Thirty-Two Years

Remembering John Lennon.

Sandy

Finding myself a little more than a year later waiting for the impact of a hurricane, something this New Yorker is not used to doing, I found myself thinking of something pleasant.  Trying to take my mind of the churning winds, I found this song on YouTube and it took my mind off my nerves for a few minutes.

To everyone in the path of the storm, wishing you safety.

Happy Birthday Hugh Jackman

Wishing warm birthday greetings to one of my favorite celebrities, Hugh Jackman, someone I had the pleasure to meet and can say is everything you might think and more when it comes to being a fabulous talent and great person!
Can't wait for Les Miserables and for Hugh to come back to Broadway!
Happy Birthday Hugh Jackman!

Happy Birthday John Lennon

Remembering John Lennon on what would have been his 72nd birthday.

Chanel Quote of the Day

"The most courageous act is still to think for yourself.  Aloud"
--- Coco Chanel

Welcome Autumn

Summer has come and gone and Fashion Week is now a memory.  
As a native New Yorker, Autumn is my favorite season and I welcome it with open arms.  We send away the sticky days of summer, experience sunny days with cool breezes.
Here to help welcome Autumn is one of my favorites, Frank Sinatra.
What is your favorite season?

International Day of Peace 2012

In honor of today's distinction as the International Day of Peace, John Lennon's "Imagine".  
I always wonder, had he lived what he would think about the world today.
Imagine peace....................

The New Look of eBay

Earlier this year, Caramia's Collection went through some "growing pains".  We started our store, not thinking far into the future and picked an avatar/logo that after a while was not what we thought represented us.  So, after much consideration, we decided to dive into the re-branding pool and came up with our new look and haven't looked back since.
Apparently, we were not the only ones thinking of a new look. Today, eBay announced its new logo, not that far off from the original but more streamlined and in my opinion, more pleasing to the eye.
Here it is, what do you think?

Never Forget

Eleven years ago today, the world as we knew it changed.
To those who lost family and friends, please know your loved ones will never be forgotten.  

Fashion Week NYC Begins

So, the buzz is in the air as Fashion Week begins in New York City.  Everyone who is anyone and then some will be sitting either in the audience surrounding the numerous catwalks at the shows or walking them dressed in the height of fashion.
Fashion Week is taken so seriously and should be to some extent, but who can't remember the classic scene from Sex & The City when Carrie Bradshaw walks the catwalk in mile high stilettos only to fall and be referred to as "fashion roadkill" by her buddy Stanford.  Within seconds of Carrie's fall, even before she gets up, Heidi Klum launches into her strut and steps right over Carrie, only to have Carrie rise to the occasion and continue her strut as well minus one shoe, giving hope to us "regular" gals!!

September Morn

Good-bye August -- hello September!!

Diana Remembered 15 Years Later..........

She was stunning, innocent and going to marry one of the world's most eligible bachelors, Prince Charles.  I remember the day like it was yesterday.  My assignment for work that day was to bring in a small TV so that we could all crowd around and watch the wedding of the century.
Sadly the marriage was not the fairy tale it was meant to be but Diana did bring two wonderful boys into the world before her untimely death 15 years ago today.  The boys, now men end up in the news for all sorts of reasons, because one of them was part of another wedding of the century, the other because he was being a "guy in Vegas".  Whatever the reason they end up in the newpapers, Diana's boys turned into men she would be so proud of, following in her footsteps of caring for others and carrying on her charity work.
It is so sad that Diana is not with us but she is in her sons, her legacy lives on.

