Life Without Regret

Life without regret

I am sitting here now in my apartment. Cleaning it up and packing things up to move back to Connecticut to be with my Family once again.. Thinking of my past, when growing up was wonderful.. All the Memories and traditions of a Christmas season.. The laughter and joy that I had with my entire family.. The warmth and the love that we all received from the most wonderful parents that three kids could ever have.. Hay rides to go chop down our Christmas Tree for that year.. The Hot chocolate and cookies that Mom always had for us on the very cold ride there.. Many years I would have to watch my Dad chop down the tree but, there was a day that he allowed me to do it.. I was very excited.. But… in that excitement, He took my hand and guided me along so, I would not hurt myself..

Again, on one faithful and Thankful.. Thanksgiving that Dad Graciously stepped aside and let me carve the turkey and, again took my Hand and guided me along.. There are so many memories stored up.. Every Christmas Morning I would wake up to the awesome smells of my Mom cooking the Cinnamon Rolls , then we would all gather around the tree that was lit so bright and beautiful. The Tree was placed up just after Thanksgiving. Christmas music playing in the background. I would always love to get carried away with the tinsel… Putting too much of it up.. My Dad would go nuts over that fact.. Mom would always calm everyone down with grace and love..

Every Year we would choice who Santa would be and hand out all the gifts. Everyone got one gift at a time and we would all watch each other open our gifts one at a time.. Loved that.. Felt like Christmas lasted forever..

　

There were so many memories.. "The Mental Photo’s".. We laughed a lot. I can remember watching Mr. Bean with my Mom.. Just the 2 of us.. And every time. No matter how many times we have seen the same movie.. She would laugh so hard that she would be in tears. It was contagious . I would be on the floor laughing with her.. We loved to tease each other a lot… Mom hated heights. Every time we would go over a bridge.. She would lean into the center of the car. LOL So, just to help her out.. we all would, count down … OK.. I..2..3 Lean in.. just trying to show our support. Hehehe.

We took a family trip to Montréal one year.. We stayed at the Marriott with the Restaurant on top that would spin around.. We stayed in on the 17^th floor, needless to say.. Mom was not happy we were there. My sister and I sat in seats that to our amazement had wheels on them.. I looked at my sister and literally sprung into action.. Right towards the balcony window.. My sister followed suite .. My Mom screamed so load… Well, I guess Karma was alive and well back then to in the late 70's..

On our way home.. It was raining Cats and dogs. I know.. Cats and Dogs? Bare with me.. My Dad hit a pot hole.. And the hub cap came flying off and went into an off road ditch.. My Dad gets out, looks over the situation and Bello’s.. “Eddie“!!! I get out and it was full of mud.. I thought he would say.. Oh well, have to buy a new one.. Oh.. Noooo.. Suddenly. “Eddie.. Go get it“.. I looked at him as if he was from another world.. I was not getting out of this one.. I slowly go and fetch the hub cap, and .. Yeah you guessed it. I sunk about 4 feet in. and it was up to my hips.. They sat there and laughed.. Mom was even laughing at me.. I was so mad.. I had it coming. Now some of you know the reason why I am like this .. LOL

　

　

I went to camp in Maine when I was a kid. I think the only reason I was there, was to be out of my parents hair once a year and, but then, they had an excuse to go and get lobster with there best friends every year.. It was parents/ Family day one year. And my Mom wanted to go out on the row boat with me.. So we did. My Dad and their Friends stay on shore.. I was rowing. And we were about an half hour out there and my Mom said.. “I want to row“.. So, we proceeded to change places and suddenly the boat doe’s a 180.. We were in the water.. With me saying.. Oh Mom!!! Everything sunk... Boat and all except, my moms purse.. That floated the whole time.. And a crowd gathered on shore, concerned about us!! but.. Not my Dad and my Parents friends.. They turned around and walked the other way laughing their heads off. Oh yes.. The Mental Photo’s that we hold in our hearts. They will never go away..

Watching my Mom and Dad as I grew up, and seeing myself now is like looking into a mirror. I find myself doing everything they have, saying everything they did …

Everyday as I grew up, My Mom and Dad were my strength and encouragement…. Gave me a voice to speak out against tyranny and wrong doing. Also, to stand in and up for all those that could not stand for themselves. To give a voice to those that could not speak.. Help those that needed my help even if they could not ask..

“There is danger in being silent son“, My Dad would say, in “time of mislead spirits… Be not afraid my son, tell all the truth of a better way“… If I was in a bad place in life, He would say, “Hang in there son, This too shall pass.. Have Patience for it is a virtue“. Every time I would walk out the door.. That is what I would hear…

　



There is Danger in being silent in the face of a cultural that is passive and evil. To say nothing about a country and church culture that has clearly drifted away from God. God expects us to MAN UP and, spread the truth, the Love and the word of God to every living soul....

