SUMMER READING.........

Nothing like a great book to kick off the warm weather!  FORBIDDEN STEPS by Ed Rambeau is a book I recommended a while back.  At that time, it was only available in ebook format.  I am happy to let you all know that FORBIDDEN STEPS is now available in hard and soft cover format.  If you like books that are filled with mystery, romance, intrigue and murder, books that will keep you guessing until the very last word, this is the book for you.  Not only is Ed Rambeau a talented singer songwriter, with his first novel, he has proved to be a fabulous author as well.  I know I am now eagerly awaiting his next novel and I bet you will be too once you read FORBIDDEN STEPS.

Click here to purchase Forbidden Steps

PRESERVE YOUR FASHION and COSTUME JEWELRY

Have you ever bought a fabulous piece of fashion jewelry on to find it tarnishes, chips or even worse causes a reaction on your skin?  Here's a simple tutorial explaining how to preserve and seal your precious pieces so that you can truly enjoy them.




An alternative for larger pieces is Krylon Crystal Clear Gloss, a spray, but make sure to use it outside or in a well ventilated area!

Visit my eBay store for fashion jewelry.

The Newlyweds Drive Away......

What a surprise to see Prince William and his new bride drive away from their wedding lunch together in a decorated vintage Aston Martin convertible!  The back license plate read "JUST WED".

The WEDDING DRESS

I remember when Princess Diana was getting married, the major buzz was about the dress.  So naturally, the same buzz was created as soon as Kate and Prince William became engaged.  I watched with the rest of the world for that first glimpse of the much anticipated dress and though I thought it was lovely and she looked gorgeous, my thoughts went immediately to images in my head of Grace Kelly on her wedding day.  Has anyone else had that thought?

TWO WEDDING KISSES

William and Kate broke with tradition and kissed twice on the balcony when coaxed by their adoring crowd.  The couple looked so relaxed and in love and in retrospect, so different from his parents, Prince Charles and Princess Diana on their wedding day.

CONGRATULATIONS WILLIAM and KATE

Caramia's Collection is sending out the warmest of best wishes for future of true happiness to the newlyweds Prince William and his new princess, Kate Middleton.  Congratulations!!

Renewed Interest in AMERICAN IDOL

I've made no secret of my disappointment in American Idol this season, especially after my favorite contestant Paul McDonald was voted off.  However, I tuned in last night and caught James Durbin's cover of "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" and my interest has been renewed!  I thought his performance and choice of song was exceptional and wish him the best.  Maybe there is still hope for American Idol after all.

ROYAL WEDDING

With William and Kate's wedding right around the corner, it's hard not to think back and remember the glorious wedding of Lady Diana to Prince Charles.  Who would have thought then how that fairy tale would have ended, so sad.  I remember the day like it was yesterday, where were you?  Will you be watching the royal wedding on Friday?

Baby and Dog Chasing Bubbles!!

What can make you smile more than a baby -- how about a baby and a dog playing together!  Here's a mom blowing bubbles and the family dog shows the baby how much fun it can be to chase them.  To bring an even bigger smile to your face,  the family dog is a rescue from a shelter.

LET'S LOCK THE DOOR by Jay and the Americans

The '60's and '70's are having a comeback in fashion and home decor .  Here's a classic '60's hit from Jay and the Americans featuring Jay Black, "Let's Lock The Door".  Not only is the song fun, check out the guys' clothing!  Skinny leg pants and stripes -- right in fashion now and so Mad Men!

U.S. MARINES SING BRITNEY SPEARS

I saw this on the news this morning and had to share.  It is amazing that in the horrific world of war that our service men and women are working in, these U.S. Marines took the time to have some fun and make us smile!  Thank you to all for your service.

The Perfect Cup of TEA

To go with your cucumber sandwiches and in honor of the royal wedding, here are instructions for brewing the perfect pot of tea.

CUCUMBER SANDWICH RECIPE

Many of us are having wedding watching parties.  To add to your fun, here is a recipe for classic, easy cucumber sandwiches to have with your tea.

.


