How do you introduce silver ware and plates?

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~Lil' MaMA

My daughter is 1 years old and I gave her a bowl today and she did exactly what I thought she would do. She took the bowl and dumped it in her lap. she thought it was funny.

Answer
Suction bowls!! And suction cutlery. I got this set:
http://www.bloomingmarvellous.co.uk/product.aspx?CategoryID=practicalproducts&ProductID=81711&language=en-GB

It was well worth it as it really clings on. Some of the cheaper ones you can buy in the supermarket aren't so great so I recommend getting this one despite the price as it worked for us for months. I started her on it at a year or so and I don't think I gave her a bowl without suction till she was well over 2 years. It's not just the mess that's a problem, it's the food wastage I couldn't stand. To have an entire dinner wasted in one go just broke my heart. You still need a plastic mat on the floor as they will still reach in the bowl and grab a handful and throw it, but at least that isn't the whole lot just like that!

Or you could put only a small bit at a time in the bowl till they are ready. I also switched to whole foods rather than soggy foods till she got the idea, like toast or fish fingers in their bowl and reserve the messy stuff for spoon feeding still. Work up in small stages till they are used to the transition.

This set comes with a spoon and a fork, but the fork is so like a spoon that it is good to use both as you never know which hand the child will want to use so it is good to have one on each side. My daughter is 2 1/2 now and has started requesting a knife as they use them in nursery, so it will be quite a while till you need to get on to those.

Good luck with it!

My fiance and I are planning to be married in October. Does anyone have any thrifty ideas?

maery

We're kind of tight on cash. I'm looking for suggestions and ideas to pull off something nice but very reasonably priced. DIY ideas welcome as well!! Thanks!

Answer
I got married last December and did a lot of it on a budget as we were paying for it. I know that because I live in the UK how we have weddings over here may be in some way different to in the US or Australia but the principals are probably the same :)
first of all make a list of the 'must haves' - the things you have to have to make it your day; you want to do it as cheap as possible but you also dont want to look back in the future and think 'I wish we'd had....' as you can't go back and re-do it. that said, don't lose sight of what the day is about - you and your partner making a life-long commitment in front of family and friends.
For starters, we made out own invitations - buying the card, paper and decorations from ebay and online craft stores. i am not a 'crafty' person but with some practice had made something no one else would have. I got some plain card, printed the inserts on the home computer on paper sheerts and attached them using silver cord that i tied in a bow, with silver beads threaded on to the cord. Glued some red hearts and stamped the wording on the front and voila... enlist the help of friends and your partner and you're set ;) I bought the place cards online and hand wrote them with silver pen - but some people let people sit wherever so you dont need place cards and I didnt bother with a seating chart. i made the favours, buying bits from ebay, including the sweets to go inside. I also made small table gifts, which were fun 'toys' I got from ebay and wrapped in silver paper then got my sister and nice (bridesmaids) to give them out when they were seated, as an ice breaker - it was Christmas season so it seemed apt and people loved them.
My dress was a bridesmaids dress, cos I wanted a simple strapless red gown and the one I chose was just right. It wasnt second hand, it was off the peg but the shop took it in to fit me and I loved it. My hubbie got his suit and his brothers best man suit from an outlet, so that was cheaper. My tiara was from ebay, as was my bag and I bought gorgeous artificial cala lilly bouquet from ebay - bonus being I get to keep it forever - no bouquet tossing for me! :P
We had our wedding in the afternoon, straight away cutting costs for everyone, and chose a venue we could hire for free - they recoup their costs through the bar bill, food etc. I invited only family and very close friends to the wedding breakfast and went for the menu that would suit most tastes - no one will remember if you had fancy nibbles or if they had a fancy plate of something unprounounceable... they will remember if it was edible and thats about it :P
I had one free drink for each of the wedding breakfast and included in the budget wine to go with the meals, but for the toast gave the guests sparkling chardonnay and only had champagne for the top table - no one noticed the difference. I didnt have an open bar and no one expected it - its an unneccesary expense and weddings cost enough as it is, plus its not a tradition over in the UK.
I had a DJ quite cheap through the venue but the ipod idea is great and make your own cd to be played while you eat. The crockery and glasses and stuff came from the venue.
I negotiated with the venue re table decorations but i would say you dont need to go OTT with those and can make your own - no one will remember them and a couple of fish bowls with bear grass and gerberas looked really effective - in the evening they were put on the bar with tea light candles in, which are super cheap to buy from Ikea.
My photographer and I negotiated too, and I settled on a DVD only deal, which means I get all the pictures and can print out what i want when i want. I limited his time with us as luckily our venue had an in-house photogrpaher who took pictures of the evening guests, as I think its great to have pics of everyone there - but you can aks guests to give you copies of theres and may be worth putting blank recordable discs on the tables with little cards inviting people to take them home and out their pics on their then send them back to you - people really dont mind.
The cake I found via the internet - a lot of it was done over the internet because I was being married miles from where I live - but shop bought cakes can be as good and you can buy decorations to go on there from most supermarkets. I didnt have a videographer as I am camera shy but thats personal preference - i did consider hiring or borrowing a camera and asking a friend to do it.
I didnt go crazy on a honeymoon - we had a 'mini moon', which was cheaper and closer to home but no less special.
i think that covers most things.. theres also a site called 'myweddingpath' which lets you build your own pages for free, really easy to use and is a handy way for people to RSVP, get involved with the planning etc.
Good luck and have a great great day :)

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Eastern US only! What are you going to have for your dinner tonight?going out or making your own at home?

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A Yahoo Us

Eastern US only! What are you going to have for your dinner tonight?going out or making your own at home?I had my own made dinner at just now.I have learn to make some delicious indian recipes.yummmm....
ok.for whole usa now.sorry..just mentioned because its all most everyone's dinner time soon.but never mind.thanks.

Answer
â¢Italian Tomato Sauce
â¢This is the best you will ever have and very authentic. .