As we clear out the past to prepare for the future we can not help but, be taken back by a day long ago when life was different. People die, relationships end and they also begin. The closed door always opens a bigger door. The opening may not appear right away but, when it does.. A sense of well-being sets in.. Life and sight seem to be much clearer. Embrace change- even if it feels bad- know that it will pass and, you truly will emerge stronger and more seasoned with great wisdom. Your character will be defined and the experience will simply be a short chapter in the book of your life. But, then only to be set up for another Chapter written..

I don't care how old you are- surprises and change are forever around the corner. Don't fear it, as it truly does all work out in some fashion- and you will find peace if you are open to being positive and always asking for more faith -  As I believe I need to hear it over and over again because, it never get old with me. Again, my Dad frequently said - "This too shall pass". I’m here to tell you that.. Indeed.. it will.

　

　

I miss my Mom a great deal. She was my best friend that I could always go to if I needed help, love or a creative thought.. I have a Great void in my life now.. I don’t have that safety in her arms anymore and it is killing me.. For about 8 months now after her passing to go home to Jesus. I have struggled. Many times feeling alone, walking away from a God that never has or will walk away from me.. I had friends that I thought I had… leave me. Christians that were accountable to me and, I was to them… left me!.. When I needed them most. They knew how to take but, would never give back, no matter how much I was hurting..

Christmas was my Moms.. She loved Christmas.. It will never be the same.. I had a friend just tell me after she was trying to comfort me with tough love.. “Now that I've hit a nerve and probably depressed you even more, listen to this. There is a way out of this feeling. And, no, it won't happen in an instant. The way out is to create NEW experiences while incorporating the good memories and traditions you hold so dear“.

That’s what my Mom would have wanted me to do. That I need to wake up, stand up and and go out to do all the things in life that I was taught to do. There is a reason and purpose for me and everything in life.. And I now need to Man up and carry on.. And always know.. I am not alone.. She may not be seen.. The ship that she is on, had gone beyond the horizon, I may not see her now, But then again.. now, it is seen by many more on the other side that are saying... there she is... here she comes.. I will be with her once again.. But, I have more to do here in this short time..

　

So.. I will see you soon Mommy.. And we will catch up and laugh together of all the times that we thought were so hard.. I Love you Mom!!! A million kiss’ and a Million Hug’s to you~~~~ From The son of Jeanne and Arthur~~~

Dante & Luigi’s ~ Corona di ferro

A Journey of Love, Style and Taste

By Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Philadelphia, USA

This site ~ This Blog is your connection into my world, and the journey, love, style and taste of the culinary creations that are around us and abroad. I am hoping by the words that I write about different places I go, will give you access and bring not only a flow of salivating to your mouth but, refuge and tastes that will captivate you and place a permanent smile on your face.…

Dante & Luigi’s

Corona di ferro

Est. 1899

762 South 10th Street

Philadelphia, PA 19147

Ph: 215-922-9501

Fx: 215-922-3437

http://www.danteandluigis.com/index.htm

“Established in 1899, “Dante & Luigi’s, corona di ferro” is one of the oldest existing Italian restaurants in the United States.

Situated in the heart of the Italian Market district, it was once the destination of Italian immigrants arriving in Philadelphia. Unable to speak English, they arrived on the docks with the name of the restaurant written on a scrap of paper and pinned to their lapels. They were given lodging in the upstairs rooms and work in the restaurant.

Today, Dante & Luigi’s retains much of the same atmosphere as it had in the past. Housed in two converted town houses, the charm of yesterday still exists. The cuisine is a well-balanced mix of homemade, “Old World” specialties, along with delicious

fresh seafood and exceptional daily specials.”

Rated 5 Stars in

Zagat's Restaurant Guide

This was an awesome treat and experience for me.. Not only was I able to lavishly relish all the beautiful food that was served but, I was able to do it with my Best friend of 35 years and his beautiful wife..(Bella Amore ) Our birthdays are 10 days apart and to top it off, My friend Tony and his wife’s JoAnn’s birthday is the same day.. So, I could not let this day that go by, without experiencing the best.. And the best is what we got.. There was already too many years that we have been apart.. My buddy is Italian himself and I grew up with his family taking me under their wings.. I can remember the dinners that took about 10 hours to eat.. I needed a crane to pull me out from the roof.. I waddled for weeks.. I learned a lot about the Italian culture through them.. “Just sayin… You know how it is…. Forgitaboutit” LOL

There was and is so much love in that family.. So to Take Tony and JoAnn here was extremely exciting for me..

We Walked into
“Dante & Luigi’s, corona di ferro” and we felt as if we were walking into a home.. Old Colonial 19^th century architecture, beautiful oil paintings and the hostess and staff was loving and friendly.. We sat down near the kitchen, and I found myself peaking in a lot to see what I can see. I also kept looking at Tony’s expression on his face. He was happy boy..

Being it Mid summer that we were here and, in the realms of New Jersey. We all had the Jersey tomato~ Basil~ and Fresh Mozzarella with balsamic and XVOO drizzle Insalata Got to soak that up with homemade Italian bread loaf.. …..Beautiful… Fresh everything.. Wonderful Beginning..