CUCUMBER SANDWICHES

• YIELD: 80 quarters

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded, and finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
• 20 sandwich bread slices
• 20 thin wheat bread slices

PREPARATION

• Process cream cheese and mayonnaise in a blender or food processor until smooth, stopping once to scrape down sides.
• Combine cream cheese mixture, cucumber, garlic salt, and dillweed.
• Spread cucumber mixture evenly onto white bread slices, and top with wheat bread.
• Cut crusts from bread, discarding crusts, and cut sandwiches into quarters.
• Store cucumber sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 1 hour before serving.

HAPPY EASTER TO ALL

Jay & The Americans Livin' Above Your Head in French

Found this great version en francais for all of our French friends of a classic from Jay Black & The Americans, "Livin' Above Your Head".  It's fabulous with a great video from dunepaul9999.   In my opinion, this shows that a fabulous voice translates into any language.  For those of us who do not speak or understand French, I have included the English lyrics.

LIVIN' ABOVE YOUR HEAD (lyrics)


Seems so strange, you're putting me through changes
Baby, I can't believe you're not the same sweet girl that I once knew
But baby, the change has come about and it don't look too good on you
It seems so strange, you're putting me through changes
Baby, you've started doin' things you should not be doin'

CHORUS:
Livin' above your head, girl; you're comin' on way too strong
You're livin' above your head, girl, and something has got to go wrong

Baby, don't think that I don't know you're runnin' out with other guys
And baby, though it hurts me so, you know that I'm still hypnotized
Don't let my pride kill all the love inside of me
Baby, you've started doin' things you should not be doin'

(chorus)

(instrumental)

(repeat chorus and fade)

Wedding Gift for Kate Middleton

Saw this and thought, what a cute gift for the lady who will soon have everthing!  Wishing Kate Middleton and Prince William a lifetime of happiness.

Be Eco Chic!

Recycle, reuse, repurpose -- buy pre-owned.  Someone's unwanted toss might be your treasure and what a great way to help save our planet!!

Click here to shop my eBay store for your recycled treasure.

KATE MIDDLETON JELLY BEAN

A yellow jelly bean speckled in the faint shape ofthe face of the future princess of England, Kate Middleton,  has been making rounds on the internet with split screen photos comparing the two: long flowing hair, a faint grin and other discernable facial features are stippled in a pattern of red dots.  This jelly bean is expected to be put up for auction on eBay!  What do you think, is the world getting a little too carried away with the royal wedding?

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION IDEAS...........

In honor of Earth Day, 2011, I have found a great video with ideas on how to inexpensively repurpose clothing and household items.  Hope you find some of them useful.  Remember to always, reuse and recycle -- save our planet!

Visit my eBay store to shop new and gently used items.

Cooking With PEEPS

With Easter around the corner, PEEPS are all over!  Here are some fun ways to "cook" with Peeps.


BAKED PEEPS
Ingredients:  Peeps Chicks or Bunnies

Preheat oven to 300° F
Place as many Peeps as desired onto cookie sheets, approx. 3 inches apart.  Chicks should be upright, Bunnies on their back
Bake for 4 minutes, or until warm and puffy
Remove from oven and serve immediately

FRIED PEEPS
Ingredients:  Peeps Chicks or Bunnies, 1 tbsp. cooking oil

Pour oil into a small skillet and place over high heat
When oil is hot, drop in Peeps
Cook bottoms of Peeps for several minutes or until Peeps are tender and caramelized
Depending on carmelization desired, you can fry Peeps on one or all sides
Remove from skillet  
Wait a few minutes before serving to allow caramel to develop crunchiness

And, don't forget -- PEEPS are fab right out of the package!!  Enjoy!!!

CAT SURVIVAL STORY!

Did a calico cat from New Jersey swim across New York Harbor?   This is the mystery surrounding a friendly calico cat found washed up on the shore of New York's Governors Island.  The cat was found by security guards with its fur salty, matted and caked with seaweed.  It is thought that the cat was possibly swept away in the torrential rains in New Jersey, over a mile away!  The lucky cat appears healthy and is now being welcomed to stay on Governors Island if its owner doesn't reclaim her.

GROW A SIMPLE HERB GARDEN

Looking for a way to grow my own herbs, I came across this video with an interesting way of using seeds.  These herbs can be grown indoors or outside, an added benefit for those of us without access to a backyard.

AMERICAN IDOL -- What Has Happened?

