23 Days of Creative Valentine's Day Ideas, Day # 15

This Gift Suggestion is about one thing:

FIREWORKS!!

Well, specificially...Sparklers!

No matter where you go in the world; you'll find people celebrating with Fireworks.

The thing is though, these pyrotechnic displays tend to be reserved for Huge events...mostly National events.

Why?

Here in Myrtle Beach; we have access to Fireworks stores which are open all year...so, why not take advantage of that and create your own Valentine's Day Show?

I'm obviously not talking on a large scale, but something small and intimate.

After all, you'll have to stay within City guidelines for lighting off fireworks.

Here's the Myrtle Beach Law in a nutshell:

You CANNOT light off Fireworks within the City Limits...not at any time.  And not any where.

You can't light a Sparkler.

You cannot in a Box...you cannot with a Fox...

...you cannot in a House...you cannot with a Mouse.

You cannot light off Fireworks in Myrtle Beach!!

But...you can anywhere outside of the City Limits.

Here's the catch with lighting off Fireworks outside of the City Limits:

You cannot do it on Public property without permission.

You cannot do it on property which is overseen by an HOA without permission.

So, where does that leave you?

You can light off one of those cool Smokeless Candles such as this one:, which I found online @ Phantom Fireworks.

Here's one in action:

This would be great as the Centerpiece to start off your night or to stick in a Homemade Confection (or store bought) and present to your Valentine.

If you light this bad boy...it's going to get someone's attention.

You can also go with Sparklers....and I like the really long ones...I'm thinking they are three or four feet in length.  

One year I bought them for my niece and nephew and they were a Hit.

I spoke with a really nice man named Franklin from the Phantoms Fireworks store across from the old Waccamaw Pottery.

If you're coming from the Beach on 501, take the first exit coming off the bridge.  If you're coming the other way...do the opposite.

They are open Mon-Sat from 10-8.

I chose Phantom Fireworks because they are reputable and they have some nice incentives if you sign up for their newsletter online.

Check it out at Phantomfireworks.com.

I'm going to stop in there this evening and see the stock for myself.

I'd like one of those smokeless candles.

They come in a 4-pack for $5.99.

I'll tell you though that any of the Fireworks stores in Surfside Beach  will help you with your needs as well. 

They are well versed in the local laws and know their stock-on-hand rather well.

A while back I needed to secure the help of the owner of the Mr. Fireworks Store in Surfside Beach on Business 17 across from the Pirateland Campground.

I had trouble with geese and ducks on my property and so I got some of those tiny fireworks to light off because they make a loud sound and run the fowl off.

Plus, it was a lot of fun to light off loud fireworks !!

If anything...get some of the long, old-fashioned style Sparklers and run around the yard being kids again!!

23 Days of Creative Valentine's Day Ideas, Day # 14

Initially, one of my ideas was to suggest a night on the Beach looking at the Night Sky together through a Telescope.

According to my most recent check on the Forecast for Tuesday night...it's supposed to be rainy...and at the very least cloudy and unless you can find a telescope which can penetrate the cloud cover...um...I doubt you'll see anything.

I'm always hopeful though.  A lot can happen with the Weather between now and Tuesday night and so I'm still going to make this one of my suggestions.

It would be cool if there was a place where folks could rent telescopes by the hour or by the day (as in 24-hour clock) at the Beach, but I haven't found one as yet.

Consider this a Gift and a Date Suggestion all rolled up into one.

And it's going to be Cold up there at the Beach and so the both of you might have to be rolled up into "one" in order to keep Warm.

I've found through the years that a basic telescope will enable you to see some pretty cool stuff.

Here is the Astronomy or Stargazing Forecast for Myrtle Beach on Feb. 14th.

Alright, Alright, so maybe it's not looking so great for a cuddle on the beach with a telescope...but there's always the next night...which ...if you check out the forecast...it looks like Wednesday will be a great night for the casting of gazes skyward.

If you do not already own a Telescope...then this can then become a sort of mutual gift or you can present it to your Valentine as an Exclusive ownership type deal.

If you're married, then that's not a problem...I hope?

If you're not...then giving a Telescope to someone who seems to dig you a lot and who you seem to dig a lot...in a serious way...well, it sends a message that you'd like to Stargaze with them again and again and again.