Then The entrée came.. Tony had the Linguini Bolognese Sauce.. I knew he would order that.. Being, He love’s his beef.. He was smiling ear to ear.. But I know personally that it was not as good as his Mama’s. She knows how to cook, But I do believe that it came in a very close 2^nd

JoAnn’s Bel piatto di filetto di manzo Migon
(Beautiful dish of beef filet Migon) came Fettuccini Filetto ….Sliced Filet Mignon, Shitake mushrooms and sun dried tomato with Italian Gravy. It was a beautiful “ting”.. I was excited …I got to taste both of their dishes.

Well, last but definitely not at all least.. I had the Wide Ribbon Pasta
Jumbo lump crabmeat & sun dried tomatoes in a Bianco Sauce … This dish was pure Heaven.. I was worried that the sun-dried tomato would be too strong and make it bitter.. That was not the case.. It added a wonderful light zing to the cream white sauce. There was a mega amount of Crab in it.. As you might know by past articles. With my surgery. My stomach is very small now.. Not a lot of food can fit.. But I was enjoying this so much. I had to have those extra bites. I was in no hurry.. So I took my time.. It is easy to do that when friendship , conversation and great food is over flowing.. This is a place that you do not find food pumping out on conveyor belts as fast as possible to get the flow of the seating filled as many times as they can.. You can sense that there is history of love, compassion, passion, creativity, unity, a sense of urgency and family that was nurtured and passed down from the very 1^st immigrant that walked off the ships.. It is not about the mighty buck earned. It is all about the love you have to serve people and treat them like family.. (Even if you do not know them).. I think we all have something to learn from this.. From my experience here, I am going to continue that same love in my Restaurant in a couple years… You have heard it said…. “If you build it.. They will come” I add to that and say… If you love them… They will come.. (-:

There is nothing better then enjoying a great place to eat, except for having the company that you have to sharing the experience with .. I am hoping that I can get a few of you to join me in this adventurous journey and, experience it with me.. Just something to think about.. If you have a place in mind and want to join me.. Or, if you have any questions that you would like to ask of me…. Send me a message.. You can also check me out on my Facebook page

https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Chef-Eddies-Restaurant-and-Food-Review/237831496253637 and ask me anything you wish.. You can also tweet me.. @EddieAElsasser

Now, Until we meet again~~ Many journey's into the Love, Style and Taste of the world and food around you...
God Bless
Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Khyber Pass Pub

The journey of love style and taste..               

By Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Philadelphia, USA

This site ~ This Blog is your connection into my world, and the journey, love, style and taste of the culinary creations that are around us and abroad. I am hoping by the words that I write about different places I go, will give you access and bring not only a flow of salivating to your mouth but, refuge and tastes that will captivate you and place a permanent smile on your face.…

Khyber Pass Pub

56 south Second Street

Philadelphia, Pa.

215-238-5888

Right down by the pier

Historic Philly.

http://www.khyberpasspub.com/

I grew up in the burbs of Connecticut.. I thought that was the life.. And there was nothing better.. I was also not very leading in a way when, it came to change and new places to live.. Oh yeah, I wanted to see the world, but to live in these places I dreamt of going to, was not my way of happiness in life I was comfortable with where I was.... Until.. I had to move to Florida due to no money and no job.. Florida grew on me.. I become a beach/Florida Boy.. Became friends with a lot of people that were like family to me.. And Florida jumped started my career and life for me.. Then I came to Philly.. Not by choose but, because I needed to be. There are a lot of things in life that I want to have and be, but knowing the priorities in my life and the love I have for my Family and Parents… Comes 1^st..

I am not a city Boy.. Nor do I think I am still, but.. There are a lot of things that I really enjoy and love about the City of Philly.. The diversity of people.. Which comes with the diversity of Restaurants. One in particular.. Khyber Pass Pub..

There are a lot of Pubs out there that I believe purchase a cookie cutter mold from other pubs and duplicate.. Which leaves the Customer/Guest with the lack of warmth, love and an atmosphere that is like family.. Being one of a kind brings your dreams to fruition and success is what people are looking for..

Khyber Pass Pub has that.. I was having a hard and long day at work and a couple of friends.. Fellow culinarians asked me to see this new Bill Murray movie and then to this authentic Louisianan Restaurant with them.. We walked through the door and was greeting from people that actually had a look as if they cared.. It was laid back yet all our needs were taken care of..

We sat at the Bar and I glanced at the beer selection on tap here that was wonderfully diverse. Brands that you find and brewed only in Philadelphia and Jersey. For example “1^st… Abby gift of the magi, Flying Dog snake Dog, Duck Rabbit Amber, and one that I really enjoyed PBC Kenzinger. It was a lite amber.. My friends ordered the BBQ brisket sandwich and the other friend a burger… and I heard silence.. Nothing from their mouths.. The only thing I can come up with is that they had feeling like they were in heaven with the beautiful tastes… Why do I think that.. Because normally you can’t shut them up.. They go on like gossip girls..

