Summer Lovin' // Summer Mix 2014

Happy second day of summer! It's been hot and humid here on the east coast and summer is definitely in full swing. Time for trips to the beach and picnics under shady trees. Oh, and G+Ts. Always G+Ts. I've been pulling together this mix over the last month or so (in hopes that summer weather would come faster), and collecting new songs as I heard them on the radio/in stores/on TV shows. Of course I had to throw in a bit of my girl Bey. I recently re-discovered the album "4" and have had it on repeat. Also, who else can't stop listening to that "Rude" song? So catchy and perfect for blasting in the car on a hot summer day. Hope you enjoy the mix! What songs are you listening to this summer?

Honey Basil Collins

Ok, so, I'm definitely cheating a little bit here because I didn't actually come up with this cocktail, but this collins from Oven & Shaker was the first drink I wanted to try my hand at when I got home. I figured I'd share the recipe here since not everyone has the privilege of living (+ eating + drinking) in Portland! If you're in Portland, I would highly recommend giving Oven & Shaker a try (get the spicy salami pizza - you'll never have pizza without honey again!).

For this drink you will need a small handful of fresh basil, 2 oz. vodka (I've also found this drink is pretty good with gin), 3/4 oz. lemon juice, a squirt or two of honey (I would adjust this based on your preferences), 2 oz. seltzer water, and ice.

What I do is tear the basil up roughly (not too small) and throw it in my cup with the vodka and honey. Muddle to release the flavor of the basil. Add the remaining ingredients, mix well, and fill your glass with ice. Enjoy your perfect summer drink!

Do you have any favorite summer drinks? I would love to hear! xo

Happy Hour // 6 Cocktail Recipes to Try This Summer!

Today is my last day in Portland before I head to New Hampshire for the summer...The past week has been full of packing/cleaning, visits with friends, and trips to all of my favorite restaurants and bars. I'm gonna miss this little foodie city! Time for me to drink away my sorrows, right? ;) Summer is the season of cocktails in my book, so I'm excited to spend the summer coming up with some new boozy concoctions. Have you tried any of the drinks I made last summer? Here are a few cocktails I can't wait to try! (Most of these would also be pretty easy to make virgin as well).

1: Blackberry Sage Cooler // 2: Pomegranate and Ginger Spritzer // 3: Raspberry Rose Fizz // 4: Lavender Lillet Cocktail // 5: Pear Nectar and Thyme Mimosa // 6: Ginger and Cucumber Gin Fizz