In Memory of Davy Jones

Six months ago today, on the crazy day that happens once every four years, February 29th, I lost a part of my childhood as I heard on the radio that my little girl heart throb, Davy Jones of The Monkees had suddenly passed away of a heart attack.  
I grew up madly "in love" with Davy along with millions of other girls and followed his career as I grew into an adult, most recently seeing him with fellow band mates, Micky Dolenz and Peter Tork last summer on Long Island.  When I left the theatre, I thought, wow, they still have it, see you guys next time, never thinking there would not be a next time.
February 29th was a Wednesday, the same as today, August 29th is -- I have a Wednesday routine, was in my car when the news came over the radio and every Wednesday since February 29th has been a heartbreak, I guess that's what happens when things become routine.
In honor of Davy's memory and his incredible love of his horses, his four daughters have created The Davy Jones Equine Memorial Fund.  Davy is smiling down knowing that his daughters have been doing all they can to keep his legacy alive, relocating his precious herd so that they can oversee their care.
So, in Davy's memory and for all of us who have and still love him and The Monkees, please stop by the FaceBook page his girls have set up, give it a "like" and if you can, give a donation to help them take care of their dad's beloved horses.
Rest in peace Davy, you are so missed but will never be forgotten.

Visit The Davy Jones Equine Memorial Fund

The Case of the Missing Nestle Bar

Okay, so who isn't a fan of Girl Scout cookies and who doesn't love a good Nestle Crunch Bar?  Well, after seeing a commercial on TV advertising the "mating" of these two guilty pleasures, I thought, "heaven" I must find them.
Well, after not finding them locally and sending my chocoholic daughter on a mission we both turned up with nothing!  So are these Nestle Girl Scout Cookie Bars an urban myth?  If not, someone please tell me you've found them and where.
Hello Mr. Nestle -- would love to have a box of these -- tell me where to order, please..................

Happy Birthday "Hubbell"

Who can forget the classic movie line, "Your girl is lovely Hubbell"?  For those not in the know, it is a line spoken to Robert Redford by his movie ex-wife Barbra Streisand at the end of the iconic movie "The Way We Were".  
The same line was used in a recreation of the scene in front of New York City's Plaza Hotel when Carrie meets up with Mr. Big after his engagement party.
Caramia's Collection would like to wish "Hubbell", Mr. Robert Redford a very Happy 75th Birthday and thank him for the fabulous memories through the years.  I know I will never miss an airing of "The Way We Were" and another all time favorite "Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid".

Elvis Presley, forever "The King"

On August 16, 1977, Elvis Presley, "The King of Rock and Roll" passed away at the age of 42, news that devastated his fans worldwide.  I had tickets to a concert that was never to happen.
Elvis was not only talented, but beautiful on the inside and outside, a family man dedicated to his parents and child. 
Fame is sometimes the sad end of such incredible talent with the inability of those close to say "no".  Sadly, Elvis's story has been repeated so many times since, hopefully one day the early deaths of amazingly talented people will stop, sometimes it seems all it will take is for someone to say a simple "no" and take the consequences for saying that tiny word.
Rest in peace Elvis, your music will live on forever.

Happy Birthday Mick Jagger

Caramia's Collection wishes the happiest of birthdays to the fabulous and ageless Mick Jagger who turns 69 today!

National Ice Cream Day 2012!!

The only thing I can think of that I'd rather celebrate than National Ice Cream Day is National Cotton Candy Day, but sadly, I don't think there is such a holiday.
So, I will just have to indulge in another favorite treat today and get back to thinking of cotton candy again tomorrow!
What is your favorite flavor -- do you plan on celebrating today?

Support Animals on eBay Month!

EBay always encourages its sellers to support non-profits with portions of their sales through eBay Giving Works.
July is dedicated to support animal causes.  As an animal lover, I do this as often as I can but will pay extra attention during this month.
I encourage all animal lovers to visit my eBay store, CaramiasCollection.com as well as other eBay vendors and support the cause!

Click here to visit Caramia's Collection on eBay

Celebrate Christmas In July

While some of us may be sitting on the beach, others are preparing for the Christmas holiday season, it's right around the corner!
Caramia's Collection and Virtual Online Learning members have combined "forces" by adding holiday gift ideas to our stores to help prepare you early shoppers with the best possible selections to kick start your holiday shopping.  Click on our link below and click often as we are adding new items daily to our "Christmas in July" department as well as our store, Caramia's Collection.