I had always wanted to go to New Orleans and the Louisianan area.. As a Chef the deep need to explore other chef’s and restaurant cultures is born in us.. I wanted to try what real Cajun~ Creole food was like.. I had never had a Po-Boy.. And what better to experience it for the 1^st time then having a Half and Half Po-Boy.. Fried Shrimp and Fried oysters on a Leidenheimer Roll, dressed with lettuce, tomato, pickles and Mayo.. Which I understand are the standard dressings for a Po-Boy. I had a side to choose from and I went with Mac and Cheese of course.. I said that as a question to the waiter and my friends were like … “Oh yeah” Like I would be nuts not too.. Sometimes the majority knows better.. LOL It was not as good as my Mom’s Mrs. E’s Mac and Cheese.. That goes’ without saying.. But I said it anyway huh….but.. Just the same…. I loved it.. It had a nice small spicy bite to it, and it had a texture of Bread crumbs that went well with the creaminess‘.

The half and Half was out of this world off the hook great.. It was loaded with shrimp and Oysters.. You can tell that they were not afraid of the economy that the guests satisfaction was more important.. It was not too much, and it was not too little, it was just the right amount of seafood on a sandwich.. I immensely enjoyed the Po-Boy.. Made me scream out Ooo wee that good cookin.. Well, I was thinking it..

All, I need to say now is that if you have not or not in a long time come to experience Philadelphia, Pa.. and all the rich culture that it provides, you need to.. Contact me and I would be more then happy to go with you.. Khyber Pass Pub has to be on our trail blazing though.. (~:

　http://www.khyberpasspub.com/

There is nothing better then enjoying a great place to eat, except for having the company that you have to sharing the experience with .. I am hoping that I can get a few of you to join me in this adventurous journey and, experience it with me.. Just something to think about.. If you have a place in mind and want to join me.. Or, if you have any questions that you would like to ask of me…. Send me a message.. You can also check me out on my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Chef-Eddies-Restaurant-and-Food-Review/237831496253637 and ask me anything you wish.. You can also tweet me.. @EddieAElsasser

Now, Until we meet again~~ Many journey's into the Love, Style and Taste of the world and food around you...
God Bless
Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

The Journey… at a rest stop on the Highway..

A Journey of Love, Style and Taste

By Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Philadelphia, USA

The Journey… at a rest stop on the Highway..

Everyday I wake up not knowing what is going to happen.. A blank slate, Empty package waiting to be filled and written on.. There is so much pain and fear about what Might be.. Especially for all that I have just experienced with my best friend.. My Mom passing away to be in Gods hands.. Just the thought of that gives me faith and knowledge that I will once see her again..

I have lived a life for the last 16 years in the ways and love of Jesus Christ.. Yet in a instant even all that I know and understand came crashing down on me and I did not for a minute stop drop and Pray to put out the inferno that was engulfing me.. I feared.. And from that.. I fell.. I sinned.. It was the perfect storm as some might say.. I did not belong to a church that I could connect myself into fellow believers that would lift me up and help me.. I kept myself all alone. Even Not getting any feed back from people that I once confided in.. They seemed to have walked away from me.. Contacted them over and over and over and no response.. It just seems that they are not hearing or listen to God either. .I say either because, I am not free from that either.. I have my faults.

Then when I do reach out to someone that I do trust and love.. A fellow family member. He calls and I don’t respond quickly.. I ride if out as if the pain is just going to go away.. Just ignore it and it will pass right? Oh Noooo, it gets worse as the time go’s by, maybe not right away, but when it doe’s come back.. It hurts more ..

So, as it did come back around again and in top speed and force.. It slapped me silly.. Words started to come out of my mouth that would take down the Taj Mahal, I started to go back to the ways that I used to be.. Letting anything and “Anyone” be near me…I was not acting as a man, let alone a man that lived for and acted for God.. I didn’t talk to any of the friends, Fellow Brothers or Sisters in Christ because they would Judge me.. I was doing alright in the department called myself.. I am my own worst Judge and not only that.. I could not hide from God either.. Believe me.. I thought I could .. Funny huh.. When we are up to our necks in sin.. We start to act as fools.. And I was feeling like garbage. Not worth a thing.. ZERO..

Then I couldn’t take it anymore.. I was on the ground bleeding from the

Punch that Satan gave.. And I knew I had to get up and out …go away from all that was around me and find where I need to be and adjust myself in the way that God needs me… I was not running from.. I was running “TO”… but then.. Yeah.. I know.. Atlantic City.. Of all places.. LOL .. I know what you are thinking.. I thought the same thing.. But from all that I have done to allow this to happen in the 1^st place.. I was not about to question God again…So I listened, and so I be in AC.. The 1^st thing that brought me to understand that God was here and listening to me, was that I lost my cell phone in the streets of AC.. In the middle of money, poverty and greed. I have to say.. I panicked.. I started thinking the worst, then I started to pray.. I walked about a mile and a half looking for that thing.. In the Casino, The House of Blues.. Just a note.. Not that it mattered to me what you think, but I did just play $10. on the slots for the heck of it.. No, I am still not rich in money.. LOL But if I did… I do believe that I would have loved to invite the entire graduating classes of Timothy Dwight, Roger Ludlowe and Andrew Warde from 1980 to 1987.. Everyone that I knew for a Reunion Feast… If you know me well, you know I would have done it.. Anywho..

