I’ll be honest, shorts season aren’t my favorite. I have never been one to show off a lot of leg, and I usually can be found wearing dresses, skirts or pants.
But honey, this Southern heat is not a drill. It gets some kind of hot, and jeans aren’t going to cut it when it’s wildly humid. Lightweight linen is a go to to stay cool and avoid cutoffs, so join me in this venture.
I stumbled upon these linen overalls under $30, and I knew they would help stay chic, cool and covered up if you feel me. They come in three colors and are beyond comfortable! They’re a loose fit so if you’re in between sizes, I’d recommend sizing down.
Tell me – are you a shorts person? Or do you opt for dresses and pants? I recently found another linen shop on Etsy and now I desperately want these pajamas and these culottes. And maybe this dress. SO cute! Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –
Thank you so much for this! 2020 has been the year at home for sure, so I’ve enjoyed getting crafty around the house, painting rooms, creating art and moving furniture and accessories around. I need to be better about putting them into blog posts!
Can you talk about making home decor decisions and inspiration for the house?
I shared in this Q&A my opinion on getting started with home design, but my friend Macey told me once that she felt that quick decisions were often the way to go. She has an amazing eye for design, and she said she thought often times too much research and options can actually cloud our gut instincts for choosing what we like.
I loved that thought, and it made me feel more comfortable with how we have filled our home so quickly.
I would start with a Pinterest board and pin images you like. Then step back and connect the dots. Do you notice a theme of sleek lighting with fluffy, cloud sofas? Or rich, patterned rugs and leather accents? What’s your vibe? Look for the consistent elements in your Pinterest vision board and start there.
How do you keep your light couches clean?
I either opt for slip covers so I can wash them if we spill or I go with Sunbrella fabric. I’ve had a white or beige sofa for 8+ years now and it’s never been an issue because I go for slipcover or Sunbrella.
We also don’t allow pets on furniture, and I do think that really helps if you have pets!
Do you still love your LoveSac?
Yes! We have a sactional in seashell polylinen in our basement and it’s incredibly comfortable. We’re really happy with it.
How do you feel about essential oils? Yay or nay and why?
We love them for diffusers in the house and Hudson’s room. I try to use them before taking medicine, but honestly… I usually forget. My favorite ones to diffuse downstairs are in this set.
I don’t find them to help me much with colds or sickness (I’ve tried onguard, oregano, etc. and never noticed much), but they have helped with sleep (doTERRA’s lavender) or nausea (doTERRA’s peppermint).
I think if they work for you? Go for it.
How did you learn so much about gardening?
I literally googled and read tons of articles or I ask my neighbors who have incredible yards and gardens! When they’re out in the yard I’ll ask questions and they are always so kind to offer their advice. And they’re always right).
What’s a good swimsuit brand for women? I want to splurge, but I want it to be worth it!
This may not be a popular answer, but I don’t typically splurge on swimsuits. The reason is that I only wear them for a few seasons, they look dingy over time or my preference changes. I’m much more likely to splurge on a fabulous coverup, hat or beach bag that I can get longer wear out of.
The swimsuits I wear most often are from ASOS, Amazon or Aerie.
I bought one set and then went back to buy another set. So I usually am wearing all 18 from both sets!
I love them because they’re lightweight, don’t make a bunch of noise and they’re waterproof. I literally wear them all day and don’t think twice. To find your size, I would recommend measuring your wrist to make sure you get the right fit.
What do you tell your stylist for your hair? Can you recommend at-home hair color?
I get my hair cut about twice a year and I do balayage about once a year. I just ask for a blunt cut and low-maintenance balayage that leans more toward blonde than orange or red.
I LOVE Y’ALL for asking! It’s coming later this summer and when the samples come in I’m going to poll you guys on Instagram Stories to see which pieces you like best so we can include them. I am SO excited to bring all of you into the final selection process!
Where are the beige sunglasses from?
My favorite Celine dupes! They are called the Monroe and you can find them here (I have all of the colors). I cannot believe what a steal they are.
