their excitement in this photo. Well, our friend who lives here, right outside of Rome, took us to this quaint village and we were beside ourselves. When all the commotion stopped after this photo, we asked, "what is this place right here anyway?". Our friend and tour guide Pio announced that it's where the cloistered nuns live. Well! We must have rocked their world that night. I'm sure they haven't been exposed to that much noise and excitement in a long time. Anyhow, we were just told that our tour guides Pio and Diane will be swapping houses with us this summer. Yippie!!! It's back to Italy!! They come stay at our house and take care of our home and pets and we will stay at there home in Frosinone, Italy! The family is jumping around in excitement after hearing the news just like they did the night they were outside the cloistered nuns convent! It's back to rolling olive groves, sheep pastures, winding roads and hills and just outside of the most incredible city ~ Rome!

To join in on Show and Tell Friday, just click the Show and Tell Picture above and join in at Kelli's Blog!

"IT'S NOT TIME TO TAKE DOWN THE CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS!" SHOUTS MAMA

You're probably baffled as to what these photos are about especially if you didn't grow up in an Italian-speaking household. Well, in America we know the gift bearer as Santa and in Italy the gift bearer is "La Befana" , meaning The Good witch, who is represented on this mule, quite different than santa's American sleigh. The story has it that a long time ago, the wise men were on their way to see baby Jesus, known as the Epiphany and celebrated in the Catholic church on January 6th; the men stopped at the befana's house for directions. (I guess the bright star in the sky wasn't helpful enough for them). La Befana was not interested in helping them and she later on felt bad. So, she hopped on her broom with candy and gifts to bring to the newborn baby Jesus and was unsuccessful in finding him without a GPS such as Santa's. She felt terrible and to make up for her mistake, she takes the candy and gifts to other little boys and girls and continues to do so today! My mother was always yelling at us not to take the Christmas decorations down because The Befana had not come yet even though we lived in America and Santa had come and gone. We would have to patiently put the decorations back to where they were until after January 6th, the Epiphany. She would sigh and say, "now you can take them down!". I couldn't really understand it back then. But after recently "Googling" about La Befana and watching her on "You Tube", I have come to realize that The Epiphany (January 6th) is of greater importance than the actual Christmas Day in Italy. They celebrate on the day the gifts for Jesus arrive via the wise men. Reflecting back to my boisterous mother who had so much emotion while telling us the story of the Epiphany, I can now smile sweetly instead of feeling annoyed. You see, back then I just wanted to be like the rest of the children in America. Today, I am forever grateful to have experienced both cultures. She was persistent in doing so and I am happy to have had that. Today, I share it with you and continue to share the story with my children and I am persistant so that they understand their roots and where our ancestor's come from. Today, I realize how fortunate I was to be immersed in both cultures ~ American and Italian. Today, I am proud of both. Grazie Mamma!

TRASH TO TREASURE TUESDAY

I am so happy that this Trash to Treasure Tuesday was created. I think this is my favorite thing to do when my creative juices get flowing. Take something ordinary and make it look extraordinary! Here's a picture of a section of an old mantle in its natural state without me painting it. I liked the worn look of it so I left it "as is" and mounted it on a freshly painted bathroom wall to use as a shelf. The clean crisp and freshly painted wall against the old worn out mantle seemed to blend nicely with the newly adorned items on its shelf. It's simply gorgeous; wouldn't you say so?! Let me know what you think and leave a message. To see some more great ideas, just click on the "Trash to Treasure Tuesday" Pic and it will take you to A Picture is Worth A Thousand Words Blog and get inspired!

JANUARY 2009 LIST OF THINGS-TO-D0

I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT MY LISTS; MONTHLY I WOULD LIKE TO SHARE THEM WITH YOU. FEEL FREE TO USE THEM AS YOUR REMINDERS TOO!

Update Personal Calendar: Make sure to transfer birthdays, anniversaries and special events to your new-year calendar.

Write & Mail Thank You Cards: It's important to get them out no later than mid month.

