The Ultimate Beach Cookbook

Can't be at the beach right now? This book gets you one step closer no matter where you are! 

Join Jim Kempton as he shares his vividly colorful, richly flavorful, and vibrantly healthful collection of more than 90 recipes, along with stories of the best waves, markets, restaurants, and adventures that he's experienced from Australia to Hawaii, the Basque Country to Indonesia, California to Mexico, where he spent his life traveling and surfing the world, and along the way learning to cook the world's best beach-loving dishes. 

First We Surf, Then We Eat features a foreword by The Surfer's Journal publisher Steve Pezman, a preface by famed surfer/chef Raphael Lunetta, and photography by Bill Schildge, Jeff Divine, Tom Servais, and Art Brewer.

And try this poke bowl recipe, and so many more inside!

Pantry Challenge- Dollars a Day

It’s the pantry challenge once again..living and learning on dollars a day!

Monday
7:45am- breakfast is a bagel w coconut oil (like butter) and yogurt from Home. I had also made coffee, but the lid still smelled strongly of detergent even tho it was washed and rinsed so I didn’t finish it. $0

11am- suddenly starving so had a couple walnuts from my drawer stash and a curious Keurig Campbell’s chicken noodle soup mix. It was very good and filled with up with noodle flavor. $0

12:45- made salsa yesterday and added thawed cooked shrimp, thinking the lime would ‘cure up’ the shrimp a bit, but I opened to eat it and took it bite, it smelled and tasted fine but the texture was a bit mushy. Going to take it back home tonight and cook it up. Went downstairs to the deli and got a quesadilla, and only ate half. The rest I’ll eat tomorrow.  $7.37

2:15- an apple from home and Crown of Success tea from Blackthorn Hoodoo Blends. $0

7:15pm- husband is away so I made dinner from all kinds of goodies from the PANTRY! Go me! Got some pool time in before it stormed and watched #OITNB on Netflix with dinner.  I made my own version of pad Thai satay with brown rice noodles, frozen mushroom medley from trader joe’s, organic frozen shrimp, and onions, plus fish sauce, chili paste and peanut butter.
The verdict- it was ok. The shrimp tasted a bit freezer burned and the meal didn’t have enough spice and heat. I did however, discover not one but four jars of mostly empty peanut butter we were hoping to get the last bits out of, so I used up what I could and now we are down to a jar of all natural PB. And, it’s all part of the pantry challenge! Using it up!

I am discovering though…far too much in the pantry lets things go unnoticed and overlooked, and that can lead to waste.  $0.

Plus, I thawed meat cubes for a crock pot stew I’ll make tonight for lunch and dinner on Wednesday.  Once I get my organic food delivery order. I usually order over $80 just to get free shipping, but we don’t need $80 worth of food, ordered $35 and paid the $5 shipping cost, plus I left my shipping boxes out- they take them and reuse them, so zero waste on my part!

Tuesday
6:00am. Up and moving, had a slice of toast (from bread I won at an event, artesian bread weekly until January 2017) with Nocciolata Organic Hazelnut Spread. At work I made some coffee w a pod I had and the coconut milk I brought. $0.

10:30am- snacked on the leftover slice of quesadilla I had from yesterday with ACV water. $0.

12:22pm. Ordered a 64 count box of Vue Hazelnut pods from ebay for Green Mountain Coffee – last week I ordered this from Bed Bath and Beyond and was sent (wrongly) the Gloria Jean ones- too sweet. I enjoy the light roast and I rarely stop at Starbucks and Wawa (even tho I have apps on my phone w gift cards loaded on them). My Vue at home is the first place I go after I’ve woken up- and that’s 64 cups at coffe at $53. That is a an expenditure of around 82 cents a cup of coffee a day in a reusable travel mug. $53.

1:00pm. Lunch. ACV water and a burrito I brought from home in our organic food order. I made my own Taco Tuesday! $0.

5:00pm. Target for a few things then dinner. Which was popcorn (and a half glass of wine) from Target. $38.47.

7:00pm. Got our food delivery order and assembled the stew for tomorrow with carrots, meat, potatoes, and beans, then met a friend for ice cream at DQ. $4.24.

11:50pm Bed. Exhausted! 

Wednesday

6:00am. Gingerspice, the trusty alarm cat, wakes me up. Finally get moving.

8:00am. Bagel, coffee, and Annie’s Homegrown Cheddar Bunnies (single pack) from my stash. $0.