Then I came back to the hotel and just happened to walk over to the front desk for the heck of it… I thought I lost it somewhere else… I pulled out the words and asked.. Thinking .. Oh.. She is going to tell me no… No phone.. She reached into the desk drawer and said…. This one… I was almost in tears… I started screaming hallelujahs’ … She told me that a lady found it out on the street in front of the hotel and called my Dad, and she gave it to my hotel desk.. She was staying in the hotel next to me.. I found out where she was staying… I got to talk to them.. It was a Man and a woman.. I believe in their 70’s or 80’s.. They refused to take anything from me.. He told me that him and his wife would want someone else to do the same thing for them if they lost their phone.. I felt bad.. I wanted to do something for them… He then stated… We need prayer!.. He didn’t know me from Adam.. I told him that he came to the right person.. I shared my faith with him.. So, when you think about the Tobey’s… In the Midwest… Pray for their family.. They are experiencing things that are very overwhelming.. I guess God really knows what He is doing doesn’t He?

God has been here with me no matter what stupid and fooling things I did, and was waiting with open arms welcoming me back. “Keep doing what you have done before He said. Take care of my sheep, my Children… feed them, listen to them, encourage them.. Love them”

"Back To You"


Nobody said it would be easy
Nobody said that life's a breeze
Tossin' and turnin', oh the wind keeps churnin'
Like I'm a little toy boat out on the sea

If I'm down don't count me out
I'll slowly get back on my feet
Stumblin' and fumblin', but I keep on coming
Just as long as you're not giving up on me

When I trip, I fall and slow down to a crawl
And feel like I've got nothing left to lose
I may slip, slide, and watch our worlds collide
But I will
Hit the ground running back to you

There are days my head is spinning
Wishing I could hit the switch and end this ride
If it came to a stop and someone let me off I know
I would just get right back in line

When I trip, I fall and slow down to a crawl
And feel like I've got nothing left to lose
I may slip, slide, and watch our worlds collide
But I will
Hit the ground running back to you

What kind of love would say
I love you anyway
Oh, time and time again


~~~~ Mercy Me



Isaiah 41:11-,

"Do you feel like a lowly worm, Jacob?
Don't be afraid.
Feel like a fragile insect, Israel?
I'll help you.
I, God, want to reassure you.
The God who buys you back, The Holy of Israel.
I'm transforming you from worm to harrow,
from insect to iron.
As a sharp-toothed harrow you'll smooth out the mountains,
turn those tough old hills into loamy soil.
You'll open the rough ground to the weather,
to the blasts of sun and wind and rain.
But you'll be confident and exuberant,
expansive in The Holy of Israel!”

What is True Wisdom? True wisdom.. Letting your actions do all the talking and your words as mere silence.

So, if there is anything I can pray about for you and you want to keep it private.. Just ask.. What is said to Eddie .. Stays with Eddie.. I promise that!!! You have my word.. Just contact me and we will pray in private.. God bless ya’al.. Send me a message.. You can also check me out on my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Chef-Eddies-Restaurant-and-Food-Review/237831496253637 and ask me anything you wish.. You can also tweet me.. @EddieAElsasser

Now, Until we meet again~~ Many journey's into the Love, Style and Taste of the world and food around you...
God Bless
Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

A Tribute to an irreplaceable women.. No one could ever come close to the love, peace and comfort that she gave all including myself.. Thank you Mommy, I will see you again!!!
There are journey’s that we all take.. Weather they are hard or pleasant one’s. This journey is not like any other, but in love and style just the same.. There are times in your life that you have to find out who you really are and, keep things in perspective and of Major Priority. Mom has had a wonderfully successful journey in life and as everyone has to deal with…. hard times that may arise.. She was a fighter, and never gave up on herself or anyone for that matter.. . She never had anything bad or misleading to say about anyone.. If there was someone that was in need, they would never go without… She would make sure that everyone was happy.. Because of her, I am able to fight for all those that can not fight on there own. I am so proud of her.. Because of her, and what God has done through her. I am able to 1. Choose the battles that come. Fight them with all heart, soul and passion.. And, giving all the glory to God. Yet, there are times where a battle will come and we have no other option but… to stand… Believe and fight!!!



She is now in the arms of Jesus. ..Hearing the words Well done good and faithful servant.. She is also Running through the fields of sunflowers. Her Favorite flower. She is at peace and there is no more pain.. No more suffering. She knew Jesus.. She was saved.. and I am going to be with her soon..
Yes, Mom was a fighter..

there were many of battle that came her way that did not move her.. She was adored by many.. There was never a person in need that went without.. If they did not get and feel love from someone that was close to them, My Mom made sure that was corrected.. I am going to miss her sorely until I am able to meet up with her again and Jesus.

Please Pray for us Mom.. along side Jesus.. We all need it now more then ever..

In Christ, there are no goodbyes
And in Christ, there is no end
So I'll hold onto Jesus with all that I have
To see you again
~~~Mercy Me

