HUMP DAY HAPPY HOUR

I wanted to sip on a punchy pink cocktail for my 30th birthday, so I hopped on Amazon and ordered some dried dragonfruit. I've had my eye on this recipe for almost two months and thought it was only fitting I celebrate in style with my spirit of choice. Out of all the cocktails I've whipped up in the past year, this is definitely one I wouldn't mind making again and again. And that color though...

DRAGONFRUIT GIN AND TONIC

Recipe from Quitokeeto

(Serves 1)

INGREDIENTS:

1 OZ DRIED DRAGONFRUIT

2 CUPS OF GIN

ICE CUBES

2 OZ DRAGONFRUIT GIN

2 OZ TONIC WATER

2-4 OZ SPARKLING WATER

LEMON SLICES

DIRECTIONS:

1. Combine the dragonfruit and gin in a jar and allow to infuse for a couple of hours, or overnight if you have the time. I opted to infuse mine for a full day so I could get a really rich hot pink color. Priorities, my friends...
2. When you're ready to mix drinks, strain the gin to remove any slices and solids.
3. Combine two ounces of dragonfruit gin, two ounces of tonic water, and two ounces of sparkling water in a cocktail shaker or mason jar with lots of ice. Double or triple the amount depending on the number of drinks you plan to make. Shake well, taste, and add more sparkling water if you'd like.
4. Pour into ice cube filled glasses, each with a thin slice of lemon.
5. Refrigerate remaining dragonfruit gin.
6. Enjoy your pretty pink drink!

Cheers, m' dears!

HUMP DAY HAPPY HOUR

If I'm being completely honest, I just REALLY wanted to drink a pink cocktail. Is that too much to ask?! And since I couldn't get my hands on any dragon fruit in the local area (to whip up this stunner), I settled on a summery concoction instead. Because even though it's technically fall, the 95-degree weather says otherwise. A sizzling September day in Swell Rio leaves this Fine parched...

RASPBERRY SMASH

Recipe from A Subtle Revelry

(Serves 2—or in my case one gin enthusiast)

INGREDIENTS:

8-10 RASPBERRIES

3 BASIL SPRIGS

2 TBSP SIMPLE SYRUP

2 TBSP LIME JUICE

4 OZ GIN

4 OZ SPARKLING WATER

ICE

DIRECTIONS:

1. Turn on some dance music. Steps two through five are going to be a real (boozy) doozy.
2. Combine top six ingredients in a shaker and shake with delight.
3. Strain into a mason jar glass that's filled with ice.
4. Top with berries and a couple sprigs of fresh basil.
5. Keep dancing. Your moves will improve with each sip, or at least that's what my family tells me! They never lie.

Cheers, m' dears!

HUMP DAY HAPPY HOUR

Alright, it's time I share two confessions with you...

1. I haven't been keeping up with my New Year's Resolution, but that doesn't mean I haven't been enjoying m' gin.
2. Code red! We are currently out of Hendrick's in the Fine household. See what I mean about confession numero uno?

Last Friday I polished off a bottle of my favorite spirit when I whipped up a batch of these Watermelon Gin Fizz Cocktails. While I was sad to see the last of my Hendrick's ration disappear, I must say it was totally worth it because this recipe was delicious and refreshing. In fact, if summer could be poured into a Collins glass, I'm certain it would taste just like this. And just in case you find yourself wondering how I'm managing to remain so chill about the unfortunate state of our Hendrick's drought, it's only because I know that Flyboy is going to pick up a bottle or two this weekend after he drops his favorite people off at the airport. Hallelujah!

WATERMELON GIN FIZZ

Recipe from Ashley Brooke Designs

(Serves 2—or in my case, one parched Fine)

INGREDIENTS:

2 CUPS OF DICED WATERMELON

3 OZ GIN

4 TBSP FRESH LIME JUICE

1/2 CUP OF GINGER ALE

LIME WEDGES, FOR GARNISH

DIRECTIONS:

1. Puree or muddle diced watermelon.
2. Combine all ingredients into a cocktail shaker.
3. Shake it, shake, shake, shake, shake it...
4. Pour into an ice-filled Collins glass and garnish with a lime wedge.
5. Whip out a colorful striped straw and enjoy your delicious adult beverage.

Cheers, m' dears!