1:00pm. Lunch. Homemade stew and Annie’s organic summer strawberry bunnies. Pretty proud of my crockpot stew. It cooked while I was out last night, then lunches for us today!

5:00. Popcorn for snack when I got home, a little #OITNB before book club, altho I should have been at the gym, but it’s 88 I was just too hot to be out.

7:30pm. Book club night! I had gotten the book from the library ($0!) and our host made fish, Ceasar salad with chicken, pasta salad, basil, mozz and tomato mini skewers and for dessert, amazing little mason jar key lime pie cups! We had a great night laughing and joking and telling stories, and eventually chatting about the book!

Overall: $0.

Thursday (dear God will this week ever end)

5:45am- up and at end, dropped off books to the library, made cinnamon oatmeal w half a banana and walnuts from my work stash, plus coffee from my Keurig here at work. $0.

12:00pm. Lunch. Homemade stew and Annie’s organic cheddar bunnies. We both took the stew for lunches again today. YUM. ACV water. $0.

5:00pm- ahhh pool and some popcorn. Finally!

6:00pm. Still hungry…had a little plate of tortilla chips and salsa w a bit of cheese from Trader Joe’s

7:00pm. Dinner with honeypie. He’d been away, so this was this first night since Friday we were just relaxing. We got Thai food (he paid) and it was fabulous. We watched Orange is the New Black (#OITNB) and just relaxed.

Note: Having Thai food with my husband totally made up for the week of being mindfully frugal. If I had given in to my urges earlier in the week and gotten a sandwich for dinner, or a huge latte, it made spending money on dinner extremely satisfying (and I didn’t even to pay!!- even better).

Friday! Happy July 1! 4^th of July weekend! We made it!

5:00am. Up and cleaning, coffee in hand, then off to work. Ate a mouthful of yogurt that was in the fridge. Whoops expired three days ago. Toss.

9:00am. Hungry. ACV water, ½ cheese stick (it was meh) and ½ a banana (I’m sensing a trend; it was from yesterday) $0.

11:00am. Strawberry cottage cheese double. $0.

1:00. Time to clean out the freezer for the long weekend. Hey a burrito and lasagna! Which to choose…Lasagna! Plus, strawberries and ACV water.

Friday Night went out with one of my bestest friends Kristi- we had cocktails, dinner and ice cream. Spent around $60 after buying a round for each other plus apps. Then coffee later at Steel City. It was a glorious night to kick off the 4^th of July weekend! $65.

I think I’m doing better so far- what do you think?

Engchik Eats Food Guide to the Hectic Holidays

Trying to pull together holiday shopping, family, travel, and work- try these items for a smoother day during this crazy holiday season! Relax for just a minute.

Cook with Tava Ghee and your dinner will never be the same! Ghee, also known as “purified butter” is an iconic food staple with a history as rich as its taste. With origins in ancient India, it’s used extensively in eastern cooking to promote health. It increases the metabolism, improves digestion, and is a natural source of pure vitamins. It also lowers cholesterol. 

Tava Ghee – made from the milk of 100% grass-fed cows. With flavors like White Truffle, Brown Butter Sage, Himalayan Salt, Green Chili, and Vanilla Bean, cooking and healthy eating is within reach. It's amazing to cook with!

On the Go: With Flex Flavors by Devotion Nutrition, you can turn any food or drink into your favorite food and drink! With nothing of its kind available on the market until now, Flex Flavors are available in Strawberry Fields, Razzmatazz, Bananas Fosters, Fruity Hoops, Coconut Biscotti, Creme Brûlée, Blueberry Sky, Lemon Meringue, Peanut Butter Crunch, and Pumpkin Spice, Flex Flavors are not only delectable, but also calorie-free and sugar-free. And these are YUMMY!

Plus, try Devotion Protein, available in Brownie Batter (22g protein) and Angel Food Cake (20g protein), is perfectly designed to be the most versatile and best-tasting protein available. Having a blend of 6 digestive enzymes to prevent bloating and gas and to help the body absorb the protein plus having 1g of healthy MCT’s per serving, Devotion Protein sets itself above the competition. 

