The * Brooklyn * Clothesline

Completed Project

2011-09-24T18:21:00.001-04:00

I completed a project this morning. While I was busy packing I decided to take a quick break and finishes cabeling this scarf. The scarf took me about a week to complete. It has a full cable down the middle and is entirely hand knit with 100% merino wool. The wool is from a small herd of sheep in the Catskills and was purchased at their stand at the Union Square Farmers market in Manhattan. This is the first thing I have ever knit for myself! I love it and can't wait to bundle up and for it to keep me warm this winter!

The Love of my Life

2011-09-23T22:30:00.001-04:00

I just don't express it enough, but the fact is, I have one amazing man whom I am deeply in love with. In the last two years he has given me a wonderful marriage, baby, and a new home for us. I couldn't be happier and more in love with him. So, tonight, my little blog post is for you, Joey :)

We have a winner!

2011-09-13T15:23:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to Alycia Hennis, winner of the wool soaker giveaway! I will post pictures as soon as Alycia has picked the Leaf PEEper color she prefers and I have completed the knitting.

Thanks to all who entered. Check back soon for another giveaway!

What's for Dinner?

2011-09-08T17:09:00.001-04:00

Well, at my house it's flat wraps filled with amazing veggies, hummus, and a hint of cheese! To make a yummy wrap follow these simple steps (but do remember that not all wraps are created equal - try and stay away from the white flour tortilla type): Spread 1-2 tablespoons of hummus on wrap (I used Sabra Classic hummus on a flat, whole wheat wrap made by Damascus Bakery) Grate 1/2 cleaned and peeled cucumber on top. Add 1/4 cup fresh, chopped tomatoes. Top with a small handful of leafy greens (I used a baby spinach and arugala mix). A sprinkle of fresh shredded cheese. So perfect for a quick, inexpensive dinnner! I haven't worked out the pointsplus yet, as I have switched to the simply filling plan on weight watchers but I would hazard a guess of about 6 pp, using this brand of wrap. Enjoy!

It's a Giveaway!

2011-09-08T12:43:00.006-04:00

As we prepare to move and our lives are changing in so many ways, I thought it would be wise to start monitoring traffic on this blog and see if I can begin to build a following - maybe with our move I will change the Brooklyn Clothesline to the Isle of Long Clothesline! So, in such an effort, I've decided to hold a giveaway!

I will process a drawing on September 13th, 2011 for one of my hand knit, Leaf PEEper diaper covers. The cover is made of 100% pure merino wool. The hand knit leaves that are knitted onto the cover are made of 100% acrylic. This is not a concern for diaper wearers, as there is a layer of wool beneath the leaves. You can wash and lanolize as usual. I will also include a surprise gift with the giveaway! You may choose from green, orange, or brown as your main color, and several different colors for the leaves. I will customize the soaker to fit your baby!

In order to enter, please leave a comment below. If you like, tell me why you love cloth diapering and/or what you love about wool!

I will use a random number generator to select a winner. Winner will be announced at 3pm on Tuesday, September 13th, 2011. Good luck and thanks for visiting!

Projects

2011-09-08T09:23:00.012-04:00

Monster Longies. Pattern courtesy of Hrönn Jónsdóttir. Her pattern is easy to work up and would take a beginner knitter just a couple of weeks to work - assuming you are just doing a little a day. As a "beginner" knitter myself, these longies were easy to knit up, but I am a rather slow knitter, and relatively new to circular knitting (these being my second circular knitting project). I would imagine a more experienced knitter would be able to knit these in just a few days. The pattern can be found on infobarrel by clicking here. Additionally, Hrönn has a Ravelry account where you can find the original pattern.
This next project was quite easy. I found the free patterns on a lovely Blog called Natural Suburbia. Linda's patterns are very easy to follow, well written, and simply wonderful. Thanks so much for sharing your patterns, Linda. You can go directly to Natural Suburbia by clicking here. Linda has so many wonderful patterns. I also made a small apple and pumpkin for Michael to play with.
My own little masterpiece(s). Here is Michael sporting a fall wook soaker. I named these soakers "Leaf PEEpers". They are made of 100% merino superwash wool, with the exception of the leaves, which are knitted from acrylic yarn and knitted onto the soaker, not knit in intarsia.

Looking forward to sharing more projects in the near future!

A Very Happy Baby

2011-09-08T08:02:00.002-04:00

Since my first mobile to blog entry worked so well, I figured I would go ahead and give it a go with a picture. Here is my very happy baby, playing in his room, in his favorite "outfit" of a cloth diaper and leg warmers. This has been his "uniform" so to speak, for the last few weeks. So comfy in warmer temps and the leg warmers help protect his crawling legs!

School Days

2011-09-08T07:55:00.002-04:00

I figured since I am up and have some time to kill I would test my mobile to blog feature and write a bit this morning.

As I drove to the car dealership to drop the car off for service I noticed something quite interesting. So many stops as I drove because children were being picked up by carpools in private mini-vans and SUV's. No doubt filled with eager children - excited, nervous, happy, scared but ready for their first day of school. It made me think of two things. The first thought that came to mind was that this sort of site is quite familiar to me, as I was raised in the suburbs where more children were driven to school in cars, than those whom rode in buses. A very interesting sight, as most schools are neigborhood schools and are within walking distance. Even in my own hometown and little village it was common to see at least several dozen children slowly making their way, by foot, to school; myself included as my age permitted it. Of course there was always the line of SUV's in front of the school dropping off one or more children. Just an interesting
observation, I suppose.

My second thought was more of a feeling. How I miss the excitement of a new school year. Even in college, I can still remember the first day, of my last year of grad school. I remember telling myself how this would likely be the last "first day of school" I would ever have, as myself as the attending student. School days make me think of fall, cool weather, school holidays, new teachers, and new friends. I remember most of my first school days and must say that I got a bit teary thinking of the next time I "experience" a first day of school. Yes, that day when Michael first steps on a yellow school bus and leaves the comforts of the home we have made for him and enters a whole new world of learning and discovery; it is both incredibly exciting and scary at the same time. But, I've got five years to prepare myself for that, althought I know that's simply not enough time.

In other news, unrelated to school, I have been busy working on knitting projects and trying to mentally prepare myself for our move. I'm so excited about starting our life together in a new home and waiting on the closing has been a true test of my patience - of which I have very little of.

If all goes well I will post some pictures later today of my recent projects and of course, my beautiful, growing little boy.

Sent from my iPhone

Almost ready to move...

2011-09-04T14:53:00.000-04:00

I have this overwhelming feeling that in about 10 days our lives are going to become very, very busy! So, for the past week I've been busy wrapping up projects, making lists of things to do, and trying to really enjoy our last days living in Brooklyn. I completed my first pair of Monster Longies (wool pants) for Michael, as well as two more fall inspired Leaf PEEpers wool soakers (diaper covers). This week I will try to finish up a pair of longies I am making for a friend and wrap up a scarf I started a few months back. Pictures to come of all the projects.

I was able to finish a few small acorns and leaves for my aunt as well, and hope they will be a nice surprise and welcome sight in her home in sunny Florida!

Cloth diapering is coming along well, despite a minor setback. When we originally decided to cloth diaper, I had ordered a dozen Charlie banana diapers from Zulily. It took weeks for them to get her, but that was fine because we needed time to build up more diapers. In that time I was able to acquire about a dozen more diapers. When the CB's arrived, much to my disappointment, I realized they did not fit Michael very well. Since I had prepped them and washed them, I could not return them and worse yet, I was out 12 diapers in my rotation. So, back online I went - stalking my favorite brand in the hopes of scoring more coveted Ragababe diapers, and buying a few other brands to try out. I am happy to say we now have 16 diapers and one more on the way. Ideally, I would like to have 30 so I have plenty for a three day rotation.

Finally, our days have been getting nicer as cooler weather approaches and we can finally head outside and enjoy cool breeze and sunny skies. The sweltering heat of the summer this year was not favorable for outdoor activities with a small baby in tow. So sadly much of our summer was spent indoors in the air conditioning.

I will post again soon, hopefully shortly after we move into our new place. We've had a set back in the closing date as the seller was not ready back in august, so we are all finally ready to move forward. Mikey is anxious to play in his new room and I am very anxious to start our new life in our new home!

Lots of Changes

2011-08-05T10:19:00.006-04:00

Here it is, August, and I promised myself I would update my blog more frequently, but it's been a very busy few months for us.

At the end of May we began looking for a new home, as we have outgrown our old home and the little space we had was becoming smaller and smaller with a growing baby. We expected to be in the "hunt" mode for a long time; however, we were very lucky to find the perfect home for our growing family and we were in contract by mid-July.

Since then it's been a waiting game, waiting for search, survey, home inspection, etc. Finally, we are approaching our closing date of August 15th and we are very excited to be movng forward. Although I am sure Joey is much more apprehensive about the move as I am; my feelings towards moving do not all come with positive thoughts. I am, of course, nervous about how we will fit into our new surroundings, intimidated by moving to a completely different area, and getting to know brand new people. But with those feelings come obvious excitement. A 2 car garage with garage door openers, brand new appliances, a beautiful new kitchen to cook and create wonderful things for our family, an inground pool (which makes me more nervous than excited, especially with a baby that just began crawling); modern amenities that I've not had before and I am excited to see how they add to our lives.

The community we are moving to is much different than living in the city, and part of me believes it will be lacking some of the conveniences of which I have become accustomed. However, I do believe that this is where we were meant to be at this point in our lives. We carefully selected the area based on school district ratings, home values, parks and recreation, and proximity to airports and the city.

So, as our closing date quickly approaches, we have been busy bees - organizing, packing, scheduling movers, changing our address with businesses and banks, etc. Amongst all the busy work we have, we've also made a change to the way we care for our little baby - we've switched from disposable diapers to cloth -and we are very excited about it!

We still have not moved to cloth full time, as all of our diapers have not arrives yet, but we have a good stash so far; a mix of BumGenius Elemental, Charlie Banana, Fancy Pants, RagaBabe, and Sustainablebabyish/Sloomb. I've made a few wool soakers for the cloth inserts and I plan to make more, as well as some longies for winter. I also picked up some Nellies Laundry Soda, Bac-Out, a planet wise wet bag and pail liner, and Nellies dryer balls. As soon as we have settled in the new house in a little over a week, we will move to full-time cloth diapering.

There are still a lot of unknowns as we enter this new phase of diapering, but we are excited about it and truly feel we are doing the best thing for our little guy. A cost savings down the road would be great as well, although I'd have to have bette control of my diaper obsession spending first!

That's all the news from our front. Over the next few weeks I am going to update the blog with pictures of our new place, along with our experiences with cloth diapering.

Bye Bye Winter, Hello Spring!

2011-04-08T10:53:00.006-04:00

This week we are officially, at least in our home, saying goodbye to winter; we are sick of cold weather and ready for a new season. I've decided to start a new tradition for our family.

Recently, while surveying our cupboards and panty, I noticed that I had a lot of leftover beans, lentils, frozen veggies, tomatoes, and other foods that could be used to make a lovely soup - the last soup of the winter, so to speak. I love making, and eating, soups in the winter, but I don't enjoy them as much in the spring and summer. I thought that by starting this tradition, we could usher in the new season by using up all those leftover canned goods, and frozen items that accumulated throughout the winter, and to make room for all the spring and summer goodies that come only with warmer weather!

So, while doing inventory, I came up with a recipe for a beef minestrone soup. The following is the recipe for the soup I created using ingredients I found in my kitchen. On the flipside, I follow the weight watchers PointsPlus program and have included the PointsPlus (insert trademark here!) value for a serving. I should note, for legal purposes, this soup is not endorsed in any way by Weight Watchers or any of it's entities. Now that I have that out of the way, here is the recipe:

Elizabeth's Beef Minestrone Soup

1 large can of crushed tomatoes

1 can of green beans

1 can chick peas

1 can lentils

1 frozen container (about a cup and a half) of peas and carrots

1 lb ground beef

4 beef broth cubes

2 cups water

2 cloves garlic

2 onions (I used one small spanish, and one large vidalia)

1 teaspoon of Olive Oil

2 cups cooked macaroni (or other small pasta)

NOTE: If you do not have these specific ingredients, its ok to be creative. Really, any bean will do! If you have kidney beans, use them! If you have black beans, or cannelli beans, use them too!! (Soup without Macaroni is 3 PointsPlus per 1 1/4 cup servings. Soup with macaroni is 4 PointsPlus per 1 1/4 cup servings.)