Get a sauce pan heat up some vegetable oil, (enough to cover the bottom of the pan 3/4 inch. Use an oil like Wesson Vegetable oil, (lighter and cleaner tasting than olive oil) add to that 3 - 4 cloves of smashed, pre-salted garlic. Heat that over a medium heat until the garlic is soft. Now, to the hot oil mixture, add 4 - 5 fresh basil leaves, torn . Do not allow the garlic to burn, you just want the basil and garlic to soften. Pour in 4 cans 8oz tomato sauce, any brand tomato. Turn up the heat a bit. Now take a can of WHOLE (28 oz) of San Marzano imported tomatoes, NO substitutes.(the reason you want the WHOLE tomatoes is that the pre-crushed are a lower quality, contain the scraps and or are the damaged tomatoes; therefore, not as good) First pour the juice of the San Marzano, then crush the rest of the tomatoes in a colander, by hand over the pot allowing all the pieces to be crushed, then pour that into the pot. Add a few more leaves of torn fresh basil, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, regular black pepper (no salt) Turn down the heat and let it all simmer for 25 minutes.
When done set aside, now turn off the heat, stir in three heaping tablespoons of Pecorino Romano imported grated Italian cheese, Locotelli type is best if you can find it. That contains all the salt you need, the salt and the salt in the canned tomatoes, should be enough. I never have to add any extra. .
Serve with your favorite pasta and a few spoons of fresh Ricotta cheese added at the end to make it superb. You may also add a little extra fresh ground cracked black pepper at the end if you like and or red pepper flakes (optional) if you prefer.
If you follow this exactly and use the exact ingredients, your friends and family will not think you made this unbelievable sauce. They will think you are a genius!
If you live near a Trader Joe's store I highly recommend that you purchase a bag that contains 13 frozen small precooked flame broiled meatballs. Let them simmer from frozen in the sauce for 25 minutes until warm. That is the only type I recommend . .yum . .or make your own. I don't bother to make my own anymore, I can't make them better nor cheaper than the ones from Trader Joes.
If you can't find The San Marzano tomatoes where you live, they are available to purchase on the internet. Keep in mind, these are a type of canned tomatoes from a special area of Italy, many companies import into America a San Marzano tomato. First ask your grocery store manager. The next important ingredient is the Romano Cheese, Locotelli is best if you can find it if not you can purchase it from the net as well. The Tomatoes sauce any domestic brand is just fine, I use what ever is on sale, I tried them all which ever one, Del Monte, Hunts, Contadina, even the store brand. whatever you can find. Regular salt type, not the low salt. If I have a choice and the price is right, I prefer Contadina, they are a tiny bit sweeter. .
I am serving it with some store bought homemade style fresh pasta and the Trader Joe's Meatballs

What would be a great hostess gift to bring to dinner at the home of a wealthy person, other than wine?

kl417g

I have been invited to dinner at the home of a business associate who is wealthy. I want to bring a hostess gift but I do not want to bring wine because I do not know what will be served.

Answer
1. Guest Book: Many hostesses enjoy keeping track of their guests by having them sign a guest book. Itâs fun to look back, read the comments from past guests and remember the good times had while entertaining. Target or Hallmark carry a nice selection of classic and contemporary styled Guest Books for around $20.

2. Picture Frame: Almost every hostess would enjoy a beautiful picture frame. If you know your hostess well, choose a frame that will compliment her décor. A beautiful beveled silver 5x7 frame from Target is only $14.99. If your hostess is a bit more whimsical, try a desktop memo and picture holder. For $9.99 the âPoseyâ desktop frame/memo holder can hold either pictures, notes, recipes or all 3 at the same time.

3. Candle Set: Illuminations online and brick and mortar stores carry a nice selection of high quality candles and gift sets. If you live near a store, I highly recommend stopping in to pick up the vanilla candle and potpourri set for $19.99. This delightful little gift set comes with a sculpted wood dish, with 3 square, vanilla scented candles and some vanilla potpourri. Your hostess will enjoy this gift every time she uses it!

4. Chocolates: You really canât go wrong with chocolate and one of my favorite places to get fine chocolate is Sees Candy. Their 8 oz. Gold Truffle gift box is $8.05 and comes with 24 mouth watering truffles. Your hostess will enjoy Dark Chocolate Chip, Café Au Lait, Lemon, Light and Dark Chocolate, Key Lime, Café Hazelnut and Raspberry.

5. Coordinating Dishtowels: Dishtowels may not be the most heart felt gift you can give, but when they come from Williams Sonoma, they can be. Your hostess will appreciate your good taste and sense of quality. A set of 4, thick, waffle weave dishtowels costs $16. These are Williams Sonoma signature cotton towels and have a classic look.

6. Homemade Gift: A homemade gift will truly be something your hostess will appreciate. Whether you make a cookie or soup mix in a jar, throw together a recipe of spiced nuts, or create your own bath products like bath salts and bath bombs, presentation will really add to your giftâs charm. Put your bath products in a stainless steel wire caddy or a handcrafted basket. A cellophane bag tied with a big silk ribbon will dress up your spiced nuts. A wide ribbon and swatch of fabric covering the lid with hand made gift card will be the perfect presentation for a cookie mix in a jar.

7. Small House Plant: Fresh flowers may seem like perfect gift">the perfect gift for a hostess, but actually, they are not. Your hostess gift should treat the hostess, not create a crisis for her to deal with. If she is rushing around to take care of last minute details for her party, having to stop and find a vase and put the flowers in water may cause her undue stress. Instead, pick up a lovely house plant at your florist or even the florist department at your grocery store.

8. Kitchen Soap Gift Set: Williams Sonoma makes luxurious essential oil liquid hand soap and lotion sets in a contemporary looking stainless steel wire caddy for $29.99. These sets look great next to a kitchen sink and will be a very useful, but generous gift.

9. Cookbook: If you know a little bit about your hostess, try selecting a cookbook geared towards her interests. If she enjoys Italian cooking, look for an authentic Italian cookbook. If she likes to bake, there are lots of great cook books to choose from. A cookbook that was specifically chosen to reflect her interests is a very thoughtful way to show your appreciation to your hostess.

10. Hot Cocoa Gift Set: Nothing is quite as comforting as a hot cup of cocoa on a cold winter night. Red Envelope has a decadent hot cocoa gift set by New York City chocolatier MarieBelle. For $26 you get 6 packets of Venezuelan cocoa in a lunchbox style tin. This sinfully delicious cocoa comes to life with hot water, but when refrigerated, becomes a dark, silky smooth Crème de Chocolat and can be eaten by the spoonful!

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What are some helpful tips/hints/ideas for doing a wedding on a budget?

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We've tentatively set the date for October 2012, and we're trying to save up as best we can, but right now we're still in school and he will be going on to grad school next fall so money is tight. I've found the perfect dress (for under $200!), but how on earth do we make the rest of the plans, buy the rest of the supplies, on a very limited budget?

Answer
1. Limit the number of guests. Each additional guest will create exponentially higher costs.

2. Consider a non-dinner reception; cheaper alternatives include brunch, lunch, appetizer/cocktail, or dessert only.

3. Limit the size of the wedding party.

4. A bit more risky, but take a chance on a new professional trying to break into the wedding photography/videography business. Make sure they have at least one full album or DVD to preview, but you can get much lower rates for quality work this way.