Shake your Brownie Batter or Angel Food Cake into a shake with a shaker bottle, blend into a thick shake, or fluff into a protein soft serve ice cream. With its versatility, Devotion Protein stays moist and bakes beautifully into protein pancakes, waffles, loaves and so much more. Gluten-free and with an 80/20 blend of whey isolate and micellar casein, Devotion Protein comes in original formula as well as a Stevia version.  This product is helping me make better choices with cleaner eating and adding fabulous flavor to water and smoothies.

noosa yoghurt is perfect - full of protein and with several delicious natural flavors, noosa yoghurt is excellent for a quick breakfast or lunch and is all natural- from happy cows never treated with rBGH, and from cultures and made in the USA for fabulous flavor. 
This yoghurt tastes like no other, rich, creamy, full of flavor and satisfying.

This is my everyday snack- either for breakfast or as a quick meal after a workout.

There’s nothing better than coming in from a long day of shopping, working, or helping with family than delicious seafood. When I discovered Matlaw’s products, I was thrilled. Delicious new Matlaw's Stuffed Clams, called Stuffies, are the perfect holiday appetizer at just 100 calories each! They come in a variety of new flavor varieties too – Bacon & Cheese, Chorizo and their tried and true New England Style. 

And they’re so easy to prepare – simply heat them up in the oven, or on the grill. Enjoy with some drizzled lemon juice or basted butter or hot sauce for extra flavor.  

Each Stuffed Clam is elegantly served in their natural shell and are loaded with flavor -- a classic blend of golden breadcrumbs, succulent chopped clams, minced celery, red and green peppers; and sprinkled with paprika and parsley. 

They are packed with protein, iron, and are a good source of copper, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium and zinc, too.  
Kids love the mild taste of these too, even those with picky palates. And don’t forget the crunchy oven-browned shrimp! Flavors such as buffalo popcorn shrimp, southern country fried shrimp or jumbo butterfly shrimp, great seafood is always on the table. 
It’s dinner and a party in a pinch!

For a fine cooking and grilling experience, you must get the Salt Rox Cooking Plate. For tailgating, backyard cook-outs, and more, cooking your meat and vegetables on a Salt Rox Cooking Plate will bring out the flavor of your food like nothing you have ever tasted! 

Pink Himalayan Salt Cooking Plates from Salt Rox enhance and season your food, letting the natural flavor of food come alive! Cooking on this plate is amazing and makes a great presentation. Also perfect chilling and serving meats and cheeses, as the fine Himalayan pink salt imparts a unique freshness and flavor unlike regular table or even sea salt.

And don’t forgot the condiments! Whether you out in the lot tailgating or feeding a hungry crowd on New Years’ Day during football, serve up your finest with the flavors of Tessemae's Grill Pack. This selection includes Ketchup, Honey Mustard, Teriyaki Sauce, Mattys BBQ, Slow Roasted Garlic and Mild Wing Sauce. Incorporate these clean condiments with any of your "go to" recipes & be prepared to be the envy of the hungry everywhere! For salads, veggie trays, a perfect marinade and more – Tessemae’s products are natural, sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, non-GMO, and contain zero additives or preservatives. 

With more than 20 tantalizing condiments to choose from there is something for everyone, from ranch, soy ginger, honey mustard, cracked pepper, green goddess, teriyaki and so much more! The growing line of all-natural condiments includes dressings, marinades, and spreads. Available at Whole Foods, Safeway, Kroger, Fresh Market, Marianos, Gelsens and coming soon to Target and Wegmans nationwide!

Late night snacks should always be hummus! Try Applewood Smoked Hummus from Hummusphere Foods. Ditch the ranch dip and discover the mouthwatering, unforgettable hummus flavors from Hummusphere Foods! As the first and original smoked hummus on the market, Hummusphere Foods' five unique smoked hummus varieties add a distinct new element to any tailgating party or backyard event. Not only is the hummus a much more delicious option, it is a far healthier choice as well with nearly half the calories and a fraction of the fat. 

Delicious flavors include Jalapeno Black Bean, Fire Roasted Red Pepper, Classic Traditional, Black Bean Traditional, and Thai Coconut Curry. In addition, Hummusphere Foods' has just launched 5 new Hummus Dressings! Available at retail locations throughout the US, including select Whole Foods, Fresh Market, Safeway and coming soon to Kroger.

Quell a Queasy Tummy: Ice Chips
To soothe a queasy tummy naturally, ginger and peppermint are always a top choice in the expectant mom's arsenal of home remedies. When you are so nauseous even drinking tea is making you grimace, Ice Chips® offers a delicious, all-natural and sugar-free candy in both Ginger and Peppermint flavors that may help! Place a tin in your purse, backpack, or purse for refreshment and to quell the queasiest feeling.