There are a few places where you can purchase a Telescope inexpensively {as well as less inexpensive models} such as Toys R Us, Target, Walmart, & Kmart.


Buy one.
Wrap it up.
Oooops....back up.
First...read the instructions and try it out...in case you aren't happy with the purchase...
then wrap it up.


Gather blankets, and something hot to drink...some goodies to eat...and head out.   
Try to pick a part of the Beach which is Dark...so setting up shop by the SkyWheel wouldn't work.
If you walk onto the Beach at Surfside...it's mostly residential and dimly lit.  


You can enter the Beach almost anywhere and walk to where you want to go...but if you're like me...it's nice to be near a Restroom facility.  


Set up your mobile Stargazing Station...huddle close...and share what I hope will be an intimate night both physically and intellectually.

So Glad To Learn Something Might Be Done With the Waccamaw Pottery Area

Though I've only lived in the area for just shy of four years; it has been more than 20 years that I've been on visits to the Beach to see Family.

I remember when the Waccamaw Pottery area along Fantasy Harbour Blvd. was thriving...especially compared to what it looks like today.

Today...If you drive over the Eyesore on Hwy. 501 heading East...you'll see virtually nothing but a Huge Auction Sign and the store, Imaginations.  

They do well as they are not only the best supplier of quality Dance products, but they are a HUGE...year-round Costume retailer.

For their sake alone; I hope they get some company soon. 

Whenever I have to go in there to buy something; I sort of get the creeps.  It's so....deserted.

 {click to see larger images}

I was very excited to read an article on the WMBF News website which engenders hope that something might actually happen with this area.

{she claps her hand with glee}

There's no way anything can happen overnight...but it's definitely something to look forward to.

In the meantime, we'll fly on the new Zipline at the Beach and imagine the day when so many of the ugly, empty buildings in Myrtle Beach are filled and doing well financially.

23 Days of Creative Valentine's Day Ideas, Day # 13

I'm not a fan of keeping animals indoors and alone, but I have a huge soft spot for animals which need to be rescued and/or in need of a loving home.

One of the nicest gifts someone gave me when I lived overseas was the cutest little puppy...the only problem was that it was meant to be a watchdog as I lived in an area where Americans got robbed daily...and he wouldn't be "that" for quite some time.  

If your lover is fond of pets, then why not adopt one for them?

Check out the website for the Grand Strand Humane Society.  You can view the pets in need of a home on Petfinder.com.

Get all the stuff your Valentine will need and wrap it up real pretty like.

Giving a pet as a gift is also giving someone a lot of work, but if they're into it...then go for it.

Before making a choice, you can check out the Waccamaw Animal Rescue Mission or WARM in Conway.

I'm not sure if these sites are all connected in some way, but here his a link to Adoptapet.com

You can enter in the parameters on how far out you'd be willing to travel to find a good pet...and go from there.

Good Luck and I hope it works out for you and some little Meow or Woof in need.

23 Days of Creative Valentine's Day Ideas, Day # 12

Valentine's Day Date Idea:

So far, the Weather Forecast for Tuesday is Rain/Showers.

What a great night to dress warm and go Restaurant Hopping.
{check out Myrtle Beach Restaurant News if you need some inspiration as to where to go.

Pick a place for drinks and Hors D'oeuvres {appetizers}

Agree with your date as to how long you'll stay for the first course and then head somewhere else.

You can make this Fancy Schmancy, Totally Beach Casual or Something that's a nice combination of fancy and casual.

Make the next stop Dinner or a Second Course...depending on how long you want to drag this out.

Make the next stop Dessert and Coffee or Drinks and a Live Band or Drinks and soft music in a cozy setting.

The last stop can be drinks at his or her place or Breakfast at his or her place!

Bon Appetit! 

Random Local Pix

Click on First Picture to Initiate Slideshow

While Sitting on my Back Porch, This Little Fella Appeared under the Glass Table.

He asked me if I had 15 minutes to spare...

I'm always curious when I see shoes hanging from telephone wires or one shoe on the side of the road, but to see 2 as if someone ran out of them and never went back...well...where's Paul Harvey when you need him?

A Red Harley for Valentine's Day?

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

Not sure why there are Surf Shops in Myrtle Beach...I've never seen waves big enough to ride.

I like this big pink house which sits along the Marsh.

The Boardwalk by the Second Ave. Pier
If you want to take a stroll along the new Boardwalk on either side of the Pier, then this is a great
place to park and it's free for the next month or so.

Local Tree by a Local Artist

23 Days of Creative Valentine's Day Ideas, Day # 11

Tonight my little project is to catch my Valentine's Day posts up to where they are supposed to be.
I fell behind due to the Blogger problem I experienced most of this past week.


I'm a big believer in the power of Music.
Power to do what, you might ask?
Almost anything...


It can stir up sadness...
gladness...
sensuality...
self reflection...
regret...
remorse...
hatred...
It can aid in healing a troubled mind, heart and body.


...and the list goes on.


I don't have a certain genre of music that I listen to all the time.
I constantly mix categories and I like almost everything.
Operative word:   Almost


Late last night, while I was up doing some research online; I began to put together a Valentine's Day Mix on my YouTube Channel.


Maybe you could just listen to it online or maybe find a nugget or two which you really fancy...buy them...upload them...and play them for your boyfriend/girlfriend/husband/wife/ (or all four)...in the background at home...in the car......etc.


Buy those you like or dig them out of your own collection and upload them to your Valentine's ipod or ipad or smartphone or mp3 player.  


I NEVER work out without my music...and I'm sure they'd love to have a little Lover's Day Mix that you put together yourself. 
O.K....so maybe all it takes is a few clicks of the mouse and a few dollars deducted from your bank account to purchase music online...but it's mighty thoughtful and personal.


As you might ascertain from my "mix"...{and I'll be adding more up through Valentine's Day}...my definition of Valentine's Day music is very loosely defined.


Enjoy!!

I Have This "Thing" For Old, Rundown Hotels, Motels & Buildings

It all began in the Summer of 2010. 

At the end of each Tourist Season; I usually take a drive around town to see what's going on.

As soon as the Vacationers head out of town...the bulldozers and orange cones head in...and I get curious.

Old buildings are torn down to make way for new Restaurants and hotels.

Band-Aids are applied to some roadways.

Boardwalks are erected.

Attractions are constructed and quite a number of businesses close or move to areas just outside of the City.

While driving around town a few years ago; I began to take notice of just how many very old and very vacant motels and hotels are taking up space...sort of littering the landscape.

I became fascinated with these buildings. 

I found myself daydreaming about what they might have been like in their heyday. 

I wondered what brought about their closing down.

And I also pondered the reason they just sit there.

Doing nothing.

Serving no one.

This morning I drove past the Astro Motel in Surfside Beach just past the Ocean Lakes Campground...heading South on Business 17.

I haven't had a chance to look into it yet, but I wonder what's going on in that little complex over there.

There's the Astro Motel which sits adjacent to the Ocean Lakes Campground property:

There's the New Construction of what seems to be a Hotel or Motel next to that...

...and yet...it looks like an abandoned project.

There is this nasty looking excuse for a building next to the New Construction.

Behind this mess is this:

And then there's a building with a sign out front which reads:  Tropicana.

My best blind guess is that it might've been a Club...back in the day.


I called the Surfside Beach Town Hall this morning and asked if I could find out what this building used to be, but the lady who answered was reluctant to say anything and sent me along to the County.


If anyone knows what the Tropicana used to be...please leave a Comment or email me?  
Thanks.

Harrelson Boulevard Now Extends to Business 17

Harrelson Boulevard used to STOP @ the entrance to the Myrtle Beach Airport.

Not any longer.

Now...you can keep driving all the way through to Business 17...
...if you so desire!

There is a traffic light at the old entrance to the Airport and you have to make a right at the light in order to do whatever it is you're planning to do at the Airport.

As you travel on the Harrelson Blvd. Extension...look to your right as you pass the Airport and you'll be able to see the Steel Framework in place for the New Myrtle Beach Airport Building.

And "Yes", there is an Entrance to the Whispering Pines Golf Course from the Extension.

Lots and lots going on around here these days.

Big Apple Bagels, Surfside Beach

While driving home the other day; I got a call from one of my daughters.

She related how she had stopped in at the Big Apple Bagels in Surfside Beach.

She went on to tell me that she purchased two muffins...

1. Chocolate Cheesecake

and the other:

2.  Boston Creme (cream)

I told her to go ahead and taste each so I could have a reliable review of the Muffins.
She wouldn't do it.  It was imperative to her that I get a chance to see what the muffins looked like...in person.
Pictures would not suffice.