All is Well


'Death is nothing at all. It does not count. I have only slipped away into the next room. Nothing has happened. Everything remains exactly as it was. I am I,… and…. you are you…. and the old life that we lived so fondly together is

Untouched….unchanged…..

Whatever we were to each other, that we are still. Call me by the old familiar name. Speak of me in the easy way which you always used. Put no difference into your tone. Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes that we enjoyed together.

Play,

smile,

think of me, pray for me. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was. Let it be spoken without an effort, without the ghost of a shadow upon it. Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was. There is absolute and unbroken continuity…. What is this death?…. but a negligible accident? Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I am but waiting for you, for an Interval, somewhere very near, just around the corner. All is well. Nothing is hurt; nothing is lost. One brief moment and all will be as it was before. How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting when we meet again!'

　

What is Dying?!

A ship sails,
and I stand watching till she fades on the horizon,
and someone at my side says
She is gone
Gone where? Gone from my sight, that is all.
She is just as large now as when I last saw her.
Her diminished size and total loss from my sight is in me, not in her.
And just at the moment when someone at my side says she is gone,
there are others who are watching her coming over their horizon
and other voices take up a glad shout:
There she comes!
That is what dying is. An horizon and just the limit of our sight.

Lift us up, Oh Lord, that we may see further

Hines Sight Online The simple lowdown on Fairfield About Pat Hines

Mama Jeanne

April 9, 2012 at 2:12 pm by Pat

On Saturday at Greenfield Hill Congregational Church, I
bid farewell to “Mama Jeanne,” who died April 2 at the age of 80.
Mama Jeanne was Jeanne Elsasser, one of the nicest people I have ever met in my life. For those of you who are longtime readers of the Fairfield Citizen, perhaps you remember her. I certainly know that many in the real estate community recall the round-faced, tall woman who handled their listings, which appeared every Friday in the newspaper.
Since the early 1980s – in the office on South Benson or the temporary one at Heritage Square or the permanent one on Carter Henry — Jeanne handled the customer service for the classified and real estate ads. In those days, customers regularly stopped into the office to place their ads, unlike now where everything is done over the phone. She eventually became the manager of the real estate directory, working closely with the agents and with the newspaper’s production department. I remember vividly seeing her hunched over her desk placing copies of photos and text on the dummies or mechanicals, as they were called. But prior to getting even to that point, Jeanne met with the majority of the realtors, who would sit beside her desk, go over their ads for the coming week and then relax and catch up on family, gossip and town affairs.
And that was the best part about Jeanne – she always made you feel important because she was interested in your life.
My relationship with Jeanne was like that of mother and daughter. I think she was a little unsure of me when I was appointed the editor of the newspaper in 1986. But as the years went on, we became close and I often turned to her for help or advice. And we had a lot of fun – and laughs. Jeanne loved to laugh, and if you got her going, well, look out. She would go into uncontrollable laughter if something struck her particularly funny.
We also were lunch buddies, especially if we had a craving for something off the menu at Breakaway, where Martel is located now. I regularly ordered its grilled chicken sandwich with pesto mayonnaise and Jeanne always got the chicken wings. I usually did the pickup and delivery after Jeanne would place the order. I can hear her on the phone saying she wanted the chicken wings – “the part that flies.” I smile as I think of that memory. And here’s another interesting tidbit about Jeanne – she loved pretzels. But as I came to find out later, she rarely ate the pretzel and instead just sucked the salt off of them. Dozens of pretzels could be found in the waste basket at her desk.
Jeanne was a great cook – and hospitable. She and her husband Art often opened up their Fallow Field Road house in Greenfield Hill to the newspaper staff. Their beautiful home with the built-in swimming pool was the scene of many a party, and Jeanne made all of the food. Oh, and they also had a boat, which they used regularly, including watching the annual Fairfield fireworks display from Long Island Sound.
When the process of coordinating the real estate advertising section changed – Jeanne was going to have to actually go out and sell ads – she and Art decided it was time to retire. So they sold their Fairfield house and headed to Sanibel Island, where they lived for a number of years until returning to Connecticut and living with their daughter and son-in-law in a specially built apartment for them.
That hospitality that was at Jeanne’s core continued when they moved to the island. One time when my friend Cathy and I vacationed in Naples, Fla., we decided to take a side trip to see Jeanne and Art. We expected to spend a few hours with them, but it ended being an overnight stay. Jeanne made us dinner, then provided us with our own accommodations in a wing of their house – separate bedrooms and bath. What a treat. I will never forget it.
The memorial service for Jeanne on Saturday was a simple tribute to a woman who lived a simple life – family, friends, fun. And lots of love.