New Year & New Order: If your mail has gotten out of hand this past year, start the new year off right. Set up an effective mail station in your kitchen or on a desk. Make sections such as: "Read", "Take Immediate Action", "File", etc.. If the old way was not effective, try something new.

Schedule Annual Appointments: Schedule your annual check ups for medical, dental, and veterinary for the pets too.

Start Organizing for Tax Time: Be on the look-out for End-of-year statements and W-2s. Set them aside in one folder for the accountant. Don't procrastinate! Start now. By law, your employer should have your W-2 ready by the end of January 31st. If not, stay on top of them to get it to you asap. Make your appointment for the accountant now so that you push yourself to be ready and so that you get it done early.

Mulch ChristmasTree: Cris-Cross branches that you cut off and place in flower beds for the remainder of winter.

Store Away Christmas Decorations: If you don't have original boxes for ornaments, use Styrofoam cups or tissue paper to wrap each individual ornament to protect it. Try not to store in attic or basement. These locations can do harm to them due humidity and temperature change.

Get to the Gym, Weight Watchers, Stop Smoking: It takes over 30 days to break old habits. Make a schedule for the new year and stick to it. Don't give up. Try, try again and again and again until you get it right. Your well being is the greatest gift you can give to yourself for the New Year!

Clean Freezer: Clean out expired items and wash down freezers.

Start Ordering Seeds from Catalogs: Start planning your garden now. Place your order while supplies are abundant.

Make Your New Year’s Visualization Board: Use photos, magazine clippings, anything to remind and inspire you to attain your new goals for the new year. A visualization board is a great reminder to look at daily. Make it pretty and motivating!

Get Wood Floors Done: Have them stripped and resealed and buffed. Have this done once a year. To continue maintaining floor, vacuum and then clean polyurethane floor with a damp mop and a mild cleanser.

Test Batteries in Smoke Detectors: Also check Carbon Monoxide Detector and appliances and change if necessary.

New Year; New You: Start off on the right foot and get organized and clean out those closets. If they have gotten messy through the year, clean them out and start fresh for the New Year. I know this sounds crazy but sort items in color order. It's so easy to find something when you're looking for that one white shirt.

Check Insurance Policies & License & Inspection Sticker: Make your appointments if necessary or mark when it will be necessary on your calendar. Make updates on your policies if necessary.

Check Gym Memberships, Passports, Car Registration for Renewal Dates: Take action if necessary and mark your calendar

Plan Your Vacation Now: Be sure to ask for time off now and submit your request at work.


New Year; New Budget: Make a master copy of all your monthly expenses with columns to list amounts due under monthly columns. Leave master copy blank and make a new copy every month to keep track of your expenses. See if you need or can cut back in certain areas if necessary. It takes a greater effect on you when you look at it written down. In today's economy we can all make necessary adjustments.


HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!

MEMORIES OF A TRADITIONAL ITALIAN CHRISTMAS

Growing up in an Italian household made me feel

different than everyone else in the neighborhood. I just didn't realize how much I was going to miss it as a grown woman!