No matter what, stick to the budget! You can do it! And read the fine print of every single contract; there can be hidden fees everywhere. Never pay in full up-front. Usually it's deposit, with full payment after the service is completed.

Why are plates laid on top of each other in a formal dinner table setting?

Why not just bring the plate with the food when it's ready?
How are the people served if the plates are already there? Does the waiter/waitress take the plate to the kitchen and back to the table to serve?
sorry if it sounds like a stupid question...I've never been to a formal restaurant before.
thank you!

Answer
In extremely formal dinner service, according to Miss Manners:

"The place setting for each guest is called a 'cover', and consists of a service plate (silver or china will do), all the necessary flatware except that for dessert, and and stemmed glasses for water, and two or three wines, with the champagne.

"On the service plate is the rolled napkin, with the place card on top, and above the plate is an individual salt cellar, ash tray, nut dish, and the handwritten menu.

"To the right of the plate, from the outside in, are the oyster fork nestling in the bowl of the soup spoon, the fish knife, the meat knife, and the salad knife. To the left, from the outside in, are the fish fork, the meat fork, and the salad or fruit fork. ...

"After the guest has been seated and removed the napkin, the oyster plate is put on top of the service plate, and when that is cleared, the soup plate (or bowl) is put on the service plate. The latter two are then removed together, and a heated plate is put at the place. ...

"As a filled plate is never put before a guest, the fish and meat courses must be served from platters. It is up to each guest to take note of how many people each platter is expected to serve (one footman starts at one side of the table, while another starts opposite, with identical platters) and estimate his or her portion. No seconds, folks. ..."

She goes on in some detail. It sounds like a scene from a turn-of-the-century English costume drama!

As you have probably realized, there remains quite a difference between high-level restaurant service and extremely formal service in a private home. When you see a service plate under either circumstance, however, it's just there to make the place setting look complete. The first course is set down on top of the service plate, and either both plates are removed together, or the service plate is left in place for the soup bowl to be placed on it, and then both are removed together. No food ever actually comes in contact with the service plate.

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I need a good and easy recipe for creme brulee?

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pda_tech_g

My wife and I are having our pastor and his wife for dinner in a week. We will begin with a mix of greens toped with a rasberry vinegrete, followed by fillet mignon, a side of asparagus toped with melted butter and almonds, and Shrimp Scampy, and I am looking for a recipe for creme brulee. I dont have a torch, so is there any other way to burn the sugar?
Well, we are also making some pilsbury dough boy crescents, but some rice would be nice. Thanks Nora.
Guys, stop cutting and pasting. I need your own recipe, not one from a website. I could have done that on my own.

Answer
Alton Brown Is an awesome cook. This one is rated with a difficulty of Medium. Hope this helps



Creme Brulee Recipe courtesy Alton Brown, 2005
Show: Good Eats
Episode: My Pod





1 quart heavy cream
1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
1 cup vanilla sugar, divided
6 large egg yolks
2 quarts hot water

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
Place the cream, vanilla bean and its pulp into a medium saucepan set over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat, cover and allow to sit for 15 minutes. Remove the vanilla bean and reserve for another use.

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup sugar and the egg yolks until well blended and it just starts to lighten in color. Add the cream a little at a time, stirring continually. Pour the liquid into 6 (7 to 8-ounce) ramekins. Place the ramekins into a large cake pan or roasting pan. Pour enough hot water into the pan to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake just until the creme brulee is set, but still trembling in the center, approximately 40 to 45 minutes. Remove the ramekins from the roasting pan and refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to 3 days.

Remove the creme brulee from the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes prior to browning the sugar on top. Divide the remaining 1/2 cup vanilla sugar equally among the 6 dishes and spread evenly on top. Using a torch, melt the sugar and form a crispy top. Allow the creme brulee to sit for at least 5 minutes before serving.

What is a good rate to charge for babysitting?

stressed c

I am 22 - a college graduate and I am returning for a 2nd degree. I have lots of references and I am very responsible. I have placed an ad for babysitting and I have gotten some responses asking my rate....what would be a good rate? Do I charge by the hour? What if there is more than one child? I used to babysit when I was 12 - 17 and it was my moms bosses kids so they just gave me a flat rate. How do you decide what do you pay your babysitters??

Answer
Well there is three different types of babysitting or child care I have found since I became a mother. All are very good. Some just cost more than others.
I will share with you my research so far.

1. in home child care for working parents full or part time M-F 8am-5pm
This is usually about $20-$40 per day/ $150-$200 weekly and is a reasonable rate. But they are paid as a contract if the child is there or not and sick or not.

2. Is child care centers for working parents full time or part time M-F 7am-7pm excluding holidays.
These are the most expensive about $300-$400 a week. Monthly contract and very scheduled with lots of structure.
They are corporate ran.

3. Then there is a baby sitter for an evening out for parents or a concert, even dinner with out the little ones. Or that quick trip to the store with out the children(1 or 2 hrs) I think this is more what you are talking about. To make a little extra cash doing something fun but not to permanent. Kinda here and there as needed.
It is about $8.00 hr for 1 child or $10.00 hr for 2 children. Or a set rate for the evening up to midnight like $40.00 for 1 child and $50.00 for 2.
Well good luck!!

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What are some good appetizers that can be frozen?

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ehm... yup

I would like to make some home made app.'s .. serving 30 people and don't have time to make my pies and dinner.. or maybe I do.. tips?

Answer
Go to Costco, buy their frozen franks in the blankets and any other appetizer you like. Don't let anyone see you take them out of the box and put them in the oven.

Cocktail size meatballs freeze well and you will find many recipes on line. The follow is a shrimp puff recipe which can be frozen.

Shrimp Recipes

Quick Food Recipes
Try these delicious little appetizers using frozen or canned crabmeat too! I always have a batch of these on hand in the freezer for holiday entertaining.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutesIngredients:
â¢6 slices firm white sandwich bread (I use Pepperidge Farm)
â¢1 lb. frozen, uncooked shrimp, deveined and shelled
â¢2 cloves garlic, minced
â¢1 Tbsp. butter
â¢1 Tbsp. olive oil
â¢1-1/2 cups shredded Gruyere or Havarti cheese
â¢1 tsp. lemon zest
â¢1 tsp. dried dill weed
â¢dash pepper
â¢3/4 cup mayonnaise
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Using small cookie cutter, cut out four rounds from each slice of bread. Place on cookie sheet and bake in oven for 10-15 minutes or until bread is crisp and dry, turning bread rounds over once halfway through baking time. Cool on wire rack.
Heat butter and olive oil in heavy skillet and cook garlic and shrimp just until shrimp curl and turn pink. Remove from heat and set aside for 10-15 minutes to cool slightly.