Prep: Spray a non-stick pan with cooking spray. Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Dice onions, and pulverize garlic. Place onions and garlic in pan and saute on medium/low heat until just before translucent. While the onions saute, boil 2 cups of water. Add beef bouillion cubes. Dissolve and stir.

Strain and rinse all beans and veggies. Place in crock. Open can of tomatoes and add to crock. Add beef to crock. Add broth to onion mixture on stove. Stir. Add onion and broth mixture to crock and stir. Cook on high 4-6 hours. Season to taste. I added freshly ground garlic salt and pepper. If you want to add macaroni, simply cook macaroni al dente, and add to soup before serving. The prep on this recipe takes about 10 minutes.

Can be served with the following recipe for fresh, country white bread. I like to toast this bread and smoother in fresh, local honey. But the bread goes with EVERYTHING and once you make it once, you will never use another white bread recipe again!

White Bread Recipe

2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C) '

2/3 cup white sugar

1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

1/4 cup vegetable oil

6 cups bread flour

Directions: In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water, and then stir in yeast. Allow to proof until yeast resembles a creamy foam. Mix salt and oil into the yeast. Mix in flour one cup at a time. Knead dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth. Place in a well oiled bowl, and turn dough to coat. Cover with a damp cloth. Allow to rise until doubled in bulk, about 1 hour. Punch dough down. Knead for a few minutes, and divide in half. Shape into loaves, and place into two well oiled 9x5 inch loaf pans. Allow to rise for 30 minutes, or until dough has risen 1 inch above pans. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 30 minutes.

Enjoy and Happy Spring!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-04T21:08:00.008-04:00

As a child, we had the most wonderful holidays. This was mostly due to the hard work and creativity of my parents. Easter was one of those special holidays where it was always less about the presents and more about being a family, enjoying spring (even on those rare snowy ones) and dressing in our best Easter outfits. When I think back I can recall several special Easter's where my memories are so clear it's as if it was yesterday. I remember Mom making us the best and prettiest dresses, and going to spend time at Grandma's where we would look for Easter eggs and just have good old fashioned fun. But, it was not always easy for my parents to make holidays happen without us knowing that our family may have had less in the way of finances and for what it's worth, we never really knew until later in life how our parents struggled.

My mother would work extra jobs to buy us nice things and my Dad would spend his weekends, literally, in the swamps, trimming down pussywillow bushes and hauling them back to the minivan, to later trim, bundle, and sell to a dealer at the Broadway Market. On Easter Sunday, our traditional and often times antique or handmade baskets, were filled to the brim with the best chocolates from local confectioners. We would race downstairs to seek out our baskets that the "bunny" had hidden about the house and he always found clever places to hide them. One year, after searching all about and feeling quite defeated as my siblings had already found their baskets, my big brother pointed one small finger up to the ceiling. There it was, my basket was hanging from an old beam in our 100 year old house. I never noticed it, as my Mom had always displayed baskets from the beams.

Sadly, so much of this type of holiday fun is taken for granted by so many. But, not by me. I understand the sacrifices my parents made to ensure we had the best holidays and best memories of home and family. I consider myself very fortunate. I hope that by realizing these sacrifices and having such wonderful memories, I will be a better parent myself. I want my own children to have wonderful, special memories of their holidays as well as their every days.

This Christmas passed and, due to Michaels early arrival, I was barely able to make a dozen Christmas cookies. I excused myself from it this year, but next year will be different. This Easter Michael will have his own antique Easter basket, just like I had. He will have pictures taken with pussywillows, peeps, and his basket - of course dressed in his best Easter clothes. He won't remember this Easter, but I won't ever forget it. My little one is growing fast and it's these times that I want to remember most so I can tell him all about it as he gets older.

I think Easter is a great time to reflect and remember that being thankful doesn't just come at thanksgiving. It comes at all different times in our lives, and this Easter is definitely one for us.

Daylight Savings Time, St. Patrick's Day, and Spring!

2011-03-17T14:00:00.006-04:00

In that order! What I would like to know is, when I get to save some time? Interestingly enough, over the last few days I've read several articles relating to helping your children cope/deal with the time difference. Really? I don't remember daylight savings time affecting me, when I was a child - but maybe that's just me. However, as an adult, and for the first time as an adult, springing forward didn't just mean losing an extra hour of sleep - it meant losing an hour to tackle projects that are in desperate need of attention. For example - some "new" antique crystal glasses my mother bought for me as a gift still sat on my wine refrigerator, weeks after they were delivered! I had not sanitized the baby's bottles in over a week - instead I was washing thoroughly, letting them soak in hot, soapy water, and then washing and rinsing again (I think it would have been easier just to stick them in the micro-sterilizer). I also lagged behind on work, repacking Michael's diaper bag with a fresh, fitting outfit, and organizing his clothes, yet again. Those are just *some* things off the top of my head that I could have partially tackled in that lost hour. Shucks!

Moving on, today is St. Patty's Day, and I've neglected my blog, yet again! But here I am, entering a very hurried blog so that I can share a few pictures and then get outside to enjoy....

SPRING! Because it has sprung here in Brooklyn, and I intend to enjoy today as much as possible! Leaving you with a picture of Michael dressed in his St. Patty's day green polo and "cheers" headband. I hope you all are experiencing wonderful, warm weather and have a bit of Irish luck on this very beautiful day!

He has arrived!

2011-01-02T22:57:00.002-05:00

He was 2 weeks early and caught us a bit off guard, and I am posting this almost 5weeks later!

Michael Anthony Dagostino was born on December 13 at 11:53am. He weighed 7 lbs, 2 oz, and was 19.25 inches long. He is the most amazing baby! He sleeps well, eats well, and is all smiles already!

I had a relatively easy labor and delivery - about 13 hours of labor and only about 15 minutes of pushing and he was here. A nice end to a very easy pregnancy - hopefully I will be just as lucky with subsequent children! We arrived home two days after delivery and I had about 4 days off before I started back to work. Tonight marks my last full day of work until the end of March. As much as I love my job, I am so happy to be able to have some Mommy and baby time, finally!

Michael is truly a joy to have and we are so grateful to have such a wonderful addition to our family. My husband is over the moon and absolutely in love with his new buddy!

Will post more soon, when things calm down a bit here.

Yes, I am from a small town. No, I'm not a farmer.

2010-12-05T13:39:00.010-05:00

Glen Falls Bridge, Main Street - Williamsville, NY

Recently my father sent me a newspaper obituary of an acquaintance. The Obit was for Walter Pelcin, always known to me as "Wally the Barber". Yes, he was the village barber. Well, to be fair, there are several village barbers in the small town where I am from, but he was very well known as such.

In passing, I mentioned to my husband that I had heard that our village barber had passed. He sort of laughed (to be clear, NOT at the passing of Wally, but rather that he did not believe that I KNEW the village barber, or that there actually WAS such a person, and they were known as the village barber). He proceeded to explain his reaction, which I knew was not intended to disrespect the passing of Wally, but rather out of disbelief. This was the first time that I realized how very different our lives had been - how where we were raised made such a different impact on each of us.

He then asked me some very strange questions. "Did you have an outdoor skating rink? What about a Christmas tree at town hall? Did you have a town hall? Was there a Dalmatian at the firehouse; was there a firehouse? What about on snow days, did you go ice skating and hold hands and skate in a circle like they do in A Charlie Brown Christmas? Did people go Caroling around the holidays?" I suppose the answer to most of these questions is yes. He didn't make me feel bad about where I am from, he was still in disbelief that the "made for Hallmark channel "village" actually (for the most part) exists.

Some shops in the Village

But for me, for our family, it was simply home. It was not a made up village, it was where we lived, where we grew up, where we became the people we are. We are not farmers, as some people, who have never been outside of a major city, would have you believe. We are not "hicks". We attended the best schools, we made friends we would have for a lifetime, we got our first jobs at 16 and worked at the local library, ice cream parlor, restaurant on Main Street, or local swimming pool. There is nothing "farmer-esque" about growing up in a small village like Williamsville. There is nothing to make it "less" of a place to grow and learn than a city would offer. We were raised to treat each other with respect, we were raised to accept other races, cultures, and religions. We are not culturally deprived - despite what some think. And despite the fact that some believe that living in a city and raising children in a city is a "better" option than that of a small village, I would beg to differ.

Williamsville - Sts. Peter and Paul RC Church

I have very fond memories of being raised in a place where life is lived; and is lived at your own pace - not the pace of fast moving trains or children growing up simply too quickly. We never had a prom in the 4th grade, we never had to have designer boots or makeup in the 3rd grade - but we had lovely things and I have lovely memories still. My main goal in life is to provide my own family with memories just as nice, and to provide them with a place to live that is comfortable, relaxing, non-intrusive to life. A place I am not be scared of when turn out my lights at night and where I don't have to have bars on my windows, a place where my children may walk to school, or to the library, or to the swimming pool. I'd like my children to be able to attend schools that don't force you to walk through metal detectors when entering the building; I'd like to be able to send my kids to public schools that are actually challenging and enlightening, as opposed to simply being pushed through each grade level.

Columbia Drive, Williamsville, NY

These are all thing that I was able to do, while growing up in small village. However, living in city, I see an increasing inability to do so much of this. It's not that the city is such a bad place, it's simply not the kind of place I want to raise my family.

Our dining room, on Columbia Drive, at Christmas

I long for the day when we can retire and find a nice, small house in Williamsville to spend our golden years in; but I've got a long journey ahead of me. Until then, I'm reminded of those wonderful memories growing up there, and determined to find something just as nice for my family, but here in the NYC area. I've just started my research into different areas in Long Island and am very hopeful that I will be successful in finding a nice place to raise our family. Somewhere where my children will look back, wherever they may find themselves as adults, and be reminded of the simple, sweet, and memorable childhood they had.

Apple Sauce and my KitchenAid Mixer

2010-11-22T13:40:00.012-05:00

So, I recently realized that I never blogged about my mixer!

What a perfect way to introduce you to my lovely vintage mixer and to show you her lovely original attachments in action.

Last week I had some spare time in the morning, and some spare energy, so I decided to make some homemade apple sauce for breakfast. I never thought it would be easy to make, but in particular how easy it would be with my trusty mixer!

Here's a quick step-by-step:

1. Clean and chop apples

2. Boil apples in hot water for about 3-4 minutes or until soft.

3. Drain water

4. Add apples to sauce attachment on mixer

5. Place bowl/pan underneath the mixer attachment to catch sauce
6. Turn on mixer and allow paddle to push apples through sieve on attachment

7. Scrape bottom of attachment to remove any excess sauce

Add sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, and cinnamon as desired (I used brown sugar, just a tad, and a little bit of lemon juice and drop of vanilla. SO delicious!

It took me about 15 minutes to make about 2 cups of sauce. The hardest part, if you can call it hard, was chopping the apples. The rest was super simple and so wonderfully delicious. I ate a cup for breakfast and a cup for dessert!

Now, let's talk mixer.

I was gifted my vintage mixer by my Mother. About 8 years ago my Mom decided to purchase a new KitchenAid Artisan mixer, in red. Of course, I was ready to inherit her older mixer, older as in it was made in 1957! When it was given to me it had clear signs of wear, or, I like to think of it as well "loved". It's the same mixer I can recall many childhood days spent pouring ingredients into for cookies, cakes, and other treats. It's the same mixer that I recall mashed our potatoes every thanksgiving, for many, many years.

I was very excited when I brought my mixer from Buffalo to Brooklyn, and even more excited when my husband offered to have it restored for me! The mixer was still in working order, but since we had just finished remodeling our kitchen, we both felt as though our mixer needed a makeover, and a well deserved one, I think! Also, the idea of just "getting rid" of the mixer never even crossed my mind. It wasn't until after we had the mixer restored that someone said to me, "oh, I love your new professional lift model, it's fabulous, isn't it?" that I realized that no one could tell the difference between my 50+ year old model and a new model! Still, I would never trade my mixer for a new one unless it was absolutely necessary (read, it would have to be unrepairable!). In fact, about a week or so after my Mom had purchased her new Artisan model, she asked me if I had wanted to swap with her. She explained that her older model, now my model, had much more power to it than her new model, and she missed it. I wasn't about to given u the coveted mixer and dear Mom had to "suffer" with her new model!