I came, I saw, I tasted.


I took pictures.


And now, I write:


Both muffins were dense and extremely moist.
I found that the Chocolate Cheesecake held up best the next day...both were wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.


The taste of each was authentic and the Boston Creme was filled with creme {custard} and the Chocolate Cheesecake had that cheesecake "bite" without being too intense.


The Big Apple Bagel Factory menu lists these as Gourmet Jumbo Muffins and they will set you back $1.99.
If you're like me, then you'd never be able to eat one of these at one time.  I had to cut each of mine in thirds and I shared them with my daughters.  
They are dense...seriously.
But to put my comments in perspective...I rarely eat sweets and so I can't handle more than a bite or two.


I'm anxious to go back and try their bagels early in the morning...when they first open.  
My daughter caught them just before closing...when there were few, if any, bagel offerings.


Big Apple Bagels
120 Highway 17 South
843-238-5311
(in the Piggly Wiggly plaza)


Check out their menu before you go in.

Pig Swig--Sold in Piggly Wiggly Stores

I went to the Beer section @ my local Piggly Wiggly.

I only drink on rare occasions these days, as I resent the deduction of beer calories from my daily calorie count.

I work too hard and don't want to see good calories go to "waist".

{cue snare}

Every now and then I just feel like trying something new.
It was in this very Piggly Wiggly that I first discovered New South Brewery in Myrtle Beach and their Pale Ale.
This time while shopping at "The Pig"...I came across Pig Swig.
{you heard me right}

Pig Pen Pilsner
Brewed by Thomas Creek Brewery
Greenville, South Carolina


The Pig Swig Brand is found Exclusively in Piggly Wiggly stores.
Makes sense...pigs with pigs...same-same.


I went with the Pilsner because I wanted to compare it to the typical American-consumed beers.
I've gotten away from drinking the Pilsners because they tend to have a watered-down taste. 
They were great for playing drinking games like "Quarters" at the Football parties in High School and they're great when your wife wants you to cut back on your beer budget...but beyond that....um...


I thought this beer had the heartiness of a craft beer along with the lightness of a Pilsner.
It had a great head on it which lasted longer than I expected.
I'll probably try the Ale the next time I purchase this brand as I've trained myself to enjoy a much bolder brew.  
I like the paler ales and don't go in for anything which resembles the  Guinness Black Label Dark Beer......you know...the stuff that tastes like liquefied cigars?


The other brand of Thomas Creek beer sold through Piggly Wiggly is called Pig Tail-Ale.  The beers were on sale along with some leftover Christmas Pig Swig and they were  2/$10.00 with a Pig Card.


Oink--Oink!


BONUS:  
I happen to love sweet onions and I happen to love making Onion Compote.  I use it as a base for stews and as a topping for meats and sandwiches and potato pancakes.
I used the Pilsner in place of white wine during the reduction of my compote...and it was awesome!


Here's a quick and easy recipe:


3-large onions, chopped
3-tablespoons butter or margarine
3-tablespoons sugar
1-Cup of dry wine or beer


Melt the butter in a large, non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the onions and 3-tablespoons of sugar.
Cook until onions are golden, stirring often, about 15 minutes.
Reduce heat to medium-low.
Add wine {or in this case, beer} and cook until very tender and the mixture is reduced to a thick, jam-like consistency, stirring frequently...about 40 minutes.
I store mine in a jar in the refrigerator and use it quickly.

North Myrtle Beach Passes Smoking Ban

You can read the Ordinance which passed on February 6, 2012 here.

The new ordinance goes into effect 30 days from and after the date of its adoption...which makes it March 7, 2012. 

Zoom With a View

2 New Ziplines and a Free Fall Tower to be Erected Along Myrtle Beach

Scheduled to Open in April, 2012


{file this one under "Changes You May Find When You Return to Myrtle Beach"}

I recently noticed the ground being broken up by huge construction vehicles on the large grassy spot which was once a Myrtle Beach landmark...The Pavilion.

I found a few news reports online and both made reference to Shane Bull, owner of Adrenaline Adventures, as being the man in charge of this operation.

Shane Bull owns Mammoth Cave Adventures in Kentucky  

and if you check out the site, then you'll see various videos of the Ziplines he erects and get a taste of what will be going on around here this Summer.