Do you still use the Mirror for exercise? Why or why not? Do you have a Peloton as well?
I do still use the Mirror (full Q&A on it here), and I don’t have a Peloton.
Christian uses the Mirror more than I do because he likes a class whereas I usually am on the treadmill watching TV. But it is definitely still used and in our makeshift “gym!”
I mean this sincerely, but did you see blatant racism growing up in Mississippi?
I know this may sound naive, but no I honestly do not have memories of witnessing blatant racism. I did attend a private high school that was mostly white and my mom was a stay-at-home mom and artist, but in my Dad’s office there was always diversity. He also started a free medical clinic in the town where I grew up and there was always diversity in that office as well. I would work and volunteer at both offices during summers in high school.
I think I more so experienced black and white communities keeping to themselves outside of offices, school or work. And in many Southern communities it still feels this way. Moving back to the South from California, I definitely see that in ways I may not have otherwise. So it’s my responsibility to figure out how to put myself in a position of community and relationship-building in Georgia.
I’ve been told there was a time someone was using a derogatory racial term in front of me and my mom asked the person not to use that word in front of her or her children. I don’t remember the moment, but I now admire that she spoke up when someone was out of line.
Is there anything you miss about the Bay Area? Did you like anything about SF? What made SF such a difficult city for you?
These questions made me laugh because I know I’m harsh when I reference my time in San Francisco. It was, without question, the most difficult, abrasive and most expensive place I’ve ever lived (out of Mississippi, Florida, Alabama, New York, Southern California, Northern California and Georgia).
I always told Christian to shoot for the stars and see what was possible… which meant I had to be willing to sacrifice where we would live for the better medical program. If you don’t know much about the unusual path of medical training, it’s based on a match system. So you don’t choose where you go. You interview and you rank them, they rank you and a computer decides where you’re moving if you want to continue your education.
I’ve talked a lot about my time in the city, what I experienced and why it was difficult in the “personal” category of CBL. So to keep it more positive, you know I loved some wine country. Outside of the city it was gorgeous, peaceful, quiet, cozy, friendly… absolutely love Napa and Sonoma County. Yosemite, Half Moon Bay, Monterey – stunning. I hope to visit those areas again!
I think most who have spent time in California consider themselves a Northern Californian or Southern Californian. And we always felt we were Southern California people. I love some SoCal, now! We spent 5 years in SoCal vs. only 1 in NorCal.
Are there any aspects of your life that you’ve shared that you wish you hadn’t?
I often share more than I’d prefer. I started this blog as a hobby and it slowly over time developed into my career. And I am forever grateful for that! It’s an actual dream come true.
With any Internet-based job I do get a lot of extremely personal questions that I am trying to learn how to kindly acknowledge while still respecting my boundaries and the person asking the question. Like any person, there are lots of things in my personal life that I keep to myself.
I’m not perfect at it… but I’m always working on improving!
Have you ever considered going back to school to further your education/skills?
Definitely not. Ha! I get test anxiety and I’ve never been a person who loved school. I considered getting my Masters after my Bachelor’s and asked one of my favorite professors for her opinion. She told me to get a job. She wisely told me that for what I wanted to do, experience would trump additional degrees.
10 years later, I would still agree with her.
What baby sunscreen do you use?
I have bought and used this one, recommended by a friend, and have had no problems with it.
Were you scared or doubted ever having kids?
Definitely. In our 20’s, we weren’t even sure we wanted kids. We have 12 nieces and nephews under 13… so we were pretty aware of the lifestyle change and commitment that children bring. To be honest, it didn’t really look enticing to me until I turned 31. All of a sudden my heart just changed and I knew I wanted that experience of raising a child.
I was fortunate to get pregnant that year and welcomed Hudson at 32. Christian could have waited longer but he’s always let me take the lead when it comes to kids as he knows I put in more time simply because I work from home and have a more flexible schedule.
