Could it be??

Yesterday we played a little afternoon hooky. We wanted to visit the Milwaukee Public Museum and experience the Titanic Exhibit. I was really interested in the artifacts that were recovered. It was fascinating to not only see the artifacts themselves but also the footage and photos of how it was recovered. I tend to get involved with individual stories of the passengers, which made the experience a little emotional for me. I would recommend this trip but plan to spend some time there and bring your reading glasses.

We also stopped by Carrabba's Italian Grill. It's the second time we ate there. It was FABULOUS! Loved the food. Although our waitress wore too much perfume, which in turn made my drink taste like her perfume. By the time my dinner arrived I had forgotten all about it.

After a little carting around of the kids (whom did not join us for our 'hooky afternoon') we did some shopping and came home to watch a movie. I'm not a huge fan of 'scary' movies. Mostly because I can't stand suspense. I am that horrible person that sits in the middle of the theater and talks to the movie. I scream too loudly and grab whomever is closest to protect me from the crazy demon on screen. Since I am running out of victims to join me, I just don't go much anymore. But I remember, a million years ago, when the Jason and Freddie movies first came out. I remember, as a teenager, watching the terrifying scenes of hopeless murder and almost escapes. They freaked me out!

Last night Halloween was on t.v. We watched with our kids and to my surprise, it was stupid! Not only was it stupid but it wasn't even scary. My question then raises. Was it not scary to us, to me because we have been so desensitized by all the violence surrounding us? I mean I remember being freaked out just by the music. Geez! I didn't even need a cartoon to help me sleep. (tee hee hee)

An afternoon cup of tea

I spent an exciting afternoon yesterday downtown Waukesha. One of my stops was touring The Clarke Hotel and The Black Trumpet restaurant... and I have to say, wow!
We have all been anticipating what it will be. Will it work, won't it? How will it help business? Who is going to stay there? Why Waukesha? Again I say, wow.
Let me begin with the kind of thing most gals notice right away, the color scheme, the decor, the atmosphere. It was comfortably modern. Inviting and warm colors. State of the art appliances and fixtures. Gorgeous. The problem... now I really want to redue my obviously out of date and under decorated home. Dang it!

Also around the city yesterday was a notice that Katydids is soon to be ready at its new location at 401 W. Main Street. (across from Ottos) Check out her link at: http://www.katydidshomedecor.com/ for updated photos and fall shopping. Right away the high celiengs, arched entry, and added kitchen space captures attention. I am looking forward to the opening.

Only 2 weekends left for the Waukesha Farmer's Market. I'm not sure what the weather is suppose to be like this weekend, but with only a few weeks before trick-or-treat, it's a good time to stop by and look for pumpkins and fall decorations.

I heard that our sushi bar will be most likely be open next week or the week after. I need to add that I'm not a huge fan of raw fish, but willing to try it out anyway. Lot's of good reviews so maybe I'll be pleasantly surprised.

The mystery has been solved. The three sisters moving in at the 5 points, or is it 4 sisters?? heck I also heard there were 5 of them, anyway, the sisters moving in the 2 vacant spots by Dave's restaurant are not REALLY sisters. Like... omg, there was no resemblance anyway! They are proclaimed 'spiritual sisters' and will be doing rake, yoga, massages, etc... It looks as though they are building a studio in the larger space and going to be selling retail products in the smaller one. They will try to open in December (i think).

coming soon

I am looking forward to the the doors being open. You will, most definitely find me there. If you've been to farmer's market at all this past summer you may have tasted the talents going into The Black Trumpet.

The Black Trumpet is now taking reservations. Located inside the new and soon to open, The Clarke Hotel on 314 W. Main Street in Waukesha, The Black Trumpet promises

"classic world cuisine to the modern American palette".

The combined talents of Andy Ruggeri (Owner) and Dean Schmit (Executive Chef) mesh 'tradition' with 'creativity'. Using local, organic ingredients and offering more than 1000 different local and international wines.

• Lunch: Monday - Saturday 11am to 2pm
• Dinner: Monday - Sunday 5pm to 10pm

The opening date is December 1st. Call: 262-549-3800 to make your reservation. http://www.theclarkehotel.com/

Just Because

One of my family's favorite Autumn desserts is my homemade French Apple Pie. Last weekend we went to Retzner's Apple Festival and did our traditional stocking up of various apples, which are not available at the supermarket.
Saturday evening... yummy! French Apple Pie, hot out of the oven served with frozen vanilla custard. mmmm m. So good, in fact, I though I should be a good neighbor and share the recipe with you.

French Apple Pie

• 6 C. apple (peeled, pared, sliced) I like to use at least 2 different types of apples
• 1/2 to 2/3 C. Sugar
• 2 t. cinnamon
• 2 T. flour

Mix the above together in a large bowl and place in your pastry lined pie pan.top with the following in the form of crumbs:

• 1/2 C. butter
• 1/2 C. brown sugar
• 1 C. flour
• 1 or 2 t. cinnamon

Bake 15 min. in a 450 degree oven. Drop temp to 350 and bake 20-30 min. longer. If top or crust browns too quickly, cover with foil. Serve warm with frozen vanilla custard for most favorable results. Enjoy!