These chips are fantastic, we can't stop eating them at home.Made with xylitol and safe for the expectant mom, recent studies have found a link between consuming Xylitol during pregnancy and stronger teeth in infants. Ice Chips® are available in 20 tantalizing flavors, such as Ginger, Peppermint, Wintergreen, Cinnamon, Strawberry Daiquiri, and more! www.icechipscandy.com. Perfect for stocking stuffers.

Need a healthy and yummy stocking stuffer? Dark Chocolate Pistachios from Setton Farms are amazing. I gave these to my dad and he and I gobbled them up! Available in 5oz bags, Dark Chocolate Pistachios provide snackers with the heart healthy benefits of pistachios along with the amazing qualities of antioxidant-rich dark chocolate. Pistachios are chock full of potassium, protein, and fiber, making Dark Chocolate Pistachios an indulgence you can feel good about. 

Delicious, power-packed and portable, this sweet treat is a must-have item for your pantry, lunch box or office drawer. A serving of dark chocolate pistachios 2-3 times a week can help lower your blood pressure and the risk of heart disease. And dark chocolate can increase blood flow to the brain and heart, helping to improve cognitive function (hint, keep these in your work desk drawer!).

When you are seriously rushed off your feet and need great nutrition, the Perfect Bar is the way to go- made with all natural ingredients plus organic peanut butter, these yummy bars will carry you throughout your hardest tasks.

One last item to treat yourself: Scrumptious Brownies delivers bites of bliss wherever you live, work or play. 

Baked with real ingredients in their kitchen so you don’t have to. Enjoy your chocolate bliss!

* Some items have been provided for review purposes.

All photos are from the products' respective websites.

Staying at the Beach in the Off Season!

I just spent four days at the beach..over Thanksgiving!

The beach is very different during the winter, but still has a magical air to it, even though it was about 20 degrees. I still took walks on the beach and went shopping at my favorite places...forget black friday shopping at the malls! I did most of my gift-buying on LBI in Beach Haven, New Jersey and totally enjoyed supporting the small businesses such as How to Live and Country Kettle Chowda.

My fiance's family was going to be full up at the beach house, so we opted to stay at the open-year-round Engleside Inn where we also could bring our doggie. For several days, we enjoyed staying here, walking on the beach, dining for lunch and seeing our family and enjoying Thanksgiving. 

This inn is great any time of year and quite comfortable. We also enjoyed the sushi lunch which is offered every Friday and Saturday during the non-summer times.

If you find yourself in LBI, do yourself a favor and a book a room with a soaking tub and a view of the ocean and enjoy some great food- you'll be glad you did!

"The spring, summer, is quite a hectic time for people in their lives, but then it comes to autumn, and to winter, and you can't but help think back to the year that was, and then hopefully looking forward to the year that is approaching."

-Enya

Nikolas at Logan Inn, New Hope, Bucks County

I’m bummed when summer is over, but I do love Fall. I have especially loved this year so far; lots of sun-drenched weekends and crisp morning with warm days.

 

One of my favorite places to soak up the Fall ambiance is in New Hope, PA, Bucks County. 

New Hope is a gorgeous little village on the banks of the Delaware River, across from Lambertville and full of elegance and charm. Come for the day, but try to stay the entire weekend! Bed & Breakfasts, boutique hotels, farm-to-table restaurants and shopping abound, in addition to the culture- music, shows, bands, and sightseeing.

 

One such place to stop and enjoy yourself while taking in the passers-by on River Road (the main drag) isLogan Inn. Situated at Ferry Street and River Road, you can stay overnight at the Logan Inn, or you can sit outside at the bar, Logan Terrace and relax, or if you are looking for more upscale dining, sit inside in the wraparound covered porch to dine at the Mediterranean-inspired Nikolas. Sample dishes from Spain, Greece, Italy, and Turkey, dining on prime meats and fresh seafood.

 

My fiancé and I sat indoor one such day when a storm was rolling in over the river, and then we were treated to a delightful rainbow. We relaxed immediately as our server put us at ease, and ordered glasses of white wine. We decided on the Prix Fixe four course dinner, with any appetizer or soup, and a salad, an plus the entree and that also included our dessert with coffee.

 

I went for the seafood soup, as I can never pass up seafood, which was light and silky with plenty of seafood to satisfy me. Stephen enjoyed the baked brie, with imported brie wrapped in phyllo dough, resting atop raspberry sauce with fruit. This was richly delicious.

