Memorial Day Cocktails

Memorial Day is a great weekend to cookout with friends and family.  However, you can get creative with what you have to drink with that burger or hot dog.  We have put together a list of some great cocktail recipes for your party this weekend.

We have simple cocktails, fruity concoctions, and holiday themed drinks.  The recipes and pictures of the drinks are below.  You can learn more here.


1. Tom Collins

Since this date is the unofficial kickoff to the summer season, you’ll want to start off on the right foot with a quintessential summer drink — the Tom Collins. Esquire explains that the Tom Collins first made an appearance in the late 1800s. Skip the drink mix and go for the more traditional route mixing your gin with sugar, lemon juice, and club soda.
Ingredients:
2 ounces London dry gin
1 teaspoon superfine sugar
1/2 ounce lemon juice
Club soda

Directions: Combine the ingredients in a Collins glass 3/4 full of cracked ice. Stir briefly, top with club soda or seltzer, garnish with lemon circle; serve.





2. Berry Lemonade

Bring out the patriotic colors in this non-alcoholic lemonade from Good Housekeeping. The recipe makes a punch that will serve 12, so this is great to have on hand for parties throughout the summer.
Ingredients:
8 cups cold water
2 cups sugar
3 cups (from 15 to 16 medium lemons) fresh lemon juice
3 strips (3 inches by 1 inch each) lemon peel
1 cup raspberries
1 cup blackberries
Ice cubes
Seltzer or club soda

Directions: Start by making the simple syrup. In 4-quart saucepan, heat 4 cups water with sugar and lemon peel to boiling over high heat, stirring occasionally. Cover saucepan and boil 3 minutes. Remove saucepan from heat.

Meanwhile, in food processor, pulse berries until puréed. Pour into medium-mesh sieve set over large bowl and press berry mixture with back of spoon to remove seeds; discard seeds.

Remove peel from syrup; stir syrup into berry puree with lemon juice and remaining 4 cups water. Makes 13 cups. Pour into large pitcher with tight fitting lid. Cover and refrigerate until cold, at least 3 hours or up to 2 days. Serve over ice. Add seltzer to taste; garnish with berries and lemon slices.





3. Cucumber Margarita

You’ll be cool as a cucumber come Memorial Day when you are sipping on Cosmopolitans‘s cucumber margarita. You can make the simple syrup as noted in the previous recipe, or follow these instructions from The Kitchn. Simple syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for several weeks.
Ingredients:
3/4 cup 100 percent Agave Tequila
1 medium cucumber, peeled and sliced
6 ounces lime juice
2 ounces Triple Sec
2 ounces simple syrup
Garnish: cucumber slices and lime wedge

Directions: Make the simple syrup by combining sugar and water over heat, such as in the previous recipe, let cool. In a pint glass, muddle half of the sliced cucumbers with the tequila. Let it sit in the refrigerator for one hour. Strain the cucumber tequila and combine it with all ingredients in a pitcher. Stir and serve over ice. Garnish with cucumber slices and a lime wedge.





4. Limeade

Limeade is a fabulous option for when you want a break from the usual lemonades of summer and from alcohol. In this version from Simply Recipes, an extra dose of cool is provided from fresh mint.
Ingredients:
Grated zest of one lime (about 1 tablespoon)
1 cup lime juice (from about 4-6 limes)
3/4 cup to 1 cup granulated sugar
3 cups water
Several sprigs of fresh mint

Directions: In a small saucepan bring to a boil the sugar, one cup of water, and the lime zest. Once the sugar is dissolved (which it should be by the time the water boils), remove from heat and let cool for for a few minutes. The amount of sugar is a guideline, it depends on how sweet you like your limeade and how tart your particular limes are.

Place a strainer over a bowl or wide-mouthed serving container, and pour the sugar syrup through it, straining out the lime zest. Add the lime juice and 2 cups of water. Taste for sour/sweet balance. If too sweet, add a little more lime juice. Add several sprigs of fresh mint. Chill or serve immediately over ice.





