Skinny Summer Sipper

It's summertime and the living is easy or at least so says the song! Because I actually listened to my mother and did not become a school teacher, this summer finds me toiling away in a cubicle, staring at a computer screen and making copies like the rest of the masses. It's not that I don't like my job, I just LOVE not working! :) Who's with me? If you are a MF'er (Monday through Friday-er people, what did you think I meant?) weekends are what we live for! The two days where time clocks, name badges and  motor oil coffee are just a part of a bad dream is when it's time to relish summer! On the weekend immerse yourself in the sun, the sand, the surf and the endless array of frozen cocktails that grace your parched palate. What says summer  better than a frothy Pina Colada served in hollowed out pineapple, maraschino cherry skewer and adorned with a colorful paper umbrella that after a few drinks makes the most elegant hair accessory! Yeah, those 2,000 calorie cocktails are great and all if you have a personal trainer or happen to be on a Carnival Cruise boat south of the equator but let's talk about something a bit more practical to sip on your summer weekends. I stumbled upon Bethenny Frankel's brain child Skinnygirl Vodka in Cucumber at a fabulous friend's 4th of July fete and gave it a whirl. The vodka was refreshing, herbaceous and clean on the palate- an ideal combo to beat the heat and wash away the blues. With a little imagination and summer swimsuit motivation, see the sipper that was born below:

Cucumber Skinny Gimme (As in Gimlet, get it?)

Ingredients

Skinnygirl Cucumber Vodka
Sprite Zero or Diet Sierra Mist
Club Soda
Fresh Lime Juice (MUST BE FRESH!)
Cucumber Slices

Directions

Muddle the cucumber with a few squeezes of lime in the bottom of a glass. Add ice, vodka, diet lemon-lime soda and a bit of club soda. The club soda "cuts" the dietness of the soda but mix to your liking.

No, I didn't put measurements because you know dang well you never measure out cocktail components. After a few of these, I am sure you will forgo the mixers all together too! Whether you are enjoying a few months of summer or 2 days a week of summer, grab yourself a glass and load it up with this libation. Until next time, keep cucumber cool y'all!

Fresh off the Farm

Let me predicate this blog with announcing it will be a little different than what you are used hearing from the Diva. I just celebrated my 30th birthday and apparently at this tender young age you are supposed to have it all together and the secrets of the universe are revealed. You are expected to know who you are and have a clear vision of where you are going. Well y'all, here I sit disheartened in the afterglow of this milestone celebration and unfortunately, I still don't have the answers. I don't really know who I am, where I am going or what I want to be when I grow up BUT I do know what makes me happy: PARTIES! These celebrations of life, moments and achievements are what ignite my passion, this I am confident of! Not a day goes by that I don't wake up and think to myself "now, what kind of party can I plan next?!" The concept, design and eventually the "birthing process" of the event is the ultimate joy for me; others are probably pulling their hair out and grinding their teeth to the mandible just thinking about all this mess! So, in honor of my 30th birthday and not having it all together, I have decided to share a little party inspiration with y'all once a month. These will  be condensed concepts and ideas for you to mold and meld to your liking. We will keep the concepts simple, brief, VERY inexpensive (as you all know my love affair with the Dollar Tree) and hopefully inspiring! I would like to commit to one of these entries once a month, but you know me! Please feel free to email or comment suggestions on party themes you would like to see here! Let our creations lead to your inspiration!

Concept: Fresh off the Farm

Suggested Theme Adaptations: 4th of July Celebrations, Summer Picnic Parties & Baby Showers

Key Components: Eggs, Chickens, Mason Jars,Vegetables, Raffia & Distressed Wood

For centerpieces, consider fresh brown and white eggs lovingly displayed in a chicken wire basket stuffed with raffia to resemble hay. Ceramic chicken, basket and raffia all purchased from Dollar Tree.

For variations, why not color your chickens? Red, white and blue bitties would be ideal for the 4th but how about a pale pink or sky blue for a baby shower adaptation? Any mother hen would crow with delight to see such a sight!

They say you "eat with your eyes" first! These food stands were made by simply super gluing a small glass plate to a taper candle holder, both of which can be found at Dollar Tree. Varying heights and textures add visual interest to your buffet and decor. Don't skimp on the rib sticking food as country=comfort!

Gingham or checkered print is a requirment to execute this farm fresh fete! Red checks evoke a "down-home" rustic feel however consider pink or blue for your baby shower. A black gingham would be chic for a country couture twist. Tie your flatware rolls with a piece of raffia or twine- it may be a bit more timelier but your dedication to details will be appreciated.

Mason or Ball jars are cost effective and true to theme serving vessels. Fill them with Sweet Tea or Country Time Lemonade to continue that on the farm feeling. Don't forget to garnish with a lemon wheel and fresh mint! After your guests are done meeting and eating, send them home with a farm favor; what about a pack of vegetable seeds or a tomato pincushion? The best favors are useful or edible!

As always, thank you for your love, support and sharing throughout the days! Looking forward to another set of 30 years with everyone!