1001 MEATBALLS SERVED

Feast of The Seven Fishes! A Traditional Italian Christmas Eve

2010-12-09T10:34:00.004-05:00

Christmas Eve dinner is not just a meal, but a feast. A Feast of the Seven Fishes! It is tradition not to eat meat on this day. The significance of the number 7 has a few variations of the reason for 7, and depends on who you ask. Some say it has to do with a commemoration of the last seven of the Ten Commandments, which prescribe rules of human interaction -- as opposed to the first three, which address human relations with God. Others say it is to remind us of the seven deadly sins. In any case, seven fish dishes is a feast!

What fish you use is entirely up to you and what your family traditionally uses. In my family growing up we had many courses. We would have fried shrimp, smelt, baccala, stuffed calamari, calamari pie, octupus salad, cuttle fish, sardines, and of course the fish sauce. The fish sauce is made with all the sea food thrown in there including lobster and crab. The meal itself takes hours to eat. There is time between courses to drink wine, laugh, talk, open presents, and be reminiscent about the old days!

Dessert is always something spectacular and special during the Christmas season. The many many homemade Italian cookies, stroffoli, pannetone, cannoli, and more. Baking is started long in advance of Christmas. Some of the cookies that are made special for the holiday are very time consuming and take more than one baker to handle!

At midnight it's time to go to mass. One of the children gets to put Baby Jesus in the cradle when we return home. After returning from mass we are now allowed to eat meat and so pans of Italian sausage with peppers and onions are brought out for a snack! All of the children are sleeping and the adults are drinking wine, or espresso and playing cards, cleaning, talking and getting things ready for Christmas Day which is just a few hours away!

Buon Natale!! Recipes will follow soon!!

ANTIPASTO DINNER!

2010-04-13T17:56:00.008-04:00

There is nothing better than the warm weather and lazy summer nights!! Though on those nights the last thing you feel like doing is cooking and eating a heavy meal! Why not try a super easy but oh so fabulous antipasto dinner??
So simple. And there is no recipe. Its all up to you and what you like to serve and eat!! Here is a recent nights dinner at my house.A plate of some good Italian cheeses
Some prociutto wrapped mozzarella Thinly sliced eggplant and zuchinni that I simply brushed with olive oil and grilled, and then tossed with a splash of red wine vinegar, salt and pepper.
Grilled asparagus, tossed in olive oil and sprinkled with some fresh pecorino romano
Marinated mushrooms.
Melon
Italian sausage grilled and sliced in half
Fresh Italian bread brushed with olive oil and grilledCaprese Salad. Simply tomato, Mozzarella and fresh basil, salt, pepper, drizzled in olive oil.I love to drizzle a bit of good balsamic over everything. Gives it a little extra love!
And whatever else I had on hand. We love to top this meal off with a cold bottle of prosecco.
Give it a try and you'll see that it really doesn't take long to put together and you will be more than satisfied at the end of your meal.

San Gennaro 09

2009-09-29T12:31:00.005-04:00

As much as I love to travel, I love coming home!

I have no pictures. YET. I didn't bring my camera. I forgot it. Stupid I know. Good news is Mom brought a camera. BUT its not a digital so I'll have to wait for prints I guess and then scan them into the computer.

We had a BLAST! I swear it was the best time I've ever had in NY. My parents hung out like champs. Considering their ages they did amazing!!(68 &70) My father even put me to shame one night!

Fri we took my parents to the 9/11 memorial site. My Dad is a retired firefighter so this was a very touching moment for him. He even had a group of firefighters at the fire station talking to him. (this is the firehouse right across the street from where the building were). So after that we went to the feast. YUMMMMY....we ate our way down the streets. Italian sausage sandwiches, stuffed hot peppers, pizza, braciole, and lots more. We watched a very good and very funny doowop band, The Elegants(they had the one hit "Little Star") We ended down at the Mulberry St. Bar. Louie and I always hang out here. All the guys know him here. They refer to him as Upstate Louie. Its pretty funny.

So now its about 8pm, the bar is packed. And I mean packed like sardines and they are doing Karaoke. I swear these were some of the best karaoke people I've ever seen!! We call my little cousin(hes 24) in Brooklyn and tell him to come down. He makes it down there about an hour later and brings his buddy Phil. At this point my mother is sitting on the only bar stool in the joint. Someone went and got her one. But her and Dad were drinking and eating and singing and laughing and having the time of their lives. My mom could not stop eating fried shrimp doused in hot sauce. Me and my mother decide were wiped out and are going back to the hotel. My dad, louie and my cousin are staying out. Well they didn't get bacck to the hotel till almost 3 am!! I yell at my husband for keeping my daddy who is 70 years old out so late!! He informs me that my father kept him out!

Sat. We went to the cutest diner. Ellens Stardust Diner. All the singers are actors and actresses from broadway who are either waiting for a break or in between gigs. They all take turns singing. It was amazing! Mom and I go shopping and Louie and my Dad go up to the Bronx to see a buddy of Louies and then to Arthur ave. Mom and I also had lunch at Serendipity. OMG frozen hot chocolate is to die for..DIE! So freaking good!

Sat night was absolutely AMAZING!! We all got dressed up and had dinner at Patsy's and then walked down the street to The Carnegie Club. What a cool joint. Such a throw back. Its a cigar bar so we could smoke there. And even my Mom who quit smoking years ago was smoking and drinking and having a blast. There was an 11 piece orchestra and the singer,Steve Maglio who spoke and sang just like Frank Sinatra..he was amazing. He sang right to my Mom. After the show he and his wife came at sat at our table..we had the best spot in the house. All couches and cocktail tables right up front. He and his wife were very cool, bought a round of drinks and sat with us for a long time. He then gave us all cd's of his. Oh and we met a boxer that was there..can't remember his name right now.

Sunday we went to brunch at this place right on the water.PJ Clarke's On the Hudson So pretty and the weather was perfect. We then went to see the statue of liberty and ellis island. Went back to the hotel to rest a bit and then off to the feast again. We had dinner at IL Cortile then went tshirt shopping at the feast and to the Mulberry street bar again and then to the Spring St lounge to watch the Giants game. Mom and Dad left early Monday and Louie and I did some shopping, ate mile high pastrami sandwiches at a Jewish Deli, and sat and people watched while we killed time before going to the airport. All in all it was a wonderful (and expensive) trip!! I can't wait till next year!
stay tuned for pictures!

San Gennaro Feast This Week!

2009-09-15T07:05:00.013-04:00

Well were off to NYC and to the San Gennaro Feast this weekend!!! The 82nd Annual Feast of San Gennaro, New York City’s longest-running, biggest and most revered religious outdoor festival in the United States! The festival attracts more than 1 million people all over the world to salute this patron saint of Naples. The festival runs for 11 days. We'll be going the second weekend and be there for the end. The official website for the San Genarro Feast says it best:
“This Feast of San Gennaro holds a special place in the hearts of Italian people everywhere,” says Joseph Mattone, President of Figli di San Gennaro, Inc. “It is a festive period of faith and redemption, a time for remembrance and reconciliation, and a time for celebration. The delicious food, the free musical entertainment that reflects Italian-American culture and heritage are all there. The Feast brings the world to Little Italy and Little Italy to the world.”
My husband and I go each year and this year we will bring my Mother and Father with us. They too are looking forward to the food, the music, the atmosphere...there really is nothing like it!
Come back next week for a full detailed report and review of this years trip! We have many things planned in our weekend. From a Frank Sinatra show to checking out Arthur Ave. in the Bronx! Heres a small sample of photos from past trips!

Italian Fest '09

2009-08-18T22:24:00.014-04:00

Perhaps I should say "first annual Italian fest 09!" Yup, its been decided, declared, and ordered, that I do this every year! Good Lord help me!
It really was a huge success! Of course there were a few mishaps!

Rain. No thank you God not during the party! But the morning was horrible! I sat at the window and prayed and prayed and prayed. Then I went and lit a candle, hung my rosary outside, and prayed some more. By the grace of God the clouds parted and the sun shined in time to dry up the rain!
Since it was raining, I was delayed to finish the decorating and last minute details. So like a crazy woman I was in panic mode and running around, barking orders and pretty much was a complete lunatic. But nothing a couple of glasses of good chianti couldn't handle!
Guest arrived, and were greeted by the smells of Italian sausage and the sounds of Louie Prima!
Here was the menu
Antipasto platters
Sheets of different pizzas
Italian sausage with peppers and onions
baked ziti
greens and beans
eggplant parm
salad
coffee
cannoli
italian cookie trays
lemon ice (huge hit!)
beer
wine
pop(soda!)

CHOLESTEROL KING HEART STOPPER

2009-08-16T09:02:00.001-04:00

Its all about the bread. Finding good crusty bread can be difficult in some areas but worth the effort!!

Cholesterol King Heart Stopper

The ultimate party sub. This is intended to feed approximately 8 people and weighs in at over 6 pounds.

Remember to lift with your legs, not your back. Serve with chips and a cold dill pickle.
Makes 8 servings.

1 (1 pound) loaf French bread, halved lengthwise
4 tablespoons butter, softened
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 head lettuce, shredded
1 pound sliced cooked ham
1 pound prosciutto or mortadella
1 pound sliced cotto salami
1 pound sliced mozzarella cheese
1 pound sliced Swiss cheese
1 pound sliced Provolone cheese
2 tomatoes, sliced
1 sweet onion, sliced
1 (10 ounce) can pitted black olives, sliced (optional)
1 (4 ounce) jar sliced mushrooms, drained (optional)
1 green or red bell pepper, seeded and thinly sliced or one small jar of roasted red peppers drained and sliced (optional)

1 Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. In a
small bowl, mix together the butter and garlic. Spread garlic butter on both halves of bread, and sprinkle liberally with Parmesan cheese. Place in preheated oven until cheese is golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.

2 On the bottom half of the bread, place a layer of lettuce. Alternating between meat and cheese, arrange layers of ham, prociutto or mortadella, salami, mozzarella, Swiss cheese and provolone. Add a layer of tomatoes, onion, black olives, mushrooms, green peppers and anything else you like. Place the remaining half of bread on top.