In large bowl, combine cheese, lemon zest, dill, mayonnaise, and pepper. Finely chop shrimp and add to cheese mixture.

Top bread rounds with shrimp mixture, mounding and smoothing the shrimp. Freeze in single layer on baking sheet, then store in freezer container in single layer.

When ready to eat, bake puffs, frozen, in preheated 400 degree oven for 10-13 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Serve immediately. You can also bake the puffs without freezing them, in a 400 degrees F oven for 8-9 minutes. Makes 24 appetizers

cut and pasted from http://www.cooks.com/rec/search/0,1-0,frozen_appetizers,FF.html -

What are great, healthy foods to eat in college?

Frehyner F

I live in an apartment, in college. Obviously I don't have a ton of money to spend per week on food, but I need great suggestions on thing I can eat that are healthy for me. I don't eat junk food so all I ever eat is apples, banannas, and baby carrotts because I don't have time to make anything. what are some good foods I can make for dinner/lunch that don't cost me a fortune?

Answer
I am in the same situation. Usually I get a large back of skinless chicken breats from Walmart. It might be about 7-10 dollars, but you don't have to buy it that often. The way to cook it is simple. thaw it and put it in a frying pan with a little oil. (set the heat on Medium).

I also suggest if you need carbs to try and fill you up, then get a bag of rice. If time is a huge issue then you will have to spend the extra dollar on the instant rice. All you have to do is add some butter and salt and it can be a meal in itself! For me I went to costco and got a 20ilb bag of rice. It was like $15 dollars. it has been a good 4 months and I am still not even half way done with the bag.

If you need want other meat meals then you could get canned chili. It is cheap and very easy. You just heat it up in a pan until it boils/simmers and then you are good. Wolf Brand Chili is usually about $1.00.

Other wise you could get raman noodles and just add your vegetables to it.

Pretty much anything from walmar labeled Great Value is going to be as cheap as it comes.


Hopefully this helps.

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Where can I find info on these?

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K T

My grandma has an old China dinner set that my grandpa got for her in 1955 in Japan. It's Noritake and it has the name and an 'N' in a ring of wheat, but there is no ID number or anything other than "Nippon Toki Kaisha" underneath the wheat. The set is bone china and around the edges on the plates, there is a thin ribbon of what looks like silver, but it sometimes looks like gold. And then there is another little ribbon of the same thing around the part where the food goes. I think she's looking for some replacements but we don't know what it's called or anything.

She also has another set that is from 1995 (Bone China Purity White #4726), it looks almost like the older set but not quite, and we don't know anything on that set either.

Any information will be wonderful!

Answer
The Nippon Toki Kaisha, Ltd. established at 510, Mukai, Noritake,Takaha-mura, Aichi-gun, Aichi-ken. (Now, 3-1-36, Noritake Shinmachi, Nishi-ku, Nagoya, Japan) (The English name was changed to Noritake Co., limited in 1963)

In January 1, 1904 the Nippon Toki Kaisha Ltd - the forerunner to the present Noritake Company - was formed. The factory was located near a source of good and plentiful raw materials and in a community rich with skilled potters. The site was the small village of Noritake near Nagoya, the center of Japan's ceramic production, on the main island of Honshu. The first Japanese registry for a Noritake back stamp is reported as 1908 for use in Japan.

In 1910 the first china products from the new company could leave Japan for the U.S. The first reported U.S. registry for a Noritake back stamp for importing is 1911. Not not until 1914 after a long series of trials and errors the first fine porcelain dinnerware suitable for export was produced. On of the first patterns to be produces was the "Sedan" (11292). A piece of the dinnerware in the Noritake factory in Nagoya shows this to be a bleak white plate with a cream border of small flower sprays and the typical Noritake back stamp, the letter "M" in a wreath and the words "Hand painted." As a general rule the earliest dinnerware plates were mostly decorated with a liberal applications of gold. To identify the early Noritake porcelain, it is important to remember their intended adaption to the western taste. The "M in a wreath" mark was used between c 1914 until 1940.

In 1953 the letter "N" for "Noritake" in a wreath replaced the long used "M" in a wreath. According to collectors, the number of known different Noritake marks are today more then 400.

Try ebay to find replacements. I would find your exact one, but there are a bunch to look through in different e-stores across the internet.

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what do i need to do about patching plaster on my in ground swimming pool?

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capt157

my swimming pool is losing part of its plaster in different places, some parts are as big as a large dinner plate. the pool does not leak water, its looks just look gross.

Answer
What you have as a base material is a product called "gunnite" That is a near dry mix of portland cement, hardner, and finely ground strong plastic fibers. That material is then sprayed onto a form and the swimming pool is formed.

So to repair this take a scraper and chisel off every bit that is lose around the holes. The size of a dinner plate will eventually be much larger, about 30 inch dia or so when you get at it with the scraper. So dont be that surprised when this happens.

Next, get some regular Portland cement at Lowes about $8.75 for a 90# bag. Mix that at a ratio of 1:1 with a coarse sand that you can get from any stone quarry. That stuff is cheap, so when you go to the stone quarry take about 5 or 6 of 5 gallon pails and get enough. Probably cost you like $5. for the lot.

DO NOT USE MASONS SAND The strength of repair lies in the larger particules.

Next mix in the hardener. You can buy that at Lowes too about $15 a gallon or so. Also mix in about a one cup of regular latex paint to about 2 gallons of total mix. This latex acts as a "binder" and allows the mix to be troweled onto the wall. Without it troweling will be difficult, if not impossible. Now add water until this mix becomes the consistency of toothpaste.

Next wet down the surface of the damaged spot with water and wait about 15 minutes for it to soak in good. Then take a flat trowel and apply a thin coat of this mix. Rub it good into the surface. Rubbing is important as it impoves the bond.

Trowel it on there until it is say 1/4 inch or about that HIGHER than the pools wall surface. Wait for about 2 hours and let it set up to the point it hardens, but can be scraped with a sharp tool. Then take a sharp piece of steel edge angle iron and scrape that thing dead level. It will shear off just like cutting excess butter from bread.

Dont be alarmed by nicks or gouges that you might make, let it harden overnight and go back next day and made another mix and smooth it out to a very very fine finish as you work that mix on top of the repair.