They say “you’ll know” when you decide you want to be married. And I felt the same way about kids. One day I wasn’t sure, and then the next I was sure. It was just in my gut!
How did you deal with not entering motherhood at the same time as a lot of your friends/peers? We are waiting and I feel like we get left out of things because we don’t have kids.
Christian once said something to me via text that was so impactful I literally wrote it down.
“It’s like you’re on a hike and you are stopping to smell the flowers before you get to the rocky peak where the flowers don’t grow but the views are good. Some people only want the view and some people only want the flowers. We want both, so we can’t really compare ourselves to people with other aspirations. They’ll do what’s best for them and we’ll do what’s best for us.”
We had some things we wanted to do before bringing a child into the mix. While it’s hard, just keep focusing on your path.
I’m drowning in resources for infant sleep. What’s your take?
I get asked about sleep training every week even though I don’t really talk about Hudson’s sleep. I really think so many babies are different and the same things don’t work for everyone.
But I’m sure if your little one isn’t sleeping… it’s all encompassing. I feel you. If you search “sleep train” you’ll find many posts referencing this topic! Most recently in March and February.
I truly just think some babies are great sleepers and others aren’t. I compare it to food – some babies are big eaters and others aren’t. Hudson has loved sleeping since we brought him home. I always had to wake him up to feed him those first few weeks. Once his weight was at a good place and the pediatrician said I could let him sleep, he just slept.
So we moved him to his room at only a few weeks old. And he slept.
I did follow the recommendations in the Moms on Call book as well as Taking Cara Babies. If those two resources didn’t work for me I would have set up a call with a sleep specialist.
Our next child could never sleep, and I’ll have to start from scratch – who knows!
Gift ideas for someone having a baby?
I always love receiving books. Everyone’s clothing and decor style is different, but a book for an acquaintance or silver spoon or baby cup for close friends is my go-to!
Thank you so much for sharing your questions with me for this month’s Q&A! You can see over a year of these posts in the “personal” category of this site. Appreciate you guys taking the time – XO –
– hydrangeas and peonies together which are my two favorite favorites –
– and our own little blue hydrangea from the backyard –
– an American flag flying outside our door for the summer –
– and adding a piece of art from my grandmother’s house to our house –
– a LadyGang book that I will read snippets of at my desk for a giggle –
Hello my friends! We made it to Friday. I don’t know about you, but we have had the most fabulous weather this week. That leave-your-door-wide-open kind of weather. Talk about a major mood booster!
After feeling hungry for some social in-person interaction, I scheduled some girl time with different friends throughout the week and it left me feeling so refreshed. I think we all get so “busy” with our lives – whether it’s work, childcare, relationships or to-do’s. As much as I’d like to assume that I’ll just spontaneously find myself in social situations, it really does require intentional scheduling to make sure I get to see the faces I love most. Do what you gotta do!
I took a few steps back from Instagram specifically the past few weeks and it has been wonderful. I find that other Internet and social media platforms tend to be more encouraging, uplifting and positive. Something about Instagram has turned into this finger-pointing atmosphere that really brings me down from time to time. So just a reminder that if you have an important question or message you want to get to me, email is always where you can reach me (found at the contact page at the top of this site)! I don’t spend as much time in my DM’s as I used to as I do try to limit time on my phone now that Hudson is with me so much more because of COVID-19. However I always dedicate time each day to my email inbox. So that’s where you’ll always find me!
This weekend I’m planning on spending some time outside, maybe even adventuring to a restaurant. Have you been to a restaurant yet? We have only been to one but it ended up being takeout only still, so we just got takeout and ate it at a table outside the restaurant. It was still nice to be out of the house!
Lastly, I wanted to share some of this weekend’s sales for any of you who are interested in doing a little shopping!
When Hudson was a newborn, I shared some of my favorite newborn products and why. I’ve received some requests for another post now that he is almost seven months old (!!!), and I compiled some of our most used and loved items below.