3 Place the sandwich on a cutting board, and slice into individual servings.
Alka Seltzer for dessert!!!!!

How To Throw An Italian Festival In Your Yard!

2009-07-02T08:55:00.006-04:00

Well I wish I knew! I'm attempting to do this myself in August. The plans are in full swing right now and so is my panic!
I started out by making a guest list. Of course this list grew and grew. You know the routine, you invite Uncle Guido then you have to invite Uncle Luigi. Or If you invite Aunt Stella you better not invite Aunt Josephine, they haven't spoken in 56 years! So not unlike planning a wedding, the guest list is very important to the success of you festival! You want to also be sure to invite the Fun and Crazy friends and relatives, it will cut down on your entertainment expenses!

After fine tuning the guest list, its time to make out the invitations. I decided to just do a simple flyer type invite on the computer. It came out great. I added some Italian flags to it, and the whole "what, where, who, when" information that was needed.

Envelopes stuffed and addressed and mailed. Now onto the decorations.
After doing some research on the Internet I found tons of great decorations. There will be no doubt what the theme of the party is when the guest arrive. Here is one site that I found a lot of great decorations! This is another one.

Now onto the rental company for tents, chairs and tables! Once I found the company I am going to use, it became obvious I was in need of more than just some tables and chairs! I decided to rent a large grill also. Oh, I better get that 100 cup coffee maker too, unless I want to be standing at my 12 cup coffee maker for 3 hours! Oh look they rent EVERYTHING!! I had to reel myself in and not over do it! I am a woman after all and love to shop!! I got what I needed and that was that!

And the most important aspect of any good party is the food!!! In the beginning stages of planning this I though I would do ALL the food MYSELF. Silly silly silly me. What on earth was I thinking. Do you know how much macaroni you have to boil to serve 125 people? Or how many greens you have to wash for the greens and beans? Its not that I can't do this, I just think I might want to actually enjoy the party and not worry about ALL the food. So I've decided to cater out most of it and do a bit myself. I'll take care of the Italian sausage (because its not an Italian Festival without the smell of Italian Sausage wafting through the air) and the steamed clams and probably a few other things. Mom is making her stuffed banana peppers, and another friend is making pizza. The rest will be catered by a good friend from our favorite Italian restaurant.

So far planning this festival has been fun. Everyday I get a new idea! Everyone has been very excited about attending. Pretty funny how much different a response you get when you call something a festival instead of a party!!! Hope their expectations aren't tooo high!!

Don't forget the bocce ball!! Its a must! Great game for all ages. Maybe you can set up a tournament! We Italians can be a bit competitive you know!!

Last but not least the music. You have to stay true to the theme!! There will be plenty of Al Martino, Louie Prima, Frank Sinatra, and the like playing in the backround.

When the night is coming to a close and you sit back and enjoy that last cannoli and cup of coffee or espresso, pat yourself on the back for pulling off a unique and fun party...I mean festival!!
I will be sure to update my progress and meltdowns of our upcoming festival! And of course plenty of pictures of the big event!!!

Memorial Day Cookout Italian style!!

2009-05-18T14:42:00.009-04:00

I love the warm weather and grilling season! Nothing is better than cooking outside on the grill and eating al fresco!! The warm sun shining down on you while you enjoy the smells of Italian sausage, peppers and onions wafting towards you making your tummy growl and mouth water! Yum! This weekend we celebrate Memorial Day! I will be celebrating my sons 15th birthday also. So the family will be over and we will be cooking outside! Here is our menu! I have a lot to do this week!

Appetizers:
Antipasto tray
grilled eggplant
grilled marinated shrimp
Bruschetta
MAIN COURSE
Chicken and Veal Speidini
Italian Sausage with peppers and onions
Grilled Veggies
Caprese Salad
DESSERT
Grilled Peaches with Raspberry Sauce
BEVERAGES:
Bellini

Bellini

1 ounce white peach puree

5 ounces chilled prosecco

Pour peach puree into a champagne flute, then add the prosecco. The peach puree can either be made from ripe fresh peaches that have been peeled and pureed or you can use a commercial peach puree.

Mixed Grilled Vegetables
Verdura Mista

3 small yellow squash (about 3/4 pound)
6 Vidalia onions or large shallots, peeled and cleaned and sliced
4 yellow and/or red bell peppers, seeded and each cut into 6 pieces
2 medium red onions, peeled and each cut lengthwise into 6 wedges with root ends intact
2 tablespoons olive oil
In a large bowl toss vegetables with oil and salt and pepper to taste. Grill vegetables in batches on a rack set about 4 inches over glowing coals turning them, 10 to 15 minutes, or until tender, transferring them to a platter as they are done.
Serves 6.

Bruschetta Grigliata

Olive oil flavored with garlic, fresh basil, or rosemary.
1 loaf of crusty Italian bread cut into 1-inch thick slices
1/4 cup extra -virgin olive oil
Prepare barbecue (medium-high-heat). Brush both sides of bread generously With oil; season with salt and pepper. Grill until golden, about 1 minute per side. 6 servings.

Scampi Grigliati

1/4 cup finely chopped garlic, mashed to a paste with 1 teaspoon coarse salt
2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves plus sprigs for garnish
3 tablespoons olive oil plus oil for brushing shrimp
16 jumbo shrimp (about 10 per pound)
four 12-inch bamboo skewers
lemon wedges as an accompaniment
In a large bowl stir together garlic, chopped fresh rosemary, and 3 tablespoons oil and add shrimp. Marinate shrimp, covered and chilled, at least 8 hours or overnight.
In a shallow dish soak skewers in water to cover 60 minutes and prepare grill.
To grill, thread 4 shrimp on each skewer and brush with additional oil. Grill shrimp on an oiled rack, set about 5 inches over glowing coals, 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until just cooked through.
Alternatively, brush shrimp with additional oil and grill in a hot well-season ridged grill pan, covered, over moderately high heat 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
Garnish shrimp with rosemary sprigs and serve with lemon wedges.
Serves 4.

Pesche Dolci

5 oz raspberries,- preferably fresh (frozen will do if fresh not available)
1-1/2 tsp lemon juice
2 medium fresh peaches, peel, halved
5 tsp brown sugar
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp butter
In a blender or food processor, process raspberries and lemon juice until pureed. Strain and discard seeds. Cover and chill. Place the peach halves, cut side up, on a large piece of heavy-duty foil (about 18 x 12"). Combine brown sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle into peach centers. Sprinkle with vanilla; dot with butter. Fold foil over peaches and seal. Grill over medium-hot coals for 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also place in a broiler for 8-12 minutes for a similar result. To serve, spoon the raspberry sauce over peaches.

Mothers Day Breakfast Italian Style!

2009-05-06T10:30:00.004-04:00

Make Mom breakfast on Mothers Day!! Don't forget the espresso!!

Spinach and Ricotta Frittata
Makes 8 servings

1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups white mushrooms, thinly sliced
2 cups baby spinach, thinly sliced
8 large eggs
4 ounces (1/4 cup) whole milk ricotta cheese, drained
4 ounces (1/4 cup) grated Grana Padano cheese, divided
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg or fresh grated nutmeg
a liberal helping of salt and freshly ground black pepper

Melt butter in an 8-inch non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add mushrooms; saute 5 minutes, or until lightly browned. Add spinach and cook just until wilted. Season with salt and black pepper.

In a medium bowl beat eggs. In a small bowl, mix the ricotta, 1/2 of the Grana Padano, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Add to the eggs and lightly mix. Pour into the skillet.

With a fork, gently move the egg mixture from side to side allowing the egg to seep to the bottom of the pan. Do this for 5-7 minutes, until the eggs start to solidify and a crust begins to form around the edges. Give the pan handle a jiggle, and when the eggs appear nearly set, evenly sprinkle the second half of the cheese over the top of the frittata.

Remove the pan from the stove top and place under the broiler for 4-5 minutes, or until the top puffs up and turns golden brown. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn. Let cool for a couple of minutes before slicing into wedges. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Optional garnish: In a small bowl toss 1 cups of halved cherry tomatoes with a little extra virgin olive oil, salt, black pepper, and fresh herbs such as basil, dill, or parsley. Serve atop the frittata.

grilled chicken spiedini

2009-05-04T12:13:00.000-04:00

I love this recipe for the great flavors and for the convenience of being able to make them in the morning and throwing them on the grill for dinner. My boys and husband love these. It is my oldest son’s favorite dinner. I usually make up extra of the breading and use some veal cutlets in this recipe too. I also double this recipe as they disappear so fast!

4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves or chicken cutlets
2/3 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
1/3 grated pecorino Romano cheese
2 Tbs chopped fresh flat leaf parsley
3-4 tsp lemon zest
2 garlic cloves, minced
Good quality mozzarella (not shredded or sliced)
Fresh bay leaves or fresh basil
Olive oil
Melted butter

1. Place chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap and pound until very thin. If you are using the cutlets, they do not need to be pounded.

2. Combine bread crumbs, cheese parsley, lemon zest and garlic

3. In another bowl combine even amounts of olive oil and butter

4. Dip chicken into butter mixture and then into the bread crumb mixture

5. Place a chunk of the mozzarella on the meat and roll up tight

6. Slice into 1 inch thick pieces

7. Skewer, using two skewers on each end of the meat to keep it from turning. Using two will make it easier to turn and handle on the grill, as the chicken won’t just roll around the skewer. Skewer the bay leaves around the chicken.

8. Grill over med hot coals, covered, and cook about 5 minutes per side. I use charcoal and have a bottle of water handy for any flare-ups.

It is very important to use fresh ingredients in this recipe. Do not use dry parsley, garlic powder etc. Do not leave out the lemon zest…It is the key ingredient!

Dads 70th Birthday!

2009-04-16T18:00:00.005-04:00

As we gathered to celebrate my fathers 70th birthday, all I could think of was, WOW! My Dad is 70? How did this happen? Where have all the years gone? While I feel blessed that my Dad is here with us, I just can't imagine him being this, well, old! In my eyes he still 30 years old. (which is odd since I'm in my 40's). I don't look at either of my parents and see age. I just see Mom and Dad.

This month is also a year since my father in law passed away. So while we celebrate my Dads birthday, we mourn that we lost my husbands father a year ago. Its a bitter sweet time.

Dads birthday party was a huge success. My father grew up in a family of 12 kids, 6 boys, and 6 girls. My grandparents immigrated from Italy to give their children a better life. The stories that my aunts and uncles shared at the party, had us all laughing and reminiscing. My children sat and listened to the stories of their grandfathers childhood in awe. They were amazed that he would wake at 4am at the age of 6 to go deliver bread before school. They didn't understand what life was like for them, and that their grandfather was very poor. But even though they didn't have a lot, they had each other and many many memories. For the most part, they were happy.

Breakfast for my father growing up was a bowl of hot chocolate with a slice of Italian toast in it. Lunch may be a pepper and egg sandwich. Dinner would be macaroni and beans, or macaroni and peas, or macaroni and some other vegetable. Rarely did they eat meat. Only once a week, on Sundays, would there be meatballs, pork and sausage in the sauce. So they learned to appreciate what they had, when they had it.

My father worked all through school doing different jobs. When he graduated he joined the army and was stationed in Germany. He fell in love with the country and has fond memories of that time.
When he returned to the states and was discharged, he met my mom and two years later they were married. By that time Dad had a job with the city fire department. Mom stayed home, as was the norm back then, and raised her children, kept her home, and cooked with a vengeance!
We never knew if our parents were struggling or not financially. We never felt like we did without anything. But Dad sometimes was working 3 different jobs to make ends meet, all without complaint. He wanted to give his children what he didn't have growing up. Eventually Dad went to college, graduated, and became a Lt. on the department. Later he would become the Union President and hold that position for over 20 years.

Dad is funny. He has an amazing laugh, and he is a huge story teller. Even if he may stretch the stories a bit to make them a little more entertaining!

Growing up, my father was not the disciplinarian in the house. That was mom. Dad was busy working. But if Dad got mad, we knew we were in big trouble. Rarely did he get angry with us.

When my parents became grandparents I was amazed at the amount of love that they had to share! I saw my father differently. Now he had the time to spend with my children and he did so willingly, lovingly and eagerly! He has a lot of fun with them. Taking them everywhere, and spoiling them rotten! I don't think I would have ever saw the day that my father and my son would be jamming on guitars together, but they do!!

I cherish my family and thank God every single day for giving me the best parents in the world! I couldn't ask for more loving, caring, accepting and honorable parents.

roast leg of lamb for Easter

2009-04-11T10:11:00.000-04:00

While some recipes call for boneless legs that may be stuffed and rolled, I find that this recipe keeps more flavor of the lamb with the bone in. For a great holiday lamb, this is the best. It may take some time, but your guests will rave over it, I promise!

6 pound leg of lamb
Salt
1 ½ Tablespoons of dried rosemary
4-6 garlic cloves cut into medium size pieces
1 ½ Cups good olive oil
2 cups chopped onions
2 cups chopped carrots
Cups chopped celery 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups dry white wine
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups hand crushed, canned, imported San Marzano Italian plum tomatoes
Pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 375 F.Trim the lamb of fat. Generously salt and season the lamb with rosemary, pushing the seasonings into all the crevices. Do the same with the garlic, make little slits, and push the garlic into the slits. You can use more garlic if you prefer.

Heat oil in a large, heavy bottomed roasting pan over medium heat on top of the stove. Add the lamb and roast in preheated oven for 30 minutes.Stir in the onions,carrots, and celery and roast for another 20 minutes or until vegetables are beginning to brown.

Remove pan from the oven and lift the lamb onto a plate. Lower oven temp to 350 degrees Farenheight.Drain the vegetable through a fine sieve, allowing all excess oil to drain off. Return drained veggies to the pan. Stir in the flour and combine. Stir in the wine. Add chicken broth and tomatoes and mix together well.

Return the lamb to the roasting pan, and roast for another 20 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads 155 degrees, for medium.Remove lamb to serving platter. Pour all the vegetable liquid through a fine sieve into a saucepan, pushing on the vegetable to get all the flavors and juice out. Place the gravy over medium heat and bring to a boil. Taste, and add salt and pepper if needed.

Pour the gravy over the lamb and serve, or serve the gravy on the side.

panzanella

2009-04-01T20:47:00.001-04:00

This is a great salad where the bread is the star. Great lunch time meal, and so full of flavor. I always make this when I have left over Italian bread.

8 Cherry tomatoes, cut in half
1 cucumber, peeled and sliced
1 small red onion, sliced thin
1 clove garlic, smashed, peeled, and chopped fine
1 cup torn fresh basil leaves
1 1/2 cups extra virgin olive oil
3-4 tbs balsamic vinegar
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
salt and freshly ground black pepper
6-8 thick slices of Italian bread, (crusty baguette, or day old bread, not too soft) torn into bite size pieces
fresh grated parmesan

In a large bowl, put the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, garlic and basil. Drizzle with the olive oil and then pour in both vinegars, add salt and pepper to taste, and toss well. Refrigerate for one hour. Adjust the seasonings as needed. Add the bread and toss well.

If the bread is too dry, add a little more of the oil and vinegar and toss. Top with fresh grated parmesan cheese. Feel free to add whatever you have into this salad. I sometimes add red peppers, garbanzo beans, or cubed mozzarella. Whatever you have in the fridge, throw it in!! Don't let that stale bread go to waste!

THE BEST CAKE IN THE WORLD

2009-03-24T20:37:00.005-04:00

I love love love this cake! I swear it will be your favorite if you try it. And if you bring it to someones house you will become famous for it!! If you don't like coconut than stop reading now...its in the filling. Personally anything that has chocolate and coconut in it is a winner for me. Make sure its really cold before you serve it..oh its so goooood!

Cream Cheese Chocolate Bit Ring Cake

2 Cups sugar
1 Cup oil
2 Eggs
3 Cups flour
3/4 Cup unsweetened cocoa
2 tsp. baking powder
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 cup hot coffee
1 cup sour milk (just squeeze some lemon juice in and let sit a few minutes you'll see it start to look funny)
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup chopped nuts

FILLING
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1 pkg 8oz softened cream cheese
1 egg 1 pkg 6oz semi sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup flaked coconut

In a small bowl, beat sugar, vanilla and cream cheese and egg until smooth. Stir in coconut and chocolate chips
Set aside

In another bowl, mix together sugar, oil and eggs, beat 1 minute at hight speed. Add remaining ingredients except filling and nuts, beat 3 minutes at medium speed, scraping the bowl occasionally. Stir in nuts. Pour half of the batter into a greased 10 inch tube pan or bundt pan. Carefully soon prepared filling over batter, then top with remaining batter. Bake in 350 degree oven for 70-75 min. or until done. Cool upright in pan for 15 minutes. and then remove from pan. Cool completely and drizzle with glaze:

Glaze
1 cup confectionery sugar
2 TBS unsweetened cocoa
2 TBS butter melted
2 tsp vanilla
1-3 TBS hot water

Making gnocchi!

2009-03-23T22:13:00.006-04:00

MAKING GNOCCHI WITH AUNT MIMI, MY BROTHER DANNY, AND MYSELF!

Set on trays and freeze. When frozen we seperate them and bag them..when ready to cook, we throw them into the water, still frozen, when they float they are done! Louie and the boys helped to seperate and bag them!

Aunt Teresa

2009-03-17T10:54:00.003-04:00

This is my 80 year old Aunt Teresa talking about zeppole and easter bread! She is just too darn cute!

St. Joseph Day and Zeppole!

2009-03-15T22:20:00.007-04:00

Every year Aunt Teresa makes zeppole and invites the family over to celebrate St. Joseph's day. Aunt Teresa is 80 years old, but she can run circles around most people half her age..and the woman is on no medications at all, shes in perfect health!! So heres a small peek into a family gathering with some pictures!! I have a video but had some problems loading it..maybe I'll have better luck tomorrow!
ZEPPOLE
UNCLE GENNARO
MY BROTHERS DANNY & VINNY

THE ZEPPOLE WITH HONEY AND POWDERED SUGAR

ST. JOSEPH

Typical Sunday Dinner?

2009-03-02T18:34:00.006-05:00

So the day started normal. Got up, put the sauce on the stove to simmer till dinner. I had about 14 people showing up at 2pm. Took a shower, ran to the store ( I forgot paper plates for dessert!) and came home to get the antipasto onto the table.Nothing fancy, some prosciutto, some provolone and a bit of caprese, some olive salad and nice crusty bread. I'm all set and pour myself a glass of wine and wait for the arrival of the family and friends.
Everyone arrives on time! 2pm!!We pour the wine, eat a bit, and laugh and catch up. By the time dinner arrives, I've got a buzz, but can't figure out how that could be..until I notice a guest pouring wine into my glass..damn, no wonder I never seemed to have an empty glass!!
During dinner we usually have heated conversations. But someone said something that just hit a nerve with me. I couldn't tell you who said it or even exactly what was said. But it had to do with my choice to stay home with my kids and take care of my family and home, instead of work. I lost it. It was pretty much down hill from there. I was sensitive to everything anybody said. By the time the dishes were cleared and loaded into the dishwasher, I was crying. Now everyone who knows me knows..I do not cry..ever. Was it built up frustrations, or pent up anger that just blew? Probably...but it didn't help that I had drank too much wine either. Thank God that my boys were playing rock band upstairs and didn't witness my melt down.
The more people tried to calm me down, the harder I cried. It was crazy. I just could not stop crying.
After several strong cups of coffee I settled down. It was back to normal, business as usual. Everyone laughed and teased me and I felt like a jerk. I had to call everyone today and apologize to them. They were laughing and said it was no big deal. And then they were apologizing to ME..saying they were sorry if they said something. But that is my family. Thats how we roll.
I spent most of this morning feeling ashamed and mortified! But after talking to everyone, I'm good. My husband, bless his soul..had no idea what to do last night. He wasn't going to win no matter what he said, so he just stayed clear of me and handed me off to my mother! Smart man I married! So was this a typical Sunday dinner? No, but it was the typical response from my family..love, understanding and accepting me and my melt down!

BLOG OVERLOAD and BLOGGER GREED

2009-02-27T22:23:00.003-05:00

I'm overwhelmed by blogs. I've been bombarded with blogs. So many to read and so little time. How on earth do you keep up with it all? And then theres the blogger comment guilt! I feel like I have to leave a comment on every blog I read..they know I was here..why didn't she comment they're thinking!! And so I comment. Don't get me wrong, I usually want to comment and do. But sometimes, I just feel like I HAVE to. That kinda sucks. But I don't want the writer to think I didn't enjoy the blog...you know what I mean???
I love the blog world. But Lord have mercy there a trillion blogs out there. Weeding through them is daunting thats for sure! I mean, I do it because I like it. No other reason. Its not even on my mind to make money. I don't need cash, I do it as an outlet, thats all. I couldn't even imagine trying to do it as a source of income, thats crazy!! Way to much competition out there!! Besides I would starve if thats why I was doing it!!!
So how many blogs do you read??
How long does it take you?
Do you comment on all of them?
Do you have that blog comment guilt that I suffer from?
Don't you think people should blog because they love it and are passionate about what they write for? Not for an income. I actually tend to stay away from those blogs that are filled with ads..kinda drives me nuts, totally turns me off. You can tell all they are doing is looking for a way to make a buck.
I say love what you do and do what you love. If you love to write than go for it..but don't do it to make a buck..it shows.

The Economy and Shoes!

2009-02-24T08:25:00.007-05:00

While unemployment is up, costs for many things are down. I have little to no will power. Apparently all the online retailers know this. My inbox is stuffed full of advertising to entice me! 80% off, 75% off..SHOES! Be still my beating heart!! I have just a slight obsession with shoes. Don't most women? Wonder why? I'll tell you! Because they always fit!!! Always! Doesn't really matter if I gain that 5 pounds during the winter...my shoes will fit! When going shopping and looking fat in everything I try on..shoes will always look good..shoes can't make your ass look fat! And of course the higher the heel..the longer and thinner my legs look..then I think..hmm if I'm overweight at my flatfoot 5'0 inches tall...then the 5 inch heels would put me at an ideal weight for a 5'5" woman..right?? Well in my bizarre way of thinking it works!! Don't rain on my parade!
I've decided that for now we don't call it shopping..that seems a bit taboo..I have taken to calling it "stimulating the economy"!!
"Yes, dear, I'm going to stimulate the economy, stop at the post office, and then the dry cleaners today."
Sounds pretty good doesn't it?? I'm doing my civic duty! And I'm doing it wearing a fabulous pair of shoes...so there!!

2008-12-01T14:49:00.006-05:00

Who doesn't love a contest! I just entered these cookies into the contest over at The Coupon Coup! Check out some fabulous cookies HERE The site Kindred Spirit Sweets has THE BEST looking cookies ever...my personal Favorite is the Ralphie in the bunny costume...Best Christmas Movie ever!!! Join the contest~ And win adorable snowmen cookies..much better than the boring frosting and sparkles that I make!

Time to start baking for Christmas!! This is my favorite Christmas cookie and always the first one I bake. My youngest son Ronny and I made these this past weekend. MMMMM So yummy!! The smell while baking reminds me of my childhood, and Christmas time. Mom and Grandma always had these on the cookie tray.

ITALIAN MEATBALL COOKIES

1 ¼ Cup Crisco

1 ½ Cups Sugar

3 Eggs

1 Cup Milk

1 tsp vanilla

5 Cups Flour

5 tsp baking powder

1 TBS each of

Cinnamon

Cloves

Allspice

Nutmeg

¾ Cup Hershey cocoa

1 cup chopped walnuts

1 cup chocolate chips

1 cup raisins

Cream shortening and sugar.

Add eggs and milk and vanilla a little at a time.

Add dry ingredients and spices. Mix well.

Add nuts, chips, and raisins and mix.

Roll the dough into balls, a little smaller than a golf ball. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes.

Cool and glaze. I just use powdered sugar, a little water and a little milk for the glaze and just dunk the cookies in the glaze and let dry on rack.

I HAVE BUT ONE HEART

2008-11-29T08:58:00.003-05:00

As I sit here and listen to the music of my blog, I can't get over how much music has changed. Its so sad that the lyrics of today are so filled with filth, and sex, and just no good. Are there really any love songs out there today. Songs that really speak from the heart in a poetic way?

The lyrics to I HAVE BUT ONE HEART...wow. Could you imagine a man writing this song for you? They just don't write them like this anymore. This is what a love song should sound like. Not the crap that they have out there today! Gotta love Dean Martin!
>
I have but one heart, this heart I bring you,
I have but one heart to share with you,
I have but one dream that I can cling to,
You are the one dream I pray comes true.
My darling, until I saw you, I never felt this way,
And nobody else before you, ever has heard me say,
You are my one love, my life I live for you,
I have but one heart to give to you.
(musical interlude)
*Dicimo o mari, facimu l'amore,
*A curi a curi che ci passa,
*Ca u mare parla e na' carezza,
*Ma a tia la brezza, fina murir.
You are my one love, my love I live for you,
I have but one heart to give to you.

*Not Italian, not Sicilian, but Neapolitan, the free translation of which is:
Let us tell the sea that we are making love,
Heart to heart till the end of time,
Because the sea whispers and caresses us,
So does the breeze till the time we die.

I just LOVE the Italian lyrics of this song..so so pretty.

THANKSGIVING!

2008-11-15T19:12:00.003-05:00

With all that is happening in the world we really need to bow our heads and give thanks for what we have. We need to stop wishing for what we don't have and be grateful for we do have. Be thankful that you woke up this morning in a bed. In a warm house. Be thankful that you could go make coffee. Don't complain that you had to get up and go to work. Be thankful that you have a job. Don't complain that your kids are driving you crazy. Be thankful you have healthy children. We are all so busy running around chasing the brass ring that we don't realize that most of us already have it. Its there, if you look for it. If you look at your life through the eyes of someone less forutnate you are a king. My Father always used the saying " I complained that I had no shoes, until I met a man who had no feet." Take this time to not only give thanks, but also to just give. Be it a dollar or a meal. Giving back is what keeps us humble, keeps us thankful and is the ultimate thing that one can do for another. Don't turn your back and pretend that you don't see. Lend a hand, lend a dollar, an ear or a shoulder. Give your time or your old coat that never gets worn. Thanksgiving isn't just about the turkey on the table. Its not all about gathering as a family to be thankful. Its about giving thanks as well as giving hope. Giving hope to someone who is less fortunate than us. Giving them something to hold onto...maybe their own brass ring.

YUMMY DINNER TONIGHT

2008-10-28T19:29:00.004-04:00

Those of you who follow my recipes at www.happyhousewivesclub.com get a sneak preview! This will be on an upcoming menu! Sooo good, and pretty easy too! Its all about the wine people!! A little for the stew and a little for you!

SPEZZATEDDU
Sicilian Beef Stew

Serves 6 to 8

Ingredients

1/3 cup vegetable oil

2 1/2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 2 inch cubes

3/4 cup flour

1/3 cup olive oil

2 medium yellow onions, diced

1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1 inch strips

1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into 1 inch strips

2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons tomato paste

3 medium Yukon gold potatoes, diced

2 cups chianti or medium-bodied red wine

2 cups beef stock

1 cup fresh Italian parsley, roughly chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Fried capers and parsley sprig for garnish

Method

Heat vegetable oil, on high, in a large stew pot. Season the beef with salt
and pepper then dredge in flour and brown in two batches. Remove beef and drain on paper towel.

Add olive oil to same pot and heat on medium-high. Sauté onions until
slightly soft, about 3 minutes. Add peppers, rosemary and garlic and continue to cook another 3 minutes. Add meat back to pot, along with tomato paste and potatoes. Stir to coat. Turn up the heat to high and add red wine. Reduce by 1/3, about 5 minutes.

Add beef stock and bring back to a boil for 3 minutes. Turn the heat down to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until meat is fork tender. Stir in the fresh parsley. Season with more salt and pepper to taste.

To serve, ladle into large bowls and garnish with the fried capers and parsley sprigs.

The fried capers give this dish its incredible flavor. But of course it may not be for everyone, so feel free to leave it out, its optional. I like to serve this with Italian bread that I've warmed in the oven, and a simple side salad with olive oil and red wine vinegar. So filling and satisfying on a cold night! Leftovers are delicious!

Putting Your Children First

2008-10-19T14:25:00.011-04:00

Why and how, do people complain that they can't afford braces for the kids teeth, or the cost of a private school, or the ability of having mom stay home with the kids, all the while living in the McMansion and driving their bmw's? How about NOT going on vacation? How about NOT shopping at Neimen Marcus and check out the sale at Target? How about NOT going out to dinner every weekend? How about NOT buying all name brand products, and give generic a try? Sacrifice people, sacrifice. Forget the glam and remember why you had children. Really, do you think your children are better off in a daycare? Lets do the math shall we?

You get up at 6am and get ready for work.
You wake your still sleeping child up and take them out into the cold at 7am to daycare.
Maybe you fed them breakfast, maybe the daycare will
You go to work all day, and drive through traffic to pick your child up at 5 or 6 pm.
You go home and try and figure out whats for dinner...or maybe (probably) you picked up something on the way home.
You eat, you clean up the kitchen.
Its now about 7pm. Your tired, but you still need to do a load of laundry and other chores. Still have to have bath time for the little one.
8pm Put child to bed.