Not sure if it is only me, not sure if I just really think the judging panel is sorely lacking since Simon Cowell left, but I feel that AMERICAN IDOL has completely lost its direction and focus.  There seems to be no true criticism, only stroking of the contestants.  Without true critiques, how will an artist grow and how will the next "American Idol" be able to make it in the "real" recording world if they think they are great just as they are?  I think the voting has to be reworked as in my honest opinion, some of the stronger contestants went home way too early and we are left with some really lackluster talent.  Would love to hear your thoughts!

FUN SHIMMERY HAIR TREND

A new trend for dressing up your hair and seen all over Hollywood is hair tinsel.  Hair tinsel can be purchased at beauty supply stores or websites and can be put in at home or at a salon.  Here is a simple how-to video. 

PROM MAKE-UP

Prom season is almost here.  Make sure that your make-up is not only "camera ready" but party ready as well.  The eye make-up application shown here would work great for any color dress and can easily be switched up using your favorite colors.  The host of the tutorial has some great tips. 

ECO FRIENDLY CLEANING PRODUCTS

In celebration of the week leading up to Earth Day, I've been looking for ways to live a "greener" life.  Household cleaning products have always been an issue for me, I don't like the smell of chemicals and more importantly, I don't like the fact that they can be potentially dangerous to your health.  Here are some simple recipes for easy eco-friendly cleaning solutions.

STARBURST Candy Wrapper PROM DRESS

Saw this and could not resist sharing, this teen made her prom dress from STARBURST candy wrappers!  What a unique, fashionable and environmentally great idea -- I wonder how comfortable it was to wear!?

VINYL LP RECORD BOWL

Ever wonder what to do with some of the old vinyl records you have in your closet collecting dust?  This project isn't for classic LPs from "back in the day", it is for the "clinkers" we've all bought, listened to for a minute and never looked at again.  Here's a fun DIY that I am definitely going to try!

MAKE A T-SHIRT PILLOW

With Earth Day right around the corner, I've been looking for fun crafts to do with items around the house.  Here's a great DIY you can do alone or with the kids.  All you need is an old t-shirt, some fabric glue and stuffing. 

THERE GOES MY BABY by Jay and the Americans

Time for some Jay Black and the Americans to start my day.  This song, "There Goes My Baby" is a true example of the range of Jay's amazing voice.  Thanks to dunepaul9999 for the posting with a great video highlighting Jay Black's career with his group The Americans.  Enjoy!

The Beatles and American Idol

One of my favorite moments from American Idol this season was the duet of Kendra Chantelle and Paul McDonald with their version of The Beatles' "BLACKBIRD".

OVER AMERICAN IDOL................

It took me several weeks before I could tolerate watching American Idol without Simon Cowell.  As harsh as he could be, he also gave constructive criticism which seems to be sorely lacking with the new panel of judges. Some of the talent this season seemed to be really special so I did tune in.  Sadly, the voting system needs to be tweaked -- I am sure I am not the only person who feels the wrong contestants are being voted off.  First Pia Toscano, now Paul McDonald.  It sure seems that the voting is geared more to a popularity contest than a talent contest.  I've had my fill for this season -- any thoughts?

BAREFOOT IN THE PARK...............

The weather is finally changing and warming up.  Time to get those toes in tip top shape for a shoeless romp in the grass!  Here's a DIY video with great instructions for an at home pedicure -- enjoy!




Click here to visit my eBay store for a great selection of nail polish.

Oops! Vice President Caught Napping?

I find politics kind of boring, seems like a few other people do as well.  During President Obama's recent speech on the economy Vice President Joe Biden seems to be taking a catnap.  Sure looks like the woman behind him is having an issue staying awake as well.

AMERICAN IDOL -- TIME TO VOTE!!

Did you watch, have you voted?  Last week proved all votes count -- no one is safe!

Here's my favorite, Paul McDonald and his version of "Old Time Rock & Roll"!!

PEOPLE Magazine WORLD'S MOST BEAUTIFUL WOMAN

Today, PEOPLE Magazine announced its choice for the world's most beautiful woman.  Their pick is the new American Idol judge Jennifer Lopez!  Any thoughts?

THIS DAY IN MUSIC HISTORY..............

On April 13, 1985, "We Are The World" hit #1 in the United States. 