Paint and no one will ever know this damage was there. This is a permanent repair It will last indefenitely. The cost for the entire pool will be less than $20 im sure assuming you furinish the elbow grease for the job.

What was the most creative way either you got punished or you punished a child?

Elizabeth

I want anything from grounding to what you do... I want what you did and what did you or the child do to deserve it... Also materials would help. Thanks:)
I want it because i am seeing how creative we are

Answer
My son was 6. He was allowed sweets only on Saturday, was not allowed across the busy road to a store. They were not allowed chewing gum - too many carpet and stuck in the hair disasters. He stole money from my purse and went and got chewing gum, on a Tuesday, then lied for a while before he owned up to taking the money from my purse. I was shocked! OMG my son is a lying, disobedient thief!

I thought about this for a while. It seemed he had done several things wrong, and I wanted a discipline he would remember.

I went to the store and got a big pile of bubble gum. His face lit up when he saw it on his plate at dinner. I said eat it all. He set to with a will, spitting out the chewed up gum on another plate. All different colours. He was pleased with himself for a while and his brother was a bit jealous. But then he had had enough. I said eat them all. After a while he said he felt sick. I said Good! Eat it all. So on he went, sitting there for an hour after dinner was over, until he cried and said he was so sorry and he wouldn't do that again. He got a big cuddle and we talked about how lying and stealing are bad m'kay?

After that, when he seemed aimed in the wrong direction I would take down the plate of spat out gum from the top of a cupboard and show it to him. Remember this? He'd nod and straighten right up.

He's never forgotten this episode, and now laughs when he tells his grown friends about it as if he is proud of his mum.

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What can I cook for dinner tomorrow night?

dinner set storage image

feline*lov

Im diabetic type 2. I am now taking Metformin. I want the meds to work well with my body and eat right. Any dinner ideas? Thanks.

Answer
Make a nice simple chili. If you have a special recipe- by all means use that.
I take about 2 lbs of ground beef and add an sliced onion and green pepper.Brown it all and then drain.
I add chili powder to taste and a hint of Cinnamon.Use some season salt and fresh ground pepper.
Add two large cans of crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. You can add diced tomatoes if you like too.
Add a can if kidney beans and black beans.Add any other beans you like.
Bring back up to a simmer and add some frozen or canned corn.
In about an hour you are all set.
I serve it with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese and sliced scallions.
Enjoy for a day or so then put the rest into shallow freezer storage containers and you have individual serving for another time.
You can also serve with warm corn bread if you like.
Oh so good.

How to lose 5lbs a week with a busy lifestyle?

?K'swee

Okay I'm 18 years old who doesn't really have free time. I usually eat a home made dinner once a month because I'm never at home. I work 40 hours a week, 6 days a week and up to 9 hours a day. I need to lose weight quickly but I need help. I don't have the time to exercise but I'm willing to cut out food or eat more salads. I'm sick of gaining weight because of my job. Please help!

Answer
Weight loss is a combination of good nutrition, calorie reduction, and exercising.

Reducing your caloric intake by 3500 calories = 1 pound weight loss

Formula for Success:

1. Small Frequent Meals
Don't skip meals or go more than four hours without eating this set you up for later temptation. When meals are more than six hours apart, plan strategic snacks.

2. Eat Moderate Portions
Eat a little less of everything!

3. Beware of Concentrated Sugars
Excess sugar eaten alone causes more insulin secretion. Insulin promotes fat storage and can result in a rebound drop in blood sugar levels. Low blood sugar, in return, stimulates the appetite, especially cravings for more sugar.

4. Eat Foods High in Fiber
Fiber fills you up and helps stabilize blood sugar levels. There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. We need both of them in our diet!

5. Lower Your Fat Intake
Limit foods that are high in fat.

6 . Consume Caffeine in Moderation, If at All
Caffeine, like alcohol, may be contained in beverages considered to be food but the effects of this chemical are definitely drug-like.

7. Exercise at least 3 times a week. Walk, walk, walk, swim, or Run!!! Drink Plenty of water.

Use the charts below to determine your appropriate weight and caloric intake.

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I found a bowl full of fuzzy mold in my kitchen - should I just throw the whole thing away?

dinnerware sets service for 8 image

Paranormal

It's a cheap ceramic bowl but then again it is part of a cheap ceramic dinnerware set (service for 8 = $19.95).

Answer
Nah just scrape out the mold and wash the bowl. If it were a wooden or plastic bowl I would trash it but not ceramic or glass. If you have allergies you should be careful not to breathe in the mold spores. I usually use a piece of newspaper to scrape it into a plastic grocery sack so I can tie it closed. Not to imply that I often find mold in my house but my kids have been known to leave gross bowls in their room.

dinnerware and drinkware: should I get sets of 8 or 12?

Delphine F

I am soon buying new sets of dinnerware and drinkware. Should I get sets of 8 or 12? My family is composed of my husband, myself, and our 16 months old son, and we dont entertain very often.

Answer
Are you purchasing very expensive items? Investing in settings for twelve will carry you in good stead for many years (unless it's Melmac, there will be breakage) and you can always pass it on to the next generation. How big is your extended family? Lots of things to consider, but I suggest service for 8 in a moderate price range; don't break the bank......your taste may change sooner than you think.

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Ideas for Christmas gifts (girlfriend)?

dinner set jcpenney image

Marc

Whats up guys,
I need to find something good to give my girlfriend for Christmas... it doesn't necessarily have to be a wrapped present either. Were both seniors in high school and we've been dating for almost 4 months, which has been perfect. I was thinking maybe along the lines of a dinner cruise on Lake Michigan in Chicago, since we live pretty close to the city. but that's a little too expensive, and might be too fancy. Im sure ill think of something creative/fun but for now, i have you guys. So, any suggestions or ideas would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

Answer
I have noticed my sisters friends have all been wanting Pandora bracelets they are about $55 but I found a place in my town who sells them for $35 u might be able to find them cheaper too. My sister is 16. they also have been loving the
viva la juicy perfume from Juicy couture.
Something from Tiffany and co
hoodie from her fav brand
Camera,
Ipad,
Itunes Gift Card,
Video Camera
Perfume anything from Juliette Has A Gun they all smell amazing.
Scarf
if she tans get a tanning membership
Earrings
necklace NO RING too personal unless its a promise or engagement.
designer purse pay attention to one she likes
concert tickets?
Bath and bodyworks gift set or Victoria secret gift set.
http://www.jcpenney.com/jcp/XGN.aspx?DeptID=70737&CatID=77544&shopperType=G&N=26&SelDim=18~&Ne=
http://www.victoriassecret.com/gifts/40-and-under?pageAt=all
http://www.thebodyshop-usa.com/gifts-over-40
http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=10935778&cp=2484530&view=all
http://www.zappos.com/search/beauty/filter/gender/%22Womens%22/productTypeFacet/%22Beauty%22/categoryFacet/%22Fragrances%22/attrFacet_Gifts/%22Gifts+For+Her%22/brandNameFacet/%22Juliette+Has+a+Gun%22 The purse bullets are awesome no lie I love them and everyone else I have see w/ them do to they are refillable perfume bullets. comes w/ 3 refills
AMAZING SALES RIGHT NOW http://www.aeropostale.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=2158464&cp=3534618.3534619.3534625.1998276