"dina !" A Restaurant and Bar

A Journey of Love, Style and Taste

By Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Philadelphia, USA

This site ~ This Blog is your connection into my world, and the journey, love, style and taste of the culinary creations that are around us and abroad. I am hoping by the words that I write about different places I go, will give you access and bring not only a flow of salivating to your mouth but, refuge and tastes that will captivate you and place a permanent smile on your face.…

dina!

A Restaurant and Bar.

26 Danbury Rd, (Rt. 7)

                                      Wilton, CT 06897
                                       203-834-0044

www.Dina.BZ

Well Hello all;

I am certainly happy that I am here with you getting some quality time with my friends to distract my thoughts from a few opportunities that come up in life.. This journey is not like any other, but in love and style just the same.. There are times in your life that you have to find out who you really are and, keep things in perspective and of Major Priority. This journey; I tend to my family and Mom.. Mom has had a wonderfully successful journey in life and as everyone has to deal with…. hard times that may arise.. She is a fighter, and has and will not give up.. I am so proud of her.. Because of her, and what God has done through her. I am able to 1. Choose the battles that come. Fight them with all heart, soul and passion.. And, giving all the glory to God. Yet, there are times where a battle will come and we have no other option but, to stand, Believe and fight!!!

While I have been here in Connecticut.. I had to find a way to turn my thoughts else where for a few.. And what better way to do that is with friends that you know and have proven in the past that they will always stand and fight with you.. So, we ended up at a place in Wilton CT, that I have heard about but, have not seen what all the hoopla is about..

“Dina! “ A cozy little place just outside of the business center of Norwalk. On (Rt. 7) I walked in and I was greeted as if I was family. The owner of this fine establishment is Dina Whieitz and the head Chef; Chef. Chimpa.. Wendy was my Bartender and a… oh so loving hostess as well…. So, I saddled up and, had a cold one popped and fizzed open.. And placed in my holster . It was a light beer… OK.. I am still watching my boyish figure.. Hummm.. Had a few hours of a little joking and banter Lots of laughs… Decided that I need to taste some of that great food I have been hearing about.. And I was starving!


I started out with an appetizer of Risotto Balls. This came with shaved parmesan, chiffonade of Basil and a Roasted Red Pepper Aioli. It was out of the ball park folks.. I am a true fan of these.. They were fried at a high heat and had a light golden brown color to them.. They were very well seasoned and the Train stopped at flavor town.. OSG.. “ Oh So Good” The Pepper Aioli and the Risotto was a great combination.

For the entrée. I went with the Seared Monkfish with Japanese soba noodle. They laid the noodles in a Yellow curry sauce with sautéed vegetables. This was very good. Very well seasoned and had a nice kick on the back of the tongue. Not too hot, but Nice. Gives you a cozy feeling.. Soba noodle is not like your normal flour and water noodle… I bet you are asking… “ What is a Soba Noodle?” Well, I am glad you asked.. The  Soba  (そば or 蕎麦^?) is the Japanese name for buckwheat. It is synonymous with a type of thin noodle made from buckwheat flour, and in Japan can refer to any thin noodle (in contrast to thick wheat noodles, known as udon). Soba noodles are served either chilled with a dipping sauce, or in hot broth as a noodle soup. It takes three months for buckwheat to be ready for harvest, so it can be harvested four times a year, mainly in spring, summer, and autumn. In Japan, buckwheat is produced mainly in Hokkaido.[1] Soba that is made with newly harvested buckwheat is called "shin-soba". It is sweeter and more flavorful than regular soba. In Japan, soba noodles are served in a variety of settings: they are a popular inexpensive fast food at train stations[2] throughout Japan, but are also served by exclusive and expensive specialty restaurants. Markets sell dried noodles[3] and men-tsuyu, or instant noodle broth, to make home preparation easy.

Buckwheat is a variety of plants in thedicot family Polygonaceae: the Eurasian genus Fagopyrum, the North American genus Eriogonum, and the Northern Hemisphere genus Fallopia. Either of the latter two may be referred to as "wild buckwheat." Despite the name, buckwheat’s are not related to wheat, as they are not cereals / grasses (family Poaceae); instead, buckwheat is related to sorrels, knotweeds, and rhubarb.
The cultivation of buckwheat grain, pseudocereal food crop, declined sharply in the 20th century in affluent regions where the usage of nitrogen fertilizer is popular

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soba

Cool Huh.. We have been “schooled” Do you feel a bit smarter now, knowing about Soba and buckwheat?.. (~: I love finding out new Didchaknows. Gives me a foot in, with creating new recipes.. This is also why I go out to other Restaurants… Not only to taste all the great food but, see all that My fellow Culinarians Chefs have discovered and created. And pass that along to you, and infuse it into my cooking.. It’s a Win~ Win dontchknow.. Well ….

