DINING ROOM IDEAS

February 07, 2012

Style Mix

A traditional chair rail and wainscot are painted a crisp white and provide a tailored backdrop for the more casual burlap window shades, slipcovered chairs, and rustic farm table. Traditional, rustic, and vintage mix together seamlessly.

Fashionable Curves

Mix a sleek, modern table with curvaceous chairs. Add depth with two-tone walls.

City Chic

Luxurious fabrics for chairs and curtains give this dining room a real sense of grandeur, while glossy furniture and colored glassware create a sophisticated mood against a rich backdrop of chocolate and cranberry.

Clean and Crisp

Enlist your dining room to serve double duty. Select a table and chairs that are casual enough for everyday activities - breakfast, shell sorting, or putting together puzzles - but can be easily dressed up for entertaining.

White and Relaxed

Mis-matched thrift store chairs are unified with a fresh coat of paint and candy-striped blue and green fabric. A chandelier adds glamour to the thrifty dining room.

MyHomeIdeas.com
February 2012

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DECORATING DO'S AND DON'TS

January 19, 2012

Stuffy Arrangements

Please don't fan your magazines out on the coffee table. Your living room is not a doctor's office! Bring warmth and personality to your arrangements with a bit of asymmetry, a mix of books and objects, and some visual surprise, whether that be a beaded headdress or a bowl of shells. Your house should reflect the richness of its residents' lives.

For-Show-Only Furniture

The worst sin in the design universe is filling a room with furniture you're not allowed to sit on. If it's too precious to be used, it should be in a museum. Houses are for living, for entertaining our friends, and loving our families.                       

Too Many Houseplants

A few living things add wonderful texture to your home and contribute to healthy air. Too many, and the space becomes a greenhouse with dead leaves littering the floor. If you've divided that spider plant excessively, share it with a friend.                       

MyHomeIdeas.com
Lydia Somerville
January 2012

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STORAGE SOLUTIONS

January 05, 2012

Shoe Storage

Is tracked-in mud making a mess of your entryway? Tuck an old metal tray or cookie sheet beneath the entry bench or table to hold shoes and boots.

On a Roll

To keep small washcloths from getting lost in the linen closet, roll them up and tuck them in small bins or baskets. Before guests arrive, simply set them out.

Pantry Perfect

Transfer dry foods, such as pasta, rice, and beans, into plastic or glass containers. Eliminating the bulky packaging saves space, the airtight bins keep food fresh, and you can view the contents at a glance.

Recycling Center

Set up a storage spot for cans, bottles, and other recyclables in your kitchen or garage. Depending on the available space, you may want to use small buckets under the sink or large bins against the wall.       

MyHomeIdeas.com
January 2012

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CLEAR THE CLUTTER

January 05, 2012

Snack Smarts

Place a plastic basket that holds healthy refreshments for the kids in the refrigerator. Keeping fruits, cut-up veggies, and cold cuts in one place offers easy, on-the-go options.

Store More

Place a tall kitchen pot rack in the corner of a small bathroom to maximize storage and corral clutter. Keep it stocked with toiletries, towels, and bath tissue.

Got You Pegged

Hang a variety of pegs in the entryway to hold coats, hats, and umbrellas. You'll get out the door more quickly each morning, and visitors will appreciate a place to put their belongings when they arrive.    

HomeIdeas.com
January 2012

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HAPPY NEW YEAR!

January 02, 2012

Have a Happy and Healthy New Year!

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LET THE HOLIDAY'S BEGIN!

December 06, 2011

Light the Way

Bring the Indoors Outside with this decorative winter table idea!

Draped over a picnic table, an inexpensive set of net lights (intended for hedges) twinkles beneath a cover of fresh snow, creating an almost polka-dot effect. James says the key is to install the lights before it snows. This season, look for the net lights with transparent wires to further the dappled illusion. Overhead, lit spheres like glowing dandelion heads finish the picture.

Light the Way

Cool and contemporary, this pathway of lights is made simply by punching holes in the snow and slipping small glasses holding votives into them. James keeps it straight forward, but have fun with this -- maybe spell your name or make an arrow for Santa to know where to land. (Remember to remove the glasses from holes before shoveling or blowing snow.)

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HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

November 21, 2011

Decorate your mantel this fall using these ideas inspired by real homes. 