Is this a good outfit for my friends 16th birthday dinner?

lilmissyan

http://www.jcpenney.com/jcp/X6.aspx?DeptID=74680&CatID=74680&Grptyp=SIZ&ItemId=19ad088&cm_mmc=ShoppingFeed-_-Google-_-Women-_-Women%20s%20Decree%20Sublimation%20Tee

In grey i could find this top on polyvore so i just put any top

http://www.polyvore.com/friend_bday_party_outfit/set?id=24982459

Should i do solid leggings if so what color of maybe solid leggings but on the side lace??

Answer
definitely go with the second outfit its edgy meets girly but its still appropriate for the occasion. I really like the lace leggings because they add a cool pattern that is suddle enough that it won't take away from the top.
Have fun!

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What should I cook for a Spanish dinner?

8 person dinner set image

vintagelov

I am planning on hosting a spanish dinner and I need some help with creating a tasty but simple manu

For starter I obviously want to cook tapas but I'm not sure which ones so please suggest some

The main I am cooing paella and I have a recipe for that

Are there any spanish deserts except churros? I don't think that they will finish the meals well

I am also making sangria to accompany the meal

Your suggestions and reipe ideas will be greatly appreciated, thanks!

Answer
Here's a big list of tapas. At times I've made all of them. Yesterday I went to a paella party and brought the olives, the meatballs and the dates (spanish devils). Those 3 made a really nice group. And yes - be warned - long post ahead ;-)

TAPAS
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Roasted Bell Peppers with Honey & Almonds (some of the best roasted pepper you can have)

8 red bell peppers, quartered
4 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 oz flaked almonds
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp sherry vinegar
2 tbsp chopped parsley
salt and pepper

Preheat broiler to high. Place peppers, skin side up in single layer on a baking sheet. Cook under broiler 8-10 minutes until skins are blistered and blackened. Transfer to plastic bag, tie off and let cool. Peel skin when cool and chop into bite-size pieces. Place in bowl. Heat olive oil in large heavy-bottom skillet. Add garlic and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, for 4 minutes or until golden. Stir in the almonds, honey and vineagar, then pour mixture over bell pepper. Add parsley and season to taste with salt and pepper, toss well. Serve at room temperature.
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Olives with Orange & Lemon (again, awesome olives and they look really cool)

2 tbsp fennel seeds
2 tbsp cumin seeds
1 ¼ cup black olives
1 ¼ cups green olives
2 tsp grated orange rind
2 tsp grated lemon rind
3 shallots, finely chopped
pinch cinnamon
4 tbsp white wine vinegar
5 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp orange juice (I used more - juice of one orange)
1 tbsp chopped mint
1tbsp chopped parsley

Fry the fennel and cumin seeds in a small heavy bottom skillet, shaking frequently, until they begin to pop and give off aroma. Remove from heat and let cool. Place olives, orange and lemon rind, shallots, cinnamon, and toasted seeds in a bowl. Whisk vinegar, olive oil, orange juice, mint, and parsley together in a bowl and pour over olives. Toss well and refrigerate.
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Spiced Almonds (yum, though the seasonings didn't stick as well as I'd liked)

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon ancho chile powder
1/4 teaspoon Pimentón de la Vera (smoked Spanish paprika)
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 pound blanched almonds

Preheat oven to 350°. In medium bowl, mix all spices. Add almonds and toss to coat with the spice mixture (does this need olive oil to help make it stick?). Spread the almonds on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for about 8 minutes, stirring halfway through baking, until lightly toasted. Serve warm or at room temperature.
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Spanish Devils (freaking AMAZING - everyone loved these, even non-date eaters) Note: these use the pre-cooked Chorizo (for eating as opposed to for cooking as was explained to me at the Spanish store)

24 Medjool dates (approx 1 lb. package)
2 ounces dry chorizo, skinned and finely chopped (1/3 cup)
3 ounces Italian Fontina cheese, shredded ( 1/2 cup)

Preheat oven to 350°. Make a small slash in each date and remove the pits, keeping the dates intact. Mix cheese and chorizo together in a bow. Fill each date with chorizo and cheese, pinch them closed and set them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 12 minutes, until the cheese is melted. If they are large, cut each date in half crosswise, transfer the Spanish devils to a platter and serve warm. The stuffed dates can be refrigerated overnight. Bake them before serving.
__________________________

Spanish Meatballs in Almond Sauce (again AMAZING - really different, we did have one person who wasn't blown away, but the rest of us fought over the leftovers the next day)

MEATBALLS:
2 oz bread, crust removed
3 tbsp water (or a little more)
1 lb ground lamb (or beef)
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, crushed
2 tbsp chopped flatleaf parsley
1 egg, beaten
nutmeg
flour
2 tbsp olive oil
salt & pepper
ALMOND SAUCE:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 oz bread
4 oz blanched almonds
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2/3 cup dry white wine
1 ¾ cup vegetable stock
salt & pepper

For meatballs: In bowl, soak bread in water for 5 minutes. With hands, squeeze out water and return bread to bowl. Add meat, onion, garlic, parsley and egg. Season with grated nutmeg and salt & pepper. Knead together to form smooth mixture. (you might want to cook a pinch in a frying pan to test taste)
Spread some flour on a plate. With floured hands, shape into about 30 meatballs, roll each in flour until coated. Heat olive oil in large heavy bottom skillet. Add meatballs in batches and cook for 4-5 minutes or until browned on all sides. Remove with slotted spoon and reserve.
To make sauce: heat olive oil in same skillet in which meatballs were fried. Break bread into pieces then add to skillet with almonds and cook gently, stirring frequently until the bread and almonds are golden brown. Add garlic and fry for an additional 30 seconds, then pour in the wine and boil for 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and let cool slightly. Transfer mixture to a food processor. Pour in vegetable stock and process until smooth.
Simmer meatballs in sauce for 25 minutes. Add salt & pepper if necessary.
__________________________