To shop, click on the image or find it’s corresponding number below –
We’ve been using this high chair at our breakfast room table and it’s been super convenient and helpful. The directions say that you are not supposed to wash it, but after reading some articles online we have put the seat cover in the wash and hung dry. It worked perfectly and came out as a brand new seat.
We also have one of these silicone bibs and it’s the only one we use. I’ve been making a lot of Hudson’s baby blends with this babyfood steamer + puree machine which I find somehow incredibly satisfying, ha! But I also mix in a few flavors from Beech-Nut which is our preferred store-bought baby food.
DIAPERS, POWDER, CREAM
A very sweet CBL girl told me that Sam’s Club had great diapers and she was right! We previously were using Pampers (which are great), but I like Sam’s Club brand diapers equally and we use both.
We use this talc-free powder and Aquaphor has my favorite diaper rash cream. My sister-in-law recommended using diaper rash cream frequently, even if they don’t have a rash. We took her advice and I think in almost seven months Hudson has only had one diaper rash.
TOYS
I actually haven’t bought Hudson many toys. He has been given so many sweet toys from friends and family and honestly loves most all of them. For several months he was very into this cube.
My mom bought him this aquarium for his crib and while I was at first hesitant, it’s been amazing. If he wakes up halfway into his nap and is struggling to get back to sleep, I will tip toe in his room and turn on just the music. He will drift off back to sleep. Or if he wakes up 30 minutes early, he can reach and touch the star which will start music. It will entertain him for a little bit of “rest” time before I get him out of his crib.
TEETHING
His first two teeth came in around five months so I ordered the Sophie that everyone loves. He does love it, in additional to this silicone ring pop looking thing that I will put ice cubes in. Always a hit!
ENTERTAINMENT
A few months ago I bought this Joovy walker. I wanted one that was easy to clean and had a tray that I could put different toys on opposed to one that had a built-in toy bar. It’s been great. He can only walk backwards, but it’s how I buy some time when I’m cooking dinner, need to use the bathroom or have to go to another room for something. It also folds up really slim and we have traveled with it.
CARRIERS
We use two baby carriers, the Baby Bjorn and Artipoppe. I love them both for different reasons.
The Baby Bjorn is super breathable and allows your baby to sit in many different positions (facing in, facing out, on the back, etc.). It’s also washable – PERK!
Artipoppe is stylish, gorgeous and very lightweight. The baby can only face in, but the way it’s designed they can still easily look all around and I love wearing him in this one around the house.
SLEEP
The best sound machine. I need to buy a travel one, but I currently just take this one because I love it to so much.
BATH
This baby tub was also on my newborn list and we still love it. We use a few different baby bath washes and shampoos but I can’t deny that I love the smell of this one. So much so that I also bought the lotion. I just know I’m going to think of bathing our babies forever when I catch a whiff of this magic!
If you have any infant favorites, I would love to hear! Babies vary so much, but I love hearing other moms share their favorite items and why. So I hope this will be hopeful to some of you!
I like to use parmesan flakes and I think toasting your pine nuts ahead of time would be so delicious. I’ve also added some roasted chicken and it is fabulous.
Really quick and easy, if you give it a try let me know what you think! You can find more easy recipes under the “food & drink” category of CBL.
Happy Friday sweet friends! I hope you have all had a beautiful week and are looking forward to some winding down this weekend. Half of last week and weekend I was visiting family in Mississippi and Alabama, so it was nice to come back to Georgia this week and get back in the swing of things.
This week I made this simple garlic lemon pasta (yum), a big patch of my favorite pimento cheese for lunches and roast chicken with shallot fried rice. For easy dinners I picked up some of Trader Joes tamales (the ones in the refrigerator section – they’re so good!), made cast iron skillet deep dish pizza with my latest favorite arugula side salad that I’ll be sharing on CBL next week! I also let Christian cook breakfast for dinner – biscuits, cheesy fried eggs, roasted potatoes and quiche.