Striking Orange-and-Black Mantel

A few mini pumpkins and a glass container filled with seedpod vase filler, pinecones, and faux leaves can give your house the autumn touch it needs. Displayed above the collection, a striking black mirror instantly sets the fall mood. Meghan MacLauchlan (littlemacshack.blogspot.com) recommends using items on your mantel that are meaningful to you. Her Shel Silverstein books are constants through every season.

Fall Mantel with Natural Elements

To get inspiration and materials for your fal mantel, Kate Riley (centsationalgirl.com) suggests going on a nature walk. Pick up branch clippings, pinecones, acorns, and smooth stones, and give them a home on your mantel. Displaying a tall vase and an apothecary jar is a perfect way to show off your finds. A complementing display on a coffee table is an easy way to carry on the fall theme.

Wheat-and-Pumpkins Fall Mantel

A mantel doesn't have to be complicated to be beautiful. Tara Lowry (tarahlowry.blogspot.com) placed wheat in clear glass vases aside a display of white pumpkins and Spanish moss balls.

By Elizabeth Jensen
Better Homes & Gardens
November 2011

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MYSTIC SEAPORT 11/11/11

November 10, 2011

Save $13 on admission for 11/11/11!

Museum Hours:  Open daily: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (grounds remain open until 5 p.m.)

Picture provided by MysticSeport.org

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MAKE YOUR SMALL SPACE FEEL LARGER

November 08, 2011

A mirror is intrinsically neutral, neither  traditional nor contemporary, and blends well in any interior. It can give the illusion of depth to a flat wall or even make the wall seem to disappear.

1. When trying to decide whether to hang a mirror or a piece of art, the choice should always come down to the one that is most aesthetically appealing. But in many cases a mirror just works better. With a beautiful frame and decorative details, its art.
2. Hung on a wall opposite a painting, it reflects the image, giving the painting even more importance. Besides being beautiful, mirrors, with their silvery coloration and reflective powers, can mask problems, such as inadequate space and poor light.
3. Mirrors enhance architecture by effectively extending the line of sight to emphasize a great view. They can also lighten the  visual weight of a bulky wall. In a long hallway with one windowed wall, applying mirrors to the facing wall gives the illusion of another wall of windows. It lightens the space and makes it feel broader. Mirrors can also be used on cabinet fronts or as backsplashes.
4. When hanging a mirror, consider the height, which is critical to getting the best reflection. Over a mantel, a mirror may be too high to see yourself or the room in the reflection and might end up reflecting the ceiling. Mirrors with frames that are more important than the reflection, such as starburst mirrors, work well at a higher level.
5. Check what will be reflected in the mirror by standing where it will hang and looking at the opposite wall.
6. Clear clutter when installing a mirror above a table or countertop. You don't want the accoutrements of daily life reflected two or three times.
7. Consider the color of the adjacent walls when using a wide mirror because the color will be intensified. A particularly dark hue on the walls will cast a stronger blue tint in the mirror. White, beige, and gray marble, however, sparkle in bathrooms with expanses of mirror. This combination appears often in luxurious bathrooms.

MyHomeIdeas
November 2011
Picture by Emily Minton Redfield

2 Comments

MIRRORS 101

November 08, 2011

Most people use it every day without thinking about its beauty or significance. A mirror is intrinsically neutral, neither traditional nor contemporary, and blends well in any interior. It can give the illusion of depth to a flat wall or even make the wall seem to disappear.

1. When trying to decide whether to hang a mirror or a piece of art, the choice should always come down to the one that is most aesthetically appealing. But in many cases a mirror just works better. With a beautiful frame and decorative details, it is art.
2. Hung on a wall opposite a painting, it reflects the image, giving the painting even more importance. Besides being beautiful, mirrors, with their silvery coloration and reflective powers, can mask problems, such as inadequate space and poor light.
3. Mirrors enhance architecture by effectively extending the line of sight to emphasize a great view. They can also lighten the visual weight of a bulky wall. In a long hallway with one windowed wall, applying mirrors to the facing wall gives the illusion of another wall of windows. It lightens the space and makes it feel broader.
4. When hanging a mirror, consider the height, which is critical to getting the best reflection. Over a mantel, a mirror may be too high to see yourself or the room in the reflection and might end up reflecting the ceiling.
5. Check what will be reflected in the mirror by standing where it will hang and looking at the opposite wall.
6. Clear clutter when installing a mirror above a table or countertop. You don't want the accoutrements of daily life reflected two or three times.
7. Consider the color of the adjacent walls when using a wide mirror because the color will be intensified. A particularly dark hue on the walls will cast a stronger blue tint in the mirror. White, beige, and gray marble, however, sparkle in bathrooms with expanses of mirror. This combination appears often in luxurious bathrooms.