Patatas Bravas (a classic Spanish dish - there are tons of recipes on the internet - this was okay, but basically just roasted potatoes with a hot tomato sauce - a VERY spicy hot tomato sauce)

Potatoes:
1 ½ lbs potatoes, cut into 1 ½ inch pieces
¼ cup olive oil
Sauce:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, crushed
½ tsp ground cumin
½ - 1 tsp dried chili flakes
1 tsp paprika
¼ cup dry white wine
2 tomatoes, finely chopped
1 tbsp tomato paste
dash Tabasco
1 tbsp chopped flat leaf parsley

For sauce: heat the oil in a saucepan over medium heat, add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 minutes. Add the garlic, cumin, chili and paprika and cook for 1 minute. Increase the heat to high, add the wine and simmer for 30 seconds, then reduce the heat to medium and add the tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes, or until the mixture is thick. Process the sauce in a food processor or blender until smooth.
For potatoes: Preheat the oven to 425 F. Place the potato pieces in a 12x8 inch baking dish, pour the oil over, sprinkle with some salt and toss to coat. Bake in the top half of the oven for 40 minutes, turning once, until the potatoes are cooked through and light brown.
To serve: Heat sauce in pan, stir in the Tabasco, parsley and some salt. Pour the sauce over the potatoes and serve hot.
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Garlicky Wild Mushroom Sauté (nice, simple, really good for the less adventurous eaters)

6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound oyster mushrooms, tough stems trimmed, large mushrooms halved
3/4 pound shiitake mushrooms, stems discarded, caps quartered
1/2 pound chanterelle mushrooms, halved
1/2 pound enoki mushrooms
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1 large garlic clove, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
3 tablespoons dry sherry

Heat 2 large skillets over high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to each skillet and heat until shimmering. Add half of the oyster, shiitake, chanterelle and enoki mushrooms to each skillet. Season with salt and pepper and cook without stirring until browned on the bottom, about 4 minutes. Stir and cook until browned all over, about 3 minutes. Reduce the heat to moderate and cook until all of the mushrooms are tender, about 3 minutes longer. Transfer to a platter. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to 1 of the skillets and heat until shimmering. Add the garlic and crushed red pepper and cook over low heat until the garlic is golden, about 1 minute. Add the sherry and bring to a simmer; pour over the mushrooms, season with salt and pepper and toss. Serve the mushrooms warm or at room temperature.
__________________________

Chorizo with Figs (I couldn't find canned figs, but fortunately I found fresh and cooked them in wine - oh yum - very popular) Note: this uses the other kind of chorizo - the for cooking type

1 pound chorizo, cut into 1" pieces
1 small onion, sliced lengthwise
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup red wine
1 can figs
½ cup sugar
½ cup red wine vinegar
1 stick cinnamon
½ teaspoon cloves

Heat the oil in a medium saucepan and add the chorizo and garlic; sauté until garlic in golden brown. Add red wine, sugar, vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves and simmer 30 minutes. Just before serving, stir in the drained figs. This can be made in advance and reheated just before serving.

What midday meal should i cook for a person who is on a slimming diet + me included?

DaMo

I have an assignment to cook for 2 people a midday meal for me and a person on a slimming diet
what should I cook? It probably doesn't have any carbohydrates in it and salt.
Please someone help me.
Send me recipes if you have
thx

Answer
I thinnk saldas are great - they are so versitie. And, some great soup. Here are some of my favorites:

Thai Waterfall Beef Salad

This beef salad recipe offers a feast of flavors & textures with every bite! This salad is based on the famous "Waterfall Beef" dish in Thailand, so called because of the splashing sound of juices falling on a hot grill. The beef is lightly grilled or oven-broiled, sliced thinly, then served with a mixture of salad greens & fresh papaya along with a special Thai dressing. Serve as the main course for a nutritious & oh-so-delicious dinner that's naturally high in protein & low in carbs.

1 to 2 sirloin steaks, depending on the amount of meat you prefer

Marinade:

2 tablespoon oyster sauce
2 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime or lemon juice
2 tablespoon brown sugar

For Salad:

1 large bowl salad greens
1 cup bean sprouts
handful of fresh mint or basil leaves, lightly chopped or torn
1 cup fresh coriander
1 cup fresh papaya, cubed (for tips on buying & preparing papaya, see below)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, left whole or sliced in half

Dressing:

2 tablespoon fish sauce (available at Asian food stores)
3 tablespoon lime or lemon juice
1+1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon brown sugar
2 tablespoon toasted & ground sticky rice, OR 2 tablespoon ground peanuts

Preparation:

For tips on preparing fresh papaya, see: Buying & Preparing Papaya.

Mix marinade ingredients together in a cup or bowl, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Pour over the steak(s), turning meat to coat. Set in the refrigerator to marinate.

For the ground sticky rice: Place 2 tablespoon uncooked sticky rice in a dry frying pan over medium-high heat. Stirring continuously, dry-fry the rice until it starts to pop & is lightly toasted. Remove rice from the pan & allow to cool slightly before grinding it up with a coffee grinder, or pounding into a powder with pestel & mortar.

Combine all salad dressing ingredients together in a cup or mixing bowl, stirring until sugar dissolves. Then prepare your bowl of greens & other salad ingredients.

Grill the steak over a hot grill, turning only once or twice to retain the juices (meat should still be pink in the center).

To Oven-Broil the Steak:

Set oven to BROIL setting. Place steak on a broiling pan OR on a foil or parchment paper lined baking sheet. Place in oven on second-to-highest rung. Broil 5-7 minutes per side, or until steak is well done on the outside but still pink on the inside.

While steak is cooking, toss the salad with the dressing. Taste-test for salt, adding more fish sauce if not salty enough, or more lime juice if too salty for your taste.

Portion out salad onto serving plates or bowls.

Slice the steak as thinly as you can. Top each portion with a generous amount of sliced sirloin & serve immediately. ENJOY!

=============================

Cream of Carrot Soup

1 1/2 pounds carrots, peeled & sliced (about 7 or 8 medium to large)
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
2 teaspoons sugar
3 fresh sprigs thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 medium potatoes, peeled, coarsely chopped
5 cups chicken stock
1/2 cup whipping cream
1/2 cup Maderia or sweet sherry
Salt & pepper to taste
Dash of cayenne pepper

Cook carrots with butter, sugar, thyme & potatoes in 4-quart pot over medium heat until carrots soften, about 10 minutes. Add stock & bring to simmer. Simmer soup until potatoes can be crushed with spoon, about 15 minutes.