5. Dark and Stormy

Hopefully you’ll only be drinking in the bad weather and not living it. The drink has Bermudian roots, but don’t let the non-patriotic origin keep you from sipping it on Memorial Day weekend. A Dark and Stormy is perfect for warm weather drinking, and Chow‘s recipe will have you making batch after batch for friends and family.
Ingredients:
Ice
2 ounces Gosling’s Black Seal rum
6 ounces ginger beer
1 lime wedge

Directions: Place several ice cubes in a tall glass and add the rum. Top with the ginger beer, add the lime wedge, and stir.





6. Strawberry Iced Tea

Give your iced tea a patriotic hue by making Taste of Home‘s strawberry iced tea, which makes about 5 cups. Adjust the drink’s sweetness to your taste by gradually adding sugar if you are unsure just how sweet it should be.
Ingredients:
1 pint fresh strawberries
4 cups brewed tea, chilled
1/3 to 1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup lemon juice
Ice cubes

Directions: Set aside five strawberries. Place the remaining strawberries in blender; cover and puree. Strain into pitcher. Stir in the tea, sugar, and lemon juice until sugar is dissolved. Chill. Serve in chilled glasses over ice. Garnish with reserved berries.





7. Red, White, and Blue Sangria

Keeping on point with the color of your drinks is this sangria from Recipe Girl. Again, it calls for simple syrup, which you can prepare ahead of time. Originally made for the Fourth of July, it added a little extra patriotic panache by using a star-shaped cutter to make starry pineapple chunks.
Ingredients:
2 bottles dry white wine (ex: Sauvignon Blanc)
1 cup triple sec
1/2 cup berry-flavored vodka
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 cup simple syrup
1 cup blueberries
1 1/2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
1 cup raspberries
1 1/2 cups pineapple chunks

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a large punch bowl or pitcher and stir well. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours. Serve well-chilled with a good scoop of fruit floating in each drink, or serve over ice.





8. Red, White, and Blue Shot

Shots aren’t for everyone, but if you are so inclined you can tip one back, and keep your Memorial Day theme going with this layered shot from The FNDC. If you do opt for the blackberry or strawberry garnish, you’ll also have a chaser on hand.
Ingredients:
1 part grenadine
1 part peach schnapps
1 part blue curacao
Blackberry, strawberry (optional)

Directions: In a shot glass, fill the bottom third with grenadine. Next, pour peach schnapps over the back of a bar spoon to build the second layer. Layer the blue curacao in the same fashion to complete your Red White and Blue Shooter. Serve with a strawberry and blackberry as garnish if desired.

Hard to Kill Houseplants

Do you have more of a black thumb?  This does not mean that you have to use fake plants.  There are many plants that are hard to kill for even the blackest of thumbs.  These various plants involve little maintenance and can survive in the least ideal conditions.

Are you still not convinced?  Keep reading the blog below to learn about these plants!  You can decide which plant fits your home and lifestyle.  Give it a try and you can have beautiful plants in your home in no time.

10. Philodendron – Philodendron bipinnatifidum

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It is said that the Philodendron has been used as a house plant since the time of the Victorians. As a tropical plant, it requires some sun, but this can be achieved by letting it sit outside during the day, or using artificial light within your home. It can go for days without being watered, but does prefer warm moist air. In any case this is a hard plant to ruin and is a great plant if you lack a green thumb. Photo by http://www.thegardenhelper.com

9. Christmas Cactus – Epiphyllum

Unlike most cacti, the Christmas Cactus isn’t one that’ll hurt you if you try to touch it. This cactus is an extremely easy plant to take care of, and usually doesn’t require re-potting. It’s important to be sure you don’t over-water it, but not watering it enough also damages the plant. To solve this, one thorough watering a week usually does the trick. This plant is extremely easy to take care of, and it’ll bloom once a year to bring some color into your living space.

8. Jade plant – Crassula ovata

The Jade plant is definitely one that catches eyes. With its out-of-the-ordinary leaves and pink flowers that bloom during the winter, the jade plant can make a good addition to your home. Because it only requires a little bit of sunlight and doesn’t need a lot of care, it’s the perfect plant that won’t die easily, no matter how much you neglect it.

7. Chinese Evergreen – Aglaonema

The Chinese Evergreen in just the last five years has been able to produce more than 20 different varieties. This plant is cold tolerant and doesn’t require a lot of attention to keep it alive. However, it is important to make sure that the plant isn’t over-watered, so making sure that the pot is well drained is a necessity. It is a slow growing plant, so re-potting isn’t a big issue until about a year or so.