 

We then both enjoyed the beet salad, which I can never get enough of! This inspired take on beets included candied walnuts, red and golden beets over greens with a crisp vinaigrette and goat cheese was fresh and appealing.

 

Our main course arrived in due time, as we were enjoying the calming ambiance and the passers-by and the rainbow over the river. I dined on Surf & Turf, and Stephen enjoyed the fish dish- a whole fish with lemon and olive oil over Swiss chard, fava puree, and spinach/rice pilaf. My lobster was sweet and juicy, and the filet mignon was cooked to perfection with mushrooms and veggies.

 

Dessert was a happy confection of chocolate and coffee. We had a wonderful time just relaxing over the remainder of our meal and enjoying the ambiance of the older building and watching the people go by and the river as the evening sky turned dark.

 

Now, Logan Inn is prepping for winter by introducing their drain the kegs card! The beer kegs ned to be emptied by winter, and they need help. They have 16 gourmet beers on tap- like, Tucher Helles, Chimay, Ommegang, Allagash,and more. Stop by the Logan Terrace bar and buy a Keg Card for just $10.  With your purchase, you'll get two drafts of your choice for free.  Then show your Keg Card whenever you stop by the Logan Terrace bar and get half off these gourmet beers. Great for Fall!

 

 

Thank you to Sharon Fast and her team at Logan Inn and Nikolas.

 

 

 

 

Address: 10 W Ferry St, New Hope, PA 18938

Phone:(215) 862-2300

Top 10 Things You Need for the Holidays (For Yourself and As Presents)

 

10. Wine for All
If all else fails, buy wine...to drink and to gift. Cupcake Vineyards is home to my favorite wine of all time: Sauvignon Blanc. A clean mouth feel wine that pairs well with just about anything, but moreso shrimp and other seafoods, this wine hails from Marlborough, New Zealand. I love it so much I asked my mom to buy me a case for Christmas. I sure hope I find this under the tree! This juicy burst of fun in a glass is created from Key limes and Meyer lemons along with hints of grapefruit and gooseberry. And we'll definitely be drinking this on Christmas Eve with our shrimp and other Slovak foodstuffs.
 
 

9. Pamper Yourself!
Now I love bath products, so Mainely Cole's is no exception. This holiday season one must pamper herself! Trying out their line of soaps and scrubs was delightful! And my skin felt so smooth and wonderful! Their Cucumber Toner felt refreshing and did not leave my skin tight, a must in this cold and the harsh dry air. This whole line is organic and free of harsh chemicals. Anyone you buy this for will be soooo happy!

8. ElleLauri Dresses
I can’t say enough about this line. Liz and Laura Rymar are design geniuses. They have created some of the most elegant, fun, made in the US clothes around!! Plus, I'm not a stick, and their clothes fit all sizes and all styles. My personal fave is the Kayleigh Skirt, along with the Celeste Cape. Wear one of these numbers on New Year’s Eve and you’ll have plenty to sparkle about! Check out my video with the lovely designers as we discuss the upcoming holiday season.

 
 
 
7. Family Portraits
No time to get the family together for that holiday card? Make sure you have a Canon camera. I have my eye on the EOS Rebel T3 DSLR camera?  Friends say its ease of use, it's a great camera for amateur photographers, creating sharp photos, and has amazing versatility. get everyone together and say CHEESE!
 
6. Staying Healthy
With all this running around, working, buying and wrapping holiday gifts, trying to find time to work out, attempting to get enough sleep, you must MUST keep yourself healthy. One of my fave sites and Twitter pals is Chelsea Krost. She always has great ideas and health info that you need to stay healthy! Another site that I love for health info and great vitamins and yummy on-the-go bars is the SkinnyGirl brand by Bethanny Frankel.  I always keep a few delicious Banana Oatmeal Dark Chocolate On the Go Bars in my desk and purse for when I need a quick meal. I also love my Jack La Lanne Power Juicer- pop in any fruit or veg and instant juice! So healthy, so yummy! You can drink it straight, or add it to a smoothie. My personal favorite mix is kale, strawberries, apples and a peeled lemon (no pith.) Cleansing and yummy- go RELAX!
 