A few things on our watch list this weekend include Just Mercy. Adapted from a book, Warner Brothers has made it available to watch for free from any digital platform for the month of June. So jump on that! For something light and fluffy, I’ve been secretly loving Sweet Magnolias on Netflix. It’s an easy watch that feels wholesome and mindless… which can be great too.
Would love to hear what’s on your weekend’s agenda! Thanks so much for reading – XO –
A few months ago, pre social distancing, I hosted some couples for dinner at our home. I was looking for a one pot dish that would be easy to eat, full of flavor and have limited ingredients.
It is so delicious and warms up even better. So much so that almost every time I warm up leftovers the next day I say, “this tastes like it came from a restaurant.” Seriously! I usually serve it with a baguette, green salad and white wine.
This time I was able to garnish with parsley from my own garden. And that was a little quarantine project that has continued to serve as a small but bright spot in our evening dinners! More on how to start your own beginner’s herb garden here.
Bon appétit! For guests I would peel all of the shrimp but as this was just for Christian and myself… I was a little lazier. But peeling is definitely easier to eat!
Inquiring minds have been asking about Father’s Day gift ideas, so today we are diving right in with some brands and items that are popular in our house!
To shop, click on the item in the graphic below or you can find its associating number below the collage –
When it comes to fitness or lounge, Tommy John and Rhone are two of Christian’s favorite brands. And these slippers lasted him years – I need to get him another pair!
I had to get this book for Christian. And maybe I went ahead and bought this one too. So cute!
He carries a Filson briefcase everyday to work, and if he needed an overnight bag, this one would be my go-to.
TRX straps are your everything-workout in one, and a sleek decanter for his favorite bourbon as a post-workout treat (anything from Buffalo Trace Distillery is his pick).
A Yeti cooler or mug will last him years and years, and this candle feels like the perfect office or man cave scent!
If you hit it out of the park with a Father’s Day gift last year, I’d love to hear what was a hit! Thanks so much for reading – XO –
Last month I shared April’s hottest 10 items, and based on your feedback I’m going to keep this as a monthly series. Again, this month is all over the map from my favorite chapstick and round ice cubes to a fabulous personalized leather crossbody bag, a colorful and fabulous rug under $150 and acrylic frame (the best price I’ve found online!).
And on an unrelated note, it would feel absent-minded not to acknowledge that we are all trying our best to navigate the climate of our country this year. From COVID-19 and social distancing to discussions of violence and racial inequality… hearts are heavy and we are all confused, angry and heartbroken. I have been sharing articles on social media (this is an amazing resource) and listening to podcasts (I love this one) on how to continue to educate myself and begin making changes in our own home. Black lives absolutely matter. Absolutely.
Thank you so much for reading and being a part of this community. I’ve always prioritized making CBL a place of acceptance and respect, and I cannot continue to say that unless I commit to educating myself. Love you guys – XO –
What was the CBD you recommended? Lately have been finding myself more “on edge.”
I have been taking Equilibria for two months now. I take a soft gel before bed and I’ll take a liquid dropper in the AM. You get a consultation with a dosage specialist with any order who can help you find the dosage that is right for you!
If you decide to order, you can get 15% off your first order with the code kathleenbarnes.
Packing/moving tips?
If you search “moving,” this post will come up which has all of my tips in one place!
Hostess question: do you ask your guests to take their shoes off? Rude or necessary?
We always take off our own shoes but I’ll be honest, I’m probably never going to ask a guest to take their shoes off. But your house, your rules!
However, we did ask for guests to take off shoes in San Francisco because any city is going feel grittier than a smaller town. But even then, most people there don’t wear their own shoes in their homes, so I rarely, if ever, was in a position to need to ask.
Ooohh this is tough! Probably any of the cookware or my jumbo flower pots. An investment, but pieces I know I’ll use and enjoy forever.
Do you have Spotify playlists or what are your go-to’s?
Yes! Just search “playlist,” and several posts with playlists will come right up!
Favorite white tees?
Truth be told, I probably have like… 20 white tees at all price points. I wear them all of the time!
