Manhattan from Staten Island

Manhattan from Staten Island, originally uploaded by Theresa111.

Thank you to whomever took this photograph, as I did not.

This is the view I had to enjoy while sitting on the steps leading to my home at 42 Nicholas Street, on Staten Island, New York. I also attended St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church and Parochial School, for first grade and half of second grade.Afterward, my parents moved our family to Miami, Florida, where we stayed for a year and one-half. The summer I turned nine we moved to Bethesda, Maryland and have been Washington, DC metropolitan area residents ever since.

Most certainly, I have never been the same. No other city has touched me in the same way. Manhattan skyline is a visual beauty, a gem surrounded by changing waters and skies. The tangy salty sea air was invigorating and always seemed to sweep away any concerns. I promised myself to return someday.

Each time I share with my husband that I long to return to the place I love the most, he tells me that it doesn’t seem like a great idea. I think it would be ideal. I mean … look at this magnificent view! It is one of the most inspirational I have ever beheld and it is as if the strings of my heart are plucked and it sings for joy.

Perhaps I shall spend a week there at a bed and breakfast to make a decision. If I feel the true desire to live there after that, then I shall simply have to convince him that he too will love New York.

Lord Likely Anniversary

Lord Likely is celebrating his first year anniversary in the blogisphere and I for one applaud him on his creative productions of his imagination. Now I must insist that anyone choosing to view his site will know in advance that whilst I and many others find him to be amusing and very cutting-edge, his site is rated “R” or sometimes “X” and it would be against my better judgment to send anyone there, who may not appreciate some of the raunchy things he writes about. His sense of humor is totally grown-up and not for any eyes that will shrink away in horror at some of the subjects he might introduce.

For my part, I enjoy the personality of his 1850’s character and how well written his stories are. There are times, I must confess, where I skim over some of the more descriptive parts because I have grown so fond of the author and his major abilities to pen the continuing story.   He entertains a large audience which fuels a part of his playful imagination. Andy Fanton is perhaps a writer that will become famous whilst being a bit infamous.

Toodle Pip Lord Likely!  You have become a character which is very real in the blogger world. Your author is one of my favorite people and I am certain that we will share many years of friendship.To view his site one may click on the side bar “The Astonishing Adventures of Lord Likely.”

Mini French Buffet

French Buffet Phase I, originally uploaded by Theresa111.

This makes my mouth water as my brain drinks in the aromas, whilst my eyes devour the joy of the delicate flavors, creamy textures and the appropriate crunch of crust, precisely baked choux buns, cookies and coconut macaroons. The Madeleine’s are the perfect size of cake; two bites.  Whereas, the toasted almonds provide nutty accompaniment after being sprinkled to stick atop hot apricot glaze. Everything works together.  Raspberry, cherry, lemon, almond and pistachio flavors enhance each flavor-filled mouthful.

It literally took days to prepare for a big event and the pastry kitchen was an intense place to be. The hands of the students purposefully going through the exercises to make sure all of the differing components be in place and at the ready when assembly time arrived. Then we all marveled at how the recipes, many of which could stand on their own, were combined to create each little masterpiece. Oh, how I miss my French Culinary kitchen. I still dream of the glorious work of our hands and hearts.

 

The Ghosts of Staten Island

When I was a teeny-tiny girl, perhaps four and a half years old, I would awaken in the middle of the night and see ghostlike figures walking to a fro, across my room and round about me. They were as if dressed in their work clothes, hats, coats and carrying suitcases or briefcases. My room was without windows, it being an inside room, and it was almost pitch dark. Sometimes, my Mother would check on me during the night, to take me to the ladies and she would hear me speaking to these people. She thought I was talking in my sleep, only to find me sitting up and looking all about me. I was fully awake. I felt no fear, they didn’t try to contact me I simply watched them pass by. My room felt like Grand Central Station, in grayed tones. I saw this many times over the years we resided on Staten Island, NY. I can remember it as if it just happened.

Inspiration

Plated Horns, originally uploaded by Theresa111.

I have a feeling that what I have been learning recently will take me on a journey, for which I have longed to travel. The road toward a wealth I never thought could be mine. By sharing this gift I can help others to achieve what they need and in turn, I will earn all that I want.

Because it is an open door where the sky is the limit, I need only apply myself half as hard as I have for someone else and I will be living the dreams I dreamt as a young woman. It’s like wanting to eat this dessert, everyday and never gain an ounce and having beautiful and positive people all about me, and we are on this quest together. I am inspired and will be an inspiration to others.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Valentine Cookies, originally uploaded by lorilyn.

My Father-in-law left this world on a Sunday afternoon in 1999. It happened to be Valentine’s Day. I cannot think of a man more lovely than he, to remember on this auspicious day. He brought his family much joy because he planted such good into the hearts and minds of his children. With the help of his wife, together they raised their family with the kind of warmth and love that many only dream of having.

So when I saw this photograph of pink, happy, heart-shaped cookies, it made me immediately see his laughing eyes and recall way he laughed. He was a happy man and I shall always hold a special place in my heart for him.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Happy Birthday Daisy!

Celebration Cake, originally uploaded by Theresa111.

Just found out that today is Daisy’s Fourth Birthday. She is one on the most adorable and precious kitties I have ever met. My Bobby, told me he wants to marry her. Anyway, please visit her and look back on previous posts so you can get the whole Daisy idea. She is as cute as a button. We love you Sweetie.

Cream Biscuits

Cream Biscuits, originally uploaded by Theresa111.

It would be so enjoyable to select a few of these delicious biscuits and spread butter and jam in the middle. I can almost taste the sensations my mouth and brain would endure and it is with reluctance that I choose not to eat this type of Sunday morning breakfast food. Mm. I will enjoy it in my mind and partake of a green salad instead.