Destination Dream {Italian Vineyard}

This past weekend we were home in Jacksonville for a family gathering. Like most families, gatherings tend to spark conversation of memories and fun times. One of our favorite family memories was a trip we took to Italy about six years ago. The whole family, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents included, stayed in the most amazing old farm house located on this working vineyard. The views were to die for and we had the most spectacular time. Little did I know, another adventure to Italy is already in the works. With excitement taking over, I have spent nothing but the last two days Googling all to do in Italy. Even though this will be my fourth trip, I'm a bit older now and wanting more than ever to explore what the region has to offer. So, as I bask in the excitement of our impending trip, I thought I would share with you some images of the most amazing vineyard weddings from Italy. Just a little something to make you wish you were in a far away land today sipping on a glass of wine and noshing on cheese and homemade breads.

Have an adventurous Tuesday!

The Happiest Hour {Blood Orange Margarita}

If you tuned in yesterday you were able to catch the back story on my love of blood oranges. Ever since my first trip to Italy, the flavor was something I craved since finding the product here was close to impossible. Ever since that time, it has steadily become more available in specialty stores. Saturday morning though, when strolling through my local grocery store for breakfast ingredients, we stumbled upon blood orange juice made by no other than Tropicana. Almost unable to believe my eyes, I grabbed the bottle as fast as I could and my head stared realign with cocktail ideas. Since this week is all about my favorite things, I decided to create a drink combining two of my favorite things, margaritas and blood oranges. It's sweet and amazingly delicious! Here's the recipe...

:: Ingredients ::
2 oz Clear Tequila
2 oz Blood Orange Juice
1 oz Sweet & Sour Mix
1 oz Grand Marnier
1/2 oz Grenadine
Lime Slices
Sugar (optional)

:: Directions ::
1. Combine tequila, blood orange juice, sweet & sour, Grand Marnier, and grenadine in a shaker.
2. Rim glass with sugar, pour margarita over ice, garnish with lime and enjoy!

Color Me {Blood Orange}

On my first trip to Italy years ago, I fell in love with the flavor of blood orange. It's was so distinctive and flavorful and no where to be found when I returned to the states. Ever since that first trip, my love of it grew and so did its availability at home. Since it's my birthday week, I'm filling this week's posts with things I love starting with the color of blood oranges. It's bold, beautiful and different than anything else. With a single slice being an ombré of deep reds, oranges, and everything in between, the combos are sure to create a gorgeous event.

Love blood orange as much as I do? Tune in tomorrow for my blood orange margarita recipe!