HUMP DAY HAPPY HOUR

A few weeks ago, I brought home a bag full of kiwis that I'd picked up at the store. Later that night I decided to dig into one for an evening snack. Flyboy chuckled at the sight of me eating it and said "I remember you eating those in high school. You were the first person I ever met who ate a kiwi." I smirked and replied, "You'd never seen someone eat a kiwi until high school? How is that even possible?" I found it oddly funny that he remembered this, and while I have no recollection of this moment, I vaguely recall the interest people at our table had in the plastic spoon/knife utensil my mom bought me to cut and scoop my kiwi at lunch. So, in honor of Flyboy and this pointless anecdote from our past, I whipped up a cocktail that contains one of my favorite fruits.

KIWI ENVY

Recipe from Aviation American Gin

(Serves 1)

INGREDIENTS:

2 OZ GIN

3/4 OZ ST. GERMAIN ELDERFLOWER LIQUEUR

4 KIWI SLICES

1/2 OZ FRESHLY PRESSED LIME JUICE

1 OZ SIMPLE SYRUP (RECIPE HERE)

SODA WATER

ICE

DIRECTIONS:

1. Muddle kiwi in pint glass.
2. Add spirits and mixers (ingredients through simple syrup) to cocktail shaker.
3. Fill with ice and shake what your mama gave you.
4. Strain mixture into an ice-filled collins glass.
5. Top with soda water.
6. Garnish with a kiwi slice.

Happy Wednesday! Drink up, buttercup.

HUMP DAY HAPPY HOUR

While we visited my parents, I picked up two bottles of craft gin (Aviation and Green Hat) to try in various cocktails. Priorities, am I right?! After sipping on a Cucumber Gin and Tonic at Matchbox with my family, I thought I'd make something equally refreshing but with a little springtime in Swell Rio twist. As a nod to Flyboy, this particular recipe takes wing with a splash of Aviation Gin.

CUCUMBER GIMLET

Recipe from Refinery 29

(Serves 1)

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 ENGLISH CUCUMBER

2 TBSP WATER

2 OZ GIN

1 OZ FRESH LIME JUICE

1 OZ SIMPLE SYRUP (RECIPE HERE)

CUCUMBER SLICES, FOR GARNISH

ICE

DIRECTIONS:

1. Chop English cucumber and puree with water in blender until smooth.
2. Shake three ounces of cucumber juice with gin, lime juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker for 30 seconds.
3. Strain mixture into an ice-filled glass.
4. Garnish with cucumber slices.

HUMP DAY HAPPY HOUR

Most people dust off their juicer whenever they're in need of a good cleanse. I, on the other hand, need a refreshing cocktail as a good excuse to pull ours out from the cupboard. Potato, potahto. This past Sunday, in the name of blog research, I whipped up another gin concoction, and I'm here to tell you it's a keeper! Go on and bid adieu those winter blues with something tasty.

APPLE AND PEAR GIN COCKTAIL

Recipe from Naturally Ella

(Serves 2)

INGREDIENTS:

2 Ripe Pears

1 Green Apple

2.5 oz Gin

1 Tbsp Honey

2 Tbsp Lemon Juice

Club Soda

Rosemary Sprigs

Ice

DIRECTIONS:

1. Remove cores and seeds from pears and apple.
2. Run through juicer and add lemon juice immediately.
3. Shake juice with gin and honey.
4. Pour over ice.
5. If desired, add a splash of club soda and garnish with a sprig of rosemary.

P.S. Don't forget to enter the Hattan Home Giveaway. A winner will be announced in this Friday's Love List.

HUMP DAY HAPPY HOUR

While scouting cocktail recipes for February, I really wanted to whip up something that had a punchy pop of pink or red. Because Valentine's Day, obvi. I initially pinned the recipe with the intent to make it over the summer, but then I remembered we live in Texas and experienced 80-degree weather this past weekend. Why wait to tickle the ol' tastebuds with something colorful and refreshing?

STRAWBERRY AND LIME TOM COLLINS

Recipe from Cookin' Canuck

(Serves 2)

INGREDIENTS:

10 oz Strawberries

1 Tbsp Agave Nectar

Ice Cubes

3 oz Gin

1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice

Club Soda

Lime Wedges

DIRECTIONS:

1. Place strawberries and agave nectar in blender. Puree until smooth.
2. Using two Collins glasses, place a few ice cubes in each glass.
3. Divide gin, strawberry puree and lime juice between two glasses. Stir mixture with spoon.
4. Fill glasses to the brim with club soda. Stir again and garnish with lime wedges.

