Stock your (Organic) Bar

Apr 2nd, 2012

Transitioning your traditional bar stock to a greener and more organic selection is relatively easy to do. Here are a few tips to help you get started. And trust me, the integrity of your martini does not have to suffer just because it is from organic vodka.

Recycled Glassware is a must. Check out The Green Glass Company for some very unique options.



On to the liquor…Prairie Organic Vodka is my favorite.


I am personally not a brown liquor drinker but no bar is complete without a bottle of whiskey.


Garnishes and mixers should all be organic and made fresh.

I know it’s Monday morning but looking at those lemons really makes me want to have a margarita. You too?


I would opt for an old wooden muddler versus a blender. *Tip – raid your parents old bar. You may be surprised what you find in there.


Lastly but most importantly, you will need some crowd pleasing drink recipes.

*Cheers! Here’s to stocking your organic bar!*

 

Written by Lea Barlow • Leave a comment

Hot or Not: Floral Jeans

Mar 28th, 2012

I thought these would just go away but to my dismay they seem to be here to stay. As you probably know, I am a hold out when it comes to trends. Last year, I went against my better judgment and bought wide-legged jeans. I wore them once and am still $200 lighter. BUT I am putting it to you.  Floral jeans – Hot or Not?

I will admit, the model looks pretty good here in this Petite Rose print.


7 For All Mankind channeling a Chinese restaurant, perhaps?


High Waisted AND floral! Double the…fun?


Floral jeans on the move.

Okay, I think the visuals I have shared will prepare you for the big vote…

 

Written by Lea Barlow • Leave a comment

No matter how tempting and tasty pasta is we all know that after the age of 22 it cannot be indulged on a regular basis. During the winter months I typically substitute spaghetti squash or french cut green beans for my pasta cravings. Unfortunately, spaghetti squash goes out of season quickly and I am currently experiencing green bean overload. So now I have found a new friend in shredded cabbage. It is incredibly filling and super quick to make.

From the H&H Kitchen: Cabbage Pasta

ingredients

1 bag fresh express angel hair cabbage or fresh head of cabbage

1 32oz can low sodium chicken broth

1 tbsp crushed garlic

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

salt & pepper to taste

directions

preheat large (2 quart) pot to medium heat

add olive oil and garlic to cover the bottom of the pan

add bag of cabbage and sauté for 3-4 minutes

add enough chicken broth to cover cabbage

bring to a boil and boil until desired tenderness 10-15 minutes

salt and pepper to taste

Once the cabbage is soft, drain and serve with favorite spaghetti sauce.

*We enjoy tossing the cabbage with sautéed ground grass fed beef, diced sautéed mushrooms, onions, chopped olives, olive oil and Parmesan cheese. Try it!*

 

Written by Lea Barlow • 1 Comment

Hot Look: Fishtail Braid

Mar 12th, 2012

Here in Florida, spring has sprung. What that means for me is that my hair will likely never be seen free flowing again until October. A standard low-pony, while efficient, is not as good as a braid if you want to keep your hair from sticking to a perspiring back while getting some sun this spring. For timing reasons, I usually stick to a normal braid but when I can lock the kids out of my bathroom for a few extra minutes I go for the side fishtail braid and top with a fedora. It’s an easy, sexy spring look. See for yourself…

Don’t worry if you think it looks too messy while you are braiding. That’s the whole point. Very Lady Guinevere.

Absolutely perfect for a spring wedding.


I am not much of a color person but somehow she makes this work.


The side fishtail is my favorite. Here is a tutorial to help you get started. Tip: Make sure you do it in front of a mirror. It’s almost impossible without. Also, the more detailed your braid the better it will look.

 

Written by Lea Barlow • 3 Comments