 

5. Get a Fun Manicure to Get Yourself in the Holiday Spirit
Do something that feels good! Grab Mom, your sister, your best friend or go yourself- get a fun holiday manicure from Avalanche Salon and Spa in Trappe, PA. It looks cheery and makes others smile, and is especially uplifting for you! Or, a massage from In Touch Massage Therapy in Schwenksville, or acupuncture from Gateway Bodyworks in Phoenixville, or a facial from Glow in Phoenixville. Just do something for yourself. Take a breather, because you can't help everyone else if you aren't rested.
 
 

4. SodaStream for Yourself or Others

Several things have changed my life - DVR, the iPhone, and the SodaStream. I do not have to buy diet soda. I have a varied selection to choose from depending on my taste. I don't have to worry about recycling, because I am not buying plastic bottles in the first place. It can be as sweet as I want, or crazy carbonated - or not. And the best part- since I love to entertain- I can make several kinds of drinks and not go out of my way to buy a ton of soda for a party. Plus, the canister is recyclable.

When the CO2 canister is empty, I turn it in to Staples, and save $10 off the $25 new one! Plug it in, set the carbonation level, attach the water bottle securely. Then add your soda flavoring and you are set! The special bottle keeps my soda fresh for weeks, doesn't go flat and retains its flavor. My favorite is the diet grapefruit. There are over 60 flavorings! And, I trust this brand. There are several soda-making type machines out there…don’t do it. Go with SodaStream, for yourself or as a great holiday gift!

 

3. A Good Meal
Staying in on Christmas? Going out? My family is Slovak, so we make Pirohy (Think Mrs. T's Pierogi ), Oblátky (thin Communion-type wafers) with garlic and honey to remind us of the sweet and harsh sides of life, nuts, cooked peas or French beans, dried fruit, mushrooms soup, Bobalky (poppy seed, honey and dough), sauerkraut bread, shrimp and fish. We've occasionally blend a few Italian items in such as lasagna, takeout from Maggiano's Little Italy. We don't eat meat on Christmas Eve, but on Christmas Day we will have a ham and turkey. I'm a fan of making a big Christmas Day breakfast, too. While on vacation, I plan to hit up a few of my favorite local restaurants, including Creole Daddy Mim's and the Melting Pot KoP, and just enjoy a few days off.  

 

2. Clean Up Clean the House, or get someone to do it for you- I'd love a Dyson under the tree for me, but until then, my pal Barb is the BEST for getting your place to sparkle. I love to entertain, so this is just perfect at any time, especially the holidays.

 

 

1. LOVE

And the Number one thing I can’t live without is friends and family around the fire for the holidays...maybe even a kiss under the mistletoe if I am lucky…anyone want to volunteer? ;) And a new job in social media or marketing for 2013!



Merry Christmas and
Happy New Year from
Engchik Eats!!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

My Top 10 Things You Need for the Holidays (For Yourself and As Presents)

marTini Tuesday- the 'RennieTini' at the Circle Tavern, Avalon, NJ

A few weeks ago I headed down to Avalon to check out the island and make sure all is well after Hurricane Sandy swept in. The hurricane definitely caused some damage, but luckily, the town is bouncing back. I had to stop in and get a BLT from one of my favorite establishments that stays open ALL YEAR ROUND! The Seven Mile Island Deli, owned by Josh, a good friend of mine, has the best sandwiches and soups on the island!



Road to Sea Isle washed away, en route to Townsend’s Inlet Bridge

There is currently a lot of construction going on for those that have damaged homes or businesses on 7 mile island.
 

The OMB (Old Moldy Barnacle -dubbed by B) which is currently not liveable due to flood damage.

I also wanted to check on my favorite hotel- the Windrift. This hotel, recently redone and with new renovated sections included a glorious heated pool, hot tub, a restaurant with live music and some of the most gorgeous and comfortable rooms on the island! Luckily, all was well so when I go back in the summer I will be staying over again.

I stayed with my good friend Lor and we headed off to our favorite place for martinis: the Circle Tavern. We love LUV the Princeton (or the P, as the locals call it) on 21st and Dune Drive but in the off-season only the Circle is open. The block is home to the Circle Tavern, the Princeton, and the Rock Room during the summer.

Luckily, one of our favorite bartenders was there, John Rennie. How perfect that he was there on a Tini Tuesday, as were we! He is excellent at making martinis, so when Lor and I strolled in, he knew to whip up his special RennieTini for us ladies. Lor decided to call his dirty martinis RennieTinis over the summer and the name just stuck for us.