Back to the restoration. Joe pulled apart the mixer, very carefully, and sanded and blasted each part. Once he was done with that, a friend of his repainted the mixer for us, in original white, as it should be. Joe also had the mixer tuned up, and a new cord put on. The mixer now stands proud on my granite counter top and is used regularly, and of course, runs like a top! I'm very grateful to have been given such a wonderful, and meaningful gift from my Mother, and more recently, from y husband in the form of a Mixer Makeover!

The mixer's original attachments include:

2 mixing bowls

1 sauce bowl with 2 fitted sieves, as well as a wooden paddle attachment to "push" the apples, tomatoes, etc, down past the sieve.
1 wire whisk

1 Citrus juicer

1 paddle attachment

1 dough hook

The attachments I have acquired which are not original to the machine, but still fit thanks to KitchenAid's genius front power source, are as follows:

Pasta rollers and cutters - Spaghetti and Fettuccine

Ice cream maker

Sausage stuffer

OK, that's enough about my mixer, I'm sure I've bored enough people! Go make some apple sauce!

Projects

2010-11-17T08:28:00.005-05:00

Less than 7 weeks to go and I'm swamped with projects, along with my normal workload! I just wanted to take a minute this morning and share some of the projects I have started, but have yet to complete (although I am close!).

My first project, that is quite time-limited as Christmas approaches rapidly, is a pair of Christmas stockings for my husband and soon-to-be son. Many moons ago my Mom purchased a vintage stocking for me. At the time, I was just a small child, and the stocking was made in the 1950's. Several Christmas' were spent eagerly awaiting Mom and Dad to wake up, and during that time my siblings and I would empty our our stockings to see what Santa had filled them with. Often times they contained small, wrapped gifts that we would wait to open, but even though it was expected, we always looked forward to the annual items: walnut (that we would immediately chuck at each other amongst excited giggles), Kattetongs (pieces of chocolate in the shape of a small, double-ended spoon, made by a man we only ever knew as "the candyman"), chewing gum, and of course, an orange at the bottom of the stocking. Christmas just would not have been the same without the opening of our stockings before Mom and Dad awoke and I hope to give our child the same sweet memories. Luckily, I was able to find the pattern for the same stocking I still have. A few weeks ago my husband and I stopped at the craft store and he picked out the colors for what would be his stocking, and one for Michael as well. While the shades of red, green, and white don't exactly match the colors of my original stocking, he picked some great wools and so far, so good! I've managed to recreate about half of the stocking so far, after much googling and teaching myself how to knit in Intarsia :) I must say, I am impressed so far - I'm just hoping I am able to keep up with the pattern when the time comes to turn the heel!

To save others some time, I found the vintage Bernat Stocking Pattern on another knitters blog. Check out Ruthless Knitting for the pattern, info, and all the specs:

http://ruthlessknitting.com/vintage-santa-stocking-pattern/santa-claus-stocking-pattern

I've been using Vanna's Choice, by Lion Brand, for the red, green, and white, and a beautiful off-white, angora I picked up at Purl in SoHo. As soon as I have completed both stockings I will update with a pictures of all three stockings.

Another project I am working on is a sweater, hat, mitten and scarf (for Mom) set for a friend of mine. I started out by making a sweater for my little guy using the Lion Brand pattern for the Playdate hoodie sweater (this can be found on Lion Brand's webpage) and making sure I could complete the project first, before setting out to make someone else the same item! I use a basic baby hat pattern, and basic thumbless mitten pattern. The scarf is a single cable scarf made with the same Vanna's choice yarn that I craft the sweater with. Below is a picture of the first sweater I made for my little one. More pictures to come of the completed projects. Since our babies will be born within 2 months of each other, and knowing how many newborn baby items I received at my shower, I decided to make each set sized for a 1 year old. I can't wait to finish this project and send it to my friend, I know she will love it!

Finally, my last knitting project is a scarf for myself. I've made so many scarves (as that was all I could knit for a long time) that I'd really like to use up some of my fisherman's wool on a nice double-cabled scarf for myself.

In addition to these projects, I've almost got all my "nesting" things done, although I am sure that will change as my little one gets close to him arrival! I've got a few last minute things to catch up on, like finishing packing my hospital bag, and organizing little Michael's room, again. But, I think I've got a little bit of time to finish up. Christmas cards must be finished and cookie party invitations must go out next week - so let's hope for a productive week this week!

Tis the Season, already!

2010-11-10T13:14:00.004-05:00

I can't believe that Thanksgiving is just 15 days away, and then Christmas right around the corner! It's certainly an exciting time of year!

All the fabulous holiday foods, spirit, family, and friends make the holidays extra special for us. Family traditions and things close to our hearts warm our home during this season, and who could forget all the lovely presents!?

In the excitement of all running around, shopping, decorating, and holiday parties, I think it's important to remember all that we really are thankful for and fortunate to have in our lives. I am truly blessed in many ways and am so thankful for my wonderful family, friends, and all the conveniences that make my life easy and comfortable. I am fortunate to have a wonderful job, work with great people, and, most importantly, to have good health - especially now in my 8th month of pregnancy. I am also fortunate to be pregnant with our first child. After having undergone fertility treatments in order to conceive, it's something I will never take for granted. I am beyond grateful or the gift I have been given!

In the age of iPad's, smartphones, hi-tech computers, gadgets, fancy cars, nice clothes, and other "unnecessary" (although fun) items, I think there is nothing that can replace the feeling you get when you help another to enjoy their holidays a little bit more. What could be better than putting a smile on a child's face, or make someone who is lonely and feeling blue, feel a little brighter?

I'm posting today to encourage all to do something nice for someone else this season. Whether it's holding a door open, buying the person in line next to you at the coffee shop a fresh cup of Joe, attending a charity event, or being kind to someone who has not been kind to you; any act of kindness goes a long way. Last year my cousin sent an email out to some friends and family asking for their support and help for a family in her area that needed a helping hand. The family had two small children and both parents had been laid off from their jobs. The money they were earning from unemployment barely covered their mortgage and other bills. They had very little to give their children for Christmas, and needed any extra money they could scrounge up to put in their gas tank in order to get to job interviews. I felt for the family and thought that since my husband and I were both working and very fortunate to have good jobs, that we should help in some way. I sent the family a Visa gift card in a Christmas card. I did not include my personal information; just a note to let them know that I had heard about their situation and hoped that the gift would help them - even if to just get by.

I don't know what happened to the family, but I am certain that, with the help from others as well, they were well taken care of this past holiday season. I'm hoping to find a family in need this year as well.

Here are some places you might want to contact if you are able to help a person/child/family in your own community:

1. Your local church, synagogue, or other house of worship
2. Local schools. I am certain if you call and mention that you'd like to donate gifts to a family less fortunate they will point you in the right direction. Often times schools have special drives for organizations like Toys for Tots
3. Hospitals. While I am not sure if hospitals take direct donations for supplies, I do know that some hospitals accept donations of baby clothes (some for still-born babies). Also, you could be directed to a charity within the hospital that might know of a family that needs help with medical bills, etc.
4. Local soup kitchens and food shelters. I am sure you can do an Internet search and find one or more in your area that accepts donations.

One last thing to keep in mind. Before you head out and shop, go ahead and make sure that what you are purchasing is, indeed needed. Often times people get into the spirit of giving (which is great!) but they purchase things that are less needed than others items. It's always best to directly contact the charity, organization, or family (or friend of the family) and ask what is needed most before spending any amount of money.

I hope that by reading this, some will decide to give to another - even if it's just something small. It's our duty to be kind to one another and to help those in need; without asking for credit for it or recognition. There's no better feeling that knowing you did something for another that did not require recognition. Just do it, you'll feel great and you'll help someone else out.

Happy Halloweenie!

2010-11-02T09:48:00.005-04:00

What a fun day!

Just a quick post. I was completely lazy this year, not wanting to shop for a costume, either in person or online, I went with an internet-found, no-sew costume - Static Cling! I pinned socks and dryer sheets all over me, and a friend did my hair to make it look messy and static filled. It was a lot of fun, and people seemed to like my cheapo, lazy costume. You can't really tell that I am 7 months pregnant from the picture, but if I turned to the side there would be no mistaking it! I celebrated my little baby bump by pinning a Buffalo Sabres onesie to my bump.

We handed out candy, briefly, before heading out to Bogota restaurant in Park Slope, Brooklyn. We love Bogota, and had a great dinner there.

All in all, a great time was had by all. Today is election day and I'm taking a break from the loads of work I have to type this, as I will be working clear through the night tonight. We also have our hospital tour this evening, which we are very much looking forward to.

I am sure the time is going to fly now, as post-election work will keep me busy for a minimum of 40 hours a week, and Thanksgiving is just a few short weeks away. It's hard to believe that the littlest Dagostino will be here in about 8 short weeks, likely less!!!

Busy, Busy, Bee's!

2010-10-27T10:22:00.003-04:00

Well, well! I just came on here to moderate comments and noticed it had been a month since my last post. So sorry! I got caught up with tons of work and all sorts of baby stuff and got behind on posting.

Nothing really new to report, other than the general election is coming up in 6 days and I've been swamped with work. However, as any expectant parent knows, a boring pregnancy is nver a bad thing.

I had my glucose test upon returning home from Buffalo and passed! I also had two visits with the Dr in the last month, were baby checked out great both times. Joey and I even got a sneak peak this week when we had an ultrasound at the office. We got to see Michael's heart, head, legs, arms, feet, and tummy! He's getting so big and sometimes it feels like there just isn't any room left.

I admitted to Joey yesterday that I'd been having mini-panic attacks thinking that I was going to squish him and that he wouldn't have enough room - but I think that has more to do with the fact that I believe I don't have enough room in our house, rather than my body. Things are getting mighty crammed and I look forward to the day when I have room for the things I ALREADY have, not even things I would like to have. I desperately wanted a fireplace this year, but there is just no space, with the baby bassinett in the living room, we don't have the space for a faux fireplace, and we've run out of room in the garage to store things. Our only option would be to rent a storage unit, of which we both refuse to do (mostly because I still have a storage unit back in Buffalo and am desperate to bring those items back here!). So, we must wait until after baby arrives to begin the search for a home with more space for our growing little family.

Other than the space issue, I am pleased to announce that I've taken up knitting once again and, with the help of some online videos, have been able to master the cable, as well as stripes! Next task, learning to work patterns into pieces. I recently found a pattern to make a Christmas stocking with. The pattern happens to be for the SAME EXACT Christmas stocking I have had my whole life! As soon as I have a moment I will head to the craft store and buy the supplies I need to make the vintage stocking. I hope to make 2 of them. One for my little baby, and one for my Husband - then we can all have matching stockings for Christmas.

I can't believe our little guy will be here in less than 2 months! Where does the time go? There might be a slight delay from this post to the next, as the general election is next week and I wll be VERY busy with work, but I will do my best to supply at least one post in the coming weeks.

Until then, wishing all my friends a very happy halloween and a happy election day too!

2010 Pumpkin Shortage

2010-09-26T10:49:00.004-04:00

Again???

On a recent trip to Buffalo, NY, I stopped at a local grocery store to pick up some Lakeshore Pumpkin (I've only ever been able to find it in Buffalo!). I looked in the baking aisle and the vegetable aisles, only to find a complete lack of any canned pumpkin - at all! I stopped at the service desk to inquire about the missing pumpkin and was told that due to droughts, this year's pumpkin crop was almost non-existent. Go figure.

Last year the crop, I believe mostly grown in IL, was wiped out by heavy rains, and this year the crop was obliterated by the high heat and humidity. I feel bad for all those little pumpkins, the poor things never had a chance. This summer, at least here in the northeast, was one of the worst, in terms of heat and humidity, that I have ever experienced. It took it's toll on me, as well as the little pumpkins. I lost a lot of muscle tone, as I was not able to do much exercising outdoors and could not exert myself that much due to my pregnancy. So I feel for those pumpkins - they really didn't have a chance :(

On our way home from Buffalo we (Mom and I) stopped at Spoth Farms on County Road in Clarence and picked up a few pie pumpkins to cook and puree ourselves. Below you will find instructions on how to make your own pumpkin puree this season. I have yet to try my pumpkin as it has been too hot, still, to bake much here - but I am very much looking forward to tasting our little buffalo pumpkins in some cookies and muffins as soon as the weather cools down. I've been told that baking and pureeing your own pumpkin is much better than the canned stuff, but I'm a skeptic still - hopefully all the experts are right.