Click here for a selection of early Christmas ideas

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!!

Caramia's Collection is celebrating July 4th with special mark-downs!  When you come in from your picnics,  barbeques and family fun, please stop by and visit!

Have a happy and safe Independence Day!!

Click here to visit Caramia's Collection

Happy Birthday DEREK JETER!

Caramia's Collection is sending warm wishes to our favorite New York Yankee, team captain Derek Jeter!  Here's to a wonderful day, great year and a fabulous season!

Happy Birthday Paul McCartney

Sending heartfelt birthday wishes to the "Cute Beatle" aka Sir Paul McCartney, not only one of the most talented musicians in the world, but a generous caring philanthropist who has always promoted love, good will and peace.
Happy Birthday "Macca"!

20 Years Ago Today.............

Twenty years ago today, June 1st, the New York Yankees drafted a high school shortstop who went on to become the team's celebrated captain Derek Jeter and the rest is Yankee history!
Here's to a great season and another World Series win!!  Go Yankees!!

HOLIDAY

Today, the United States celebrates Memorial Day.  It is considered a federal holiday and marks the unofficial beginning of the summer season.
In the fashion world, Memorial Day marks the time of year fashionistas can technically start wearing white, though this is really an old "rule".
In New York, we celebrate Fleet Week and if you are lucky enough to be in our great city, you get to see the fleets of ships along the Hudson River and sailors and other service people walking our streets.  If you're a native to New York or a visitor and bump into a service man or woman, please make sure to thank them for their service.
Since today is a holiday, here is one of my favorite songs celebrating holidays, "Holiday" sung by the Bee Gees.
Thank you to all our service men and women.
Rest in peace Robin and Maurice Gibb.

FLEET WEEK BEGINS

Another May and New Yorkers  and visitors to our great city get to experience FLEET WEEK which began today.  Fleet Week is a celebration of Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard teams who protect our shores.  New Yorkers get to meet and greet the service men and women and New York City becomes a sea of people in uniform.  If you are lucky enough to be in New York during Fleet Week, take a moment to say "thank you" if you see a one of these special people!

Rest In Peace Robin Gibb

News has just broken of the death of Bee Gee Robin Gibb.  As a lifelong fan of the Bee Gees, my heart is broken to hear this news and wish comfort and my deepest condolences to his family and friends.  I had the pleasure of seeing the Bee Gees perform more times than I can count and never was disappointed.  They had a unique sound and managed to stay current through many decades.  Robin will live on in his beautiful music.  Rest in peace Robin Gibb.

Rest In Peace Donna Summer

This has been a difficult few months for music lovers, with the latest loss being the "Queen of Disco", the elegant, amazingly talented Donna Summer.  Thank you for the amazing memories of the fabulous and crazy disco era, Ms, Summer.  Rest in peace.

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to all moms and wishing comfort to those of us who have lost our moms.
John Lennon struggled with his relationship and ultimate loss of his mother Julia at an early age and wrote a touching tribute to her, "Mother" that I am sharing with all.

National Fibromyalgia Awareness Day

Fibromyalgia is an illness many have and suffer with in silence.  It causes chronic, constant pain, cannot be cured only hopefully managed and goes hand and hand with other similar diseases.  A very sad part of Fibromyalgia is that it "doesn't show".  While that's great for the sufferer as they don't "look sick", it also sometimes gets them forgotten and misunderstood.  They're thought of a "hypochondriacs" many times because they "look too good to be sick".
Today, May 12th is National Fibromyalgia Awareness day and this is written in support of those of us who suffer from this horrible illness silently.  It is written in hopes that it will bring some understanding to those who are lucky not to have it and ask that they have empathy for those afflicted.  This is also written to bring awareness to the medical community because better medications are desperately needed and even more importantly a cure needs to be found.