A few I love: this one (so so soft), this one (love the raw hem) and this one (investment, but I’ve been wearing mine for 3 years).
Denim shorts recommendations?
My favorite are any from this brand (has always run TTS for me). For a smaller price tag, I also own a few Levi’s and they’re great.
Outfit ideas for a bride having a courthouse wedding due to COVID-19?
I am so sorry your wedding plans have been forced to change. I cannot imagine the stress and disappointment. But, for what it’s worth, I think a courthouse wedding is so chic. Very Carrie Bradshaw!
I love a dress like this (under $60!), this (beyond classic) or this (elegance). You’re going to look back at this and have the most unique wedding story to tell. Much more than most!
Looking to invest in my first piece of fine jewelry. Any item you’re unable to live without?
My favorite investment pieces are any diamond huggies or studs, my Cartier bracelet (Christian gave it to me when he completed from residency as a thank you for being along for the very long ride that is medical training) or any diamond band. Classics!
How do you keep eyebrows on point?
I have had my eyebrows microbladed twice now. I have been very pleased both times –
Facial treatments! Have you done microneedling or chemical peels?
I haven’t tried either. I have only had a handful of facials in my life. I usually prefer to splurge for a massage! But I am fortunate to have been blessed with mostly clear skin and therefore… if I don’t have problems I try not to rock the boat too much.
But I do get Botox twice a year, and I religiously follow a several step skincare regimen morning and night! I always cleanse, use an essence or serum, moisturize and apply eye cream. At night sometimes I’ll add in a toner after cleansing.
What’s the key to your perfect slicked back bun?
I don’t have any layers and I have fine hair. I don’t use product, I simply pull it back and tie it up with a hair tie. I think hair texture and limited layers helps in achieving this look! If you need a little final polishing, try spraying some hairspray on your comb and run it through your locks a few times before pulling it back.
Is your Amazon collection coming soon? I can’t wait!
I love you! And YES! It should be live in the next few months. It has moved a little bit due to COVID-19, but I will keep you guys informed on launch dates, for sure!
I feel like I impulse buy clothes and I want to make my style more seamless. Any tips?
I would try to purchase mostly solids. With solids, you can mix and match nearly anything.
Still loving double/triple ear piercings? Considering taking the plunge –
Yes! I have three piercings in each ear and have yet to regret it. Some ear stack inspiration here.
You had a hard time in San Francisco. Has quarantine brought any of those feelings back?
Actually, quite the opposite. We both had a difficult time adjusting to San Francisco, and social distancing has only made us so incredibly grateful and thankful to be where we are. We know to value and appreciate our yard, patio and larger personal space. My heart goes out to anyone social distancing or quarantined in a compact city. That is really, really tough.
Do you feel awkward doing swipe ups during a pandemic?
A lot of what I share is style and home, but it’s also my favorite $2.19 chapstick and recipes. At the end of the day, this is a job. And sharing resources, whether it’s a recipe or what was purchased on Amazon, has become my career and how I take care of myself and my family.
It’s certainly a fine line to walk (and I’m not saying I do it perfectly), but I feel fortunate to still have my job and it is necessary for my family that I continue to work if I am able to do so.
Advice for your college self?! My bestie and I are in college and we love you!
I love you back!! I struggled with test anxiety in college, and I wish I would have relaxed about my grades a little. Graduating with honors was important to me (if I was in college now, I would just focus on keeping a 3.0+), and I stressed too much about my grades.
Extracurriculars and internships though = very important. Good grades are valuable but experience is everything. A well-rounded resume is your best weapon. It’s not only about grades. They’re an asset, but not your only asset!
What sunscreen do you use for Hudson?
We’ve been using Blue Lizard after a friend recommended it and so far, so good.
What’s the best advice you received to balance life with a newborn?
Hire help. But seriously, as we both are invested in our careers, we chose to wait to have children until we could take on not only the expense of children but also the expense of having help. Everyone says “it takes a village.” So when your village is out of state, you have to know when you need extra hands!
