Hello - I'm Back..... sort of

Well here it is the month of December and I haven't written in ages.  Very good reason - I had a little accident and broke some bones and ended up having surgery and being in a cast and in bed pretty much of the time for 3 weeks and then a walking cast.   I was ready to boogy so with the aid of crutches and this wonderful walking cast I started getting out and about.  Unfortunately I injured my driving leg so I missed out on so many industry events but I do have feedback on some of them.  I could have used this down time to write but just wasn't in the mood so now I am.  Watch for coming posts....

Kitchens - The Hub of the House....Part 2

We all gravitate to the kitchen. No matter how we live the first thing most people do when they visit friends and family is continue right into the kitchen and perch at the island or kitchen table. Such was the practice of long ago and we cannot change that no matter how beautiful our other rooms are. There is a comfort level to being in a kitchen - relaxed and easy going. No wonder the kitchen renovations and updates bring so much bang for the buck!!    If there is any space that you want to change in your home it should be the kitchen. Whether you are part of a large family with children or an empty nester who likes to entertain, this is the one place you want to work on. An updated kitchen (& bath) will bring more value to your home than any other renovation you undertake. 

These days there are so many different ways to create your own personal and distinct kitchen with a vast variety of materials.  It has become increasingly popular to mix painted and stained wood surfaces.  One of the ways to add a a lot of style is with your back splash.   There is a large selection of products available in all price points and since the area being covered in many cases is small you can go for something a little more upscale to really get the wow factor without breaking the bank. 

Here are some great kitchens...... I have my personal preferences, but there is a kitchen for everyone, no matter what your style is. 

Even the outdoor kitchen is evolving into a gathering spot 

Eating, Drinking and All that Jazz.....

I love going to Jazz festivals at home and away.....

I'm down in Lewiston N.Y., a favourite haunt of mine, enjoying the Historic Lewiston Jazz Festival.  There is so much going on.  The entertainment is absolutely fabulous.  The main street has been closed off for this event and all of the restaurants, wineries, breweries, etc have set up tables with wonderful fare.  One can dine on the street listening to great music at the various stages along the way or enjoy one of the great restaurants.  We selected Carmello's, http://www.carmelos-restaurant.com/.   one of our favourites for fine authentic Italian cuisine.  The ambience is what pulls you in - owned by mom Phyllis and son Carmello, head chef, this is definitely a place to go. 

The welcoming and cozy interior of Carmelos

Outside of Carmelos where people were dining and enjoying the music by the Tune Babes

Two of my favourite ladies - The Tune Babes  - April Mazzone & Lynne Fredericks,  were sponsored by Carmelos Restaurant and can really give a great performance.  Loved it!!  Check out their activities at www.facebook.com/april.mazzone

This Jazz Festival carries on from the Friday through to the Sunday and has over 40 offerings throughout the the main street.   It is in thanks to the many sponsors for their contributions that this wonderful event continues each year at end of August.  

We sampled fine food, and some great wines (which unfortunately we cannot purchase here).  I think I have been through every winery in Niagara on the Lake so thought it was time to start south of the border......

 We sampled a wine we had not tried before from Spring Lake Winery in Lockport http://www.springlakewinery.com/ and fell in love with their offerings.  I especially enjoyed the Riesling.  We were told that their grapes are grown and harvested in Lockport.

The Spring Lake Winery Booth

Freedom Run Winery - tasty wine too!  http://www.freedomwinery.com/

Kettlecorn

Enjoying Evening Music at the Main Stage - Looks like we were having a really good time!

One of the things that interests me in Lewiston, besides eating, drinking and shopping,  is the Architecture - very much like what we have in Niagara on the Lake, many different styles.

 Waterstreet Landing  - another place I like to eat at!  You can sit and enjoy a lovely meal and watch the sunset over the Niagara River.  It has had mixed reviews, but I have been there many times and always enjoyed excellent food!

Barton Hill Hotel and Spa  http://www.bartonhillhotel.com/- an incredible place to stay, eat and enjoy the spa,  again overlooking the Niagara River
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Local Architecture all with significant history - check out the officeal Lewiston, NY website for details http://www.historiclewiston.org/

It's worth a visit to Lewiston N.Y. - they have events going on all year round.  Last year I was at the Christmas House Tour and all of the other festivities in the town and had a great time.  I believe I will go again.  I may even go to the one in Niagara on the Lake, ON as well.

Keep checking..... I am off to Niagara on the Lake   http://www.niagaraonthelake.com/  for the September 18th Historic House Tour, visit some wineries and to see a play at Shaw...What a great way to spend a fall weekend!!