The Happiest Hour {Citrus Champagne Punch}

I wish I could fill your head with warm thoughts today about how Florida is gorgeous and warm and delightful, but I can't. It's seriously just as cold here as any where else. While I can't to stop thinking about how cold my toes are, I am trying to fill my head with happy thoughts. Thoughts of sunshine filled spring days while sipping this beauty are the only hope I have of warmth right now. While I love a good champagne punch for celebratory occasions, it's also just as appropriate for warm afternoons, brunches, Saturday mornings, and everything in between. The combination of lights and refreshing citrus with ginger ale, peach nectar and a splash of champagne is just what the doctor ordered for any day with celebrating! Here's the recipe…

:: Ingredients ::
1 Bottle Champagne or Prosecco
1 Grapefruit, sliced thin
1 Lemon, sliced thin
2 Clementine, sliced thin
1 Quart Strawberries, sliced
2 Cans Ginger Ale
2 Cans Peach Nectar

:: Directions ::
1. Mix all ingredients except the champagne in a large pitcher. Let sit overnight for all flavors to combine.
2. Fill a glass with ice half full with Ginger Ale mixture. Top with champagne and serve.

The Happiest Hour {Peach Pear Fizz}

Sometimes you find inspiration hiding in the strangest places. Sometimes it's sitting right in front of you and you don't even know it. That's my favorite kind. When you see the same thing day in and day out and one day something clicks and it inspires you. That's how this cocktail came to be. I'm a huge fan of La Croix sparkling water. If you've never had it, I suggest you finish reading this post and head to the store to pick up a case. My flavor obsession is their peach pear. It smells amazing and is light on the flavor. After about my third can one day, I wondered why someone didn't make a peach pear cocktail. The flavor combination is a bit off the beaten path but tastes amazing. So, with peach season coming to an end, this libation makes a perfect end of summer (or beginning of fall) sipper for your next gathering.  Whether it be brunch or an afternoon cheering on your favorite team, mix up a pitcher and enjoy this fruity spritzer. Here's the recipe...

:: Ingredients ::
1.5 oz Pear Nectar
1.5 oz Peach Nectar
1 oz Peach Pear La Croix
5 oz Champagne or Sparkling White Wine
Fresh Peach and Pear slices for Garnish

:: Directions ::
Over ice, combine all ingredients. Garnish with a slice of peach and a slice of pear. Sip and enjoy!