I get a lot of questions about starting a family in medical residency or fellowship. I can’t really speak to that as we chose to wait. I’ve yet to regret it, but it’s absolutely a personal choice!
Any more babies for you guys?
We would definitely like more… but we’re just taking it one small human at a time.
When do you think you will feel safe to travel again? Out of your house? Out of the country?
I talked to our pediatrician about this at Hudson’s checkup, and we talked about watching the local case numbers decrease steadily before spreading our wings too far. I think everyone’s city and state is different. But we are abiding by government and medical guidance and regulations and taking it one week at at time.
THANK YOU so much to everyone who submitted questions for this month’s Q&A! I appreciate your feedback so much! Thank you for reading – XO –
Personally, there’s nothing I love more than seeing what random things people are buying. Whether it’s their grocery cart or Amazon cart… I’m interested in taking a peek.
So I thought I’d share some of my most recent Amazon buys. In fact, most of these purchases were made since quarantine began. Let’s dig in!
Personal:
I bought this swimsuit and this swimsuit and love them both. I had to send this one back for a smaller size – if you’re in between sizes I would recommend sizing down.
A straw visor. Still not sure this is a great look on me, but I wore it over the weekend and loved that I could easily throw my hair in a top knot.
A hand frother that I don’t need but felt like I deserved. #socialdistancing. I use it for coffee!
Christian insisted on an ice cream machine – this one works dangerously well!
Baby:
Hudson has two bottom teeth coming in so he’s loving is Sophie teether. I also just bought him these teething pacifier things for frozen fruit or ice cubes. We’ve tried frozen berries and pineapple and they were both a hit!
The Baby Brezza everyone talks about that I can’t decide if it’s worth it considering our baby will only be taking bottles so much longer. I also am nervous for him to only have bottles at a specific temperature as currently he will drink them cold, room temperature or warm. H isn’t one to turn down a snack!
So I’ve now tried three different dirty vodka martinis trying to figure out which concoction I liked best.
And I have a confession.
Pre-Hudson, I was learning to really dig martinis. I was tired of paying $12 for a glass of wine at a restaurant when I could buy a great bottle of wine for $15. I wanted a “go to cocktail” order that I enjoyed and felt special for those nights out.
So I started ordering dirty vodka martinis and it was becoming my drink of choice. Then came pregnancy. So after over a year of leaving my martinis behind, I got my cocktail shaker out again!
I kept making different martinis and I thought, “this doesn’t taste the same.” But I think the difference is: after not drinking vodka for so long, it no longer tastes the same? Does that make sense or has that happened to any of you? I still enjoy wine, beer and tequila, but my martini game has changed.
SO, I’m going to share my favorite combination of the three I tried. And I’m going to share another vodka recipe that masks the taste of vodka more strongly.
INGREDIENTS:
2 ounces of vodka (I used Belvedere)
3/4 ounce dry vermouth
1/2 ounce green olive juice
2-3 large green olives (bonus if they’re stuffed!)
DIRECTIONS:
Combine vodka, vermouth and olive juice in a shaker with ice. Shake, shake, shake, pour in a glass and top with olives.
And another vodka drink for anyone who has some rosemary in the backyard!
Ingredients:
1/2 cup lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
1/2 cup sugar
2 6-inch rosemary sprigs
2 oz vodka
Chilled club soda, seltzer or sparkling water
Directions:
Bring lemon juice, sugar and rosemary to a boil in a small saucepan. Stir until sugar has dissolved, then reduce heat and simmer 2-3 minutes. Let it cool for one hour and discard rosemary sprigs.
Fill glass halfway with ice. Add 2 TB syrup to the glass, then add vodka and top with sparkling water. Garnish with a lemon and/or rosemary sprig.
If you have a favorite vodka drink, do share with the class! I’d love to hear. Thanks so much for reading and you can check out more cocktails, like this Bloody Mary or a Whiskey Rebellion, in the food & drink category of this site. Enjoy and thank you for reading! XO –