The Missing Belleek

Selling online has its ups and downs and thankfully more ups than downs.
At Caramia's Collection, I recently had a lovely piece of Belleek listed wondering if it was going to find a new home and it did on April 3rd, it was going to California!
The mystery began the day after it was dropped at my local post office for shipment -- the package was scanned and then virtually disappeared.
Despite numerous calls to the USPS customer service number and conversations with my local postal reps, this lovely piece could not be located and yet it did have a tracking number and that number just seemed to stop with no reason or explanation available.
In my mind, I figured this package was surely missing but my buyer wanted it and was willing to wait it out.  I called and bothered the postal employees on a daily basis and never got a definitive answer.
And then, on May 2nd, the package reappeared and was safely delivered.  Who knows where it stopped on the way, why the package "went missing", why it is so hard to get a straight answer -- what I do know is that I have a happy buyer and that's what Caramia's Collection is all about!

Click here to find your treasure!

Blogger has a new look

Getting used to the new blogger has been challenging. This video helped me understand it a bit better and wanted to share as it may help you too:

Happy Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo (the 5th of May) is celebrated nationwide in the United States and regionally in Mexico, not notably in Puebla.  In the U.S., the date is observed as a celebration of Mexican heritage while in Puebla it commemorates the Mexican army's victory over French forces.


Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a fabulous Tequila Sunrise!

Ingredients

• 1 (1.5 fluid ounce) jigger tequila
• 3/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• ice cubes
• 1/2 (1.5 fluid ounce) jigger grenadine syrup
• 1 slice orange, for garnish
• 1 maraschino cherry for garnish

Directions

1. Stir or shake together tequila and orange juice. Fill a chilled 12 ounce glass with ice cubes; pour in orange juice mixture. Slowly pour in the grenadine, and allow it to settle to the bottom of the glass (be patient). Garnish with a slice of orange, and a maraschino cherry.

Freedom Tower Rises

The Freedom Tower which is being built where the World Trade Center stood has taken the title of New York's tallest building from the Empire State Building.  Today, workers erected steel columns on the 100th floor, 1,271 feet above the street, to make it stand 21 feet higher than the Empire State Building's observation deck.  When it is completed, it will most likely be the tallest building in America, a true testament to the American spirit.  

Enterprise Makes Historic Fly By!

As an eBay seller, part of my day usually means at least one trip to the post office.  Today's trip turned out to be an amazing treat.  As I left the post office, I noticed people lining the streets of my neighborhood which is not too far from JFK Airport.  I stopped and asked a man if everyone was waiting to see the Enterprise.  He told me not only that they were, but that he'd just seen it do a fly by and it was on its way back before finally heading to JFK.  He encouraged me to stand around, that it would be any minute.  And, it was just a few minutes later, in the windy cool day we were having, that I got to see something that was a chance of a lifetime -- the Enterprise, riding "piggyback" on a 747 jet, flying low, almost like it was saying "hello" to the state it was now going to call home.  It was truly breathtaking.

Kelly Bensimon HAIR COCKTAIL

I saw Real Housewife of New York, Kelly Bensimon talking about a restorative, homemade hair cocktail this morning and thought it would be interesting to share since she is a model whose hair is more than likely very "over-worked".  Here is the video explaining the ingredients however, Ms. Bensimon did not include what to do once you have put the mixture in your hair.  So, being a "Sherlock Holmes" type, I am coming to the conclusion that more than likely, after the mixture is applied, one waits a period of time and then rinses it out.  If any of you finds the answer from Ms. Bensimon, please share.

Celebrate EARTH DAY 2012

A fabulous way to celebrate Earth Day can be by staying green and shopping for eco-friendly and pre-owned, gently used items on line.
At our eBay store, CaramiasCollection.com, we have a wonderful selection of reusable totes and gently used clothing, accessories, household items and books -- hope you will stop by.  Someone's cast-off may be the treasure you've been hunting for.  We've also just launched a 10% off sale on some of our merchandise.  Caramia's Collection has recently opened a store at Addoway.com under the same name -- hope to see you at one of our locations.  Have a wonderful, green Earth Day!

Click here to visit our eBay store

Group Poem by Emily Dolenz

I've come across a wonderful photographer while browsing the internet, Emily Dolenz.  Emily posted a few lines of a poem and asked her followers to add a line and that she would complete the poem and post it on Facebook.  It is truly lovely and wanted to share it.

Candy Cotton Summer

Sugar cotton candy lands that melt in the salty sky,

Butterflies that whisper honey sweet lullabies,

Candy canes and sugar canes fall from the willow trees,

Reminds me of childhood dreams and your loving whisper,

Oceans like a milk shake topped with delicate whipped cream,

Bees that buzz of sweetness hidden in treasure troves,

Golden birds whose wings are woven from petals of daffodils,

Kisses on the beach near playland in rye,

Candy apple dreams linger in my mind like summers sweetest kiss

Bluebirds, cardinals, and robins whistle replies so sweet,

Lightly float like butterfly wings held aloft by the delicate breeze,

Flowers dancing in the warm wind and smell of sugary treats to those whose nectar eat,

Sandy beige beaches, smooth as buttercream icing,

The sun upon my cheeks, like the kiss of an angel,

Lying in the grass, gazing at the clouds dancing in the sky,

Creamy licks of ice cream treats, listening as the whispy wind sighs,

Playful giggles of children nearby, remind me of innocence lost in time,

Wispy tops of dandelions, surf the warm soft breeze,

As the birds sing beautiful melodies,

Rich golden buttercups nestled in sunshine caress the very air,

Accept who I am now.

Rest In Peace Dick Clark

So sad to hear of the loss of one of America's legneds, Mr. Dick Clark.  I honestly don't remember a time of my life when I wasn't aware of Dick Clark, whether it was American Bandstand, The $20,000 Pyramid, New Year's Rockin' Eve to name just a few.
Here's a great clip celebrating American Bandstand's 50th Anniversary -- what an amazing ride it must have been for him.

The Season of the Clutch Bag

Prom season is just around the corner and a great way to make a statement with your outfit is with the perfect clutch bag.  No need to carry a handbag or wear a shoulder bag -- get a great, unique clutch to hold you cell phone and lipstick and you are good to go!

Click here for a great selection of clutch bags

Pleasant Valley Sunday

Wishing everyone a beautiful day and remembering Davy Jones with "Pleasant Valley Sunday".  This is a great song from "back in the day" and watching the video brings back memories of the fashions, many of which are once again popular now. 

Missing the Mod Sixties!

Found this blast from the past for Yardley cosmetics that was played during The Monkees commercial breaks back in my favorite era, the sixties.  Come on, all you baby boomers -- check this out and let me know if you had these, I know I did.  I was in junior high at the time and wasn't even allowed to wear make-up!  But, I took my allowance and bought these coveted treasures anyway.

World Stray Animal Day

Today, April 4th is World Stray Animal Day.  Each day animals are born and die on the streets all over the world without ever knowing the love and kindness of a human friend.
Please take a moment to show you care, if you can donate to a shelter or give a special hug to your furry friend.
Remember to always spay or neuter your pet, there are far too many unwanted animals roaming the streets of the world with no hope of every having a home.

Does Life Need Drama to Sell?

I made no secret of my heartbreak when I learned that of one of my childhood heartthrobs, Davy Jones, passed away a month ago today.
What has taken me by surprise is that there has been so little coverage in the media.  Davy and The Monkees made a huge contribution to music in the '60's and they all managed to stay friends and continue to keep their music alive all these years later.  We didn't hear of "dirt" in Davy's private life, no drug or alcohol abuse -- basically no major drama.  So, is that why fans like me have really been so disappointed that Davy's untimely and natural passing made only one magazine cover?  I think so and it is a huge commentary on the state of our society and what sells magazines and air time.
I for one am so thankful for having grown up in the innocence of the '60's where the passing of someone so special to so many would have been monumental news.
Davy genuinely loved what he did, loved music, loved his fans, loved his family and adored animals -- why no recognition for his wonderful life?
Again, rest in peace Davy Jones, you will never be forgotten.