There is nothing better then enjoying a great place to eat, except for having the company that you have to sharing the experience with .. I am hoping that I can get a few of you to join me in this adventurous journey and, experience it with me.. Just something to think about.. If you have a place in mind and want to join me.. Or, if you have any questions that you would like to ask of me…. Send me a message.. You can also check me out on my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Chef-Eddies-Restaurant-and-Food-Review/237831496253637 and ask me anything you wish.. You can also tweet me.. @EddieAElsasser

Now, Until we meet again~~ Many journey's into the Love, Style and Taste of the world and food around you...
God Bless
Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Blue Plate

                      

A Journey of Love, Style and Taste

 

By Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Philadelphia, USA

This site ~ This Blog is your connection into my world, and the journey, love, style and taste of the culinary creations that are around us and abroad. I am hoping by the words that I write about different places I go, will give you access and bring not only a flow of salivating to your mouth but, refuge and tastes that will captivate you and place a permanent smile on your face.…

Blue Plate

856-478-2112

47 S. Main St.

Mullica Hill, NJ 08062

http://www.blueplatenj.com/

It has been a while since we have chatted.. For a month or so, Life was happening and, I had to learn to adjust to the opportunities that arose. So, I am back and full of life.. (-:

By now, you will know that I have lost a lot of weight, and a whole new world for me has opened up.. to start, For the 1^st time in my entire life, I have been getting attention from a lot of woman. I don’t want to sound conceded, I love myself, but it is not all about me.. I had a date today with an awesome woman. She asked me to come meet her and visit with her at The Blue Plate.. From what I have gathered;

“James Malaby chef and owner, was born and raised in Philadelphia, Pa. and moved to South Jersey in 2000 in search of his dream. The owner and head chef of blue plate restaurant opened the doors to his dream in December 2005.

James has worked in the restaurant business for nearly 20 years, and has been trained at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America.

James has worked for several years as first cook, first at Jake's Restaurant and Bar in Manayunk and then at several locations in Arizona including Vincent Guerithault on Camelback, The Arizona Biltmore, and The Phoenician's Windows on the Green. Mr. Malaby also returned to Jake's as Sous Chef, before working at Philadelphia's well-known four star restaurant Brasserie Perrier owned by George Perrier.

Chef Malaby offers creative culinary innovations that combine a New American and French cuisine. Some signature dishes he has created are his carrot-apple risotto with andouille sausage, his oven roasted mahi served with roasted tomato, dill and fresh crabmeat, and his warm chocolate "sex" on a blue plate for dessert!!! This dessert gives chocoholics their fix.

The town of Mullica Hill is a quaint, historic town located in Southern New Jersey. Mullica Hill was established in the late 17th Century, and has an extensive history which has placed it on both the national and New Jersey State Register of Historical places.

Today, Mullica Hill is a lively Main Street offering day-trippers a host of shops from antiques, fine arts, jewelry, and boutiques.”

The Blue plate is the kind of place that you might find by accident or word of mouth. I have to say, this is a place that I believe the word is going to start to spread like wildfire. It is a Family Restaurant. In what used to be someone’s Home.. With Chef James French ~ American forte of his cuisine As soon as you open the door, loving hospitality is hugely exuberant. We were greeted by Brianna. With the biggest smile. Nice way to start an experience in culinary and that we got.. We sat down and as I looked around. The walls were filled with Art for sale by local artist. I felt like I was a guest of someone’s home, and treated just the same. Betsy our waitress was very warm, friendly, informative and lead us into a great meal.

I had Chef. Jame’ s Sunday brunch special’s which started with Crab Bisque. The Bisque was loaded with crab and flavor.. The balance between crab, sherry and the seasonings was there and, everything hit the palette with delight. It was smooth and no after taste. ... Then I continued with Oysters Maritiere Braised in wine …the oysters were laid over 3 Medallions of French Baguette bread with a Garlic butter sauce… which was infused with Dill and I believe thyme. I found this to be a little strong in garlic and butter for me. This could have happened because of orders being rushed out. There was a lot of people visiting today. My friend had homemade very large stuffed Strawberry Pancake‘s… I did not get to try them. But, by the looks of them.. They were Very light and fluffy and loaded with Strawberries. Served with homemade Turkey sausage. At the end of the meal. I was enjoying the company and was feeling very comfortable and relaxed so,  by this, I am known to have lots of coffee.. Just did not want to leave..

I highly recommend checking out Blue Plate.. In a town that might be far, you will feel right at home.. ~~~~ Grande salle à manger avec amour.. (great dinning with love)

There is nothing better then enjoying a great place to eat, except for having the company that you have to sharing the experience with .. I am hoping that I can get a few of you to join me in this adventurous journey and, experience it with me.. Just something to think about.. If you have a place in mind and want to join me.. Send me a message..

Now, Until we meet again~~ Many journey's into the Love, Style and Taste of food around you...
God Bless
Your Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser