Chrysanthemum Cocktail

Ever heard that age old saying “April showers bring May flowers”? Well, evidence all around me suggests it’s true. Everywhere I look these days from my garden to the farmers market there are rows and rows of flowers. So, I thought since I’m suddenly surrounded by tulips, roses, daffodils and poppies why not make a… Continue reading Chrysanthemum Cocktail

Lamarr Peach Brandy Mint Julep

It’s known as the Run for the Roses and the Fastest Two Minutes in Sports. If neither of those names ring any bells though, it’s probably because you know it by it’s more common title: the Kentucky Derby, and it’s tomorrow. Every year, for the past 141, the most amazing horses and jockeys converge at… Continue reading Lamarr Peach Brandy Mint Julep

Manila Polo Club Brandy Julep

The Kentucky Derby is just over a week away, so this week and next I’m going to be making mint juleps.  But these aren’t your standard bourbon mint juleps. These have a twist. Believe it or not there isn’t one ounce of bourbon anywhere in them. They’re made with cognac instead. If you’re a classicist… Continue reading Manila Polo Club Brandy Julep

Coconut Oatmeal with Dried Cherries

When I was growing up, every year for Mother’s Day my sister and I would wake up early and make breakfast for my mom, and ideally serve it to her in bed. Yes, it was usually something simple like cereal, but every so often we’d be adventurous and make pancakes. While my own children aren’t… Continue reading Coconut Oatmeal with Dried Cherries

The Balalaika vs. The Kamikaze

If you’re anything like me you spent plenty of your college days (or nights) at bars pounding your fair share of Kamikaze shots. They were waaaaay better than tequila shots and had the same effect – quick intoxication. But I’ve long since left my college days behind me and with them the shots. I don’t… Continue reading The Balalaika vs. The Kamikaze

Income Tax Cocktail

I have some bad news. Today, unfortunately, is tax day. Yes, it’s the most dreaded day of the year. It’s the day when we as Americans must tally up all earnings over the past year, fill out that awful little (or not so little) form and discover if we’re paying the government or if the… Continue reading Income Tax Cocktail