Western Spaghetti

I have always had a love of art and anything that inspires the creative mind.  I guess I think with the side of the brain that doesn't use math and science because those were definitely not my favorites in school.  I came across this video and had to share it -- hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Virtual Online Learning and Me

Seasons change as well as the ways of doing business online.  As a member of VirtualOnlineLearning.com, I have learned and grown as an eBay business owner and plan to continue to do so under the guidance of Danna Crawford, founder of VOL.  It has been a wonderful experience working with her and the other members and as a result, I gained the "courage" to re-brand my business and am so pleased with the results.  Here's our new logo -- would love to hear your thoughts.

Corned Beef & Cabbage Recipe

With St. Patrick's Day just around the corner, thought I'd share a recipe for a classic dish to celebrate the holiday, Corned Beef and Cabbage!

Ingredients

• 3 pounds corned beef brisket with spice packet
• 10 small red potatoes
• 5 carrots, peeled and cut into 3-inch pieces
• 1 large head cabbage, cut into small wedges

Directions

1. Place corned beef in large pot or Dutch oven and cover with water. Add the spice packet that came with the corned beef. Cover pot and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Simmer approximately 50 minutes per pound or until tender.
2. Add whole potatoes and carrots, and cook until the vegetables are almost tender. Add cabbage and cook for 15 more minutes. Remove meat and let rest 15 minutes.
3. Place vegetables in a bowl and cover. Add as much broth (cooking liquid reserved in the Dutch oven or large pot) as you want. Slice meat across the grain.

SPRING TRAINING is Here!!

The weather is getting warmer and the SPRING TRAINING season has begun for baseball fans!!  What better way to usher in the season than with a baseball cap, a classic that is all the rage for this spring season!
Our eBay store, Caramia's Collection has a great selection of caps, hope you will stop by.

Click here to view our selection of caps

Happy Birthday Liza Minnelli

Liza Minnelli has always been one of my favorite entertainers, who was also briefly married to another favorite performer of mine, Peter Allen.  Today, March 12th is Ms. Minnelli's 66th birthday.
Liza is not only an amazing entertainer with a style all her own but someone who truly knows who she is when it comes to her "look" -- always unique, always pushing the envelope!  Liza was long time friends with the iconic designer Halston who had a big influence on her look.
Happy Birthday Liza With a Z"!!  You are still fabulous! 

Liza with Halston

Happy 100th Birthday OREO

The OREO cookie celebrates its 100th birthday today -- wish I had some right now.  Over the years people have discovered many ways of turning the Oreo into other delicious treats.  Here's a recipe for an Oreo Cookie Cake.  It that's not your thing, just celebrate by opening a package of Oreos -- do you twist the top off or eat it whole?

Ingredients:

1 pkg. (2-layer size) devil's food cake mix

4 squares BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate

1/4 cup butter

1 pkg. (8 oz.) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened

1/2 cup sugar

2 cups thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping

12 OREO Cookies, coarsely crushed

Method:

HEAT oven to 350ºF.
PREPARE cake batter and bake in 2 (9-inch) round pans as directed on package. Cool cakes in pans 10 min. Invert onto wire racks; gently remove pans. Cool cakes completely.
MICROWAVE chocolate and butter in small microwaveable bowl on HIGH 2 min. or until butter is melted. Stir until chocolate is completely melted. Cool 5 min. Meanwhile, beat cream cheese and sugar in large bowl with mixer until blended. Gently stir in COOL WHIP and crushed cookies.
PLACE 1 cake layer on plate, spread with cream cheese mixture. Top with remaining cake layer. Spread top with chocolate glaze; let stand 10 min. or until firm. Keep refrigerated.