6. Croton – Codiaeum

Though this plant is nothing but leaves, it surely adds a good amount of color to any bland room in your home. You will usually find these in a tropical garden, but recently they have become extremely popular indoor plants. These plants do need more light than most, but stay colorful throughout the year. Its important to water this plant enough, as drying can damage it. Source

5. Spider plant – Chlorophytum comosum

Originally found in South Africa, the spider plant is probably one of the most widely used houseplants. This plant is definitely different looking, as its point long leaves eventually bud into flowers, that then die and turn into smaller spider plants. The spider plant loves a lot of bright light and can stand any temperature. It doesn’t need to be watered everyday, but in the summer watering is very important.

4. Peace Lily – Spathiphyllum

Watering plants is an important part of keeping them alive, and since plants can’t talk, it can be hard to know when its time to water them, especially if you’re no gardening expert. However, the Peace Lily’s leaves will start to wilt, in order to let you know that it’s literally in dying need of water. The Peace Lily doesn’t need much light, and is marked by leaves that bloom a white tall flower

3. ZZ Plant – Zamioculcas Zamiifolia

The ZZ plant is one that you can take with you wherever you live. It doesn’t require a lot of space, and it can take neglect extremely well. The ZZ plant can live without having enough water, and doesn’t require a specific type of lighting in order to grow. It is a slow growing plant, but introducing it to more light can surely speed up the process. This plant is great for those die hard black thumbs.

2. English Ivy – Hedera helix

Though English Ivy best thrives outside where it can grow up to 100ft. long, it still makes a great indoors plant. When keeping an ivy plant inside, it’s important that it is given enough sunlight during the day. Besides this, ivy is a very easy plant to take care of in your home. Since ivy grows so much, it’s important that you have enough room for it. But, you won’t regret this plant. It cleans your air for you!

1. African Violet – Saintpaulia

Putting an African Violet in your home is a great way to add a touch of color. These plants don’t need direct sunlight, and are extremely hardy. They don’t need to be watered more than once a week, and its best that the plant is able to dry out before being watered again. You will find this plant offered in many different colors, including lavender, purple, mauve, and a two-color flower.

Top Ten Mother's Day Gifts

Are you a last minute shopper?  You do not have to fear.  We have the top ten best Mother's Day gifts for you to give to your loved one.  We have gifts for all price ranges and moms in the list below.

We even have included a list of gifts that are in the "don't" category.  This category will help you narrow down the choices that you have for her gift.  You may know what she likes, but do you know how to present that to her.  This blog will help. You can learn more at the CSMonitor.

If She Enjoys Flowers...

Don't: It might be tempting to pick up one of those colorful bouquets at the front of Target on the big day, but: 1) She'll know that's exactly what you did. 2) Everybody else will have the same idea, so pickings will be slim.

Do: How about getting her a gift that will bloom all year? (It will literally be the gift that keeps on giving.) Opt for a potted plant or terrarium instead of snipped blooms.

If She Loves Photos...

Don't: "Mom loves to display pictures. I should get her a digital picture frame." No. Stop. We've been over this; nobody really wants one of those, and even if they do, they realize the error of their ways soon after getting one.

Do: Instead of cramming hundreds of mediocre photos onto a tiny screen, focus on one outstanding picture. Pick (or take) a high-quality snap and spring for a nice, large print with a tasteful frame.

If She Likes Sentimental Jewelry...

Don't: Whether you're shopping department stores or jewelry specialists, chances are you've seen a lot of generic "mom" pendants; they're cute when they come from kids, but they become less adorable if you're a fully-grown adult.

Do: How about proving you put in a little effort by ordering a custom piece from Etsy instead? While it's true that those merchants may start with store-bought components, you'll be able to select birthstones and have names and dates engraved, resulting in a one-of-a-kind treasure. At this late hour, though, be sure to check into shipping deadlines by messaging the sellers.

If She Likes Fancy Jewelry...

Don't: The lure of diamonds and other precious gemstones is strong, especially when you're shopping for the woman who brought you into the world. But they can also bust your budget pretty quickly.