The RennieTini is a super dirty martini, consisting of Grey Goose vodka, dry vermouth, and lots of olive juice and extra olives- I like it very, very dirty!

Ice cold dirty martini, the RennieTini, at the Circle, Avalon, NJ

To accompany our drinks that night, we decided on the steamers of the day, with garlic and lemon, and a hint of spices- and just so amazingly good. Seafood at the seashore with some very dirty RennieTinis - yes, please!

The island is still in repair, as all the Jersey shore points (and other places too) are, so if you get a moment, go to your favorite shore place and make it a point to see your beach buddies and visit some of your favorite establishments (if they are open). Every little bit helps to going towards rebuilding. Many people still need help.

People in line for food and supplies after Hurricane Sandy November 2012 Atlantic County

ALSO- Don't miss the 12/12/12 Concert for Sandy relief- an amazing line-up of talented musicans supporting the need to rebuild! Hear from Jersey's own Jon Bon Jovi, and Billy Joel, Eric Clapton, Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band, Eddie Vedder, Roger Water and so many others! It will be televised on many channels on Wednesday December 12.

Peddler's Village, Bucks County, PA: A Weekend of Delights

What fantastic local destination has delicious food, refined restaurants, exciting entertainment, comfortable and classy overnight lodging, and is full of history and elegant touches? Why, Bucks County, of course! After 50 years, this quaint village is a still wonderful treat with free special events and seasonal festivals drawing 2 million visitors a year.

Heart of the Village- ready for an event

As one of the top most sought-after and visited tourist destinations in Pennsylvania, Bucks County is a never-fail retreat from the real world, to relax with wineries, food, family fun and events parks, trails, entertainment- Bucks County has it all! Located 75 miles from New York City and 25 miles from Philadelphia, Bucks County will offer a relaxing and fun adventure, no matter the reason for your visit!

Bucks County is full of gorgeous historic homes

The late Earl Hart Jamison founded Peddler's Village in 1962 on six acres of property at the crossroads of Routes 202, 263 and Street Road in Lahaska, once called Hentown. The property had housed a chicken hatchery, a barn and chicken coops. Earl transformed them into 14 shops and the Cock 'n Bull Restaurant. The buildings are placed amid winding brick pathways and gorgeous award-winning gardens designed by Earl, reflecting his consistent colonial America architectural style.

Peddler's Village

 

Peddler's Village is now one of the premier attractions in Bucks County. The 42-acre site boasts 70 unique specialty shops, six restaurants, the 70-room luxurious Golden Plough Inn, and for the kids: Giggleberry Fair, a family entertainment center featuring an antique operating carousel.

 

Golden Plough Inn, Peddler's Village

 

When we arrived in Peddler’s Village, we noticed its picturesque beauty. We checked in to the Golden Plough Inn, and were delighted with our room: spacious, warm, inviting and two queen-sized canopy beds awaited us. Such plush and comfortable surroundings instantly signaled that this was going to be a relaxing stay.

 

Delaware River, Washington Crossing Historic Park

 

But first, we headed out to Washington Crossing Historic Park to take in some of Bucks’ County’s rich history. At this site, General George Washington and his men of the Continental Army crossed the Delaware River on Christmas night in 1776 on Durham boats. A Nor’easter had approached making the conditions horrible, frigid and dangerous, yet they pressed on. His some 2600-militia marched the 8 miles to Trenton, New Jersey.



Washington Crossing Historic Park

Each year at Christmas more than 100 re-enactors recreate this significant event across the river in boats and uniforms replicated to near-exact historical proportions. The grounds of this park are along the river and are home to several historical buildings. It was truly an amazing feeling to know that history occurred right in the very place we were standing, as that moment was a turning point in the Revolution.

Washington Crossing Historic Park

After walking outside for hours in the park, we were quite chilled so off we went to begin our wine tour to warm up. We started with Crossing Vineyards & Winery in Washington Crossing. Beth and Mary were our hosts, giving us a tour of the picturesque vineyards and the tasting room. Our tasting room gent John poured us delicious wines and I have to say this winery offered some of the most delicious and imaginative wines I have ever tasted. Rich, full-bodied delights such as the Chocolate Cherry Truffle (port-style heavenly dessert wine) and the Sangria (a sweet juicy citrus-filled red wine) were amazing. Here, the impressive tasting room and cute gift shop are open 12-6pm every day.

 

Tastings Time!