WOW...so exactly how much time did you spend with your child? Maybe 3 hours...and half of that was in the car. The other half was getting them ready to drop of at a day care or to get into bed. So by Friday you 've spent a total of maybe 15 hours with your child. BUT you've spent 40 hours with co workers that you probably don't even like. Oh but you'll make up for it right? You'll spend every waking hour of the weekend with child and overload them with presents and let them get away with murder because of your guilt. And then on Monday you'll start the cycle all over again.
Why did you become a parent? Why would anyone WANT to live like this? I totally understand a single mother having to live like this out of necessity. I don't get the double income parents doing it. Especially when they say they can't afford to do it. Yes you can. If you want to. But unfortunately people don't put their children first. They don't want to give up the goodies that come along with two incomes. The big overpriced and underused home. The two new cars in the driveway. The bragging rights to the fabulous vacations. The designer clothes, and bags and shoes. The must have cell phone for child, ipods, laptops, flat screen tvs, most expensive cable package, club memberships, gym member ships, new furniture, and general keeping up with the Joneses.

Sacrifice. Its something that we do when we have kids. We buy starter homes, we save money instead of spend it. We buy used cars. We don't go on vacation every year. We cut coupons. We shop at Target. We say no to our children when we wish we could say yes. We stretch a dollar. We give the kids hand me downs from their siblings. We only buy things on sale. We don't use our credit cards. If we want new furniture we save for it. We believe in paying cash. We go without in order for our kids to have their mother home with them. For our kids to get up in the morning to hot breakfast, and a smiling calm mother that's not rushing and frantic to get to work. We are there when they get off the bus in the afternoon. We greet them with a smile, a hug, kiss and after school snack. We sit at the table and talk to our children every single day. We know all their friends and their parents. We know their teachers. We know what they are learning in science. We sit together every single night to a homemade hot meal as a family.

We are at the football games from start to finish. We don't have to rush there after work and miss the first quarter. We aren't on our cell phones for the whole game either. We really are there rooting on our kids and enjoying ourselves. We are there to kiss them goodnight and tuck them in without the thought of "thank God their in bed finally" in the back of our minds. We love to spend time with our kids. Sacrifice. Its something that people just don't want to do anymore. And your children are suffering for it. I know that many people (working mothers) will disagree with me. Of course they will. They think JR. is just fine. They think hes balanced and getting good grades and they have a great life. Well, sorry but your life is a mess. Your house is a mess, your marriage is a mess and your kids are a mess. Or at least one of those things are. You can't keep all those balls in the air. Eventually one will drop. And then the others will follow. Go home. Stay home. Try sacrificing for your children. See the difference that it will make. You will be calmer. You will be happier. Your children will be thankful and less stressed.

Maybe as a bonus our economy will flourish if women went home and became mothers and housewives. Think about it. Less income means less shopping. Prices will go down. The job market will be wide open for men. Women will control the purse strings. We would have less cars on the road too. Means less damage to the environment. Now if we can get the government to pass a tax credit to sahm's..all would be perfect!

BUSY BUSY BUSY

2008-10-11T10:47:00.012-04:00

Goodness where does the time go? Well it is football season here! This year the boys are in different schools so my running around time as just about doubled! But hey I'm a Mom. If anyone can be in two places at once, its a Mom!! The boys are doing fabulous with school and with football. Ricky ran a 60 yard touchdown yesterday!! WHOOO HOOOO! I am such a proud football Mom!
We have been really busy. Right before school started we took the boys to Hershey Park PA. That was a blast! Roller Coaster heaven for the boys! Then in Sept Louie and I went to the San Gennaro Feast in NYC, and last weekend we were in Atlantic City. I don't want to travel again for a few months! Its so nice to be home!
Heres some pictures of our travels!!!

MY CRAZY KIDS WERE ON THIS...MOMMY WAS SCREAMING LOUDER THAN THEY WERE, AND I WAS ONLY ON THE GROUND!

AND NYC AND THE SAN GENNARO FEAST!!!!!!!!!!

AND OUR RIDE TO ATLANTIC CITY...SOOOO PRETTY

The End of Summer, The Beginning Of School Daze

2008-08-07T08:28:00.005-04:00

Wow..summer went by fast! I can't believe were already into August. The lazy days are fading fast. Its time to step it up and prepare for the shiny new school year!
Where to start. Goodness. The class supply lists have grown to two pages. Really is it neccesary to have all these specific colored folders, 3 different colored highlighters, index cards, specific binders with exact measurements? Give me a break...I swear the teachers are in cahoots with the stores! And backpacks...how come we never had backpacks growing up? We actually carried our books. Wow what a concept. Of course our class supply list consisted of a notebook and folder for each class. Not this school survivor kit we have to purchase now. So the back pack is a nessesity to carry it all.
Ahhhh, and then there is the new school clothes. New jeans, new shirts, new sneaks, new socks, new underwear, new haircut...I need a loan.

And if your lucky like me your children are involved in sports. This summer we had three different football camps, a wrestling camp, and lifting 3 days a week. And yes the camps cost money. A mere $100 bucks to send your kids for 2 hours a day, for 4 days. All so they can get the skills that apparently they don't possess, to be able to continue playing the sport that they have played for the last eight years. Football is my cross to bear. My boys have played since the football was bigger then them. Practice schedules are insane. 6pm-8:30 pm 5 days a week starting next week. And then when school starts they will graciously cut it down to 3 days a week.
Of course, my oldest is now at the highschool level. Good God, I though pop warner was crazy with all the hype. High School is another game all together. I swear you would think these kids played for the NFL. Too bad the schools and some of these parents don't put as much effort into the educational system. I get emails from one of the 7 committees every day. Yes there is a committee for everything. Fundraiser committee, Team Spirit Committee, Parents Committee, Committee for nothing Committee. And there are Mandatory Meetings for the parents. Mandatory? I hate being told I have to be somewhere. I'm an adult. I don't need to be told I HAVE to be there. And what if I don't go? My son can't play? Spare me. Football parents can really be nuts. I don't like getting drawn into that whole cult like craziness. Its a freaking game. Let the kids have fun. Your little Johnny is not going to get a football scholarship. Hes not going to be drafted into the NFL.
Don't get me wrong, I love watching my boys play. I'm the screaming proud mama and all, but I just can't get wrapped up in committees, commitments and weekly fund raising. I have a life outside of football! And don't get me started on the Football Dads who are living their glory days vicariously through their children. Its sad really. I've also noticed that the big Football Moms are the ones who were the cheerleaders in high school. Yeah, that wasn't me. I was cheering the football team on from the smoking lounge.
Oh well, time to get the schedule up and mark up the calendar in two different colors for each kid. Though this year I may have to get them seperate calendars. The schedules are just insane. I may have to clone myself too. Not quite sure how I'm going to be at two different places at once. How do you do it with more than two kids? Well, time to get ready for the carwash fundraiser...or is it the flipping burgers at the soccer game fundraiser...gotta go check my schedule.

rain kissed

2008-06-03T16:21:00.005-04:00

Is there anything sweeter than the morning rain, and the sweet drops that linger on the petals of the spring blooms? This morning, as I watched the rain gently fall and give my flowers the water they craved, I knew that life is good. I want for nothing. Today has been one of those melancholy days. Just a little bitter sweet. I know that all I have is all I need. We really do run ourselves to the ground and for what? With all the money, we can't buy the simple pleasures in life. We miss out on the smell of the rain, the sound of the rain, and really searching the sky for that rainbow when the sun peaks out after the spring shower. Slow down. Take a deep breath, and really stop and count your blessings. Is it really worth worrying about? Is it really worth arguing about? We don't know what tomorrow will bring. We don't know what the next hour, minute or second will bring. We can only cherish this moment, right here right now. Don't waste it, don't let it pass you by. Live. Tell someone you love them. Smile. Laugh. Enjoy. Cherish. Feel the life that is inside you and remember that each day, each moment and each breath is simply, a gift from God. What we choose to do with it, is our gift back to him.

SAYING NO TO OUR CHILDREN...WHEN IS ENOUGH, ENOUGH?

2008-04-30T10:04:00.002-04:00

A discussion recently came up at a forum, on how old a child should be to receive a cell phone? Seriously??? I don't even think its an issue. I see these little kids, 8,9 years old talking on their cell phones like they are Paris Hilton. My boys are 14 and almost 12 and I wouldn't even think about wasting the money on cell phones. I hardly even use my own.
These parents can try and justify cell phones for 8 year olds all they want, but I'm not buying it. One of the big arguments is for safety reasons. What safety?? Isn't your 8 year old always with you or a trusted adult??? Why and when would a child under the age of, lets say 12 be alone?? My boys go to school, go to practice and they they come home. If they want to go to a friends house, I bring them. If they want to go to the movies, bowling alley, or skating rink, I bring them. And I know there are pay phones in each of these facilities. Its almost like an extended form of attachement parenting. Who is the cell phone really for. YOU, or your child??
When do we say no to our kids?? Shouldn't we be teaching them that just because little Suzie has a cell phone, doesn't mean that she "needs" one too? Don't we want our kids to grow up with an individual, and independent way of thinking? Our we teaching our children to keep up with the Jr. Joneses? Enough is enough. Say no to your kids now. Teach them that life is not fair. Life is what they make of it. So what if little Johnny gets a flat tire on his bike? So he walks the bike home. Thats life. He doesn't need his Mommy to come rescue him. If hes old enough to be out riding his bike alone, hes old enough to deal with a flat tire. So what if Mommy is running a little late picking up Suzie from school?? She waits. No child is going to be alone at school for very long if they have responsible parents. And no school is going to leave a child out on a curb by herself and lock the school up. I am a protective, if not overprotective parent...but I'm not letting my kids become co-dependant on me for every little issue that comes up in their lives either. Use common sense. Use your brains, and use a pay phone. The other argument came up that there were no pay phones in the school, and that it wasn't the teachers responsibility to let little Johnny use her phone...uh, yes it is. If your school doesn't have pay phones, and that teacher is responsible for your child, than using her phone should not be a problem or question at all. Or, "oh my son had to borrow his friends phone several times"...so what? Isn't that what friends are for? I just don't thing that the amount of times that there are issues of a child being picked up justifies the "need" for a cell phone. Why do your kids ask for cell phones? Really? They don't care or even think about emergency situations...they are thinking of the status and "everyone else has one". Well this parent isn't buying that argument or any cell phones anytime soon.

