I Love the Beach!

I celebrated the long weekend by heading to the ocean! It couldn't have been a more beach-perfect day! I live in the Sacramento area of California, so the beach isn't exactly in my backyard. But I love it so much that during the summer I try to go at least a couple of times a month. My favorite Nor Cal beach is Stinson. This beautiful treasure is located just above Marin on Hwy 1, on the outskirts of Muir Woods. The drive in is scenic and a bit curvy (beware those that get carsick), but who would trade the views! This little town is in no way short on character. You'll find a few small hotels to accommodate travelers, a liquor store with a coffee cart stationed outside, a library and two fabulous little restaurants (The Sand Dollar and Breakers) right on the main strip. Visit the Sand Dollar, for great food, friendly bartenders who craft awesome drinks and a warm patio.

Try the Fish Tacos!

Best (& possibly the only) breakfast in town



Stinson Beach looking South to Muir Beach

Stinson Beach looking North to Bolinas

The beach is pristine! The sand is soft and the water is clean, great boogie boarding conditions. Unless it's a super hot day though, that cold Nor Cal water is sure to shock you. I prefer the beach closer to the beach houses as it is dog friendly! All kinds of pooches running around, fetching balls and Frisbee provide endless hours of entertainment for me (and my little pup too!)

So, for all of you beach people in Nor Cal, I highly suggest a visit to this California gem; you will not be disappointed!

Independence Day

The 4th of July was always a special holiday for me growing up. On July 3rd, we would arrive at my Grandma Vera's to find our new red, white and blue outfits hanging neatly in the bedroom. A basket full of fried chicken, potato salad and brownies packed, we loaded on a bus to the annual Hollywood Bowl July 4th spectacular. The Los Angeles Philharmonic would play an array of wonderful nostalgic songs, and some years, they featured a Disney theme which was always a treat for grown-ups and kids alike. As it turned to dark, the music became patriotic and fireworks ripped through the sky. It was and still is my fondest memory of this holiday. The next day we were at the park with all the family from my Mothers side. Cousins, aunts and uncles would pair up for the balloon toss followed by the infamous egg toss. There was rarely a year that my cousin Katie and I didn't take first place! We filled our bellies with more fried chicken and deviled eggs (my favorite) while the men played horse shoes and the women chatted and all the kids played in the shade. I sometimes find myself wishing those days weren't just a memory. Now all grown up, July 4th is a simpler day. One thing still remaining is the desire to celebrate our Countries independence with friends we love. We gather with beers in hand and BBQ's blazing to enjoy the freedoms so many have sacrificed for us to have. So CHEERS to friends, family and freedom. May you all have a wonderful and memory filled Fourth of July!

Here are pics of my favorite things on July 4th...





Hollywood Bowl July 4th Celebration







BBQ!







I <3 Fireworks







Mmmmmmm



 

MMMMMMM



I <3 America



Cocktail Friday Presents: Carolina Peach Sangria

Welcome to Cocktail Friday everyone! I have been in the restaurant business for quite some time now and have spent some years behind the bar. It's a great feeling to create cocktail and watch the satisfied face of a customer as the yummy liquor hits their lips; I'm parched just thinking about it! Also, for all you entertainers, it's wonderful to have a repertoire of tasty drinks to whip up for thirsty guests or even for just yourself after a long week.

 I came upon this delicious recipe surfing around one of my all time favorite sites, MyRecipes.Com. It was love at first sight! I can't think of a better way to celebrate summer than with a pitcher of this sensational sangria. The combination of peaches and raspberry's is genius (and beautiful) and the addition of vodka brightens this mix to its fullest Summer time potential. But beware; this one will sneak up on you!



Southern Living June 2010

Carolina Peach Sangria Yield: 9 cups Prep Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 8 hours ingredients 1 (750 ml) bottle rose' wine ¾ cup vodka* ½ cup peach nectar 6 tablespoons thawed frozen lemonade 2 tablespoons sugar 1 lb. ripe peaches, peeled and sliced 2 cups club soda, chilled directions Combine first 5 ingredients in a pitcher; stir until sugar is dissolved. Stir in peaches and raspberries. Cover and chill 8 hours. Stir in chilled club soda just before serving. *Peach-flavored vodka may be substituted. Omit peach nectar. **1 cup frozen raspberries may be substituted.