HUMP DAY HAPPY HOUR

Two weeks ago, I shared my New Year's resolution with you in this post. And since I wouldn't want to let you down, I've been hard at work testing my latest cocktail, a Blackberry Gin and Tonic. While searching for recipes, I was intrigued by the idea of a cocktail shrub. Honestly, I can't say I even knew what it meant before I found this recipe. I guess hipster and mixologist aren't synonymous with Ashley. Ha! With a little assistance from Lady Google, I learned that a shrub is just "a concentrated syrup that combines fruit, sugar, and vinegar, resulting in a sweet and acidic mixture that can be used in a variety of drinks." I've never had much of a green thumb, but this seemed like one "shrub" I could handle. See what I did there? Anywho, I gave the recipe a whirl and enjoyed the fruits of my labor this past weekend. The end result was equal parts tangy and tasty—a great way to welcome the week ahead! 

BLACKBERRY GIN AND TONIC

Recipe from A Thought For Food

SHRUB INGREDIENTS:

1 Cup Blackberries

1 Cup Balsamic Vinegar

3/4 Cup Sugar

*NOTE: The shrub in this cocktail takes a week to prepare.

FOR THE GIN AND TONIC:

1.5 oz Gin

.75 oz Blackberry Shrub

Tonic Water

Blackberries

DIRECTIONS:

1. Toss blackberries in a bowl with sugar. Let mixture sit at room temperature for one hour.
2. Mash blackberries with large spoon. Let mixture sit at room temperature for one hour.
3. Mash the fruit mixture again. Let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. Add vinegar, stir, and let sit, covered, for at least one week. Make sure to give mixture a good stir every day.
5. After a week, strain the fruit mixture and save the liquid in a covered jar.
6. For the G+T, pour gin into a glass, followed by the shrub. Add a handful of ice and top with tonic. Garnish with blackberries.

The shrub-making process is a fun one with oodles of fruity possibilities. 

If gin is your spirit of choice, give this recipe a shot. You won't be disappointed.

HUMP DAY HAPPY HOUR

Many people view the New Year as an opportunity for change and growth. I've never been one who's big on resolutions, but the Type-A(shley) wackadoodle in me brakes for goals and lists. Why not get in the spirit of things and have a little fun with my resolution?! While Flyboy has opted to go the physical route and plans to race the Tour de Gruene this fall, I've decided on something that's equally strenuous. I resolve to try two new gin cocktail recipes a month. I suppose you find this goal to be lofty and arduous, and you're exactly right. You may even ask yourself, "How will she pull this off?" Have no fear, m' dears. The tenacious side of me is ready to take on the task at hand in the name of 2015. I'm thirsty, willing, and ready for the challenge. Let's jump for gin and juice!

Did you make a New Year's resolution? Do tell.

IMAGE CREDIT: AMPERSAND

A Corner of Paradise

I've really been talking up Cocktail Corner since I snagged this Butler Tray Table from West Elm in January — yes, I said January! So why has it taken me SO stinking long to create a post about this little corner of paradise? Well, I tend to get a case of cold feet when it comes to being crafty. Sometimes Type-A(shley) also stands for avoidance. I think this is where my sense of creativity and perfectionism really clash. It's unfortunate, but true! Thankfully, Cocktail Corner has served its purpose over the past few months and has provided many fizzy gimlets. Huzzah!

When my mom visited over the holidays and we devised this little plan, we discussed the possibility of painting over a printed canvas that Flyboy and I had purchased when we were newly married. It hangs above the tray table. I'm sure many of you can relate to this scenario. Sometimes you acquire something early on that you may have thought was a good decision, but you later regret. At the time, the price was right, we thought it was cute, and it filled a big space on the stark walls of base housing. For four years, it served its purpose, but it was time to shake things up. Lil' Puna's intense sunlight had taken a toll on the once bright and colorful canvas. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to give the corner a little face lift. After all, the personality of your home should evolve just as you do! 

With the help of paper mache cardboard letters, white paint, Mod Podge, sponge brushes, and my trusty hot glue gun, I gave the canvas a simple spruce-up. As a lover of vibrant knick-knacks, I felt it was important to stick with the color white. The simplicity of the space would inevitably draw the eye to the surrounding bold tchotchkes and bar accessories. I wanted the dimension and texture of the letters to keep the canvas interesting. Although it's hard to see in the photograph, the words POP and CLINK have a subtle amount of texture. I attached masking tape and circle stickers to the cardboard letters and painted over them so you could see the variation in design. Because we move often, each piece of furniture, artwork, and knick-knack tends to take on a new purpose with every place we live. I imagine this canvas will be tweaked and changed a few more times — it keeps things fun and fresh!