Cool soup slightly. Working in small batches, transfer soup to blender or food processor. Puree until smooth. Return mixture to soup pot & whisk in cream & wine. Add salt & peppers. Return to heat & bring back to simmer. Remove from heat. Makes 6 servings.

Source: Mimma's, 1307 E. Brady St. Milwaukee, WS

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Dinnerware + Flatware set?

cheap dinnerware sets for 12 image

Q. I'm planning on buying a dinnerware and flatware set service for 8, i'm willing to spend around $200. I typically want a "casual" set, nothing too fancy, but nothing too cheap. Any suggestions?

Answer
In 1972, I got Fraser's 18% chromium nickel flatware made in Germany. It was called (spelling unclear in my old note) Cromargan or Kromargan stainless steel and at that time was the only good stainless steel flatwear that you could monogram (I was probably mistaken). It was $12 for a 5 piece place setting, and people wondered why I wasn't asking for silverplate at that price (was it ever that inexpensive?).

30 years later, there is hardly a scratch, and the pieces still hold up to digging into hard ice cream just fine. Lasted 23 years longer than the marriage. Thank goodness I never got around to sending it to Germany to have it monogramed (stamped)!

In the meantime, along the way, I inherited my grandmother's silverplate, so I have the best of both worlds. I'm really glad that I stuck up for the stainless flatwear.

As for the dinnerware, I started out with heavy Pfaltzcraft, which held the food nice and warm, but took up alot of space. Moved to Corelle, just the opposite, and now have a mixture of white Corelle and "new" colorful Fiesta ware. The nearby Goodwill displays complete sets of great-looking dinnerware all the time.

How much is 81 pc. set of 1847 Rogers Bros XS Triple dinnerware worth?

Jason

It is a mint condition, silver plated, 82 piece set of 12 knives, 6 soup spoons, 12 butter knives, 13 teaspoons, 12 dinner forks, 6 serving spoons, 12 salad forks, 6 table spoons, 1 large meat fork, 1 gravy ladle, and 1 dinner platter. I have heard it been called multiple styles such as; Isabella, Vintage or Grape. The design does have the grapes and it looks like the images found on http://www.rubylane.com/item/153293-RL-965/1847-Rogers-Bros-Grape-Pattern
An offer was made for $162.00 USD 30 yrs ago, it had been the only place I had taken it to so I was wondering if anyone had an idea on its true value.

Answer
Check eBay sold results for that pattern. There is quite a lot of Rogers sold on eBay and prices are all over the place due to the many variables: Pattern, condition, set size and completeness (you will see a lot of odd-numbered pieces - yours is fairly even, 6 or 12, and the one extra teaspoon does you no good, really), and if there is a storage case, how nice that is. Those varied also, from cheap to very well-made.

I think you should do better than the price from 30 years ago, but not enough to offset the ravages of inflation. If you had taken that $162 and put it in 3 -yr CDs and kept rolling them, even with the next-to-nothing you would have gotten the last five years or so, you would still have tripled your money. There were several double-digit years in the '80s. You won't get anywhere near $488 for it.

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I need to purchase 222 fifth Gabrielle 16 piece round dinnerware set. Anyone know where I can purchase it?

best quality dinnerware sets image

Event Hori

Here is the item # 165845124 for the set by PTS America. Thank you for any kind of help you can provide.

Answer
try on this site http://www.lionsdeal.com the product quality is amazing plus the price is affordable.

What type of music is played in fancy restaurants?

Can you guys comment on the type of music played in some fancy restaurants you have been to, and the atmosphere of it? (How does it look, how do the people dress and act). I am writing a report and this information would be valuable. Thanks so much guys.

Specific Restaurant names would help.

Answer
Classical music or some sort of live instrumental music that will not immediately bring lyrics to mind and will in no way interfere with conversation. The idea is to provide a relaxing experience and allow patrons to concentrate on the food, atmosphere and their companions.

To be considered a "fancy" (elegant might be a better word) restaurant it generally must have:

Adequate and convenient parking or valet parking
A coatroom
Acceptance of all major credit cards
A pleasant bar where guests can wait to be seated
A maitre' de
A hostess (or host) who will seat you. That includes pulling the chair out and often, placing the napkin on your lap
An attentive bus person who will quickly provide water and will remove unnecessary silverware from your table. For instance, the table was set for four, but there are only two of you.
Cloth table covers, usually a solid color
Good art - the quality you would see in a museum
Excellent decor - rich textures and colors
Extremely attentive servers and bus people - servers who know the menu well and can explain dishes as to content and preparation
an extensive list of high quality wines and a full bar with top line alcohol (Grey Goose vs Svodka, Dewars vs J.& B Scotch; more beer than Busch)
Silverware vs flatware
China or high quality dinnerware
Cloth napkins that match the tablecloths
Crystal glassware
NO PLASTIC ANYTHING
A menu that includes original recipes and highest quality cuts of meat, fish, fowl


As for the PATRONS they should:

Be dressed in nothing less than business casual. NO BALL CAPS, tennis shoes, shorts and generally no jeans.
No cell phone ringing / talking
Only extremely well behaved children, not usually less than three years old
No loud talk

Hope that helps.

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Where can I find an unusual funky, brightly coloured dinner plate set?

dinnerware sets red image

Q. I have quite a neutral dining room, as I live in a rented property, and would like to buy some really bright dinner ware. I have looked everywhere, and all I can find are relatively tame possibilities. Ebay even failed me! Is there anywhere I could find something unusual and bright that's not a plastic picnic set?

Answer
good will is wonderful

but you have to research the date in which the dinnerware was made for lead content in the glazes

target had a copy of what used to be called fiesta dinner ware that might be what you are looking for

green yellow blue orange red - you could get one place setting of each color and mix 'em up

I am trying to find out what the avon 1876 cape cod collection completely consists of.?

Jamie

All I can find is auction and retailer sites that sell pieces of the collection. It is an antique ruby colored dinnerware set. I just want to know what the entire collection consists of. If someone could tell me where to look I would really appreciate it. Thanks in advance

Answer
This set of Avon Ruby Red 1876 Cape Cod Collection consists of the following:

(1) Decanter filled 1/3 with liquid (bubble bath, cologne?)
(6) Wine/Water Glasses approximately 6" tall
(6) Small Wine/Water/Sherry Glasses approximately 4 1/2" tall
(2) Cruets
(2) Candlestick Holders approximately 8 3/4" tall - 1 is about 1/2 full with Bird of Paradise Cologne

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