NATIONAL LICORICE DAY

If I hadn't heard it and then "googled" it I would have never been able to pass this exciting bit of information on to you!  Toady, April 12 is National Licorice Day!  I am a big fan of Twizzlers -- love the strawberry and the chocolate, how about you! 

LADY GAGA FALLS

Seems like something is in the air -- performers are falling but as true artists, they bounce back up!  Last night not only did Kirstie Alley have another mishap on Dancing With The Stars, but Lady GaGa did too -- watch this video.  I'm not a fan, but give her credit for getting right up without missing a beat!

NATIONAL GRILLED CHEESE DAY

Today, April 12, 2011 is NATIONAL GRILLED CHEESE DAY.  The recipe for a grilled cheese sandwich comes from the French recipe for Croque Monsieur (a grilled ham and cheese sandwich). American grilled cheese sandwiches became popular during the 1920's. However, they were made with only one slice of bread! It wasn’t until the 1960's that the top piece of bread was added which became the standard for grilled cheese sandwiches.

Here's a recipe for a classic grilled cheese sandwich to help you celebrate the day:

Ingredients

• 4 slices white bread
• 3 tablespoons butter, divided
• 2 slices Cheddar cheese

Directions

Preheat skillet over medium heat. Generously butter one side of a slice of bread. Place bread butter-side-down onto skillet bottom and add 1 slice of cheese. Butter a second slice of bread on one side and place butter-side-up on top of sandwich. Grill until lightly browned and flip over; continue grilling until cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining 2 slices of bread, butter and slice of cheese.

HAPPY TUESDAY

Celebrate Tuesday with the MOODY BLUES classic "Tuesday Afternoon" -- love it, great blast from the past!!

MANIC MONDAY

So fun, so retro '80's -- The Bangles' "Manic Monday".

PERSONALIZE YOUR JEANS

Did you ever wonder why some jeans are sooooo expensive?  Here are some great DIY tips for taking an inexpensive pair of jeans and turning them into a truly unique pair -- all your own and no one will ever know they were not bought in a high end boutique!



Click here to visit my eBay store for a great selection of jeans.

CREATE PERFECT CUT OFF SHORTS

The warm weather is finally reaching New York after a long hard winter.  Some of you lucky ones have warm weather all year long!  So, to celebrate the warm weather, here are some simple steps to create the perfect cut off shorts.  Don't forget, cut offs can also be made from any pants you no longer wear too -- not just jeans.




Visit my eBay store for a great selection of shorts, jeans and pants.

MUSICAL MANICURE

Have you ever wanted to try to do a French manicure at home?  I found this great video set to music, informative and so easy to watch.



Visit my eBay store for a selection of nail polish - combined shipping available!

SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER

Does anyone have "Saturday Night Fever"?!  Here's a true classic to enjoy -- John Travolta and the famous line dance scene on the flashing disco floor.

FASHION TREND WATCH

A big fashion trend for spring and summer is STRIPES.  Since stripes can be classic or graphic, vertical or horizontal, anyone can wear them.  Stripes can be part of the hot nautical trend or total rock and roll.  Find a piece that works for you and bring stripes into your wardrobe!

Visit my eBay store for great stripes!

AMERICAN IDOL SHOCKER!

So, did America get it wrong, what do you think?  I have had no problem "singing" the praises of my favorite contestant on American Idol, Paul McDonald, but I really thought Pia Toscano would be in it for the long haul.  What a shocker last night when Pia was eliminated -- sad, but she will go on and have a fabulous career like other contestants who were voted off too soon.

ROYAL WEDDING MEMORABILIA

Okay, so Prince William and Kate are getting married in a few weeks and there are lots of people who will be buying memorabilia thinking "oh one day this will be worth a fortune".  I remember when William's mother Diana married Prince Charles.  There were so many souvenirs available with their smiling faces, wonder if any of them are valuable today.  So, today the latest item to be unveiled for this royal wedding, William and Kate PEZ dispensers!  What do you think -- do you need your own set?

ROCK & ROLL ROCKS AMERICAN IDOL

Wow, what a show last night -- I loved Steven Tyler's tour of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame -- now on my "must see at some time" list!  And, I liked and or loved every performance -- that never happens for me.  But, once again, I adored my favorite Paul McDonald.  His version of Johnny Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues", blew me away!