Recreate the look with these fabulous accessories:

White Tray Table

Polka-Dot Cotton Napkins

Mr. & Mrs. Cocktail Glass Set

Pineapple Drink Stirrers

Dapper Bottle Stopper

Cast Iron Lobster Bottle Opener

Paper Straws

Decorative Ikat Bowl

Pop Fizz Clink Coasters

Mrs. Lilien's Cocktail Swatchbook

A well-stocked Cocktail Corner includes:

Grey Goose Vodka

Lorina Pink Lemonade

San Pellegrino Limonata (my personal favorite!)

Pimm's Cup No. 1

Hendrick's Gin (the only Gin for me)

Patron Tequila

St. Germain Liqueur

Plenty of lemons, limes, and a grapefruit would be nice.

And there you have it, Lil' Puna's Cocktail Corner. Cheers!

IMAGE CREDIT: The lovely scallop detail via Steffie Broccoli — a constant source of inspiration on m' blog!

Lurve-Loave-Luff

Just a few things spotted and hearted this week...

Love List Contents:

Skirt - How fabulous is this? It's the perfect shade o' green!

Love what you do! - Wise words, indeed.

Tickled Pink - Collecting paint swatches is the most fun.

Tiered Serving Tray - Does this darling dish come stocked with macarons?

Havana Clutch - It packs a punch!

Polka Dot Sandals - These are practically yelling at me. I need them!

Jump! by Philippe Halsman - This series makes me incredibly happy.

Mad love for Leif Shop - How about these Tassel Bracelets and bold Striped Taper Candles?

Puppy Love - This picture makes my heart smile.

Origins Drink-Up Intensive Overnight Mask - I'm a believer!

Tequila Soaked Watermelon - You said what? Bookmark this recipe.

Here's the scoop! - If I had an ice cream maker, I'd definitely try this recipe! It sounds like a keeper.

Super Duper - Just a friendly reminder by Marc Johns.

Heart Studs - Another adorable set of studs by Bauble Bar.

Pink Stripes & Dots - Be sure to check out Mogu Takahashi's Flickr site.

Have a fabulous weekend! 

Toodles,

ANF

Weekly Round-Up

Let's get right to it, shall we?

via

What's on the weekend agenda? I'm glad you asked...

• Today, I'm excited about everything! Flyboy is expected to return home this Sunday. Woo hoo!
• Yes, a celebratory libation should hit the spot. I think I'll take a guzzlet of The Falero -- What's not to love about this refreshing drink? Framboise, limes, and berries. Sign me up!
• I hope to wear this Ban.Do pom-pom flower pin with every outfit! I often plan my ensemble  around accessories. 
• Oh, and I intend on wearing comfy espadrilles (similar to these). When I'm in business mode, they make transitioning from errands to house work a cinch!
• We've got family coming into town, so I'll be a list-making fool. Groceries, meal planning, chores, etc. Sounds like my kind of heaven!
• Not to worry, I plan to relax and unwind. I think I'll take some time to write a few Happy Notes.
• With the next 1.5 weeks off from work, I can't wait to paint my fingernails a bright hue. Essie Clambake, I've missed you.
• I'll probably spend some more time pinning Brahmin bags. I can't stop thinking about this one in particular!
• Have you seen the video where Andy Cohen gets spooked by a bird at the filming of the OC Reunion? I die. Watch the clip here.
• The remainder of my free time will be devoted to looking at fun finds like this bottle cap collection -- Yup is up!
• If you have a free minute, be sure to check out Society Social's Magalog -- you're bound to find some great decor ideas! I must make that posh polka dot pillow mine. You've probably noticed that there's no shortage of spots and dots in today's post.

via Society Social

• I'm slightly obsessed with Inslee Haynes. She warmly welcomed summer with this adorable illustration of sunglasses!
• Did you see that BaubleBar and Noble House Designs collaborated? This Hybrid Sailor Collar is my fave! I think my mom and I spent a good five minutes discussing this necklace yesterday. Can you say obsessed?
• My ideal summer outfit. Contents courtesy of J.Crew -- but you already knew that!
• This illustration by the ever-so-talented Katie Evans got me thinking about Gladys Hardy. What a gal. I don't think I'll ever forget her phone call on Ellen when she said, "I love Jesus, but I drink a little." It's such a classic moment. You know what I'm talking about, right? Sometimes I watch this clip because it's such a hoot. In fact, I think I'd like to move to Austin for Nana Gladys alone.

Illustration via Katie Evans

And on that note, Beesly, Tripp, and I wish you a Happy Friday!

What do you have in store this weekend?

Toodles,

ANF

Weekly Round-Up

 Let's get right to it, shall we?

Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.

illustration via Matchbook

Whenever Flyboy's gone, I typically spend most of my day at our desk blogging or at work. I made a concerted effort to step away from the ol' computer these past few days, and I feel refreshed! Of course, if my office space was half as charming at this Katie Evans illustration, I'd never have any issues when it comes to creating!  