 

From there we headed back to Peddler’s Village, stopping in Lambertville for just a moment to get a hot coffee and stop by the Tomasello Winery to get more of their luscious Blackberry wine. I only bought two bottles...what was I thinking?!

 

Crossings Winery

 We sampled some wine at the Chaddsford Winery, where I received a complimentary bottle of wine for staying at the Golden Plough Inn, imprinted with its Peddler’s Village 50^th Anniversary. Their chardonnay is so wonderful I had to pick up a few bottles. Plus, some sangria, as a Christmas present for my mom (shhh, don’t tell) I got her a bottle of sangria from every winery we visited. She will have quite a lot to open on Christmas morning!

Cheers!

 

Back to relax in our gorgeous room, Rach and I each lounged in our impressive queen four-poster beds, reading until it was time for dinner. We stopped in the homey and pretty Buttonwood Grill for a pre-dinner drink, deciding on the hot apple cider. Complete with creamy caramel, buttershots and vanilla vodka, and pleasantly warm, this drink was a great start to our evening.

Hot Apple Cider, Buttonwood Grill

 

We then headed across the street to Earl’s Bucks County. Instantly, this place relaxed me. Warm décor, soft lights, an atmosphere I knew I would enjoy my dinner in. Our server Erhn helped us with our choices and was a superb commentator on the food. He suggested the raw oysters as starters. Rach and I sampled sweet succulent oysters- great season for then right now- from Martha’s Vineyard and Rhode Island.

OYSTERS!

 

All of Earl BC’s food is locally sourced or flown in from just a few hours away. Every single item is fresh and authentic and prepared to the guest’s liking...and believe me, I was liking it a lot! We also enjoyed warm bread with lemon zest ricotta sprinkled liberally with salt and pepper and some crunchy flatbread. I then tried the lobster bisque, which was rich and savory with chunks of lobster in it. Rach tried oysters for the first time, and we liked them so much we ordered a couple more.

Lobster Bisque, Earl's Bucks County

 

Our main dishes arrived. I had the house smoked St. Louis ribs with a cider glaze over smoked Cheddar-scallion mashed potato and horseradish spiked slaw. These ribs were fantastic, meaty, messy, sweet, smoky and satisfying. I’m usually not a big meat eater, but these ribs were amazing. Rach had the grilled 8 oz filet mignon with whipped potato and spinach. The filet was tender and juicy, with hints of wine and butter, and the spinach was fresh and tasty.

Smoked St. Louis Ribs, Earl's Bucks County

 

We then had dessert- apple pie and locally made chocolate and butter pecan ice cream was absolutely fantastic. And then, it was time to retire to our room- with visions of Peddler’s Village dancing in our heads!

Locally made chocolate and butter pecan ice cream, Earl's Bucks County
 

 Sunday’s weather was perfect- warm and sunny- for strolling and shopping. The great thing about Peddler’s Village is that everything is close- dinner, cute and fun clothing shops with shoes, apparel, outerwear, baby clothes, bath and beauty shops, grab a little snack, attend a murder mystery, enjoy a buffet, or coffee, sample local wines, find a place to relax, a place to sleep- all within walking distance. We went back to Earl's for farm-fresh breakfast with sausages, eggs, potatoes and coffee, and commenced wandering around the village.

Breakfast at Earl's BC

 

The village was alive with people all enjoying themselves in one of Bucks’ Counties favorite places. One can see why this village has thrived for 50 years, and will continue thriving. Such a community-oriented, exciting place is home to many local artisans, all who share the love of Bucks County.

Shoppes at Peddler's Village

 We rounded off our visit with a trip to see Santa Claus and his lovely wife on the magical New Hope & Ivyland Railroad for the North Pole Express. An old-fashioned steamer train, this ride evokes scenes of the Golden Age of steam railroading. The train will take you along on the historic route that was filmed in the 1914 movie series Perils of Pauline, all the while singing carols and enjoying a warm beverage and cookies.


Aboard the North Pole Express
 

So for this holiday season, see the lights, attend the festivities, sample the wineries, eat at the restaurants, and do so much more at Peddler’s Village!

Special thanks to Michelle Greco Falcone, Communications Manager of Visit Bucks County and Eve Gelman, PR Manager, Peddler’s Village who strived to made our Bucks’s County visit such an impressive stay! Thank you!

Photographs by Rachel Richards

Plan Your Bucks County getaway at VisitBucksCounty.com. Stay connected to Peddler's Village on Twitter.