Surprise!

 

Some of Dave's (My Year On The Grill) friends have decided to throw him a surprise going away party. You see, Dave has left the snow of Kansas and moved to the British Virgin Islands! Yep, he did what we all threaten to do - he moved to the islands! So as a send off, we've been asked to share a favorite in honor of a wonderful cook who has been so generous sharing his knowledge and recipes.

My favorite cocktail is Ina Garten's Pomegranate Cosmo. It's made ahead, and by the pitcher! Handing your guests one of these lovely drinks as they walk in the door will cement your friendship and get your party off to a great start. So here's to you, Dave! Cheers! (glasses clinking)

Pomegranate Cosmos by Ina Garten:
(2) Cups good vodka (recommended is Stolichnaya or Finlandia)
(1) Cup orange liqueur (recommended Cointreau)
(1) Cup pomegranate juice (recommended Pom Wonderful)
1/2 Cup freshly squeezed lime juice (3 limes)
lime peel strips to garnish

Combine the vodka, orange liqueur, pomegranate juice, and lime juice in a pitcher and refrigerate until ready to use (I do it early in the day.) Pour the mixture into frozen martini glasses, garnish, and serve immediately.

Thank you to Min from Our Krazy Kitchen for inviting me (us) to share in the fun. And to you, Dave, for following your dreams - you're a great example for the rest of us.

I could have danced all night...

I can't believe the night is here. I've been waiting weeks for this moment. The incomparable Willow Manor Ball is tonight. I'm breathless as I wait for my escort to arrive. I spent the morning having a wonderful two-hour massage utilizing essential oils. Smelling of lavender I was ushered, wrapped in my warm, thick, terry robe, to the manicure and pedicure area of the spa. Don't you just love this blood-red polish?

It goes famously with my Oscar de la Renta gown. Doesn't the model show the lines of my dress beautifully? I bought it after the show, right off the runway. It didn't need much altering because the model and I are the same size:

Such a beautiful bandeau neckline called for a simple chignon, with jewels, of course:

No necklace, the dress speaks for itself. Don't you just love these earrings? Harry Winston is my favorite jeweler:

And a simple little bauble of a ring:

I found just the perfect Manolo Blahnik shoes. The heels won't be a problem because I can dance for hours in six-inch heels. No problem, my feet are superior specimens:

And a gorgeous bag for those few essentials:

I was so excited that my escort was free this evening. He's between films. Of course, I'm used to seeing him in more casual attire. Here he is playing a round of golf right outside our hotel room in Kauai:

Was that the doorbell? He's here! Someone get the door! "Ohhh, hello, dahling!" (drawl, fluttering eyelids)

Is that look for me? I guess the preparations paid off:

Oh, is that for me? It smells heavenly. I will inhale the smell of rose and Hugh all the way to the ball:

What? A kiss? Well, maybe just one.....now what did I do with that fan?

Limo? Of course, I'm ready. Just let me grab my bag. After all, we have some dancing to do!

Won't you join us? It's going to be a fabulous evening!

Are you going?

It's not too late! You still have time to shop. The ball is on the 13th, and I think everything is in place for the cyber event of the year. I am so excited - my escort is free to take me, and my dress should be here today. Come join us at the Willow Manor Ball.

Shrangli-La, Sacto Style

We are off to spend the night with my brother in Sacramento, CA. Earlier in the week a neighbor said he had just come from Sacto, and it had been over 110 degrees. I noticed it has cooled down, and the forecast is in the low 90's and high 80's for the next couple of days. Just as long as it's hot and the mojitos keep coming, I'll be fine. My brother's property is first rate. (He he, I didn't say terrific.) He has a giant cabana with built-in refrigerator, sink, bbq, ice chest, big bar, lounge area, 9ft deep swimming pool with waterfall, hot tub, outdoor fire pit, and numerous tables, etc.

My cousin has been there for a week.

She calls it her Shangri-la.

She'll be leaving and we'll be arriving.

Works for me.

Kayaking

We are thinking of purchasing a kayak. Can anyone recommend a brand? We are considering a tandem, then next summer buying a single, so maybe we can train Lucy to go along. Any suggestions, or dire warnings?