Just a few things that made me incredibly happy...

Berry Gimlet: It's been awhile since I poured myself a gin cocktail, and boy am I glad I did!

Bike Rides: This past weekend we dusted off our road bikes. It was an absolute blast. 

Fresh Strawberries: I got a heckuva deal on strawberries at Safeway, and I'm in heaven. This is my go-to snack.

List Making: When I feel a little overwhelmed and forgetful, nothing is more therapeutic than list making. Nothing.

Watering Plants: I'm sad to admit that I've neglected my herbs, but after routine watering they're coming to life!

New Girl: I kept waiting for that moment you expect from a season finale. My cheeks hurt, my smile was so big.

As Tom Haverford would advise, treat yo self!

My "Treat Yo Self" Picks:

Pretty Paper

Dipped Sessile Necklace

Fresh Flowers

Get your nails done. Oh, you fancy, huh?

Mezzaluna Hobo (it's on sale!)

Banter Banner

Isn't this rosette darling? 

I just love the hot pink ribbon and blazing gold details. I might need this for our office bulletin board, and stat.

Photo by Vincent Laforet

Could this photo be any more perfect? 

It makes me excited for the weekend, Flyboy's return (knock on wood), and a few days spent outdoors.

What are your weekend plans?

Toodles,

ANF

P.S. Sorry the images and fonts are a bit wonky today. I was running late for work, and I didn't have a chance to compress them prior to publishing! I just wanted to assure you that your eyesight is fine; the font is blurry because of this gal. Oops!

Why Don't You...

Think like a lady with this flirty look.

Go on and daydream. 

Hit a creative block? Keep a notebook handy. 

Add some pizazz to a plain envelope. 

Try my new favorite Essie shade. 

A sea of bright books. How divine?!?

That stack looks similar to my very own collection.

Confetti Sprinkled Napkins: That just sounds like a great time!

It's your duty. Leave no cocktail behind.

This is intended to motivate me in particular, but feel free to clean out your closet this weekend.

TGIF via Lisa Congdon

Do you have any exciting plans?

Have a fabulous Friday!

Toodles,

ANF

Lurve. Loave. Luff List.

Here's what makes me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.

The Power of Art: Yves Klein, Monochrome jaune sans titre (M 8), 1957

I stumbled upon this Klein, and it immediately put me in a great mood. After a rather rainy week in Hawaii, this painting acted as the perfect bright spot. Isn't it a-mazing how art has the ability to inspire you instantly?

 

Spotted & Hearted: Five Fabulous Finds

1. Blair Ritchey's Spring/Summer 2012 Line - I love the pops of color! / 2. Bellflower Earrings / 3. Mid-Century Modern Table Lamp / 4. Polka Dot Snood / 5. Palette Cheese Tray

Featured Fizzy Gimlet: Lemon & Rosemary Gin Fizz

When life gives you lemons and you've had a long week, welcome the weekend by whipping up this cocktail. Learn how to concoct the rosemary simple syrup here.

KONY 2012: Take the Pledge

Take 30 minutes and watch this documentary by nonprofit group, Invisible Children. The short film raises awareness about Joseph Kony -- leader of rebel group the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA). He's one of the world's worst war criminals and this pledge is meant to raise support to disarm the LRA. Kony and the LRA have been making the lives of thousands of Ugandan children hell. Learn more about what you can do to help stop Kony.

Get Crafty: Do Something Creative Every Day

Ribbon Cake Bunting via Somewhere Splendid / Snazzy Stir Sticks via Martha Stewart and Design Love Fest / Free Printable To-Do List via A Pair of Pears

A Scrumdiddlyumptious Spread: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Mini Feta Meatballs

Thanks to The Everygirl's latest list of 10 meals for less than $50, my weekly meal planning got a lot easier. Tonight, I plan on making these bad boys. I'm sure they'll be tasty! Check out the full list of dinner ideas here.

Hand-Drawn Doodles: Be Today by Sean McCabe

As I mentioned, it's rained every day for the past 10 days, and it's starting to wear on me. We have a soiled and unkempt lawn filled with tall grass and piles of leaves; the muddy paws just won't end, and my appendages are in need of some serious color -- the self-tanner just isn't cutting it. We haven't been to the beach in over 3 weeks and we live in Hawaii. That's just ridonkulous! This weekend, Flyboy and I are determined to scour this island and find some sun.

Hello Little Miss Lovely! What are you up to this weekend?

(and Mister, for the occasional gent that stops by the old blog)

Toodles,

ANF