MyHomeIdeas
November 2011
Picture by Emily Minton Redfield

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5 EASY WAYS TO UPGRADE YOUR ENTRANCE

November 04, 2011

A beautiful front door can transform the look of your entire home. Here's how to choose lighting, paint colors, and accessories that stand up to the elements.

1. Color It Bold: Nothing has a bigger impact on a front door than fresh paint, which boosts curb appeal and provides protection from the elements. First buff the door with 220-grit sandpaper, and then prime it so the paint adheres better. According to Pat Sandor, a how-to expert at The Home Depot, "a smoother finish, like a semi- or high-gloss, will help prevent moisture from creeping in and forming mildew." Choose a cheery color-bolder is better!
2. Light It Up: Add ambience with a hanging lantern or nautical-style sconces. Materials such as unfinished copper or brass look even better with patina, says Gale Singer, president of Circa Lighting. Another tip: Use frosted bulbs for softer light and less glare.
3. Play the Numbers: Make sure guests (and mail carriers) can find your home with house numbers that are easily visible and have a coastal vibe. Suggestions: Neutraface Address Numbers in Satin Stainless Steel, from $65 each; customhousenumbers.com. Surfboard Address Plaque, from $72; oceanstyles.com
4. Get Some Life: Extend a warmer welcome with planted pots. Check out local nurseries for low-maintainence plantings, such as succulents, that thrive in your plant zone.
5. Accessorize with Style: Door knockers, mailboxes, and pretty wreaths are like jewelry for front doors. Add one or two-but don't overdo it.

MyHomeIdeas
November 2011
Picture by David Hillegas

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BROCCOLI-POTATO SOUP WITH GREENS

September 23, 2011

If you're craving a hot bowl of soup, this healthy and easy to make recipe will be in your bowl in less than 30 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 2 medium red potatoes, chopped
• 1 14-oz can reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 3 cups small broccoli florets
• 2 cups milk
• 3 tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 2 cups smoked gouda cheese, shredded
• 2 cups winter greens (such as curly endive, chicory, romaine, escarole, or spinach)

 Directions:

1. In large saucepan combine potatoes and broth. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, 8 minutes. Mash slighly. Add broccoli and milk; bring just to simmering.
2. In medium bowl toss flour with cheese; gradually add to soup, stirring cheese until melted. Season to taste with black pepper. Divide among shallow serving bowls. Top with greens and additional cheese.

Receipe.com
November 2011

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BEACH READY YOUR BEACH PROPERTY WITH LULU DK

May 11, 2011

Summer is right around the corner, it's time to enjoy the sand between your toes! A splash of color will make your beach property shine bright.

A few tips:

• Don't be shy to play around with color.
• Simple things like pillows and quilts can enhance your outdoor fun.
• Decorate your seating area.
• Match the color of you home to your out door furniture.
• Use flowers to enhance the view of your home, place planters on the sand to brighten the area.

LuLu DK is a designer who is fun and has various products to help you decorate this summer.

You can find products in CT in the following locations:

Lynnens
278 Greenwich Ave.
Greenwich, CT 06830
Ph: 203-629-3659

LaBrazel Home
1003F Farmington Ave.
W. Hartford, CT 06107
Ph: 860-232-6300

The Linen Shop
21 Elm St.
New Canaan, CT 06840
Ph: 203-972-0433

Linen Press
49 W. Main St.
Mystic, CT 06355
Ph: 860-536-5192

1 Comments

CHAI CREAM PIE

May 11, 2011

Ingredients

• 1/2 (14.1-ounce) package refrigerated pie dough (such as Pillsbury)
• Cooking spray
• 2 cups 2% reduced-fat milk
• 8 cardamom pods, crushed
• 8 whole cloves
• 1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick, broken
• 1 (1/2-inch) piece peeled fresh ginger, crushed
• 1 black tea bag
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups frozen fat-free whipped topping, thawed
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Preparation