SECOND BITE OF THE APPLE

I just heard the expression "second bite of the apple" for the first time in reference to those of us who are close to or over 60 would have long been thought of as "old and retired".  I kind of like the expression -- to me it gives inspiration to keep going and possibly re-invent oneself.  Examples of some celebrities getting their "second bite" lately are Kirstie Alley, Steven Tyler and Christie Brinkley -- who can you think of?  Are you getting your "second bite"?

The ULTIMATE COMEBACK

I've admitted before that one of my guilty pleasures is watching Dancing With The Stars, my favorite dancers Maks and Cheryl.  Last night's performace proved what a professional Maks truly is.  After a cramp in his leg caused him to stumble, he got right up and was able to guide Kirstie Alley through their dance and still come up with decent scores.  Kudos to Kirstie and Maks for not letting a little fall keep them down!  We can all learn a lesson from this.

TSUNAMI Dog Survivor Reunited With Owner

A few days ago, a dog was rescued after drifting in water for 21 days on the remains of his owner's home.  The dog not only survived this horrific ordeal but has been reuinited with its owner.  Sometimes miracles do happen.

THIS DAY IN HISTORY..............

Forty-three years ago today, Dr. Martin Luther King was assassinated. 

REUSE, RE-PURPOSE, RECYCLE YOUR JEANS

In my continuing quest to find new uses for old clothing -- here is a great DIY video with ideas for jeans which could easily applied to pants as well.  Styles are always changing -- don't toss your jeans/pants out -- re-invent them!

Visit my eBay store for great jeans and pants.

Sex & The City 2 and Morocco

The movie "Sex & The City 2" was on cable TV all weekend and I tuned it.  Fashion is a passion of mine and the movie is pure eye candy.  Though the movie is supposed to be taking place in Abu Dhabi, it is a known fact that the majority of exotic location shots were done in Morocco.  As a teenager, I had the opportunity to visit this interesting country and decided to check YouTube for videos of the actual places I visited.  Here is one -- the market in Tangier, Morocco.

COOKIES

I came across this image yesterday and had to share it -- I need one of these!

RAINBOW BRAID

One of  fashion's big trends is color and the free spirit look of the '70's is back in a big way!  What a fun way to bring color and a dash of '70's into your look -- check out the "Rainbow Braid".

SELLING On EBAY

I started selling on eBay years ago and ultimately opened my eBay store Caramia's Collection.  One of the fun parts I find in selling is when a buyer contacts me after a purchase to tell me how happy they are with their new treasure. 

Here's a recent email I received from a buyer and a photo of the item she purchased, a vintage table lighter ala Mad Men:

"Got the piece today. It is FAB! Bigger than I expected, lovlier than I had hoped. Setting it on my antique smoking table with the tobacco box. "

Click here to visit my eBay store for your treasure!

SATURDAY NIGHT

Another Saturday, what are your plans?  Here's a great blast from the past, "SATURDAY NIGHT" by the Bay City Rollers -- how many of you remember them?

AMERICAN IDOL and my Favorite Pauls

So, last night was a nail biter for me with my Idol favorite Paul McDonald in the bottom three.  Come on America -- can't you see that this guy is so unique, certainly not deserving of a spot in the bottom three?  My favorite part of last night's show was the cover of Paul McCartney's "Band On The Run" by James Durbin, Paul McDonald, Casey Abrams and Stefano Langone. 

History of APRIL FOOL'S DAY

The history of April Fool's Day or All Fool's Day is uncertain, but the current thinking is that it began around 1582 in France with the reform of the calendar under Charles IX. The Gregorian Calendar was introduced, and New Year's Day was moved from March 25 - April 1 (new year's week) to January 1st.
Communication traveled slowly in those days and some people were only informed of the change several years later.  Still others, who were more rebellious refused to acknowledge the change and continued to celebrate on the last day of the former celebration, April 1st.  These people were labeled "fools" by the general populace, were subject to ridicule and sent on "fool errands," sent invitations to nonexistent parties and had other practical jokes played upon them. The butts of these pranks became known as a "poisson d'avril" or "April fish" because a young naive fish is easily caught.
Now that you have all that information - hope you have a fun day!!