Link Love

Epicurean Mom
Blueberry Lemony Goodness!

Armelle
How fun.

Etsy
These gift tags are adorable.

Betty Crocker
What kid wouldn't be excited about this cake.

Sake it to me!

Drinks.

I like to think that I have a pretty good handle on the world of libations.  If a menu full of signature cocktails sits before me, I can navigate my way to something that will suit my taste no matter how foreign some of the ingredients.  If a wine list the size of War & Peace is plopped in my lap, I can find a region and varietal that will pair nicely with my meal.  But when I am faced with choices of sake, I pretty much just close my eyes, point to a selection, and hope for the best.

So when my local wine merchant absolutely RAVED about the new Hiro Junmai Ginjo Sake, my ears perked up. With a palatte that is"crisp and smooth, with hints of fruits and vanilla, and a savory sweet potato bread, white mushroom, tart cherry and jicama subtle nuances", what isn't to like?  So now I finally have a go-to sake!  Aren't you proud?


And because sakes do make for a lovely cocktail, I might even try this recommendation from Hiro, The Super Hiro.

The Super Hiro
2.5 oz Hiro Junmai Ginjo Sake
1 oz vodka
1 Japanese cucumber cut into rounds for garnish

Pour Hiro Junmai Ginjo Sake and vodka in a cocktail shaker over cubed ice and shake well. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with a slice of Japanese cucumber.

Easy Summer Dessert

                       

Every summer I look for desserts that are easy to prepare but still delicious.  This year I am going with grilled pound cake with fresh berries.  It’s as easy as mixing sliced strawberries and blueberries with a little sugar and then adding a splash of Triple Sec and letting set for 30 minutes.  Brush slices of pound cake with melted butter and grill, flipping once, until toasted.  Serve with a dollop of whipped cream.  

The best part is you can make your pound cake ahead of time and freeze so you always have it on hand.

Serena & Lily

Home Decor.

Have you guys seen the new Summer selections from Serena & Lily?  I am just swooning over these beautiful and airy outdoor dining pieces.  Bring on the warm weather and outdoor BBQs!

Zucchini and Ricotta Galette

Mother’s Day is this Sunday and when looking to impress who better to turn to than Smitten Kitchen.  Check out this beautiful and delicious zucchini and ricotta galette.  It would make the perfect addition to a Mother’s Day brunch and I love it when food doubles as décor.

Link Love

Tuesday Inspiration.

Grey Likes Weddings
I love the gingham and burlap wrappings on this pastel bouquet.

770 Behind the Line
Mixing patterns never looked so good.

Sprinkle Bakes
Deep dish tart?  Yes, please.

Once Wed
Now this is an amazing touch of light.

Sun Protection

I’m not the best at remembering the sunscreen except in very obvious situations.  I don’t always remember to apply on a day to day basis which is really just as important.  I often find myself driving around with the sun beating in through the window thinking, “Why didn’t I apply sunscreen?”  

That is why I was so excited to see that they are now making sun protection wipes that fit easily inside our purses and are best of all EASY to apply.  I love when a product comes along that makes life easier!

Return of Domino

Home Decor.

I have been traveling a bit over the last month and have pretty much read every magazine on the racks for April.  So when I was at the Indianapolis airport and spotted this cover at the VERY back of the shelf, I almost fell over.

Domino Magazine!!  I actually squealed with happiness because I thought I'd never see another issue of this fabulous home design resource.  It seems that they are going to put out season issues that highlight some of their greatest hits from the past...plus some new extras.  

One of my take-aways from this issue is a website called Zinc Door.  This website is full of a-ma-zing furntiure, accessories, and bedding.  Love it.  You must check it out.

Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo is on a Saturday this year which means that celebrating will be in full swing.  If you are invited to a party and can’t decide whether to bring dessert or booze…why not bring both.  Thanks toRecipeGirl it is now possible.

Link Love

Eat at Allies
Salted Caramel Butter Bars…there is nothing wrong with that.

A Beautiful Mess Blog
Check out this tutorial on an easy, adorable summer hairstyle.

Martha Stewart
Watermelon Basil Margarita!

The Kitchn
I LOVE this.