• 1. Roll dough into a 12-inch circle; fit into a 9-inch pie plate coated with cooking spray. Fold edges under, and flute. Bake piecrust according to package directions. Cool completely on a wire rack.
• 2. Combine milk and the next 4 ingredients (through ginger) in a medium, heavy saucepan over medium-high heat; cook until the mixture reaches 180° or until tiny bubbles form around edge. Remove from heat. Add tea bag; cover and let stand for 15 minutes. Strain the mixture through a sieve over a bowl, and discard solids. Return milk mixture to pan, and cook over medium-high heat until the milk reaches 180° or until tiny bubbles form around edge.
• 3. Combine sugar, cornstarch, salt, and eggs in a large bowl, stirring well. Gradually add the hot milk mixture to sugar mixture, stirring constantly with a whisk. Return milk mixture to pan, and cook over medium heat 10 minutes or until thick and bubbly, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; stir in butter.
• 4. Place pan in a large ice-filled bowl for 10 minutes or until filling cools, stirring occasionally. Spoon mixture into crust; cover surface with plastic wrap. Chill 3 hours or until set; remove plastic wrap. Top pie with whipped topping; garnish with ground cinnamon.

Deb Wise, Cooking Light
MAY 2011

4 Comments

MARLEY’S – RESTAURANT, CONVENIENCE STORE, AND CATERING

May 11, 2011

Essex Island Marina 

Welcome Aboard to Jeff Odekerken and his family who will be at the helm of Marley's, the restaurant located in the main lawn. They have been operating the Village Provision Company at the top of Main Street since September, 2000. Jeff is confident that his crew has all the right ingredients to satisfy even the most discerning yachts men's needs. Offerings include full breakfast and lunch; dinner on the weekends; take-out; and catering.

Marley's is unique dining because you feel like your on vacation, while still being close to home. Just a short ride on a motor boat and your there! Candle lit dinner and a warm breeze made it perfect and remarkable. The crew looks forward to seeing everyone in May, 2011!

1 Comments

BRINGING THE OUTSIDE IN

May 11, 2011

What better way to bring the outside in! Outdoor living spaces are becoming a "must have" amenity, especially when you live on the water. This understated elegant space welcomes you in while making a statement of it's own. Whether you're entertaining friends and family or taking a relaxing moment for yourself, this space will bring comfort and serenity to your life.

1 Comments

BURSTS OF COLOR IN MAY

May 11, 2011

Looking for some color to wash away the drab days of cold weather and snow? Cold weather annuals such as pansies, snapdragons and marigolds can withstand some a small amount of snow when planted in a flowed bed. A burst of color on your door step can be achieved with a potted garden. Light weight pots can be easily moved into the house or garage if "jack frost" is in the forecast.

6 Comments

GRILLED SALMON WITH SALSA

May 11, 2011

5 stars: Outstanding
 
This sweet and tangy nectarine salsa is the perfect complement to the quick-grilled salmon. This simple dish is chock-full of nutrient-rich superfoods like salmon, bell pepper, nectarines, olive oil, and fresh herbs. Sweet, ripe peaches are a delicious substitute for nectarines. Prep time: 20 minutes
Way to grill: direct high heat (450° to 550°F)
Grilling time: 8 to 11 minutes

Yield: Serves: 4


Ingredients

Salsa:
2  nectarines, about 1 pound, cut into ½-inch dice
1/2  cup  ¼-inch-diced red bell pepper
1/4  cup  ¼-inch-diced red onion
1/4  cup  finely chopped fresh chervil
1  jalapeño chile pepper, seeded and finely diced
2  tablespoons  finely chopped fresh mint
1  tablespoon  honey
1  tablespoon  fresh lime juice
1/4  teaspoon  crushed red pepper flakes
1/4  teaspoon  kosher salt


4  salmon fillets (with skin), 6 to 8 ounces each and about 1 inch thick
1/2  teaspoon  kosher salt
1/4  teaspoon  crushed red pepper flakes
2  tablespoons  fresh lime juice
1  tablespoon  extra-virgin olive oil

Preparation:

1. In a medium bowl combine the salsa ingredients. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. Prepare the grill for direct cooking over high heat.
3. Season the salmon on both sides with the salt and red pepper flakes and then drizzle with the lime juice and oil. Brush the cooking grates clean. Grill the salmon, flesh side down, over direct high heat, with the lid closed as much as possible, until you can lift the fillets off the grate with tongs without sticking, 6 to 8 minutes. Turn the fillets and cook them to your desired doneness, 2 to 3 minutes for medium rare. Slip a spatula between the skin and the flesh, and transfer the fillets to serving plates. Serve warm with the salsa.