Eulogy to Lou's Dad

2008-04-25T21:53:00.004-04:00

This week my husband lost his best friend, his Dad. My father in law was one of a kind. Old school all the way. They just don't make 'em like that today. This is the eulogy that my husband wrote and said in church yesterday. He couldn't make it through the whole thing, and his sister took over, barely making it through herself. Not a dry eye in the house. He really did a good job describing and honoring his Dad.

Salvatore J. Petix April 21, 2008

Over the last few months, as I forced myself to realize that this day was imminent, I knew that it would be important for me to describe the man who provided, protected, and loved unconditionally, his family for his entire life.
My father Sam was a man of great humility. He would never talk about his accomplishments. Yet he always beamed with pride when speaking of his parents, siblings, wife, children and especially his grandchildren. Nothing made him happier than spending time with his family. Either working, cooking on the grill, playing catch, or watching a Yankee game, is how he found pleasure. He fit right in with any age group and was young at heart. Dad never took himself too seriously in a social situation, and even though his hearing loss made conversations a little more difficult, you could always count on him for a witty, interesting, and intelligent conversation.
Dad worked in the family business his entire life. First with his father and siblings, and then with his sons. He started in the bottling business washing pop bottles by hand at 10 years old and gracefully bowing out at the young age of 84. And today my father’s legacy lives on.
During his entire career he was known to be an honest, compassionate and fair man. Qualities that he felt strongly about instilling in my sister, my brother, and me. He taught us through his actions, stories, accomplishments and his unmatched work ethic. One of Dads favorite sayings was “nothing good comes easy”, and when things go wrong, I can always hear my father saying it, and it inspires me to finish the task at hand.
My father enjoyed, believed and lived a simple life. Material things were of little value to him, and expensive things never impressed him. Give my father strawberries for breakfast, spaghetti with burnt breadcrumbs and anchovies, and his banana every day and he was a happy man. He disapproved of arrogance and envy, and taught us to be happy and content with what we have. We learned that family is more important than things, and hard work is a reward in itself.
Dad was a man of tremendous intelligence, common sense and perseverance. But his most admirable qualities were his dedication and love for his wife. Even after fifty years of marriage, my father would still kiss mom goodbye each morning and hello as soon as he walked in the door after work. He flirted with her continuously; he teased her relentlessly and loved her endlessly until his dying breath.
Dad, we know that you’re in heaven with grandpa and grandma. Probably drinking your fresh squeezed orange juice at the kitchen table with Aunt Connie, Uncle Joe, and Uncle Leo. All of you talking about the stock market, laughing at an inside family joke, ½ in English and ½ in Italian. Enjoying your family once again.
But just remember Dad, we will never forget what you have taught us through your words and actions. We’ll never forget the way that you loved us, and inspired us. We miss you so much it hurts, and our hearts are broken. However, God must have needed the best Ginger ale and Gassosa to mix with his wine at his table, and so he called you home. Rest in Peace now Dad, and know that we will make you proud, miss you, remember you and love you until we see you again.

Cherish your family

2008-03-25T22:47:00.003-04:00

Being with my family this past Sunday for Easter, I chose that time to talk about our history with them. See, they are all getting older. We don't know what tomorrow will bring. I wanted to know stuff. The kind of stuff you don't hear in a normal conversation. What was great grandpa like? Really like? What did he do for a living? It really got the ball rolling, and then the stories began. Stories I have never heard before, stories I would never have heard, had I not asked. My boys were sitting at the table, listening, learning, and amazed. They didn't know of the hardships, or the suffering their Great Grandparents and Great Great Grandparents endured to give them the life they know today. I wanted them to hear these stories. The good, the bad and the funny. Its their history, our history. Yes, we have the family trees, and the photos. But I didn't have the details. I didn't have ALL the stories. And I still don't, but I have more than I did. I have more now to think about when I look at the photos of my Grandparents, or cook a recipe from my Grandmothers. I want to know the relatives that were here and paved the path for me and my children. Its important not to forget. Its important to ask questions, tell stories, take pictures, and to reminisce. Because, we don't know what tomorrow will bring.

Yes I'm still ALIVE!

2008-03-14T10:36:00.003-04:00

Its been crazy around here for the last couple of months. Between wrestling meets and getting ready and going to Vegas and the regular everyday life of a housewife/mom I've sprouted a new garden of grey hairs!

Lets see, where to begin. VEGAS BABY!!! Yes we went to Vegas in Feb to meet up with my fellow Happy House wife Robyn and her adorable hubby Tom! What a blast. We ate, we drank, we gambled, we won, we lost..we had fun! Robyn is a firecracker! And a hot mama! I absolutely love and adore her. Can't wait for her to travel east and meet me in NY!! I love to meet any of the girls in the club! (http://www.happyhousewivesclub.com/) I have also become the contributing editor over there on the domestic page. I'm having a blast with it, and challenging all the girls to get their homes in order. I still have my small corner on Robyn's cooking page, Dawns Italian Corner. So you see I've been busy busy busy!! I am however in the process of fine tuning my schedule to meet all my obligations in a timely manner! So I will be blogging more, promise!!

WHATS FOR DINNER??

2008-01-21T09:09:00.001-05:00

The beginning of another week.
Time to plan the menu, and get to the grocery store.
Its going to be a busy week so I need a meal plan that has flexibility in it as well as potential leftovers.
My girl Robyn over at the Happy Housewives Club http://www.happyhousewivesclub.com/hotmama.html,
has a yummy recipe for a crockpot Beef roast that will on the menu this week. http://happyhousewivesclubcooking.com/?p=623
as well as my Penne with tomato and eggplant sauce. http://happyhousewivesclubcooking.com/?p=1296.
Simple, little time consuming and tasty!!

MONDAY: SOUP AND SANDWICHES, thank you Robyn!!

Cuban Sandwich
1 cup mayonnaise
5 tablespoons Italian dressing
4 hoagie rolls, split lengthwise
4 tablespoons prepared mustard
1/2 pound thinly sliced deli turkey meat
1/2 pound thinly sliced cooked ham
1/2 pound thinly sliced Swiss cheese
1 cup dill pickle slices
1/2 cup olive oil

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise and Italian dressing. Spread mixture on hoagie rolls. Spread each roll with mustard. On each roll, arrange layers of turkey, ham, and cheese. Top each with dill pickle slices. Close sandwiches, and brush tops and bottoms with olive oil.Heat a non-stick skillet over medium high heat. Place sandwiches in skillet. Cook sandwiches for 2 minutes, pressing down with a plate covered with aluminum foil. Flip, and cook for 2 more minutes, or until cheese is melted. Remove from heat, place on plates, and cut in half diagonally.

TUESDAY: ROBYNS CROCKPOT BEEF ROAST (link above)

WEDNESDAY: PENNE WITH TOMATO AND EGGPLANT SAUCE

1 cup olive oil
3-4 garlic cloves, peeled
11/2 pound eggplant, cut into ½ inch cubes
8 large white mushrooms, sliced
½ cup chopped onion
Salt to taste
½ cup dry white wine
3 cups chopped, canned, imported san Marzano Italian plum tomatoes, with Juice.
5 fresh basil leaves, chopped
Pinch of dried oregano
1 lb of penne or ziti
Freshly grated pecorino Romano cheese, to taste
1. Put oil in a large sauté pan over med heat. Sauté garlic until golden. Remove garlic. Add eggplant, mushrooms and onions. Add salt and sauté for about 12 minutes or until veggies are very soft and just beginning to brown, lowering heat, if necessary, to slow down the browning.
2. Add wine and bring to a boil. Stir in tomatoes and return to a boil. Season with salt and pepper. Lower heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Stir in basil and oregano and remove from the heat.3. While the sauce is simmering, cook the penne in a large, deep pot in rapidly boiling salted water until al dente.4. Drain the penne and return the penne to the pot. Over medium high heat, stir in ½ cup of the sauce. Stir for about a minute or so. This is how to flavor your macaroni and let the sauce stick to it. Remove from the heat and pour into a large pasta bowl. Spoon the rest of the sauce over the top and sprinkle with pecorino Romano cheese!! Serve with crusty garlic bread and tossed salad!

THURSDAY: CLEANING DAY....NO COOKING, ORDER IN!!!!

FRIDAY: TILAPIA VINCENZO..family favorite!!

Tilapia Vincenzo
Serves 2
2 (8 ounce) pieces tilapia
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (Italian flat leaf)
1/4 cup dry white wine
1/4 cup clam broth
1 Tbs salted butter
3/4cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
3/4cup shredded parmigiano-reggiano cheese
1/8cup olive oil, plus 1/4cup
2 cloves garlic minced
1 head of escarole washed and chopped into large pieces
1 tomato, diced
1 (9 oz) can cannelloni beans, drained
Place tilapia in a baking dish and season with salt, pepper, basil, and parsley. Pour wine and clam broth over fish. Put ½ Tbs of butter on top of each piece of fish. Broil 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
In a small bowl, mix bread crumbs, Parmigiano and 1/8 cup olive oil. Place bread crumb mixture on top of fish, lightly pushing it down.
In a saute pan heat 1/4 cup olive oil, add garlic and saute until browned. Add escarole and tomato. Cook a couple of minutes and then add the beans. Continue to cook until moisture is absorbed.
Place tilapia under the broiler and cook until brown on top. Spoon the escarole and beans onto a plate and top with the tilapia.