One last thing to keep in mind when setting out on this project. Keep in mind that not all pumpkins are meant for eating. Jack-o-lanterns are meant for carving, and fun things like that, but are not the ideal, sweet pumpkins meant for eating. When at the grocers or farmer's market, ask for a pie pumpkin, or a sugar pumpkin. They are typically smaller than you average jack-o-lantern, and a darker orange, in color. Also, they are not as small as gourds, so don't make that mistake - think somewhere in between a gourd and a jack-o-lantern. I'll try and follow this article up with a review of my own pumpkin, as soon as it cools down and I can make some yummy treats!

1 small pie pumpkin
A few cups of water
An oven-safe baking dish

Clean pumpkin with warm water, do not use soap.

Cut pumpkin in half and spoon out insides (seeds and stringy stuff). Cut off stem. Cut pumpkin in large chunks. Place chunks of pumpkin in baking dish and add a few cups of water (I added 3-4). Cover with tin foil. Bake at 375 for about an hour. Remove baking dish from oven and remove tin foil and allow to cool for 15 minutes. Peel, or gently slice off the dark pumpkin skin. Add chunks to blender or food processor and puree. Mixture can be frozen in ziplock bags until ready for use. Do not attempt to can, as home canning has not been found to be safe, according to my research.

A Baby Shower at Needmore Farm, Wilson, NY

2010-09-26T10:16:00.003-04:00

On September 11th I had the opportunity to be in Buffalo with most of my family and friends to celebrate our soon-to-be newest family member, Michael.

The shower was held at the lovely farm of a long-time family friend at Needmore Farm in Wilson, NY. One of my favorite things to do when I am back home in Buffalo, is to go and visit our friends at the farm. It was certainly a special time for me; especially considering our history.

We met our friends while I was singing at St. Paul's Cathedral, in downtown Buffalo, about 21 years ago. I was about 7 when we first met Maureen, and her daughter Allison - also a singer at St. Paul's. When I was preparing to make my first communion at Sts. Peter and Paul in Williamsville, NY, Maureen made my dress and veil. 19 years later, I was honored when Maureen agreed to make my wedding dress. So, when Maureen offered to throw a baby shower in honor of our newest addition, I was more than thrilled. 21 years is a long time - and I find myself very lucky to have Maureen and Allison as friends.

The event was wonderful and I couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day. We ate chicken salad sandwiches on fresh biscuits, and cucumber sandwiches as well. Fresh pasta salad, made with farm fresh produce was one of my favorite items on the menu. Delicious desserts were to be had as well, including lemon cakes, and cupcakes, and an adorable yellow ducky cake that Maureen had made the evening before.

All sorts of wonderful presents were given to Michael, and he is certainly a lucky little boy! I had been trying to control my spending before the shower, as I knew I would receive many gifts - so I only had purchased about 5 outfits (although my loving husband did not do such a good job controlling his "gifting" and purchased the crib, changing table and stroller, amongst other things, before the shower). However, I never realized that the outpouring of generosity would be so great! We received LOADS (or rather one VERY LARGE car load) of gifts for our little one. I cannot possibly list all of the wonderful things we received, but I am sure in coming months many of them will be pictured with baby Michael, so stay tuned!

While the presents were a wonderful part of the shower, the very best memory I have of this special day, is being able to spend time with, and see most of my family - especially those whom don't get to spend much time with, and ones who traveled great distances to attend the shower. Every day, not just the day of the shower, I find myself very blessed to have such a lovely family. I know that some families are not very close, and allow distances to come between their relationships. I'm very fortunate that this is not the case with my family, and am very grateful for such fortune.

When Mom and I arrived back in Brooklyn, we had some help from my husband in unloading our packed car. He was more than happy to help, and I was so happy to see him after being away for 2 weeks! We spent the evening showing my Mother-in-law all of our gifts and, regardless of the language barrier between us, I know she was so happy with all the lovely gifts, and happy to have us back home.

It was sad when I had to put my Mom back on an airplane to England, and I loved having her here with me - I wish we did not live so far away from each other. But, it was a wonderful time that we were able to spend with one another and I am very thankful for that time. In just a few short months she and Jim will be back for the arrival of our little guy, and we just can't wait! Soon thereafter, my sister will arrive with her boyfriend, and my brother and his girlfriend - the soon-to-be Godparents of our little one! We are counting down the short months until everyone is together again.

Happy Anniversary!

2010-08-28T14:38:00.010-04:00

Just engaged! Niagara on the Lake - February 2009

Our first picture together, Brooklyn Brewery

Mohawk Point Vacation - Joe hearts Elizabeth

Halloween 2009 - The Statue of Liberty and a NY Ranger

Joey's first pumpkin!

Our first Christmas tree together

One year ago today I married the most wonderful man in the world. That day marked the beginning of something that I knew would be amazing, but never knew exactly how amazing it would be.

I have made many mistakes in my life, but one thing I got right was marrying Joe. If that is the only thing I ever do right in my life, it will have all been worth it just to spend my life with him.

Joe and I met through an online personals website. I had just moved to New York City and everything was new to me. I had a new life, new surroundings, and new people - but very few of them I knew very well. I can still remember the first moment I saw Joe. I hurried down the stairs of my apartment and swung open the door, not realizing that Joe was waiting for me on the outside stairs. I looked down and I was met with the biggest, most beautiful smile - and there he was! I'll never forget that moment as long as I live. We had a fantastic, 6 hour first date! We still frequent the coffee shop that we visited that night; it's one of our favorite spots. Our second date was to a local brewery, where we sampled some great beers - something we both love! After that, we were inseparable. It's been almost 3 years since that first date, and I will cherish every moment, always, and every moment that is to come.

When I think about our first year together I think of all the wonderful times we've had, and I can't help but think of what the future has in store for us. I never dreamed I would be 6 months pregnant with our first baby on our one year anniversary, but here we are, and there's no denying the little life inside me. All the special times and memories we've had together this past year, and to know that it will only get better makes me eager for the future and grateful for all the blessings we have had.

As a wedding gift last year, Joe presented me with a small book of poems. The book has no author listed, no copyright date, and is rather old. However, the poems it contains are beautiful and are cherished by me. The book is titled, "To the Lady Whom I Love". A small poem on the first page is so sweet, I thought I would share it, as well as one other poem that I found very fitting:

"The language of my heart

is written in this book

Mark how strong my love is

When in it thou shalt look"

Also, another poem:

A Love Song

Laugh not, nor weep, but let thine eyes

grow soft and dim (so love should be)

and be thy breathing tender, quick,

And tremulous, whilst I gaze on thee

And let thy words be few or none;

But murmur, such as soothe the air

In summer, when the day is done,

Be heard, sweet heart, when I am here,

And I - Oh! I in those soft times,

When all around is still and sweet

Will love thee more thousand times

than if the world were at thy feet.

Happy Anniversary, Joey! You are my dream come true.

Some ginger, for my snap!

2010-08-24T21:05:00.003-04:00

I finally got some energy! Enough to make dinner AND complete not just ONE, but TWO baking projects tonight. For dinner - chicken, broccoli, rice casserole. For dessert - some gingersnaps for my little ginger snap!

I've been feeling a bit nauseated for the past week, and a friend of mine - Brannan, from The Pregnant Vegetarian told me that ginger sometimes helps - although, despite drinking several litres of ginger ale, the bubbles did not seem to help. So, I figured I would try my hand at some homemade ginger snaps, recipe courtesy of a friend of mine and re-posted here for your enjoyment. I'm crediting Emily Jansson for the fabulous recipe, and for sharing it with me and a group of women this past Christmas at a cookie exchange party held at our home here in Brooklyn.

The recipe makes a delicious few dozen soft ginger snaps. And, they are delicious. I am not a huge fan of ginger snaps, but these just melt in your mouth.

Emily's "Williamsville" Ginger Snaps

¾ cup shortening
1 cup sugar
¼ cup molasses (light or dark)
1 egg
2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground ginger
Preheat oven to 350.
Cream together shortening and sugar. Add molasses and egg. Beat. Add flour, soda, and spices. Beat until smooth. Roll into small balls. Dip half of each ball into granulated sugar (don’t press down).
Place on greased cookie sheet, leave as balls – don’t flatten. Bake 7-9 minutes. Makes about 4 dozen cookies.

On a side note, I won't jinx myself by saying anything more than this - I was able to make these, eat a few, and also bake a loaf of bread. So - here's to ginger!

21 weeks and counting!

2010-08-22T11:43:00.004-04:00

Well, we've made it half way through! While I'd like to be celebrating with champagne, I'll sip the ginger ale instead - especially considering week 21 brought some unwanted nausea.

Overall, this pregnancy has been quite easy for me, and I've been saying how spoiled I've been. However, it seems like that's all changed this past week. On Thursday I was hit with a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach. Then, the nausea continued for 2 more days, before semi-subsiding today. Not only was I hit with this wave of terrible nausea smack dab in the middle of my second trimester, but the complete and extreme fatigue that accompanied it, was also not welcomed. There I was, puttering along, looking forward to finishing up a very, very busy primary season at work - proud of my accomplishment of getting through it whilst pregnant; and WHAM - the blah feeling hit me like ton of bricks!

So, I woke up this morning determined to feel better - even if my body wasn't ready to - I was ready to! I slept in a bit (until 9:30!), I took Avery on a nice, slow walk, I made my regular morning breakfast, I did some light stretching, and finally I logged online to work on some blogging and do some online shopping and browsing. While that might seem like a "do-nothing" kind of morning, with the way I've been feeling it was exactly opposite of that. So, I am feeling a bit better; although that constant nauseous feeling is still lingering about.

Also on today's agenda - a short walk to the bakery to pick up some pizza dough and some light vacuuming and tidying up.

Finally, I can't forget to mention all the "movement" that's been going on. Constant kicking, punching, and jumping! I really do have an active little boy in there! We like to joke that he's practicing for his career as the "fighter" hockey player; skating around in my tummy and throwing some kicks and punches in there for good measure. I must say that the movement is a lot different than I expected. I thought for certain that it would feel "clear", like bumping your knee on the coffee table and you know exactly where the pain is. Baby movements for me feel more like a radiating "swish" of movement, but quick, like that snap of a finger. That's probably the worst description ever, but it's how it feels to me. I am going to take a guess that that's not always how those movements are going to feel. I suspect that the movements will become much more "clear" and distinct, as the weeks progress. Still, since we will not have another ultrasound for another 10 weeks, I am glad that he is moving around and letting me know that he is here to stay - even if it's in the middle of the night.

I am fast approaching a trip to Buffalo and being a bridesmaid in my cousin's wedding. I am so excited to be in the wedding and to be present for such an event; but oh BOY can being pregnant and being in a wedding cause some serious concerns. When she asked me to be in the wedding, I was not pregnant. I agreed, and ordered my dress 2 sizes to big, just in case. SO glad I did! The wedding is in 13 days and my bridesmaids dress fits PERFECT, except for a hem too long and a bust too long, but at least it fits perfect in the waist - and with me only gaining 5-8 lbs in the last 20 weeks, I was surprised that it fit and didn't need to be taken in. Still, I am glad it fits and will fit for the wedding, and so excited to be seeing friends and family. Also in the plan for my trip to Buffalo - a baby shower! I am SO excited about this as well, not so much for the gifts or yummy homemade food, but mainly to see my family and friends! Mom is headed back from England, and Aunts and cousins are headed from Florida! I couldn't be more excited to see my family, especially during this special time in my life.

On the agenda for the next few weeks - RELAX, have fun, and enjoy a beautiful wedding, a wonderful shower, and a few nice days off! Signing off now with my latest "bump" pic!

Avery

2010-08-12T14:41:00.009-04:00

Avery, day 2

So, since finding out I was pregnant, I have not had much time to stop and write about our other, very important addition, Avery.

Three days before we found out that we were expecting, we began fostering a small, shorty Jack Russell Terrier named Mimi. I picked up "Mimi" at a shelter here in Brooklyn on a very rainy, April morning. Mimi, whom now answers to the name Avery, was shy, scared, and very sad looking. I remember taking her for a short walk outside the shelter to see if she responded to me. She would not look up at me, or acknowledge me at all. I had a terrible feeling that I would not be able to help her, which was very unsettling. I walked her back into the shelter and we walked to the director's office together. I sat in a chair and Avery was occupied with sniffing and smelling all sorts of things that were clearly new to her. She still would not make eye contact with me, even after I called her by her name and held my hand out for her to sniff. I asked lots of questions and tried to get the low down on Avery's story. The only information they were really able to provide was that Avery had been surrendered by her owners and that she was 6 years old, and scared. They also explained that she had been taken from the shelter to an adoption event and had been adopted, but was then returned a week later; with the new owners citing "aggression" issues.