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LIV'S OYSTER BAR IS MY PICK OF THE MONTH

March 16, 2011

If you're looking for a killer dinner every time, there is no place like Liv's Oyster Bar. The atmosphere is comfortable and relaxing with trendy decor and large black & white photos on the walls. The menu is diverse with a selection so delectable it may take a few minutes to decide which of the entree's to select. Regardless of your choice, I assure you, you will not be disappointed. When in doubt I always choose the Yellow fin tuna or the Stonington Sea Scallops, delicious! Sit back and relax with a glass of your favorite wine in hand and enjoy all Liv's Oyster Bar has to offer!

1463 Comments

SAVORY BEEF DISH

March 16, 2011

Ingredients 2 pounds boneless beef chuck pot roast 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 2 tablespoons cooking oil (optional) 2 tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca 6 medium carrots, cut into 1-1/2-inch pieces 1 9-ounce package frozen cut green beans 1/2 of a 16-ounce package frozen small whole onions (2 cups) 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 14-ounce can reduced-sodium beef broth 1 cup Burgundy wine 4 slices bacon, crisp-cooked, drained, and crumbled Directions 1. Trim fat from meat. Cut meat into 1-inch pieces. Sprinkle meat with salt and pepper. If desired, in a large skillet cook meat, half at a time, in hot oil over medium heat until brown. Drain off fat. 2. Place meat in a 3-1/2- or 4-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle with tapioca. Stir in carrots, green beans, onions, and garlic. Pour broth and Burgundy over meat mixture in cooker. 3. Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 10 to 12 hours or on high-heat setting for 5 to 6 hours. Sprinkle each serving with crumbled bacon. Makes 6 servings. Nutrition Facts Servings Per Recipe 6 servingsCalories317, Total Fat (g)8, Saturated Fat (g)3, Monounsaturated Fat (g)3, Polyunsaturated Fat (g)1, Cholesterol (mg)95, Sodium (mg)601, Carbohydrate (g)16, Total Sugar (g)6, Fiber (g)3, Protein (g)37, Vitamin C (DV%)14, Calcium (DV%)5, Iron (DV%)27, Lean Meat (d.e.)4, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

7 Comments

CITRUS DESSERT

January 14, 2011

Ingredients 1 portion Alan's Pie Pastry (recipe below), or 1 rolled refrigerated unbaked pie crust 1 tsp. unflavored gelatin 2 Tbsp. cold water 6 egg yolks 1-1/2 14-oz. cans sweetened condensed milk (2 cups) 1/4 cup whipping cream 1/4 tsp. salt 3/4 cup lemon juice Whipped Cream Thin lemon peel slivers Directions 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Roll out pastry portion on a floured surface to a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer to a 9-inch pie tin or plate without stretching. Trim pastry to 1/2 inch beyond edge of pie plate. Fold under extra pastry. Crimp edge as desired. Prick bottom and sides of pastry with a fork. Place in freezer 10 minutes. Line pastry with foil pie pan (see Blind Baking*); fill with dried beans or pie weights. Place on a foil-lined baking sheet; bake 30 minutes. Carefully remove foil pan. Bake 15 minutes more. Cool on wire rack. (If using rolled refrigerated crust, bake according to package directions.) 2. In a small bowl soften gelatin in water 5 minutes. Heat in microwave for 14 seconds; set aside. 3. In large bowl combine egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk. With an electric mixer, beat on high speed for 2 to 3 minutes until well combined. Beat in gelatin, whipping cream and salt on low speed. Add lemon juice and beat on low speed for 30 seconds. Pour into prepared crust (pie will be full). 4. Bake 22 to 25 minutes or until center of pie looks set when gently shaken; cool on wire rack 1 hour. Cover loosely and refrigerate at least 2 hours. 5. Top with whipped cream and lemon peel slivers just before serving. Makes 8 servings. Alan's Pie Pastry:In a very large bowl combine 3-ææ cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon sugar, ææ to 1 tablespoon kosher salt,* and ææ teaspoon baking powder. With a pastry blender cut in 1-ææ cups cold unsalted butter leaving chunks the size of peas. Combine 2/3 cup ice-cold water, 2 tablespoons of sour cream, and 1 teaspoon vinegar. Add liquid all at once to the flour mixture. Quickly stir to distribute; do not overmix. The dough should be slightly crumbly. Let rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. The finished dough should break, not stretch. Divide into three portions; shape into disks. Use at once or wrap and refrigerate up to 3 days. Or freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. *Blind Baking:When blind baking (prebaking the pastry shell) for the Lemon Velvet Cream Pie, Alan uses a disposable 8-3/4 inch foil pie pan to help the pastry keep its shape. Snip the rim of the foil pie tin every 2 inches or so and fold the rim upwards. After fitting the dough in the pie plate and crimping the edge, place the foil pie tin on top of the dough. Fill the tin with dried beans or pie weights and bake as specified in the recipe. Nutrition Facts Calories558, Total Fat (g)32, Saturated Fat (g)19, Monounsaturated Fat (g)9, Polyunsaturated Fat (g)2, Cholesterol (mg)250, Sodium (mg)233, Carbohydrate (g)59, Total Sugar (g)42, Fiber (g)1, Protein (g)11, Vitamin C (DV%)21, Calcium (DV%)26, Iron (DV%)8, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