In one of the interviews, Mr. Bull announced that the Zipline at the old Pavilion site will incorporate a new braking system...allowing at least 6 people to go at one time.

The other site is located between the Springmaid Pier and Damon's Restaurant at the South end of the Beach...and this one will be DIRECTLY on the Beach! 

If you come up out of the water and hit the "Zip"...

...I guess that will make you a part of a Human Moving Clothesline.

That's one way to dry off!

Shane Bull also made reference to another "Experience" on the Grass...

a Free Fall.  

When I find out more details on that one...I'll post it here.

Come back by for more pictures as the construction on these 2 projects move along.

Based on prices posted on the Mammoth Cave Adventures site...I would imagine this Zipline might set you back about $35 or more.
Don't quote me on that...I'm just giving you some perspective. 

Spring Bike Rally Dates as per Sign in Front of Harley Davidson Store & the Swirl of Controversy Surrounding It!

I had to add:  "as per sign in front of Harley Davidson Store"...due to the dust of controversy which has been kicked up over Bike Rally dates.

Here are a few stories I've found which shed some light on this very sore subject.

1.  SCnow.com

2.  ABATE of Horry County Official Statement

3.  The Myrtle Beach Sun News

I have to admit that whenever I initially read a story which makes any sort of reference to the Myrtle Beach City Council...my teeth involuntarily go into a major grind.


This situation with the Bike Rally is no different, but I'm a person who strives for a balanced approach at all times and so I made myself read the stories through several times.   
I wanted see it from all points of view before formulating an opinion.

Why would there be such a heavy traffic problem when the level of bikers has been way down?

Why can't a business owner schedule an Event when he wants to without having to appease the always-up-in-arms Myrtle Beach City Council Members and residents in the local area who can't put up with the sound of commerce revving in their ears for a few weeks out of the year?

In Politics, as in almost anything else in life...you have to follow the money.

It's my personal opinion...

...and I'm basing my personal opinion on the behavior of this Council since I moved to Myrtle Beach...

...and I'm going on basic human nature and the nature of politicians (yes, politicians are a separate category)...

...in stating that I believe the Myrtle Beach City Council members take the stand they do on Bike Week {now and in the past}...under threat of not being re-elected back into Power by certain influential constituents.

They work so hard at keeping local business cash registers quiet that it defies logic and reason and common "cents".

Biker participation is way, way down.  Though it was on the upswing last season...it was still minimal.

It seemingly makes no sense to argue that there would be too many people in the area during the time in question.  

Even with Military Days events... the Atlantic Beach bike fest and the Harley Davidson Rally...would it really be such a major fuss so as to cause the Council to exert their un-holy power by threatening to withhold vendor permits?

When I see pictures or videos of Council Members sitting high and mightily above the regular-walking-around-folk who crawl to the microphone graveling and making their case to retain a modicum of freedom...freedoms which the Council has the power to grant or deny...it really makes me sick to my stomach.  

Politicians are supposed to be public servants (yes, this has become an official "rant")...and not the other way around.

The People need to Humble the sorry butts of these Council Members  by placing them at some of those real cheap card tables...you know...the ones with the legs which collapse if you try to move them without picking them up first?...and some folding chairs...or better yet...some upturned pickle buckets...which I'm sure a local McDonald's would be happy to donate (recycling...big thumbs up!).

This issue alone is a blaring example of why Myrtle Beach residents need to vote these people out the next time any one of them is up for Re-election.

We need to limit their terms thereby limiting their power thereby limiting their further damage to the health of the local economy.

And while we're at it...we need to make a sweep of the Horry County Council members as well. 

Place these people back in mainstream society with the rest of us.

If my opinion on this matter is too simplistic or lacks information...I stand ready to be properly schooled in the matter.

Just a Coincidence?

Back in January I posted pictures and called for Myrtle Beach to fix the Rippled roads on Business 17 between 8th Ave. and 17th Ave. (especially)

While driving my daughter to work early this morning; I noticed that some road repair work at various intersections.

We both laughed.

I then said what she was waiting for me to say (with tongue deeply implanted in cheek)...

"Look at the power I wield to get things done!"

Is it just a coincidence?

Probably...but I can dream, can't I?

 The ripples are still there, but you don't feel them...not compared to the before-the-repair ride.

23 Days of Creative Valentine's Day Ideas, Day # 6

I want to reiterate something about my Valentine's Day posts...