Reflecting back to when I was a child, I remember things were done a little different in our home than the rest of the American neighbors in Long Island, New York. I remember my mother in the kitchen days before Christmas Eve. She would leave my brother and myself in charge of the American traditions, like putting up the tree and decorations. She, on the other hand, spent hours and hours preparing so many various dishes and desserts for the Eve. The Eve was the big event emphasized because it was the celebration and the anticipation of the Christ Child. We had tons of company surrounding our dining table for the holidays. All the women were in the kitchen and the men gathered around the table and den chatting and laughing. I remember it being loud and busy and alive and I especially remember the aromas of food. We had different traditions than most. We were not allowed to eat meat on the Eve and it was the Eve that was emphasized and not Christmas morning. Most American children went to bed early in anticipation of Santa, but in our house, it was a little different. Midnight meant a time of celebration because Jesus was born. Sometimes we even went to Church at Midnight; Church was different at Midnight Mass. Candles illuminated the whole church and the air outside smelled like Christmas...cold, crisp, the scent of wood-burning stoves and a peacefulness in the air (because most were home sleeping). In my home, Mamma put great emphasis on the Nativity and not the tree. Depictions of the Holy Family in the manger were the focal point of Christmas. I especially remember Mamma covering baby Jesus in the manger because she would say he was not born yet. We would uncover him after midnight when Jesus was born. To this day, I continue to carry this tradition out with my children. Should I forget to cover the Christ child, they seem to hurry to do so themselves. Another unusual tradition was Mamma would want us to open gifts after Midnight. She would say, "at least open one of them!;this is the actual time to celebrate! I couldn't understand why we didn't do things like everyone else in the neighborhood. It seemed strange back then. Today, I find myself having the deepest desire to hold on to those precious memories. Christmas today is so commercialized and different. I, today, try to combine the two sets of traditions ~ the Italian & American so that my children don't feel different and still experience some of their heritage. Should I forget to practice some of the old traditions, my children are quick to remind me to do so. Today, I am forever grateful that my mamma gave me the true meaning of "Christ"mas. Grazie e Brava Mamma!

BIG EVENT HAPPENING TODAY AT KIMBA'S BLOG

JUST SCROLL DOWN A COUPLE OF POSTS TO FIND THE RECIPE TO THESE CHEESECAKE COOKIES! THEY'RE ALWAYS A BIG HIT!

I am entering my CHEESECAKE COOKIE MORSELS for this event! Check it out; don't miss it! Get great tips and ideas at Kimba's!

OUR TABLE AT OUR HOME IS SET FOR CHRISTMAS

OUR TABLE IS DECORATED WITH RED, WHITES, SILVERS & GOLDS

EACH SEATING HAS A MONOGRAMMED GIFT FOR SEATING ARRANGEMENTS

EACH SETTING HAS ANTIQUE RUBY KINGS CROWN THUMBPRINT
DINNERWARE

OUR DINING ROOM HAS ITS VERY OWN MATCHING TREE W/ GIFTS FOR GUESTS HANGING AS ORNAMENTS WHICH ARE ALSO MONOGRAMMED

I JUST LOVE ALL THE ANTIQUE DISHES!

HERE'S THE MONOGRAMMED GIFTS THAT HANG FROM THE DINING ROOM TREE!

THE TREE IS TOPPED OFF WITH A SIMPLE RED RIBBON TIED INTO A BOW!

TRUFFLES WILL BE INSIDE EACH BOX FOR EACH GUESTS ~ WHITE RASBERRY & CHAMPAGNE TRUFFLES ~ YUM!

THE FANCY SILVER IS PLACED AT EACH SETTING!

EACH SEATING HAS A CORDIAL GLASS, A WINE GLASS & WATER GOBLET

EACH CLOTH NAPKIN IS ENCIRCLED WITH CRANBERRY WREATHS

WOULD YOU LIKE TO JOIN US? JUST LET ME KNOW AND I'LL SET ANOTHER PLACE. AFTER ALL, WE ARE ITALIAN AND ITALIANS ALWAYS HAVE ROOM & FOOD FOR MORE!

ANOTHER BLUE MONDAY

DON'T FORGET TO HEAD OVER TO SMILING SALLY'S BLOG BY CLICKING THE BLUE JAY AND SEARCH FOR MORE BLUE ITEMS!

SOME BATH ACESSORIES THAT WILL BE LISTED UNDER BEACH COTTAGE AT
TESOROFINO.COM SOON!

IT'S PINK SATURDAY AGAIN; ENJOY SOME ITEMS FROM TESOROFINO.COM BOUTIQUE

HEAD ON OVER TO BEVERLY'S BLOG AT HOW SWEET THE SOUND BLOG OR JUST CLICK THE TITLE OR PHOTO AND IT WILL TAKE YOU DIRECTLY THERE TO SEE MORE BEAUTIFUL PINK!