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WATERFRONT HOMES CT | CHIC OCEAN RETREAT

January 12, 2011

Who wouldn't want to get away to this cottage bedroom retreat? Cozy, chic space hase nice details in the ceiling & built-ins, "beachy" colors, relaxing deck with a stunning view! If this meets your lifestyle call me, Maris LeBlanc, I can make this your reality!

 

2 Comments

KITCHEN/BATH FACELIFT

January 12, 2011

Dated kitchen or bath?? A quick, inexpensive "modernization" technique starts with a fresh coat of paint on the cabinets and new hardware on the doors & drawers. To do this winter project right, properly prep all doors by removing all hardware, lightly sand all surfaces, remove dust with a damp cloth before priming each side. Set up saw horses to lay out the doors so they can dry in place, let each coat dry completely before tackling the other side. Paint all doors with two coats of paint, using a long, swift painting motion. (Minimizing brush strokes) If your budget doesn't allow for purchasing brand new hardware, clean and sand your existing hardware and spray with a metallic finish.

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STUNNING KITCHEN FOR THE NEW YEAR

January 10, 2011

Exposed wooden ceiling beams, slatelike granite countertops, and industrial-style stools with butcher-block seats create charm in the English country-style kitchen. The expansive island provides plenty of space to cook and gather.

(Myhomeideas.com)

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MY PICK FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER

December 30, 2010

My pick of the month, is by far,  Silkworm of Essex Village. This beautiful boutique has the "perfect dress" and accessories for any occasion. My purchase... a Nicole Miller dress. The official "wear" for a fancy, fun Christmas Party. If you don't already own a Nicole Miller dress, I highly recommend you "try" one on for size, literally. (For the men, bring your special lady, it's the winner every time, for almost any body type!)

The material clings to your body, gathering in areas it should, to hide any imperfections. The end result is a sexy, sophisticated look and a dress nobody else will have. Check out the latest collection and be sure you tell Erica," Maris sent me!!" Happy Shopping :)

The Silkworm of Essex Village 23 Main Street Essex, CT 06426

phone 860.767.1298

4 Comments

WINTER BURSTS OF COLOR

December 16, 2010

Let certain ornamental woody shrubs and trees serve up color in your winter landscape. Here, 'Sparkleberry' winterberry. In lieu of summer's blazing color, many gardeners brace themselves for a winter of gray and brown, if not flat-out white. No matter if your winter is just a little chilly or bone-freezing cold, try these tips to brighten your landscape: Hardscaping rules. In the Zen-like conditions of winter, elements like the play of light and shadow and the curve of a walkway take on increased importance. Take advantage of this time to scrutinize the design of your landscape. Bring in ornamental woodies. Dozens of woody shrubs and trees add colorful stems, berries and/or bark. Get more information about winter gems and ornamental grasses. Plant colorful containers. Bring them close to a window where you can easily enjoy them from indoors. In areas with moderate winters, plants like heucheras, autumn fern, sedums and pansies keep right on going. In colder areas, conifers will accept the responsibility of colder weather. Before you plant, know how cold your plants and pots will go. A spring-green chair can keep a winter patio looking vibrant.Where plants don't work, create inanimate color. Paint a piece of lawn furniture, a table or simply just a few rocks you place on the surface of containers.