I looked over at Avery, who had at that point decided to sit and watch us chatting", and called her name and she came over to me, now jumping at my leg. She was still a bit timid, and very scared, with her tail between her legs. I did not want to leave her at the shelter, but in my mind I knew that my abilities and experience with "aggressive" dogs was extremely limited. In the end, I knew my duty was to "foster" her and try to help her. I signed her out, and after 3 years without a dog, I now held my own little "second hand" dog.

She was scared in the car, but inquisitive at the same time. She sat in my last most of the way home, and since it was raining and I did not want to have to go back out, I took her right to the pet store to buy food, treats, a leash, collar, and some toys. I purchased several items and Avery seemed to be happy in the pet store, even picking out her own ball.

Jumping to reach the fountain! Avery loves water!

We returned home and, despite my husband's uneasiness about fostering a dog, the best I could do was explain again that if she didn't work with us, they would find her another foster home and then at least she would have a nice few days with us. He seemed ok with the idea. That first day, and first week, as rough. But, Avery began to adjust to us, and at that point some of her behaviors began to come out.

Avery is not "aggressive". She has not been socialized. She has NO IDEA how to act around other people or other animals. She is a Jack Russell, which naturally makes her attentive and possessive of her owners. I'm no dog whisperer, but I'd say that whomever owned her likely never actually took her out of the house. She did know how to play, and LOVES playing with her tennis balls. She also LOVES her walks with me.

In the end, we decided to adopt Avery. I was uncertain, and to a certain degree, still am - as I am constantly thinking about how she will react to the baby. However, if I can manage to have made progress with her at this point, then I think I can handle whatever may come. She is no longer "snipping" at other dogs, unless provoked. She does not "nip" at people, as long as they don't provoke anything, and she is generally well adjusted; but I am certain this is still the beginning of our journey together.

I remember the third day after we picked her up from the shelter, lying in bed and Joe leaned over and said, "It's not often that I would say that doing something like what we've done with this dog was a good idea, but I really think we made a good decision to get her and keep her". I completely agree. Avery came into our lives at a point where we were both exhausted, worn out, etc. We had just started our last round of fertility treatments and I had been quite depressed about that. I wasn't leaving the house very much and mostly I was just very uninspired. I needed a friend her during the day, and a dog was the perfect pal for me to have. In many respects I still think that we needed Avery just as much as she needed us.

So, we are very thankful for Avery and the joy she brings to our little family - even when her little white furs get everywhere and I'm sweeping the floors and vacuuming 4 times a week!

We are happy to have welcomed Avery into our family and hope that we have many years of joy and happiness together!

It's a BOY!

2010-08-09T11:31:00.007-04:00

Well, it's been about 2 weeks since we learned that teeny pannini was a BOY, and we couldn't be more excited. We had to do some shopping immediately, as the nursery bedding we had selected was on sale and in the process of discontinuation, so we wanted to make sure we got it before it was no longer available. We ended up buying the "Little Planes" collection from Pottery Barn Kids and it was so much fun to buy and register for additional items in the store.

While my husband was excited to pick all sorts of "blue" items, he did mention to me that he had looked over at the "girls" side of the store, and was a bit sad that we wouldn't be over there picking out things. I know he would have been thrilled with a girl as well - she certainly would have been his little Princess.

While on vacation, we also purchased several small items for Teeny. We had the opportunity to spend the day in Toronto, where we visited the Hockey Hall of Fame and the Wayne Gretzky restaurant. What a great day! We had some shopping fun at both places as well.

When we returned home from vacation my husband could not wait to create something special for his little guy. Below is the special project he worked on for several days, all handmade with love from Daddy:

We are so excited about seeing Teeny again next week at our 20 WEEK ultrasound!! I can't believe we are half way there! Every time we get to see him, or hear his little heartbeat, is just so wonderful and such a happy occasion. Hopefully we will have somem additional pictures to post after that appointment. Until then, we'll leave you with a picture of our "fury" baby - Avery!

It's a Heat Wave!

2010-07-06T16:42:00.005-04:00

Well, I certainly never expected to be in the middle of a heat wave in New York City, let alone be in the heat-wave while pregnant. However, here I am and it's only day 2 of 4 of the 100 degree days!

As my midwife reminded me, drink loads of water, even if it means that you will gain 10 lbs of water weight. But what else can you do to beat this unfamiliar and uncomfortable heat while pregnant - or not pregnant for that matter? Here are some of my personal tips:

Stay indoors when you can and when temperatures threaten any outdoor activity. There are LOADS of things you can do indoors such as play board games, watch movies, clean house (or if you are pregnant, get some much needed nesting completed!), complete projects that needed to be completed months ago (that's what usually on my list!) and organize household expenses and budgets. While some of these tasks may not be fun, getting them done while forced to spend time indoors will lead to free time you have later on that sunny, 75 degree day that you want to spend at the beach! (Still, easier said than done for some of us, including me!)

When possible, spend some time floating about a well shaded, non-heated - and CLEAN pool. I've been nervous about the public pools here in the city, but I am sure they are maintained well enough. We are very fortunate to have a family member with a pool, and said family member also only lives a block away - so, bonus, we are able to swim at our leisure almost all summer long.

A friend offered this tip: chill your sore feet in a nice cold, foot bath! It's as easy as grabbing the nearest bucket and filling it up with some ice cold water and sitting back to relax and enjoy!

Try some sprinkler fun. Any old sprinkler will do. If you have a little bit of yard you can set up the sprinkler, go for it! Set up a lawn chair nearby and sit and relax. Try to find a spot in the shade, as it will be nicer there.

Eat foods that are high in water content such as watermelon, cucumbers, tomatoes, grapes, and other yummy fruits and veggies. Your tummy will be happy and the extra water will help to cool you down.

Finally, make sure you are getting enough cool rest at night. If you don't have an air conditioner, splurge for an exhaust window fan, and then a regular room fan. Place the window fan in the window so that it is backwards (in order to suck out the hot air) and place the regular fan near your bed to cool you all night long. A good night's sleep will help your body to stay cool through the rest of the day.

I will leave you with the most recent picture of our little one. "Teeny Pannini" as we are calling him/her was quite active during our last scan at 13 weeks, but all was well and baby checked out perfectly. Our Nuchal screen went off without a hitch and results came back perfect! We couldn't be happier that our little one is doing so well. We are still so excited about welcoming Teeny into this world and after each day our little miracle baby becomes more and more real. Today, hearing that little heartbeat, was like music to my ears - as I am sure it always will be. Dad will be there at our next, elective scan, which will be at 16 weeks. In just 3 short weeks we should know whether Teeny Pannini will prefer blue or pink! That scan will take place while we are on vacation in Canada!

Basil Grows in Brooklyn

2010-06-20T20:40:00.006-04:00

But you wouldn't know that if you had tried planting it last year.

More than abundant, downright habitual downpours stunted the growth of most of my basil plants last year, and therefore no tasty meals made with fresh basil from the garden. But this year, the basil on the patio garden is plentiful and I couldn't be happier. I've already used some on our homemade pizza, and plan to make a nice, authentic Italian meal for my husband this coming week - I'm thinking lasagna!

Also growing by leaps and bounds - a pineapple plant, originally purchased at Ikea, of all places! My husband insists that the pineapple won't be for eating, but rather for looking at, but I have a feeling by the end of summer we will be eating it.

Finally, some container tomato's I am growing. They just started to flower this week, so we should be expecting some fresh tomato's in the coming weeks - can anyone say caprese salad?? This will have to do as we will be skipping our trip to Italy this summer as we continue to prepare to welcome our little one this winter.

Speaking of welcoming the little one, I am 11 weeks this week! Wow, time does NOT fly! It drags! I am so eager to be out of the first trimester and on to the second, and third. Nevertheless, I am very much enjoying the "pregnant" life, and have lots to be grateful for. I already love my "teeny pannini" as we have named him/her!

Back to the garden, I've been hunting for a great pesto recipe, something tasty - but not too strong, and authentic. If you have a great recipe, please send - I would love to feature it - credit given, of course! Signing off for now, it's time to spend a little time snuggling with the one I love.

A Brooklyn Wedding - Elizabeth Todaro, Pastry Chef

2010-06-12T14:18:00.015-04:00

My beautiful wedding cake created by Elizabeth Todaro

Planning a wedding in Brooklyn is no simple task. However, with the right people involved it can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.

Enter Elizabeth Todaro, pastry chef extraordinaire, wife, mother, and now friend. While planning my August 2009 wedding I embarked on a search for a talented pastry chef who could create my dream wedding cake, and manage to complete the task within my budget. After searching out several trendy bakeries and meeting with a few pastry chefs, I finally had the pleasure of coming across Elizabeth.

Elizabeth with one of the tiers of a recent wedding cake

We met on a cold February morning to discuss my ideas for the cake as well as review some of her impressive portfolio of cakes. Right away we hit it off! Elizabeth is a stay-at-home Mom who is also a talented pastry chef. As a work-at-home gal myself, I was impressed by her desire to dedicate her life to spending her days at home with her family, and by being industrious enough to open her own bakery business, right from her Brooklyn kitchen! For Elizabeth though, it seems like the decision was easy as pie, or maybe cake!

Elizabeth, in her element!

Elizabeth has always enjoyed baking, even as a child her favorite thing to bake was Tiramisu – something I have yet to master myself. She even graduated from New York Restaurant School in 2001. After having now 12 year old daughter Sarah, and before giving birth to twin boys Sonny and Massi (now 14 months), Elizabeth was working as a technician’s helper for Verizon. While she was pregnant with the boys she decided that she wanted to start her own home based business as a pastry chef, and worked hard to gain clients, and keep them coming back.
Elizabeth makes about 1 specialty or occasion cake per weekend (think wedding, or special birthday cakes). She is fortunate to be surrounding by a loving and support family including her husband, sister-in-law, and mother-in-law. As a family, everyone enjoys the “baking” lifestyle, even daughter Sarah loves to watch TLC’s Cake Boss, although as I learned recently, Sarah also has quite a talent for photography!

Elizabeth's primary reason for wanting to work from home - taking care of, and being close to, her beautiful family - Sonny, Massi, Sarah, and husband Tom (not pictured)

Elizabeth noted that her favorite part of baking for a living is that she gets to be a part of someone’s special day and knowing the importance of that special day herself, being married to husband Tom for several years, she can also understand the pressure brides are under. Elizabeth’s bright smile, warm personality, understanding, and talent for knowing just exactly how to create that perfect wedding cake is what truly sets her apart from the trendy bakeries of Brooklyn and NYC.

After meeting with Elizabeth, clients will be relieved to have found someone truly capable of making their wedding cake, or occasion cake dream come true. In addition to baking, Elizabeth includes delivery of her masterpieces, ensuring that your cake will arrive safe and beautiful at your venue. For the Bride that needs it all, like me, Elizabeth even prepared one of my wedding favors – individually boxed slices of cake – and set them up on cake stands at my wedding venue. Needless to say, I couldn’t have been more pleased with Elizabeth’s masterpiece of a cake, as well as the quality; I reminded her this weekend that I still have my top tier of the wedding cake she made for us and every time I open the freezer my mouth gets all excited to think about biting into that cake on our first wedding anniversary!

As mentioned in the beginning of this blog post, wedding planning in Brooklyn does not have to be a drama filled, bridezilla fueled, wild experience; it can be very rewarding by working with the right vendors. Elizabeth Todaro certainly fits this bill, and more! Elizabeth can be reached via email at silverangel0679@aol.com.

Oh Baby!

2010-06-07T20:22:00.004-04:00

9 weeks and counting!

In late April, April 29th to be exact, we finally got our positive test! We can't wait to welcome our little one, but ohhhh what a wait we have ahead of us!

While my pregnancy has met me with very few challenges, thus far (knocking on wood), I am anticipating a LONG 6.5 months ahead of me. I think my biggest challenge will be all the waiting, but in particular the first 20 weeks. For a person who constantly seeks instant gratification, waiting a minimum of 16 weeks to find out the gender of her baby is TORTURE! But I am doing my best and just trying to enjoy a seemingly easy pregnancy. I've not been too sick, no "praying to the porcelain god" for me, thus far; but I have been quite exhausted, some days are better than others though.