THE GREAT COOKIE RECIPE EXCHANGE AT JAN & TOM'S PLACE

CHEESE CAKE COOKIE MORSELS
Don't miss out going to Jan & Tom's Place for some great cookie recipes. Here's one that is a favorite. Be sure to try these. serve in mouthful bite morsels resting in those little gold candy paper wrappings.

CRUST:
1 cup flour
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 cup chopped nuts
1/2 cup melted butter

Mix together and spread in an oblong pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 minutes and let cool.

FILLING:
2 packs of 8 oz. cream cheese
3 eggs at room temperature only
1 cup sugar
Beat until smooth and pour on cooled crust and bake for 20 minutes at 350 degrees. Cut into little square morsels or use a round cookie cutter and cut into little round morsels when cooled. Place in little tiny gold round paper candy cups. You can even top each one off with powdered sugar and a fresh raspberry! Yum Yum! You can have your cake and eat it too because they are small enough and will be eaten in moderation! Enjoy! Don't forget to get more great recipes at Jan & Tom's Place. Just click on the title to this article or click on the gingerbread!

IT'S BLUE MONDAY AT SMILING SALLY'S

Be sure to visit "SMILING SALLY'S " blogspot so that you can see the participants who shared their blue items.

BLUE & WHITE TOTE ~ SHOP LIKE A QUEEN

SET OF ROBIN EGG BLUE CHINA

HAND BLOWN MURANO GLASS DIRECT FROM ITALY

ROBIN EGG BLUE MOUSE PAD

VINTAGE CARD FROM MY PRIVATE COLLECTION

VINTAGE BROOCH & RING SET HAND PAINTED BLUE

ANOTHER CARD FROM MY PRIVATE VINTAGE COLLECTION

I HOPE YOU ENJOYED SOME BLUE ITEMS FOR SALE AT THE BOUTIQUE ! HAVE A WONDERFUL MONDAY EVERYONE! PLEASE BE SURE TO READ THE NEXT POST/ARTICLE!!!

JUST CONTACTED BY "UNDER THE TREE" FOR FAMILIES IN NEED!

Thank God for generous people & organizations such as this one. I had come across this site and decided to enter a little girl by the name of Sadie who is two years old. Or perhaps I should say Sadie was two years old. Little Sadie passed on two days ago prior to me receiving the news that she had been selected to receive presents under the tree! Sadie suffered greatly from brain cancer, strokes, seizures, etc. She has put up a great fight for over one year now. May Little Sadie be an example to all of us as she took on her suffering braver than any famous prize fighter. Thanks to 5 minutes for Mom.com, Sadie's mother will be receiving a gift certificate for an online store for a locket to place Sadie's picture inside of it in memory of her daughter. Thank you to all of you at 5 Minutes for Mom.Com for your generosity! Our prayers are with Sadie's family and we ask Little Sadie to keep any one of us who is suffering from illness in her prayers! Thank you Sadie for teaching me that suffering greatly can be endured with such strength and courage such as yours! May you rest in peace now!

IT'S PINK SATURDAY! SOME OF MY BOUTIQUE ITEMS FOR YOU TO ENJOY VIEWING

VINTAGE SANTA CARD

VINTAGE PERFUME BOTTLE SET

HANDMADE MOSAIC PINK TILE FIRST TOOTH BOX

VINTAGE FLORAL PINK TEA CUP & SAUCER

VINTAGE PINK TEA CUP & SAUCER

HAND PAINTED PINK ROSES - BOWL

JEWELRY TREE

HANDBLOWN MURANO GLASS EARRINGS
DIRECT FROM ITALY

VINTAGE APRON AND CARD & CAPO DI MONTE FROM ITALY










JUST CLICK ON THE TITLE ABOVE AND IT WILL TAKE YOU TO BEVERLY'S PINK SATURDAY. THERE YOU WILL SEE THE LIST OF PARTICIPANTS WHO SHARED THEIR PINK LOVELINESS!! ENJOY & THANK YOU BEVERLY FOR HOSTING THIS EVENT!