Creating your menu ahead of time, leaves no room for the question "whats for dinner?"
I can still switch things up if necessary, such as switch tues and thurday if needed.
The key is I have the ingredients on hand to make all the meals listed above.
Cooking dinner with a well thought out plan is part of my job.
My job to nourish and feed my hungry family!!
Throwing something together at the last minute doesn't show much care or love for my family!! I want them to know that I thought it out, planned and prepared for them.
It doesn't take much effort but the end result is a happy, healthy and well fed family.
What more can you ask for??
So whats on your menu this week??

Why I love my husband!!

2008-01-20T15:29:00.002-05:00

I've been challenged by Kathy @ http://aqueeninthehousefullofmen.blogspot.com/ to list the reasons of why I love my husband. For me this is no challenge at all...I love the man to death!!!

1. He is super hot!

2. He has taken the role of step father to new levels, and loves my boys as if they were his own.

3. He works his butt off and allows me to stay home!

4. He calls me sweet nicknames that he changes daily..today I'm "princess"!

5. He never ever ever gets angry with me. We never fight!

6. He whistles and sings in the morning....the man wakes up happy.

7. He loves me in spite of all my bad habits

8. He makes me laugh every single day, several times!

9. He loves my cooking!

10. My Mother loves him! My whole family loves him! Everyone loves Louie!

11. He still flirts with me

12. He rocks my world!

Discipline

2008-01-19T16:26:00.000-05:00

Why don't parents discipline their children anymore?? Why are we sooo afraid that they are going to get their feelings hurt or end up being scarred for life somehow??
When I was growing up my Mother would hit us with whatever she had in her hand, usually a wooden spoon, but when we got older and faster she reached for the yard stick. I'm not saying that my mother beat us. She didn't. She gave a few good whacks on the ass with the spoon. And we lived to talk about it!! Imagine that! We feared our parents and we respected them. What happened to society?? Kids don't fear their parents. Now parents want to be friends with the children. They want to talk about it. Work it out. Give time outs. Time out??? What is that?? Go stand in the corner. That was our time out. My parents didn't negotiate with us. It was not a democracy in our home..it was a dictatorship and mom ruled the roost. Parents need to get tougher with their kids. We are turning them into little whimps who cry at the drop of a hat if they don't get their way. I'm tired of seeing parents get taken advantage of my 3 year olds. And humiliation is a pretty good disciplinary tool also. My mother used it. And I learned my lessons, believe me. It doesn't take much to humiliate a 13 year old in front of his friends. And he will live to tell the story. He won't turn into a serial murderer because Mom embarrassed him, he may actually turn out a little better for it.
So get a little tougher people. You can be friends with your children when they are adults. Adults you'll actually want to be friends with.

I'm Back!!

2008-01-13T14:35:00.000-05:00

Well the holidays are behind me and I can begin to relax again!! We had a wonderful Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year! I'm am now looking forward to spring!! Is it too early? In a few weeks Lou and I are going to Vegas baby!! I'll be hooking up with my fellow Happy Housewife and girl Robyn and her husband Tom! We can't wait...and ya know I'll be posting lots of pictures and good stories!!
New Years resolutions?? Me?? HA..I already fell off that wagon. Yeah, diet, be nice, smile more, blah blah blah. Too much pressure. I've decided that I like me. And if others don't like me for me than too bad. I eat what I want. I may not be a size 3 anymore but who is at 41 years old? I LOVE food. I don't diet, don't count calories and don't exercise and you know what? I'm not THAT bad. Yeah, I should tone up a bit, and maybe I will. But I'm not going to sacrifice food that I enjoy. Life's too short. I don't want to die tomorrow and my last thought be "Damn, I should have ate that piece of cake yesterday."

2007-10-27T16:52:00.002-04:00

Chicken Tetrazzini
Simple, delicious, and classic. I made this last week, and the family wanted to know why I haven’t made it for so long..I had no answer! Its yummy and its easy, not to mention inexpensive! I won’t be waiting so long to make it again!

Chicken Tetrazzini
6 tablespoons butter or margarine

3 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 pound fresh mushrooms (cleaned and sliced)

4 tablespoon flour

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons dry sherry

3/4 cups grated Parmesan cheese

1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

3 cups cubed cooked chicken

1/2 pound spaghetti or vermicelli (cooked and drained)

1/4 cup Italian-style bread crumbs

Heat 4 tablespoons of the butter and oil in a large saucepan and saute the mushrooms for 5 minutes.

Remove the mushrooms with a slotted spoon and reserve.
Add the flour to the remaining juices and stir to form a roux.

Cook until bubbly.

Slowly add the chicken broth and cook until thickened.
Remove from the heat and add the cream, sherry Parmesan, and nutmeg.

Stir until the cheese melts.
Add the chicken and reserved mushrooms and stir well.

Combine with the cooked spaghetti and place in a greased 3-quart baking dish.

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and toss with the bread crumbs. Sprinkle over the casserole.
Bake at 375 degrees F. for 25 to 30 minutes.

simple easy chicken

2007-10-27T00:48:00.000-04:00

http://flickr.com/photos/dawnny/sets/72157601987475127/show/

I'm so taking the easy way out here people..its been a horrible, wonderful, long, tireing day..tomorrow I will talk to ya about Halloween...Trick or Treat!!!!!!!!!!!
So click the link above and watch a boring chicken become your Saturday night dinner in just a few simple steps..you can do it really!!!!!!!!!! YUM YUM

The sacrifice of being a parent

2007-09-28T09:32:00.000-04:00

My boys can drive me to the brink of insanity. They can melt my heart with a kiss. They can torture me with loud music and dirty clothes. They can make me laugh with their funny ways.
How can I let them grow? Now in middle school, its time for me to let them stretch their legs a bit. Let them go off by themselves to the movies, or the skate park. How?? I want to keep them under my wing forever and protect them. I'm scared for them in this world we live in today. How things have changed...I suppose all parents including my own have said this. But I hope that I have given and continue to give them the right tools to do the right thing. I thank God each day that I am home to be with them, and to guide them.
I see so many children in trouble. Rebels without a cause. What are they fighting for? Freedom? From what? Their parents? Or fighting because they have too much freedom? Where is Mom and Dad?? Working. Who meets them at the door after school? No one. A quiet and empty house. Growing up too fast. Learning lifes lessons to soon. I wish I could hug those children. When was the last time you really hugged your child? When was the last time you looked them in the eye and told them "I love you."?
I mourn the loss of family. And although those values are still intact in my home, I'm sad for the homes that family isn't valued. I feel for the children that have to grow up in daycare. Nothing replaces Mom. Nothing replaces walking through the door after school and smelling cookies. Nothing.
So many parents say that they "Have" to have two incomes. Really? I don't believe it. What they "have" to have is the big screen tv, the brand new cars, the huge mortgage on their huge home, the trips, the fancy clothes and the fancy toys...
Sacrifice. Its what we do the day we become parents. Its going without so you can be there for your children when they need you. Look at society. Its a mess. Its falling apart. No one eats together as a family anymore. No one sits and plays with their children. No one cares. Everyone is in such a hurry that before they know it, its over. Your children are grown.
Not mine. My boys will be forever young in my eyes. They will always be able to come home and find the smell of cookies, or something cooking when they walk in the door. They will remember their childhood as a care-free time when innocence was protected. They will remember being at the kitchen table for dinner every night. Laughter, family, food, fun, and warmth.
We have become such a spoiled nation. We are supposed to be adults, but there are so many selfish, spoiled people now. When did this happen. When did we care more about the car were driving than our children? When did owning the biggest house become so important? What happened to this country? And the biggest question, is how can we change it? What needs to happen?
The only answers I have, are to look at your children. This is the future. What are we doing to them? What morals, and values are we teaching them? Are you able to sleep at night, knowing that no matter what, your child will do the right thing?

New York City..food, booze and San Gennaro

2007-09-19T09:11:00.001-04:00

What a wonderful trip to New York City we had this past weekend!! So much to do and so much to see!! I get there about twice a year and still love it every time!! The energy, the shopping, the sights, the people, the food...whats not to love??

My weekend started on Friday. We flew into JFK and got to our hotel. I stayed at the Marriott in the financial district..very nice hotel, we stayed on the top floor (38th) and had an incredible view.

Of course we were starving when we got there and all I wanted to do was EAT!! So my first little snack was a lobster cocktail!! YUM

That night we went to Little Italy for the San Gennaro Feast and to have dinner. Dinner at Il Cortile was incredible as it always is...I have no pictures of the food or restaurant because I was too busy eating and drinking! After dinner we walked around the feast and drank some wine, ate some more food and called it an early night..about 2am!!

Then on Saturday I got to meet TIFFANY!!! Tiffany belongs to the same online club as I do..www.happyhousewives.com and she lives on Long Island. So of course we decided to meet up. We went to brunch at Bobby Flays joint and had a blast. This girl just cracked me up all day..what a sweetheart!!! She took my cousin and I shopping after brunch and we had a lot of laughs and a lot of fun. I can't wait to hook up with her again!!!

The rest of the weekend was a whirlwind..we went to Brooklyn for dinner at Bamontes, and friends picked us up and took us to Staten Island to a club afterwards...a lot of fun and drinks there...we didn't get back to our hotel till 6am!!

After that night, Sunday was a little tough..we were exhausted. But we ventured on. Most of the day was spent at the San Gennaro feast in Little Italy where we made our way through every sausage stand. Of course we had our cannoli and espresso at Ferraras...yum yum yum

I am exhausted all over again just posting all of this!! There is so much to tell but I think I'll save it for my next blog. I think that Ground Zero deserves its own space here. And the tone is much different. What an emotional place.

But for now I am going to leave you with this NY teaser...if you have never been to NY you have to go. I know I'll be back there this holiday season and I can't wait!!!!!!!

2007-09-06T23:11:00.001-04:00

I LOVE SEAFOOD!!

2007-09-06T22:38:00.001-04:00

Its 3:45 pm. I have just picked up youngest son from school. "Whats for dinner tonight?" he asks me.

Dinner? How could I forget dinner?

"Umm..we'll see when we get to the grocery store." I tell him, half believing it myself!