1 Comments

SEA INSPIRED TRIMMINGS

December 11, 2010

Warm and Cozy, buttery yellow walls and red chairs make a cheery backdrop for a bejeweled tree. Reportedly salvaged from a Seattle athletic club in the 1920s, a tile mantel depicts the Pacific Northwest landscape Coastal Living

1 Comments

STUNNER CHRISTMAS CANDLES

December 11, 2010

Candle "do's & do not's"..... Candlelight is beautiful, but you don't want loose sleeves around the fire. Keep any lit candles on a fireplace mantel or in glass lanterns. Don't use open flames around food, Do use "faux" burning candles. Don't use scented candles, the smell will interfere with the aroma of your food. Do use unscented candles to create ambiance. (pic & some content Coastal Living) You can avoid burns, drip & smells with these WONDERFUL "faux" burning light wicks from http://www.candleimpressions.net/ what a beautiful selection!!

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OYSTER APPETIZER

December 11, 2010

Yield: Makes 4 servings Ingredients 1 cup red wine vinegar 1/2 cup dry red wine* 1 tablespoon minced shallot 1 teaspoon sugar 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 24 oysters in the shell Rock salt Preparation Combine first 6 ingredients in a large bowl, stirring until sugar dissolves. Pour mixture into a shallow dish; freeze, uncovered, 3 hours or until firm. Flake ice mixture with a fork. Shuck oysters, discarding top shells; run knife under meat of oyster to release. Place half shells on a serving platter lined with rock salt. Spoon 1 teaspoon mignonette ice onto each oyster; serve immediately. *For testing purposes, we used Pinot Noir. Note: To aid the shucking process, place oysters on a baking sheet. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes to open shells slightly. **Find a high-quality red wine vinegar when preparing this recipe. Lesser quality vinegars may taste harsh.

21 Comments

COZY, WELCOMING GUEST BEDROOM

November 24, 2010

In this peaceful guest bedroom, two twin beds with fresh white linens, sheer curtains, and a calming color palette create the perfect place to enjoy a coastal vacation.

 

Click here to visit the website's page

1 Comments

HOLIDAY BRIE EN CROUTE

September 15, 2010

This pastry-wrapped soft cheese, topped with cranberries, apricots and almonds, is great for the holidays but it can also be served year-round.

Prpe time: 55 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp water
• 1/2 of a 17.3 ounce package Pepperidge Farm® Puff Pastry Sheets (1 sheet)
• 1/2 dried cranberry
• 1/2 cup apricot preserves or seedless raseberry jam
• 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds
• 1 (13 to 16 ounce) Brie cheese round

Directions:

1. Heat the oven to 400 degrees F. Beat the egg and water in a small bowl with a fork.                                 
2. Unfold the pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Roll the pastry sheet into a 14-inch square. Spread the preserves on the pastry to within 2 inches of the edge. Sprinkle with the cranberries and almonds. Place the cheese in the center of the pastry. Fold the pastry up over the cheese to cover. Trim the excess pastry and press to seal. Brush the seam with the egg mixture. Place seam-side down onto a baking sheet. Decorate with the pastry scraps, if desired. Brush with the egg mixture. 
3. Bake for 20 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown. Let stand for 45 minutes. Serve with crackers.
   

Receipe.com
December 2011

0 Comments

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

September 15, 2010

Happy Holidays!

From our Family to Yours!

0 Comments

MARINE INSPIRED BEDROOM

September 13, 2010

Photographer J. Savage Gibson, Writer Perry Del Favero

Marine Inspired Bedroom: Pay homage to the sea with a bedroom awash with calming blues and ocean accessories such as this mirror framed in oyster shells. A dark wood bed and crisp white chandelier add elegance to the space.

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CT SHORT SALE SPECIALIST

September 08, 2010

The unfortunate reality of today's market has many people "up-side-down" on their mortgage amount vs market value. In many cases the instability of the economy and dwindling job security are forcing home owners into the daunting task of prioritising the disbursement of the monthly reduced income. Do we pay the car payment or the mortgage?Do we buy groceries or pay the electric bill? You are not alone, the mortgage being the largest household expense does get pushed aside to cover the everyday costs of living. What can you do? Call Maris LeBlanc at Mary LeBlanc Realty, her 14 years in all areas of the business stands behind you in this specialized area of expertise. Confidentiality, reliability, experience & a straight forward approach is what you can expect during this process. A short sale may be your best option, don't wait-call today! 860.485.4391 or email at: maris@shorelinepropertiesct.com "We're here for you!"

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