Thrivent Veterans Appreciation Event on the USS Midway

Cash Bar at a Wedding Reception?

"Is there an open bar at the reception?" My sister asked me yesterday, as we were walking to our cousins wedding ceremony. "I'm sure!" I replied. But then it got me thinking, should one assume there will be an open bar at a wedding reception?

According to traditional etiquette, having a cash bar is a BIG no no. It would be like asking your friends to pay for a glass of wine at your home. Weird! On the other hand, people are becoming less and less traditional and rationalize the significant cost cut that can occur with eliminating an open bar.

Luckily, my cousins family stayed true to the traditions that our grandparents set forth and provided an amazing top shelf hosted bar! Thanks Kevin and Emily for a beautiful and cash-less reception!

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Greecian Moonshine

I wanted to share with you a special drink that I have never heard of until I visited Greece this summer...RAKI.

Raki is Greece's moonshine. It is a clear liquor that is traditionally made from boiling the left over grape skins and stems from a harvest for several hours. The remaining product is a strong, vodka-esk brew that can take you from 0 to 10 in a matter of 2 shots due to the high alcohol content. Each family has their own recipe and unique tradition to make their Raki.

Raki is served with fresh watermelon or fruit because of the strong taste (like sucking a lime after a shot of tequila). A typical way to serve the liquor is from a little bottle and small shot glasses (similar to Saki).

Aloe Vera, not just for Sunburns

Went to a friends birthday this week at Lei Lounge in University Heights. I was not only impressed by the well dressed waiters and cabana feel, but the cocktail list was just as impressive. My choice- The ALOE VERA COLLINS. Refreshing, sweet and hiding with nutritious benefits. Did you know that drinking Aloe Vera Juice can:

• improve circulation
• help regulate of blood pressure
• strengthen the immune system

The Aloe Vera Collins contains vodka, aloe vera juice, lemon and a splash of 7-Up. Delicious and nutritious.

Specialty Cocktail for the Casual BBQ

My sister and I hosted a backyard barbecue last Memorial day for a few close family and friends. During a quick party planning session, we decided that having an outstanding alcoholic drink would be a must for two reasons 1) to boost the festivities and 2) make conversations with our grandpa's girlfriend, Ludy, more interesting. Scanning through a cocktail inspired book I acquired over Christmas called, THE ART OF THE BAR, I found just the drink to bring the Patriotic flare to our small ensemble.

BACK PORCH LEMONADE
2 ounces Back-Porch Premix (equal parts Ginger Syrup, lemon juice, cranberry juice)
2 ounces citron Vodka
Ginger ale to fill

Ginger Syrup
2 ounces ginger, thinly sliced
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 cup water
1 1/2 tsp whole peppercorns
Combine the ginger, sugar, water and peppercorns in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the syrup smells very gingery. Remove from the heat and cool completely. Strain and transfer to a bottle.