So we fly into the parking lot as I am on borrowed time as it is. Must get him home to do his homework, and get his football clothes into the dryer. Then put pads into pants and football girdle. (Any of you who have children who play football know what a highlight this is!) and get him to practice by 6pm and pick up older son at 6pm across town...see a conflict there? Oh and cook dinner? HA HA HA HA ha ha haaaa.

Ok...were in the produce dept. and my son is running trying to keep up with my frantic pace. I start throwing things into the cart...mushrooms, onions, spinach, hmm garlic of course. Mind you I still have no idea what I'm making, but these things are all good and I'll figure something out..I hope.

Ok...out of the produce dept, and around the corner on two wheels, smack into the ex husbands brother..who wants to chat. Yeah yeah yeah,,blah blah blah..gotta go.

Into the fish dept. Ok, I'm picking fish for tonight because its closer than the meat dept and its now 4:15. Clams, shrimp, and yeah I'll take some scallops. Make son run to the dairy dept to get milk. Someone keeps coming into my house and drinking all the milk....the boys keep saying "I didn't do it." Well this I didn't, better come up with a social security number because hes being claimed on the taxes this year.

Damn lines are a mile long and of course out of 27 checkouts there is 3 open and 2 express 7 items or less.

I pull into the express and dare someone to say something to me. Holy crap....how much?? What the hell was I thinking getting all this seafood? Oh well, everybody better eat it all or I'm shoving it down throats.

Get home, unload groceries, throw clothes in dryer and pray that they will be dry in 20 minutes. Tell son to get butt in gear and do homework.

OH MY GOD...why did I buy shrimp that needs to be peeled, deveined and cleaned. IDIOT IDIOT IDIOT!! errrr get to it. I'm still amazed I have all 10 fingers with as fast as I got them babies done. OK...check clothes. Hmmm dry enough. Its 90 degrees outside, they'll dry when he goes out there. Get the pads in and yell for him to get butt downstairs and start getting dressed. OK..5:46....gotta go hurry up! Of course this is my slowpoke son, so I figure I have time to clean scallops while he gets dressed. Done, out the door and we have 2 minutes to get 12 minutes away. Not to mention my oldest will be sitting on the stairs at school waiting for me.

I slowed down enough to let youngest jump out without injury..hey he had pads on and a helmet. Rush to other side of town and pick up oldest. Get home, throw on a pot of water for macaroni. Start cooking shrimp, than scallops, than clams.

How I got all this done, I don't even know, but I did, and I remembered to pick up youngest at 8pm!!!

Back to school treat for the boys

2007-09-04T09:24:00.000-04:00

Eggplant and Ricotta Sandwiches

2 Large Eggplants
1 TBS extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for brushing
12 slices ham
5 ounces ricotta
3 eggs, beaten
Breadcrumbs
2 TBS butter
1 sprig rosemary
Salt
Preheat a grill or grill pan. Cut the eggplants widthwise into 24 round slices, about ¼ inch thick. Lightly brush each of the slices with olive oil and transfer to the grill. Cook the eggplant slices until tender and remove from heat. Now using a 2 inch biscuit cutter, trip the eggplant slices and set aside. (You can also use a drinking glass and trim around it)With the same ring, trim the ham slices to make 24 disks. In a bowl combine the ricotta with 1 TBS of the olive oil. (I also put in a PINCH of cinnamon, this is optional)Mix until creamy and set aside.Prepare the sandwiches:Arrange 1 ham disk on top of 1 eggplant disk. Top with a layer of the ricotta and 1 more ham disk, and top it off with another eggplant disk.Lightly dredge the 12 sandwiches in flour and shake off any excess. Dip in the beaten eggs, and then coat with the breadcrumbs evenly..In a deep skillet over medium heat warm about 1 inch of vegetable oil, the butter, and the rosemary. Add the sandwiches and fry until golden, turning once to cook evenly on both sides. Carefully remove the sandwiches and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Season the sandwiches with salt and serve!!!Serve with some fried up julienned zucchini!! Simply julienne about 3 zucchini, dredge in some flour and fry up in some oil till crunchy and golden!! Drain on paper towel and serve along side the sandwich.

You will be missed Jesse

2007-09-04T08:48:00.000-04:00

Jesse,
I know that you are with God right now, and a little piece of Heaven is a lot brighter.
But here we are all at a loss and in disbelief.
I can't believe I won't hear you laugh again.
I won't see that twinkle in your eye.
I won't hear any of your corny jokes.
I won't drink Grand Marnier with you again.
I won't go to the restaurant and see you walk around the corner, and say, "hey baby! Wheres Louie?", or "Hey Dawny, how ya doin'!?"
We won't talk about movies, and food, and your crazy trips.
We won't spend any more New Years eves with you.

You will be remembered for the kind, generous, very funny, wonderful father, friend and brother and son that you became.
May God bless you, and your friends and family.
May he give us the strength to go through this week and each week after this without you.
May God grant us peace and understanding in His decision to take you from us too soon.
May we all learn a lesson from you in how to live our lives.
To live like there is no tomorrow, and to live each day with dignity and respect.
To enjoy life.
The way that you enjoyed your life.
May we bring some joy into someones life each day the way you brought joy into so many peoples each day.
You will never be forgotten, and you will always be in my heart.
Love you Jesse!

Live each day and love it!

2007-09-02T22:35:00.000-04:00

Humble, kind, loving, generous, vivacious, happy, in love, proud, charismatic, loved by all. These are the first words that come to mind when I think of Jesse. Jesse, who two days ago at the age of 42, fell into a coma, from what may have been a stroke.
Now, its a waiting game. His love, doesn't want to give up hope and is praying for a miracle and a Dr. who will tell her something different then the others have already said.
I ask all of you to pray for that miracle. Please.
And then read the words above. How would the people who know you describe you? How will they remember you?
Today, I could have gotten mad at the stuff I get mad at everyday. The newspaper was wet, no one replaced the roll of toilet paper, that stupid car that cut me off. Is it really worth getting mad at?
Remember that each day here is a gift. A gift from God...Are you going to spend it on the couch? On your cell phone? Will you fight and say unkind words to someone you love? Think about it. Remember that we don't know how much time any of us has. Go hug your children, your spouse, call your parents, and stop and look at what you are doing. Live each day as if it were your last. Because we don't know do we?

DO YOU EVEN KNOW WHAT DELAYED GRATIFICATION IS???

2007-09-01T09:20:00.000-04:00

On one of the communities I belong to, we had a discussion on why people are so spoiled, and running around crazy, and going broke. I posted this as my response, and the girls seemed to agree so I thought I would share it with everyone.

Oh, please don't tell my that you need to buy it because YOU DESERVE IT!!! Please, when you go into bankruptcy, and forclose on your home, then and only then can you say.."I deserve it."
The problem is that people don't know the meaning of delayed gratifiation. They don't know how to save for something they want.A lot of people you see with all the toys and cars and vacations, don't have more money than you, they have more debt. When young couples get married today, they want to live the life and have the things their parents have now.What they forget, it that when their parents started out, they started out with nothing. They worked hard, and saved money for what they wanted.They didn't get it all at once. It takes time.If they wanted a new t.v., than they made a plan. They put away money for it. They worked for it. Then once they got it, they appreciated it, and were proud that they were able to buy it with hard work and with cash!! Today, people want it all, and they want it NOW. They will worry about how to pay for it tomorrow.Credit cards are so abused, they are ruining middle class. My parents always taught us, if you can't pay cash for it, then you can't afford it.Or if you do charge something , if you can't pay it off when you get the bill then you can't afford it.Work and save for what you want. When things come to you too easy, they won't make you happy. Things don't make you happy, but the hard work and saving for what you want will make you happy and proud.

Get in the kitchen and cook

2007-08-23T17:12:00.000-04:00

And I'm not talking about grabbing something out of the freezer and throwing it in the microwave. Go get a cookbook and pick out a recipe. How hard is this? Its not rocket science. Don't you want to prepare a good, nutritional meal for your family? You don't even need a cookbook. All you need is your imagination. Ok lets say you have a box of rigatoni or some other type of pasta in your pantry. Now go to the fridge. See anything green? Broccoli? Escarole? How about mushrooms? Onion? Maybe a jar of roasted red peppers. Garlic! Grated cheese? Ok...go get the olive oil and a skillet. Chop up the garlic and throw it in the pan with the olive oil..LOOK YOUR COOKING!! Clean and chop whatever else you have, and throw that in the pan. Cook till wilted and smelling yummy. In the mean time I hope you had enough common sense to boil some water and cook the macaroni. Now toss it all together. You have a meal. Sprinkle with cheese, serve with salad and a good crusty loaf of Italian bread...your family and your bank account will love you. You probably just saved about $30 bucks and it only took 30 minutes to make.

OH and Pizza? Its not dinner. Its a treat. Your family deserves better.

2007-08-22T20:17:00.000-04:00

Football Football Football...
9am drive oldest to practice
11am pick up from practice
wash filthy practice clothes
clean
shop
cook
6pm drive youngest to practice
830pm pick up from practice

all this and find time to eat, clean, feed youngest when he gets home, clean again, wash his stinky clothes, get everyone is the shower, into bed and start all over. And my poor husband needs some loving in there somewhere. I can't wait till football is over!

2007-08-02T09:12:00.000-04:00

Why does PMS get worse as you get older?? Wouldn't you think that you have paid your dues? Time for a little break?? I have been a raving lunatic for two weeks now. I actually threw a wooden spoon across the kitchen the other day narrowly missing my youngest sons head...good thing he is athletic and has great reactions. My husband has been flying under my radar...good instincts that man has. My oldest is clueless and keeps asking me what is wrong with me. "Ma...what is your problem? One minute your nice and the next minute your yelling at us!" What wrong with me is the freakin' hormones that are raging war inside my body and taking control of my brain and turning me into a freakin' whack job!! I hate being like this..I'm seriously looking forward to menopause..I'll take hot flashes over Linda Blair head spins any day. I'm sure my husband and boys are looking forward to an end to the madness also.