In order to curb our needs (my need to shop, and my husband's need to plan) we decided to start collecting books for our little one. We've got several of the classics, as well as the newer editions of Sesak's "This Is.." series of travel books for children. Being travelers ourselves, we love the series and are always on the hunt for a new book. We've also started, slowly, moving our office downstairs and planning for the nursery. When I think about these things, I know that 6.5 months will fly by faster than I can imagine.

We also still have to prepare a spare room downstairs for my Mom, Stepdad, and Sister to stay in while here for the birth of their first grandchild and niece/nephew. It seems a bit overwhelming, but I guess that's why we are given 9 months to plan!

Until my next post, I've got tons to do, not to mention my actual job - work consumes me during election years, so that would explain my non-existent posts. But, a quick shout to my friend Brannan - a colleague whom is also pregnant, and about 5 weeks ahead of me. She always has me thinking of new and different ways to do things. While Brannan is a vegetarian, and I thought I could handle a veggie lifestyle while pregnant, I was SO wrong. However, I've made a good compromise. I've been eating only free-range, organic beef and chicken, and will continue to throughout my pregnancy.

So, hopefully will have a Brooklyn Wedding post coming up soon - must get in contact with the pastry chef and attempt to connect with her so that we can get some pictures set and write a nice article for her - you can't beat her prices, quality, craftsmanship (is that what it's called in cake decorating?) and peace of mind she provides, when looking for a wedding or occasion cake. Until then, I will leave you with a picture of our little sticky bean!

A few things...

2010-02-09T08:27:00.002-05:00

Just a few things to share.

It's been quite busy here and so I've neglected my little blog. I am going to try and post more this week, but for now, here are a few things I've been doing/working on...

While looking for some baby shower gifts, I came across a few very talented Etsy crafters. I'd like to share those items here. Please feel free to click around their shops and look at some of their other items as well:

A beautiful sweater, crafted from vintage linen:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27037483&ref=sr_list_11&&ga_search_query=vintage+linen&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

Another beautiful item, from the same Etsy seller:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27296516

A beautiful jacket:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19963606

The Lulu Dress, how could you NOT love it???
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9688867

The last 2 items can be found on the sellers business website as well - www.posiesboutique.com.

After spending weeks searching for the perfect gift, I had finally come across some really nice, quality items from these sellers and more. I was determined to simply glaze over the usual gap, children's place, and target clothes and find something that was made with quality materials, hand crafted, unique, and beautiful. Thanks to the sellers mentioned for crafting such beautiful items!

So, if you are in the market for some beautiful baby or children's items, I would definitely recommend any of these sellers.

Fall Fun!

2009-10-26T20:39:00.003-04:00

Just a quick post, as I've been quite busy with life here in Brooklyn to post, I wanted to share s project I completed over the weekend.

For those of you busy moms, wives, sisters, friends, etc, I have a great little project that is easy, FAST, and makes a great gift. After posting a picture of my "pumpkin bouquet" a friend of mine noted that she was going to steal my idea and make one herself to give as a hostess gift to a party she was going to. So, I thought I would share my project with the blog world.

After church on Sunday I stopped into Circus Fruits (Fort Hamilton kwy between 10th and 9th). I selected a small, short, round pumpkin and a small pot of yellow mums. When I got home, while waiting for creepy, halloween cupcakes - also known as "creep cakes" I cut the top off the pumpkin, gutted and cleaned the inside, and placed a small, plastic contained inside the pumpkin. When I was done, I added some dirt from the Mum plant and placed the entire plant inside the plastic container. If you prefer, you can cut the flowers and place them in the plastic container inside the pumpkin. I made the bouquet for my mother-in-law, who really liked the creative little flower vase. I figured since we would only have a few more weeks of decent weather, once the pumpkin starts to rot she can plant the entire pumpkin, minus the plastic container inside, right in the ground and the pumpkin will act as fertilizer for the plant. Should also help your garden for next years plants.

As an added touch, using toothpicks, I attached the "lid" or, as my husband called it, the "hat," to the side of the pumpkin.

As I mentioned before, I completed this project while cupcakes were in the oven. Actually, as I recall, there were exactly 4 minutes left on my oven timer, and I was done before the timer went off.

Hope everyone enjoys this sweet, festive little project!

A Brooklyn Wedding, Part I

2009-09-02T21:17:00.004-04:00

It is now September 2nd and just 4 short days after my beautiful wedding day. I wanted to get onto the Brooklyn Clothesline as soon as possible so I could start my Brooklyn Wedding series and hopefully help others brides make their wedding day as special as mine was.

To begin, I’d like to start with the all important wedding reception venue. When I initially began my search for the perfect venue, there were many options to consider, including location (Brooklyn, Manhattan, Long Island, etc) or restaurant, hall, country club, etc. I chose to narrow my selections down by cost of venue as well as location. Once I narrowed down my options, the process was much easier to manage. We ended up agreeing that the reception should remain as close to the church, and our neighborhood, as possible; we wanted to accommodate our out of town guests, as well as our senior guests, and guests who did not have access to a car.

Some of the websites I used to search venues included, but are not limited to:

google.com
Theknot.com
Marthastewart.com

The knot website was helpful in giving me an idea of cost per person, without having to commit to an appointment with the venue. I’m a big believer in not wasting my time, or others’ time.

After much research, I narrowed my selection down to 2 venues. In the end, one simply gave me a better bang for my buck and offered more options to “customize” my wedding. I can honestly say that I am completely satisfied with the decision I made.

The Dyker Beach Golf Course was impressive from the moment I contacted Beth Lanteri, the Catering Sales Manager for the club. Beth emailed me a sample menu as well as a price-point per person for a 5 course, sit down dinner – exactly what we were looking for. Since it was the same cost as our other option, I thought it would be worth it to check out the venue. A few days later, and about a ten minute drive from our house and we were standing in front of an impressive country-club-like building on the middle of a golf course, in the middle of Brooklyn! Once on the property you would never know you were in a bustling borough.

We met with Beth, toured the building, and scheduled a tasting. A few weeks later we returned for our tasting, which cemented our decision – the wedding reception would take place at Dyker Beach Golf Course. We then met with Chris Giacolone, the Food and Beverage Manager at Dyker Beach G.C. Chris was more than helpful throughout the entire process of planning our event. Accommodating does not even begin to describe Chris. We had a lot of special requests, as we were bringing two very different families together and wanted to make sure we were able to please everyone on our special day. From ordering an extra import beer, to providing extra items, items that were not on the menu, to incorporate in our cocktail hour.

Everything the day of the event went smashing. Chris and his staff set up all of our centerpieces (which we had made ourselves the evening before) and set up candles on the tables, seating cards, wedding favors, and much more. When we arrived at the reception, we were ushered off to the bridal suite which was stocked with champagne, fresh fruit, cheese, crackers and more. We waited in the bridal suite while our golf cart was brought to us and parked next to the outdoor, flagstone patio – ready for us to use in finding the perfect spots for pictures on the course.

We ended up with 56 guests at our dinner reception. Our guests were treated to a cocktail hour complete with passed hors d'œuvres and an open bar. Dinner was served by waiters in tuxedos, donning white gloves. Our guests had the option of ordering a chef prepared dish of either salmon, chicken, or chateaubriand. The bar was well stocked with top-shelf liquor, imported and domestic beer, and sweet imported liquers.

Our experience with the Dyker Beach Golf Course was an incredible one, and we are so glad we found it! In a big city there are so many choices, and we consider ourselves lucky to have this little gem right in our neck of the woods. The DBGC is located 1030 86th Street. My contacts at the club were Beth Lanteri and Chris Giacolone, although I believe there are other associates you may contact if you are looking for more information.

The budget conscience bride who must please everyone AND provide a classy atmosphere with stellar service will find that the DBGC meets all her needs and more.

Visit the Dyker Beach Events page for more information

Brooklyn Garden

2009-08-05T16:14:00.009-04:00

Just a few pictures of the garden this year. We also tried watermelon, cucumbers (which grew fine last year), and zucchini - none of these took this year. But, we have an abundance of tomatoes, gourds, banana peppers, jalapenos, and sunflowers! :)

If you are reading this, and live in Brooklyn - please share with us what you grow in your "urban garden" - even indoor horticulturists should share!

Enjoy!

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream!

2009-07-07T15:02:00.007-04:00

Today was a very special day! Since we had a little heat wave, I decided to put my brand new Kitchenaid Ice Cream Maker Attachment to good use. I made a delicious chocolate ice cream with crumbled Oreo cookies sprinkled in the mix. As I was making it, Joe was right beside me, waiting in anticipation for his part - the part where the ice cream is done and the bowl needs to be cleaned! Joe always likes to "clean" to bowl when I am done making something yummy (let's all keep in mind that Joe is 33 years old. But that's just fine with me :) So, I am happy to report that after Joe "cleaned" the bowl, and I then cleaned the bowl to prepare it for refreezing - I placed my fresh, homemade ice cream in freezer containers and placed them in the freezer for their second freezing. I got a full 1/2 gallon from the recipe that follows. The ice cream took about 4 full hours to really harden, but it was well worth the wait. Smooth, creamy, and absolutely delicious, this ice cream is a winner all around. You will NOT be disappointed with this recipe. Part of the allure of the recipe is that there is no melting, then cooling, as the recipe does not use eggs, as some recipes do. Flavor was not sacrificed either, trust me! In addition to being a great all-around recipe, this recipe can be used interchangeably to create all sorts of unique flavors (see variations listed below). Get creative and make your own if you don't see your favorite here.

Chocolate Ice Cream:

2 cups whole milk

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup sugar

3/4 cup cocoa powder

In a medium bowl combine all ingredients. Mix well with a spoon or wire whisk, but not too long. Place bowl in refrigerator and chill for 1 hour.

Using your Kitchenaid Ice Cream Maker Bowl Attachment, place bowl on bowl lift of mixer, making sure that bowl is secured. Place plastic planetary adapter over the metal piece that normally fits your "in-bowl" attachments (ie, paddle, wire whisk, dough hook). Place dasher inside bowl. Lift bowl so that dasher meets with the plastic adapter and secure in place.

Remove your pre-mixed ingredients from refrigerator and place on counter. Turn your mixer on the 1st speed (slow stir) and pour entire contents into bowl. Mix 25-20 minutes.

After you have mixed your ice cream for at least 25 minutes, turn mixer off, remove bowl from lift, and scrape ice cream into 2 shallow, freezer safe containers. Make sure containers are secured and airtight and place in freezer for 4 hours. Enjoy!

Variations:

Strawberry ice cream:

Add 1 cup crushed strawberries in place of cocoa powder. Add 1/2 cups of fresh, sliced strawberries after you have mixed the ice cream for at least 25 minutes and immediately before you remove the ice cream for it's final freezing.

Coffee Ice Cream:

Prepare coffee as usual. Set aside one cup of lightly sweetened coffee, refrigerate for at least one hour. Coffee MUST be COLD when adding to your cream and sugar mixture. Add coffee in place of cocoa powder. For a stronger coffee flavor, add 2-3 shots of cold espresso to cream and sugar mixture.

Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream:

Add 3/4 cup of peanut butter to cream and sugar mixture, also in place of cocoa. Add broken peanut butter cups to mixture after you have mixed for at least 25 minutes and right before final freezing.

Fudge Ripple:

Prepare the cream and sugar mixture as listed above in the chocolate ice cream recipe but omit the cocoa powder. After scraping the semi-frozen mixture into freeze safe containers, pour a few long squirts of chocolate syrup on the top of the ice cream. Using a butter knife, poke and fold the syrup down and through into the ice cream to create a "swirl" affect. The ice cream will be a light, sweet cream with a ripple of fudge - so wonderful!

Cookie Dough Ice Cream:

Prepare the cream and sugar mixture as listed above. Add about 1.5 cups of small, balled cookie dough pieces immediately after you remove your bowl and dasher, and before your scrape ice cream into containers. Gently fold the bits of cookie dough into the mixture, being careful not to break up the bits of cookie dough. Transfer to containers and freeze for normal 4 hours.

I hope you have a chance to try some of these recipes. While these are not very health conscience recipes, you may substitute low-fat, or fat-free half and half for the heavy cream, and I would suggest Organic Valley Fat Free milk in place of the whole milk. I have tried ALL of the organic milks, and the Organic Valley is the creamiest by far - although Stonyfield Farm makes a very tasty alternative. The Organic Valley milk tastes very close to 1%, and my friend swears it tastes like 2%. It's delicious, try it! I would imagine you could also use a sugar substitute as well, although I have not tried. If someone does, please let me know, as I would be very interested in seeing how it turns out. In the interim, in a few days I will be making the strawberry variation using the Organic skim milk and the fat free half and half, so I will update and let you know how it turns out. I am going to "double churn" it, maybe let it churn for an extra 20 minutes, and hopefully that will keep the same creamy consistency as this recipe did. I'll let you all know how it turns out.