...I am not against going out to a decent restaurant with your Sweetheart...

...but...

...that's a been-there, done-that kind of idea, wouldn't you agree?

So, that is always an option and you can always combine a night out with other ideas.  

But I'm endeavoring to come up with plain and simple and easy suggestions.

There's nothing worse than the resentment felt the "day after" you've splurged on a bunch of unnecessary stuff.

It stinks.

I just want to help you to avoid that day-after stench of resentment.

Resentment...towards how you spent your money and 

Resentment...towards who you spent your money on.

If you and your special person agree to "do it up"...then that's one thing.

I'm one of those people who believes in spontaneous combustion and so I cannot relate to doing anything "typical" or "standard" or "expected".

I like them if they come about in a sort of organic fashion...but I don't like when things are too planned...overworked and over-thought and tortured.

This idea can involve the "two" of you or maybe it would be ideal for a small gathering of friends.

I happen to make my own Kahlua.  

I bring it with me as a gift when I go on visits. 

(if there's any left)

I make White and Black Russians with it...Spiked Coffee Granitas and Shakes, Kahlua cappuccino and Kahlua flavored ice cream.

It's a great base for creativity.

Back when I was a young girl in the 70's, Fondue was all the rage.

My mom would melt cheese and we would dip bread and cooked meats.

On nights when my parents would go out we were sometimes allowed to fire up the sterno and melt chocolate and dip bananas, marshmallows, pretzels, pound cake, and whatever else we could find.

We were young then and didn't know when to stop.

It didn't take long until me and my brothers were lounged on the couches in the Family Room holding our bellies because we'd stuffed ourselves "to the max" and felt awful.

So, fire up the old (or brand new) fondue pot or just melt the cheese or chocolate...or why not both? in the microwave or on the stove in a double boiler.

Transfer to individual small bowls or baking dishes and let the dipping begin.

Dim the lights.

Torch the candles.

How about a few tapers on the table or coffee table?

I love the idea of sitting on the floor, with friends or alone with a special person by firelight or candlelight [we all look better in a dim glow]...baptizing tiny pieces of food in sweet and savory sauces...adult beverages within arms reach...playing old-time board games like Monopoly, Clue, Pictionary or Trivial Pursuit...or watching an old movie or listening to music with soft conversation...

When you've had enough...then kick everyone out and spend the rest of the evening with your honey.

Here's a recipe for Kahlua that's mucho simple.

I buy my Vanilla Bean at World Market.  

If you buy their brand...it's only a couple of bucks for a Madagascar Vanilla Bean.

(back of the store in the spice section.  It comes in a small bottle)

We've entered the Age of Flavored Vodkas and a nice Vanilla infused would work well with this recipe, but I suggest buying the cheapest Vodka for making up your initial batch of Kahlua... as you can always add the better stuff to the individual drinks later on.

Homemade Kahlua

1 qt. water 2-1/2 C. sugar 3 T. instant coffee   1 T. vanilla 2-1/2 C. vodka 1 vanilla bean (optional)

Boil water, coffee and sugar. Simmer for 15 minutes. Let cool. Add vanilla and vodka and vanilla bean. Bottle and cap tightly for at least 4 weeks, but can be consumed right away. Remove vanilla bean at end of 4 weeks.

Variations: You can simmer this drink for as long as you like.  I've simmered it on very low heat for up to three or four hours.   If the heat is too high, then the sugar will burn and you'll have to start all over again. A watched pot never boils...so watch this pot so it doesn't boil!!!! I would also suggest using real vanilla if possible, but if you use the bean, then you can get away with the imitation flavor variety. The best instant coffee to use is Medaglia D'oro

I think I bought my last jar at Bi-Lo, but don't quote me on that.

If you prefer, you can use Maxwell House or Folgers or Taster's Choice w/a fine result.

I would get a very cheap mason jar with a tight sealing lid or even an empty Vodka bottle would work.

The first batch I made; I kept in a cool, dark cabinet and all went well.

The batch I made recently wasn't sealed tight and so when I gleefully went to retrieve it from its hiding place; I found little islands of mold floating on the surface.

This time; I put my jar in the refrigerator.  

I'm not taking any chances.

It's another good reason to use the cheap vodka in the initial batch.

My Homemade Kahlua has never made it the four weeks; I've usually dipped into my stash to share with someone.