WINTER TIP FOR FROZEN CAR LOCK

If you ever experienced a frozen lock on your car door, you know how frustrating it can be. Remember to heat your key with a lighter for a few seconds and gently insert the heated key into your car lock and turn. You may need to heat it a few times and repeat.

Thank goodness for automatic car door openers for those of you who have newer vehicles!

FRUITS & VEGETABLES IN SEASON

TANGERINES - Look for soft deep orange fruits. Remember to refrigerate. Keep for only a few days.

COCONUT - This is about its last healthy in-season month. Look for one that is heavy for its size. When you shake it, it should sound full of liquid. Store at room temperature for up to one month.

CRANBERRIES - Great for pies and muffins and cranberry sauce. Great for craft projects because of its color and shelf life. Refrigerate for up to one month. If frozen, can last for several months.

AVOCADOS - There are two common types. I prefer the dark purple/black Hass with pebbly feel to skin. Gently squeeze for softness; not too soft. Look for bruises. This must be eaten right away. To keep ones that are not completely mature. Take one that is hard without any bruising. Then just around the time that you need it to mature, put in brown paper bag with an apple or banana at room temperature. Ripe avocados can be refrigerated for several days! Love them for salads, guacamole, and topping for a sandwich.

KEEPING YOUR LIVE HOLIDAY TREE HEALTHY

When shopping for a live tree, make sure its fragrant and sticky for freshness. Avoid dry and brittle trees. When you get it home, give it a new cut several inches away from the bottom of the trunk and immediately submerge in water.

Check the tree water level daily and don't forget to replenish when necessary. Do not leave your tree lights on when going to sleep. A live brittle and dry tree and electrical accident can equal a disaster.

DECEMBER FRIENDLY REMINDER LIST OF THINGS-TO-DO

DECORATE TREE AND CREATE VIGNETTES THROUGHOUT YOUR HOME -Don't forget to add lights or miniature tree to childrens' bedrooms and guest rooms. The children will adore you and really enjoy their space throughout the holiday season. Guests will compliment you!

UPDATE MAILING LIST & SEND OUT CARDS - Take advantage to clear and edit your mailing list which should be on a computer to speed up the process during this busy time of year.

BEGIN WINTER PRUNING AND BURLAP DELICATE SHRUBS - Also burlap anything that is attractive to deer to graze on. This will distract them and send them elsewhere at feeding time.

ORDER SEEDS FOR SPRING - Get first pick for your Spring Gardens. Get out those Seed Catalogs now and place your order. If you have none, just Google for various companies.

SET UP A WRAPPING STATION - This eliminates last minute stress to find a pair of scissors or tape. Wrap as items are purchased and you will feel at ease when the holiday comes around!

CREATE EMERGENCY CAR KIT - Especially for people in snow areas and for you ladies, this comes in handy and keeps you and the children safe in emergencies.

ANOTHER TRIM THE TREE THURSDAY

Here is another tree in the boutique displaying Christmas Ornaments for sale at the boutique. Ice Skates are hand painted a lovely pink and then glittered with fairy dust! I love these miniature pink trees; don't you? Just click the title to this post and visit The Southern Hostess Blog for more members who are participating in Trim the Tree Thursday and get your creative juices flowing for the holiday season!

Phew! It's Tough Being One of Santa's Elves

In previous articles, I have spoken about the Little Miss Pink section of my boutique which is still in its beginning stages. But take a peak at this pink lovely for that special Little Miss Pink in your life. I have always decorated not only my home living areas, but also the childrens' rooms as well so that they can feel the holidays come alive. I can just imagine this feminine pink sleigh in a little girl's room or even at the mantel of a shabby or romantic cottage! Just click the title of this article and it will take you to the boutique. Once your there, Click on "Little Miss Pink" and you will see the sleigh in a much larger photo when you click on it. I'm sure you will be dreaming of a Pink & White Christmas too because the sleigh is just dreamy!

YEY! ANOTHER CHRISTMAS GIVE-A-WAY! JUST CLICK THE PIC TO FIND OUT MORE!