L&B Pizza

2009-07-07T00:04:00.006-04:00

So, as many of you know, us Buffalonians are serious about our pizza. But, as I have learned, if anyone is as serious or maybe even more serious, it's a true New Yorker.

When I met Joe two years ago, he introduced me to L&B's pizza. A combination of sweet red sauce, fresh shredded mozzarella, and a golden crust make this Brooklyn original a winner. As some may know, we have decided to hold our rehearsal dinner here. As a non-native Brooklynite, I could only think, "what could be more NY than pizza!" So we decided that L&B's was the perfect spot to bring my closest family to share some wonderful food and great atmosphere with.

Much like our Anderson's back in Buffalo, L&B's is the place to come on a hot summer night (or any other time whenever you have the urge for good pizza). This Brooklyn hot spot has it all: Sicilian style "squares" fresh Italian ice in many different flavors, New York style pizza, and an indoor restaurant (in addition to their outdoor "garden" style dining). Their specialties include fresh, homemade spumoni - for Brooklyn newbies this is an Italian style ice cream treat made with ice cream, dried fruit and nuts and whipped cream, as well as the "squares" - thick crust, Sicilian style pizza with cheese on the crust and sauce on the top - delicious!

If you are in the neighborhood, skip the car ride and walk to L&B's - it's definitely worth finding the parking spot, but if you are close enough, save your gas and just walk - the atmosphere is excellent! L&B's can be found at 2725 86th Street. They have a full service restaurant, pizzeria, and catering available. Call ahead to order your pizza 718.449.1230. L&B's also maintains a website as well - check it out to learn more about this cornerstone Brooklyn establishment. Click here to go directly to L&B's page.

Independence Day Weekend in Brooklyn

2009-07-06T22:03:00.005-04:00

4th of July Cupcakes

I realize it's been quite a while since I have posted, my apologies - life has just been very, very busy for all of us here in Brooklyn. Excuses aside, I've got two articles here; one rather personal, and another related to Brooklyn.

I should preface the first personal article a bit before I really hit the keys here. I have lived in Brooklyn for almost two years now and it's really been quite a journey for me; not to mention a period of growth for me. The transition from living in a small city to living in a big city has been an adjustment, to say the least. To begin, I've had a relatively diminished social life (until this past May) as I was focused on finishing school and working my full time job; but the patience has paid off, because the friends I have made over the past few months, and the friends whom stuck with me through the hardest of times have really made every moment of the studying, reading, and working worth every second.

This past weekend my friends, and lucky for me, neighbors, held a surprise bridal shower for me. I was delighted when my friends had invited me over to their home for a 4th of July BBQ this past Saturday, not knowing that upon arrival, I would walk into an outpouring of love and generosity! I think, to be honest, I am still in a bit of shock, as I really was not expecting to have a day dedicated to me and so it still has not quite sunk in yet. Therefore, I am still a bit strapped for words. However, with that said, I would like to thank all of my friends, family and soon-to-be new family for the beautiful shower. I could not have been more surprised and grateful for all of your love, support, friendship, and kind wishes.

I wanted to share with my online/blog friends some of the wonderful gifts I received at my shower. As some know, I have a slight obsession with my Kitchenaid K5-A mixer. Below I posted some pictures of just some of the goodies I received at my shower. You will notice 3 new pasta attachments - a pasta roller, a fettuccine roller, and a spaghetti roller. Additionally, on the mixer you will see a ice cream maker attachment (although I am storing the dasher and other piece) and a new juicer attachment. I also stopped off today at Williams-Sonoma at the Shops at Columbus Circle and purchased a new apron and rubber bowl scraper. Some other attachments I received include a meat grinder, and pasta plates - in addition to some other new kitchen tools. Finally, I received a beautiful marble pastry board from my friends next door (will post a picture when I make some pastry.)

So, the 4th of July (one of my favorite holidays) turned out to be quite eventful. While I would never say that my family here in Brooklyn is the same as my family back home in Buffalo (and England, and North Carolina, and Florida, and Maryland, and so many other places) I learned a valuable lesson over the holiday: no matter where you are, our who you are with - a friend, a neighbor, a co-worker, etc. - as long as you are with people that care for you as much as your family does, you will always be in good company. I couldn't be a luckier girl and I am so very grateful for the friends and family I have found right here in Brooklyn.

Engagement and Wedding Photos - Photographer David Joe

2009-05-31T20:40:00.007-04:00

A little plug for our wedding photographer. Last week we met with David Joe to have some engagement pictures taken. As promised, the turnaround time was excellent and we received a disc with our photos on it tonight!
Here are some of the photos he took of us in Central Park. What a wonderful and talented artist Dave is, we are so lucky to have found him.

For more information on David check out his website, DmomentPhotography. Not only is David talented, his rates are excellent. I would whole-heartedly recommend David to anyone looking for a talented, personable photographer in the NYC area.

I've Graduated!

2009-05-31T20:24:00.006-04:00

In so many ways! I must apologize, as I know some people check this blog and I haven't had a moment in the last few weeks to write anything. You see, I've graduated! Yes, after spending 2 years at New York University I have finally completed my program and graduated, so I've had some downtime and have been trying to enjoy it and celebrate my accomplishment - I like to think it's been earned.

My Mom, many of you know her as SweetScarlett, made the journey from Birmingham, England, all the way to the Big City - New York City that is, to watch me graduate at Yankee Stadium. She wrote a sappy, but very sweet blog article about it on her page about coming to NYC and visiting with me, if only for a few (much too short) days.

We had a lovely time together and having her here made graduation so special for me. I am so fortunate to have such a wonderful job and home life, that allow me to have a very flexible schedule so that I can entertain when family and friends come to visit. While here in the city, Mom and I spent some time shopping in the garment district, shopping in Long Island, and lounging about our house just relaxing - it was a small vacation for me!

While my Mom wrote a very inspiring blog about my experiences during graduate school; she forgot to include herself in my very inspiration to complete graduate school to begin with. If it was not for her own determination and drive to succeed, I would have never applied to NYU to begin with. So, while I do have a wonderful fiance to thank, without my Mother's unending support, I would have never been able to accomplish this goal. I should call my new MA - the WE degree, because really, we all earned it. Everyone who has come into my life and supported me, listened to my constant babbling about politics (especially those of you who take no interest) and who supported me in even the smallest ways, I am truly grateful.

Thanks to all, but especially to my loving family, and my "adopted" family here in Brooklyn - The Dagostinos.

On a Quest for Honey…

2009-05-31T19:52:00.007-04:00

After an outing to the Coney Island Museum, my friend (Rachel) and I were discussing how horrible the allergy season has been this Spring. In particular our conversation revolved around what medications worked for each of us, and which did not. Rachel noted that she had a friend who was using honey to combat her allergies; but not just regular honey, local honey. If I was back in Buffalo I wouldn’t have hesitated to take a drive out to the country and find myself some honey via a roadside stand. But, here in Brooklyn, that is not exactly an option. Sure, we can go to any corner store and likely find a small jar of honey, but Rachel noted that it was imperative that the honey be made locally, and as close to your actual residence as possible (in other words, just because it comes from a farm on the east coast, does not mean it is “local” – in our global economy one might get confused on this point, I know I did!) So, Rachel and I decided to do a little searching for some local honey this morning. Before we set out, last night I did a quick search on the benefits of honey and dug a little deeper into the idea of using this sweet wonder to alleviate some of my allergy misery. Upon investigation, I learned that the reason locally made honey is important is because it contains trace amounts of the same pollen that surrounds us in our everyday environments, thereby acting to boost your immune system.

First stop, Cortelyou Green Market. Arriving fashionable late at about 12:30 in the afternoon and were greeted by about 10 tents. The fair included a mushroom vendor, fresh flowers, fresh fish, the bread man, a local bakery, an egg stand, and a lettuce leaf and produce stand, among other vendors. We made our stops at almost all the stands and purchased some semi-local honey, imported from Pennsylvania – about 90 miles away. Although not truly local, I was pleased with the light color of the honey and the vendor assured me that it was excellent honey. Sure enough, I brought the honey home and compared it to my generic honey from the supermarket and the compared the taste and color – I guess I had never thought to do this before, but what a difference! The PA honey was much lighter and flavorful than the supermarket honey. It also seemed less thick than the grocery story honey, even though that honey was just purchased about 3 weeks ago. Upon further investigation into the allergy/honey link, I discovered that in order to really reap the benefits of local honey, you should begin taking a teaspoon or two of honey about 3-4 months before allergy season arrives. None the less, I still took a teaspoon or two of the honey today, and was uplifted by its flavor, if nothing else.

After browsing the Cortelyou Market, we walked down Rugby Street where a Street sale was going on. It was a nice break from the hustle-bustle of my neighborhood, as it reminded me of a cross between Elmwood Village and North Buffalo, back in Buffalo. The neighborhood is comprised of large, single and double family Victorian style homes, on wide, tree-lined streets. The neighborhood boasts a park-like setting, much like the trendy Park Slope area, but minus the trendy and overpriced. Here you can dine at wonderful little restaurants like The Farm on Adderley, or stop at the window of a street-side pizzeria for a slice. You can even shop at the local organic supermarket right in the same neighborhood! Even if you miss the farmers market on Sunday, I will definitely recommend stepping out and taking a stroll down the streets of this Flatbush/Midwood neighborhood.
Cortelyou Market is located on Cortelyou Road at Rugby Road. The market is open on Sundays between 8am and 4pm. Local honey is available in Brooklyn. You can check The Brooklyn Bee to find out where to get some of John Howe's local honey. Howe lives in Fort Greene, Brooklyn and has three bee-hives on his rooftop. His page has just been updated and has gone from "SOLD OUT" to "AVAILABLE" since this morning.

Easter and KitchenAid Adventures, Part I

2009-04-11T22:38:00.013-04:00

Happy Easter! I am excited to be celebrating Easter here in Brooklyn this year and although we will be having a quiet dinner at home, I am very thankful for the family that I have here.

Since Joe's Mom wanted to stay home this year for Easter, I decided that I would make some cupcakes to send to his cousin's house. I really wanted to make them, but didn't want 24 cupcakes around the house (make no mistake, I will eat them all if they are in my line of vision) So I thought it would be nice to send them with our neighbors who are headed to New Jersey to enjoy dinner with the rest of the family.

I used a great recipe I found online, it's actually a recipe featured on Martha Stewart's show and from Billy's Bakery here in New York City. You can view pieces of the episode that aired here. You can also find the recipe there. Just a few useful tips from my own experience - making the batter, I used 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder, as opposed to the 1 the recipe calls for. There was a discrepancy between what Billy said to add, and what was listed, so I went with a middle figure. I did not have any exploding cupcakes like others did, and mine turned out perfect! Also, the recipe calls for non-self rising cake flour. I used Swans Down cake flour - perfect for the recipe and non-self rising (although the box did not indicate as much so I had to call the company and ask). Also, I used Billy's buttercream frosting recipe as well. While this is a good buttercream recipe, it's not the best I've ever had - I would use a different one next time. No need to go up to 8 cups of confectioners sugar, 6 cups is more than enough, and I had plenty leftover - I could have probably frosted about 20 additional cupcakes with what remained.
Finally, I divided my buttercream into 4 separate cups and added some food coloring to make the frosting very pastel-like and "springy". Overall they came out wonderful. From mixing to completing the frosting it took about 2.5 hours to finish all of them.

As you can see from the pictures, I am once again using my 1957 K-5, Professional model KitchenAid mixer. And yes, it works just fine, truth be told, and I believe my Mother (who gave me the mixer a few years ago) will attest to this, actually works better than the newer ones.
Wishing everyone a Happy Easter and hope that you are able to take some time off and rest, relax, and enjoy life with your families and loved ones.

PS - I had a fun time looking at my Mom's blog, she has some beautiful Easter decorations out and it made me think about my own decorations that were boxed this year. Ahh, maybe next year I will get my act together and decorate the house :)

A Good Day

2009-04-05T21:31:00.005-04:00

As some of you many know, my fiancée headed for Italy on Thursday. He took his Mother there for a short trip so that she could spend time with her family. Although I have missed him greatly, his absence gave me a chance to clean up the house and spend some time tying up loose ends.

Yesterday, our neighbors invited me over for dinner tonight, and although I had a lot of work to catch up on, I accepted the invitation and wandered over for dinner around 3pm today. I am so glad I decided to leave my internet world and actually take part in human contact for a few hours, because I really did need it! After spending hours on the computer every week, sometimes I get to feeling like I am losing my human to human social skills.

I didn’t want to arrive empty-handed, so I made some Country White Bread to share. The recipe I used made two whole loaves and I kept one for Joe when he arrives home tomorrow. I am also going to make proscuitto bread (also known as lard bread, or torta di pasqua) tomorrow morning.
Attempting to stay away from the sweets, or else I would have made a dessert, but the bread was well received and everyone seemed to enjoy it. I really enjoyed having dinner with my friends next door and it made me truly grateful to have such good friends so close by – plus, they made killer lasagna.
I also worked on my clothesline a bit (yes the real one!). It was warm enough to wash and hang the sheets, duvet, and pillow cases – so I did! I also finished doing the rest of my spring cleaning (minus the windows) and all the dusting and mopping.
Finally, Joe arrives back home tomorrow and I am so happy! I have missed him very much since Thursday and will be counting down the hours until he arrives home at 5pm tomorrow. Hopefully this coming weekend I will have a fun Brooklyn article to post. I’ve got something in the works, it’s just been too cold out to go and take pictures :(

Birthday Part III - The Finale

2009-03-31T23:45:00.009-04:00

It's now March 31st, but oddly enough, I was still celebrating my birthday as of this afternoon. The Fed-Ex man arrived at about 3pm and with a ring of the doorbell and some quick unwrapping, I had a Bocce pizza ready for my oven! Yes, that's right, Joe had ordered a Bocce pizza for us to enjoy as a part of my birthday celebration. To say I was excited would be an understatement! I couldn't wait to pop the pizza in the oven and taste that sweet Bocce sauce again.

We decided to bake only half the pizza and save the other half for another week; but I'll be dreaming about that Bocce's in my freezer until then.
I took some pictures of the beautiful flowers Joe bought me as well as some of the cards that were sent to me. I received a few cards yesterday as well as today. Speaking of yesterday, Joe and I spent a good part of the morning and afternoon shopping in Manhattan - how fun!! We even stopped at Magnolia Bakery for a pair of cupcakes! They were delicious, although very sweet. I especially liked peering through the window and watching the bakers frost the cupcakes, all while licking the frosting off my own little treat! If you've never been to Magnolia I would definitely recommend going, you can't get a better cupcake in the city!
And tomorrow, another special day! It's now almost midnight and I just finished going over my thesis one last time before printing out three copies to deliver to the MA department tomorrow morning. A bit of nervousness and excitement are both lingering around still, despite the exhaustion my body is feeling from trying to fulfill my 40 hour work week and finish this last lag of school. I've put off planning as much of the wedding as possible until this task was complete and so as of tomorrow, I'll be set to start planning the remainder of our event (in moderation of course, as I still have classes to finish in the next month).
When Joe gets back from Italy I plan to get back on the ball and write a few more Brooklyn related articles, and hopefully spend more time really making this my home. It's been tricky, trying to juggle school, work, home, wedding and all in a new area - so it will be nice to be done with school at least!

If you have not checked out SweetScarlett's blog recently, she's updated! I am so lucky to have a Mom who is so tech savvy! It amazes me the things she accomplishes with her blog and I hope that I can make mine just as nice.

Birthday Surprise, Part II

2009-03-26T20:17:00.008-04:00

How exciting! Well, today the USPS had their work cut out for them! I received several packages in the mail and all were very welcome.

First, my beautiful sister sent me a package from Sephora. Included in the package was a small card with a sweet message and a round solid of Tocca Brigitte Parfum - my new favorite! I love it! The package also contained several things she had ordered for herself in anticipation of heading back to the United States soon. I tucked away her items so they stay safe until she arrives and immediately found a spot in my perfume caddy for my latest scent!
I also received the second package I was expecting from my Mother. A member of Etsy, and always the best giver giver, she found just the perfect thing for my special day! Inside a large cardboard box, I pulled out a small stuffed terrier pillow! She knew I wanted a dog! The pillow is so sweet and has made it's new home on my reading chair in the office. The terrier, whom I have named Cecilia (I really did name her!) is very unique. She is made with different fabric on each side. On one side she is pink and white with a flower design, and her other side is green and white with a vine pattern. She has a pretty bow for a collar and sweet pink rhinestone eyes. I love her and she was the perfect birthday gift from my loving Mom.

My Mom, Maggie Wareham, or as the blogosphere knows her, SweetScarlett, commissioned Teresa from soblissfullyvintage to make Cecilia for me. You can check out Teresa's items by clicking on the highlighted text. Also, don't forget to check out Maggie's, er SweetScarlett's items for sale on Etsy. A big thank you to Teresa for making such a lovely item for me with such care!

My godmother, Mary, sent me a beautiful string of pearls that I will be wearing for my graduation ceremony in May. This is the second string of pearls that Mary has given me, and both are so beautiful. I often wear the white pearls when I head to my office in Washington, and they always remind me of her.
My bridal slip also came today! Not as exciting as my other gifts, but it's still fun to get something in the mail - especially when it's not a bill! No pictures of the slip, it's quite boring for everyone else :)

So all in all, a pretty good mail day today. No bills, just fun stuff!

Birthday Surprise

2009-03-25T10:12:00.004-04:00

In anticipation of my birthday next week, my Mom sent two packages to my home here in Brooklyn. While on the phone with her on Monday, she made mention that one of the packages should arrive soon and I could open it when it arrived, instead of waiting until next week. For someone as impatient as me, I was very excited to hear this! Sure enough, the package arrived later that morning and I was so excited to open it and find a beautifully wrapped silver spoon “ring rest”.
As you can see, the little lace envelope was accompanied by a small, linen cloth “birthday card”, and the sweetest miniature bouquet of tiny blue/violet flowers tied together with some sweet little ribbon. My mother purchased this from Sue of Cottonseed, also on Etsy. Do go visit and check out her items for sale - she has all sorts of unique and charming items listed.

I immediately place my little gift on my kitchen windowsill so it could be used for to keep my beautiful diamond ring safe from dish doom! I love my little gift and was so excited to get such a thoughtful present from my Mom. I can’t wait until the other package arrives as well! Thanks Mom!

SuperNuts

2009-03-25T09:55:00.004-04:00

Lately I’ve been walking home from my weight watchers meeting and on my journey have found a wonderful local nut store called Supernuts. For someone who doesn’t really like nuts all that much, I must say that they have the most delicious almonds I have ever had! They roast all of their own nuts right in the store, right behind the counter, and the prices are not that bad either.

I usually get ½ lb. of almonds and they last me the whole week, if not longer. When I need a quick snack, I grab a small handful of these and their sweet and salty combination is perfect for that afternoon hunger pain that kicks in. The guys behind the counter are always friendly and will make you laugh. Supernuts on Kings highway has a wide variety of other nuts, and dried fruit as well – YUM! Note: Supernuts does not have an official website, at least one that I could find via google, but they do have a facebook group page. Supernuts is located at 701 Kings Highway at East 7th Street.

A Sweet Treat - A&S Bakery

2009-03-25T09:41:00.011-04:00

Upon returning home from my weight watchers meeting at the Kings Highway center here in Gravesend, I just couldn’t wait to bite into one of my favorite things – an A&S black and white cookie!

I wait all week for one of these delightful treats, and with good reason – this past week I lost 2.8 lbs! So, in celebration and in order to avoid getting the feeling of deprivation, I took a short walk to A&S to pick up my black and white, as well as two lemon drops for a treat.

This is my weekly ritual – and it works. Of course, by Friday I am usually thinking to myself – only 3 more days, only 3 more days! A&S is – BY FAR – the best bakery in Brooklyn. Sure, Mona Lisa makes a good cup of coffee – but so does Starbucks. Villabate is good – but in terms of taste, A&S out-performs every time.

So, next time you are in the Gravesend area, don’t forget to stop into A&S – my recommendation is the black and white – I would go as far as saying they make the best black and white in the entire region (including Manhattan). Besides, the girls at A&S are so sweet; they must be soaking up excess sugar from the place – now go, get yourself a black and white! A&S Bakery is located at 200 Avenue S between West 5th and West 6th streets. They don't have a website - but their phone number is 718-645-1295.

Friday shopping day!

2009-03-19T22:20:00.010-04:00

In my attempt to prepare for my shopping day tomorrow, I set out my all important reusable bags for their trip to our local Shop-Rite. As you can see, although we do not have a Wegmans nearby (please Danny, bring one to Brooklyn SOON), I always have a little bit of Wegmans when I shop locally.

Just a quick note, today Joe and I went to rent transportation for the wedding! With grad school coming to a close for me, I can finally start planning. We ended up renting a Lincoln Stretch for the families and a 1955 Rolls Royce for us to travel in. My thanks to Donna from Romantique Limos for the great deal!

More to come on Saturday - I've got a great little Brooklyn piece to share with everyone!

Spring Fever in the Brook!

2009-03-18T20:20:00.011-04:00

I woke up this morning to a lovely full sun soaking through my sheer curtains. I couldn’t have been more excited. I had checked the weather forecast last night and knew that today would be a brilliant day! And so it was! I decided to take a walk mid-day to drop by the local post office and mail a few letters. I didn’t even wear a jacket it was so beautiful out.

When I returned home I set out to take some pictures of the garden in the yard and some of our upstairs patio as well. After taking the pictures I began getting some seed started in a soil cell tray. I started morning glories and moonflowers; which will climb the railing on the patio and should create a beautiful, lush green wall in our little spot in the city.

As I was carefully placing the seeds in the tray, Joe came upstairs with the patio table and chairs, as well as my white, wooden rocker chair. While Joe was fixing up the patio bistro set, I went ahead and started dinner and set the bistro for our first outdoor meal this year.
It was about 5:00pm, and I didn’t think it was going to get cold out again, at least not until sundown, so I thought we had time to enjoy our meal. Unfortunately, it got cold out rather quickly, and before dinner was ready I had to move our place settings back into the kitchen for an inside dinner.
Dinner was a quick chicken, broccoli, and rice dish that Joe really likes. I actually think we got the recipe from the soup label; but he really enjoys it, and its one of the few dishes I can make for him that actually has chunks of vegetables in it. When I make this particular dish for Joe he likes me to wrap some up so he can take it with him to work. We always say that all the other mechanics are jealous that he gets a home-cooked meal/snack to bring to work with him (however simple it might be) instead of having to eat airport food.

So all in all, a pretty productive day here in “the Brook” as my sister has dubbed it. I got a lot accomplished because I was up very early starting my research (my full-time job) and was then able to get additional things accomplished. Hoping tomorrow proves to be a fruitful day as well! Come back and visit the clothesline soon for more updates on how the patio garden and downstairs garden are coming along!

Welcome

2009-03-16T19:59:00.003-04:00

Welcome! I've decided to begin a new blog. So, welcome to the new Brooklyn Clothesline. You might ask how I came up with such a name. Let me explain. When I first moved to Brooklyn I was a bit shy to the idea of the city (and admittedly I still am quite a bit), but there are things I truly do enjoy. One of the things I love about where we live is the way our yard looks in the summer, especially on a warm summer day when the clean, crisp white sheets hang from the high clothesline. But it's not enough to see my sheets draped from the line and floating on the air; I can look up and around and see others' laundry hanging from their own clotheslines. I suppose this reminds me that there is life in the city, and of course, that these living creatures also have loads of laundry to do, just like me! However simplistic it may be, it reminds me of home; hanging our sheets out to dry on a line in the little village of Williamsville. But the best part of the clothesline is pulling those sheets off the line and smelling the clean scent of the Atlantic Ocean; just a short distance away from our home.

So, now that I have explained the Brooklyn Clothesline, you may be able to guess what this blog is going to be centered around. That's right, Brooklyn! The Brooklyn clothesline will be dedicated to emphasizing the "home-like" qualities Brooklyn has to offer to newbie’s just like me. Hopefully this first article has already helped make someone else feel more at home in the borough!

Please feel free to comment, send article suggestions, and just peruse the blog in general. Although I am not quite finished with grad school, I am hoping that I will find the time to post at least one article a week for followers. Please go ahead and email with your email address so I can send you updates when I do post a new article.

Thanks for reading and enjoy the new Brooklyn Clothesline!