I don't drink it, except as a Granita because it's just too laden with calories when made into a Kahlua Concoction.

To Make a White Russian:

1-2 parts Vodka  (Depending on how strong)

This is where the flavored Vodka would be nice.

1 part Kahlua

1 part Cream

(shake it a bit first to thicken it...not too much though or it will become butter!)

I would crush some ice in a blender first.

Here are a few simple and easy fondue recipes:

1. Chocolate Fondue by Rachael Ray

2.  Basic Cheese Fondue 

A few suggestions with this recipe...use bread or steamed veggies or cooked sausages for dipping.

Mix some of the flour with the cheese first.

Traditional Cheese Fondue has beer and so if you'd like to try that...decrease the milk to one cup and add a cup of beer.

Hopefully you can incorporate these ideas into your Valentine's Day.

Bottoms Up! 

Thanks to Twitter I'm Now Addicted to Bella's Kettle Corn

Damn YOU Twitter!

If it weren't for YOU I'd probably never know about Bella's Kettle Corn.

If it weren't for YOU I'd probably keep on living my life without the knowledge of how scrumptious Kettle Corn is because I'd never tasted it heretofore.

If it weren't for YOU I'd still be living my feeble Kettle Corn-less life.

A yummy bag of Bellas Kettle Corn...Cheddar Flavor...sitting on the  passenger seat of my car.  What a Great little driving companion! 

Seriously...I've made some great new local Myrtle Beach friends...thanks to Twitter and the nice, young lady at Bella's Kettle is one of them.

She keeps going on and on and on about Kettle Corn...and I figured it was high time I tried some.

I popped into (of course the pun is intended...what do you think?) Ocean's Edge Salon and Spa on Surfside Dr. in Surfside Beach...as I was told that was where I could buy a bag of Bella's Kettle Corn.

To be honest; I'd never ever taken notice of Ocean's Edge Salon prior to just a few days ago and I travel Surfside Dr. several times a week.  I love supporting local businesses...especially those in my own neighborhood and so I'm hoping to score a great hair experience with Ryan very soon.

I have to do something.

I can't keep hiding how desperately I need a cut by fashioning my hair in a sloppy upsweep.

How did we get on haircuts? from kettle corn?

Damn YOU Twitter!

If it weren't for YOU I'd be able to stay focused on one subject.

But I can't...not with all of those Twitter feeds endlessly scrolling past my eyes...ever beckoning.

Where was I? 

Oh yeah...Bella's Kettle Corn.

I chose the Traditional and Cheddar flavors to buy and sample.

I paid $2 per bag.

I lit into the Cheddar first...and I was amazed at the great balance of flavoring, sweet, salty...and what tasted like butter as well...though I've looked over the Bella's Concessions website and saw no mention of butter.

Since I'm an equal opportunity enjoyer...I opened up the lonely bag of Traditional corn and sampled.

It was addictive.

I just kept mindlessly reaching in.

Before I knew it...those two bags of kettle corn became my dinner.

And before I knew it...those two bags of corn became my late night snack.

And...before I knew it...those two bags became my breakfast in the morning.

And, before I knew it...those two bags of Bella's Kettle Corn were demolished.

My daughter asked me where the kettle corn was so she could try some.

I then perpetrated a lie on my oldest offspring and fibbed that I went ahead and ate all the corn because once you open the bag on food like that...you kind of have to eat it immediately as the quality deteriorates lightning fast.

I promised to buy her a bag of her very own.

That seemed to put her off the scent of my false utterings.

So...there's only one thing to do:

YOU have to find some way to get a hold of your very own bag of Bella's Kettle Corn.

If you don't live in the Myrtle Beach area, then I suggest calling or writing by visiting their website.

You'll notice when perusing the website that Bella's Concessions are willing and seemingly able to lug all of their kettle corn apparatus to any sort of Event you can conjure up...


...fundraisers
...buffets
...reunions
...work conference
...birthday bash
...wedding reception
...showers
...sporting events
...you name it


I've not personally seen Bella's Kettle Corn in action and so I can't say whether or not they do a good job...but it is something a little different which appeals to all age groups.

From what I understand, there will be a storefront opening within the next few months in.....drum roll please.....Surfside Beach!!!

Over the lips...past the tongue...look out tummy...here it comes!

Thank YOU Twitter!