Thank you to Prim and Proper Folks for hosting this Christmas Give-A-Way!

HERE'S TO ANOTHER PINK SATURDAY & SOME OF MY FAVORITE PINK THINGS!

PINK PARISIAN STATIONERY

PINK ROMANTIC CHANDELIERS

PINK OFFICE FILE FOLDERS

PINK FRENCH ROMANTIC FURNITURE

PINK DIAMONDS

FAUX CAKES MADE OF FABRIC

PINK FROSTING ON CUPCAKES

HERE'S THE SECOND TRIM THE TREE THURSDAY

Since I am dreaming of a Pink & White Christmas, I was on the hunt to find a lovely tree for all of you Pink Lovers and look at this lovely feminine pink adorned tree that I found for you ladies from Christmas Magazine. I hope this photo inspires many of you during this decorating season. Enjoy. For more holiday decorating tips go to the widget on the right column that has a Christmas tree and says, "Trim the Tree Thursday"; click on the pic and it will take you to a list of Thursday participants for this lovely event hosted by The Southern Hostess Blogspot. You can also just click on the title of this article and it will link you to The Southern Hostess.

CHRIS'S "I CAN MAKE THAT!" PARTY

This event took place on November 10th. But I just couldn't stop from sharing this one with you. So, enjoy and if you didn't attend the event, then don't forget to go to Chris's blog when your done for more ideas!
Check out the article below. In honor of Chris's "I Can Make That Party", this recipe is for you, your holiday table, or for the host at your Thanksgiving Gathering! Thank you Chris for hosting this event! Just click the Title of the Article and it will take you to Chris's Blog where you can enjoy everyone elses creative technique give-a-ways! Enjoy!

EDIBLE DECOR -THANKSGIVING BREADS ~ HOMEMADE CENTERPIECE CORNUCOPIA

I CAN MAKE IT & SO CAN YOU!! Here's a beautiful centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table, this edible cornucopia can be filled with fresh fruit or an assortment of fresh-baked breads or rolls. Buy a second package of hot roll mix to make Braided napkin rings to match and add to your table for additional edible decor.

WHAT YOU NEED:

1 Package (16 0z hot roll mix, plus ingredients to prepare mix
flour for work surface
2 egg yolks
1 Tablespoon cold water
Assorted fresh fruit

SUPPLIES:

1 - (16"x16"x14") cardboard triangle
cookie sheet
ruler
tape
scissors
foil
shortening
wooden toothpicks
clean towel

WHAT TO DO:

Make a cornucopia mold by shaping cardboard in cone shape. Make the large open part about 6" in diameter. Tape it securely. Trim if you need to. Cover the outside of cone with tin foil and grease it up.

Prepare hot roll mix according to package directions. Knead dough on lightly-floured surface until smooth for about five minutes. Cover loosely; let stand in bowl for about 15 minutes.

Grease cookie sheet. Set aside 1/8 of the dough. Roll and stretch remaining dough on lightly floured surface into a triangle (16"x16"x21"). Shape reserved dough in 30"-rope or braid (about 1/2" thick.

Shape dough triangle around cone, pinching seam on bottom to seal.

Press dough rope around opening of cornucopia to create a decorative opening for your cornucopia. Insert toothpicks at 2" intervals on the decorative rope or braid you made at opening to insure it stays in place while baking. Cover loosely; let rise in warm place until doubled in size, about 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350F. Combine egg yolks and water; brush over cornucopia and this will allow it to give it a shiny coating. Bake 20 - 25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire rack; cool completely. Remove wooden toothpicks. Carefully remove cardboard mold, if desired. Fill as desired.

Shabby Christmas Table Setting

I'M DREAMING OF A PINK & WHITE CHRISTMAS AT TesoroFino.Com BOUTIQUE!

IT'S GOING TO BE A PINK & WHITE CHRISTMAS IN THE BOUTIQUE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!!

PINK HANDPAINTED & SPARKLED CANDELABRA

PINK HAND PAINTED & SPARKLED "WISH" SIGN