Do: Instead, you might want to consider pearls. They still have cache — think Audrey Hepburn and royal ladies throughout history — but they can be had at exceedingly small prices. For example, we saw a necklace and earring set for just $12 in March (while this gift set currently checks in at $28).

If She Keeps an Impeccable House...

Don't: A fancy vacuum may seem like a good idea if mom is always cleaning house. But the message it actually sends is that you think of her as your personal housekeeper, and you're just giving her a better tool to do her assigned job.

Do: How about giving her some time off (and acknowledging that you do recognize how much work she puts in to maintaining order) by gifting her with a visit from a cleaning service? Check daily deal sites for any local offers that might knock the cost down a bit.

If She Loves Designer Goods...

Don't: It's not worth blowing your savings on a high-end designer item you can't afford.

Do: While this is one area where a knockoff probably won't do the job, that still doesn't mean you have to spend a fortune. Check designer outlets for deals on name brands like Kate Spade and Tory Burch, when similar-but-not-identical just won't work.

If She Needs a Tablet...

Don't: The iPad mini may be the first thing that comes to mind, but wait — you can get far more value from your buck!

Do: A Kindle Fire HDX 7" tablet is definitely more cost effective; it currently sells for $199, whereas the iPad mini will cost you a least $200 for a refurb. Even if you throw in a year of Prime membership with the Kindle — which you should, because it adds features like streaming video (including HBO exclusives), video downloads, and the ability to borrow books — you're spending less overall and getting more, a skill mom would be proud of.

If Her Closet Is Her Castle...

Don't: Buying clothes as a gift is a notoriously tricky task. Pick up something that's too small, and mom will think you think she's fat. Too big, and pretty much the same thing will happen. And even if you do choose the right size, you may fall into the trap of projecting your style onto mom, and she'll still either have to return the item or banish it to the back of the closet or the giveaway pile.

Do: Play it safe and get her a gift card to a store she frequents, so she can shop for something she likes, and try it on before she buys.

If She Enjoys Being Pampered...

Don't: Items like foot spas and massage gadgets may seem like presents that will help mom relax and rejuvenate, but in reality those things will probably get used once or twice, then sentenced to life in the garage, because they take up time and space that mom just can't spare most days.

Do: A better idea is to strongly encourage a real getaway to relax, by purchasing her an affordable vacation, be it actual travel (there are always mind-bogglingly cheap cruises) or just a discounted night in a luxury hotel 5 miles from home.

If She Appreciates a Nice Meal...

Don't: There's nothing wrong with treating mom to dinner, but since this is a special occasion, you should avoid ho-hum options that she might go to on any given day.

Do: If you can't afford to take her somewhere nicer than the norm, trade spending money for spending time by preparing a meal yourself. Mom probably does this daily, so she'll appreciate the effort you put in. Just make sure you pay attention to the details so the result turns out to be really special.

Favorite Restaurant in Albuquerque

What is your favorite restaurant in Albuquerque?  The Guardian has a list of what they believe are the top ten restaurants in the city.  They have something for everyone from coffee to salads to chocolate.  Diners, Cafes, and Restaurants are plentiful in Albuquerque ,and they have a favorite dish for everyone.  Keep reading to learn about some of the best!

Chillz Frozen Custard's waffle sundae

Coffee and dessert duo: Michael Thomas Coffee and Chillz Frozen Custard

To bookend your day or whole trip might require caffeine and sweets. Excellent coffee can be found just south of Nob Hill at Michael Thomas Coffee, who roasts beans on the premises from all over the world. Have a cup and take some beans to go, then venture back toward the University of New Mexico's (UNM) campus for frozen custard straight out of the Midwest. Lighter than ice-cream, eggier than gelato, frozen custard is just right for the summer heat. The daily flavour could be anything from caramel espresso to tiramisu but is always backed up by chocolate and vanilla, served as scoops or turned into waffle sundaes.
• Michael Thomas Coffee, 1111 Carlisle Boulevard SE, +1 505 255 3330, michaelthomascoffee.com. Chillz Frozen Custard, 2720 Central Avenue SE, +1 505 265 5648, chillzcustard.com

Jennifer James 101

Jennifer and partner Nelle are the pair that made gourmet farm-to-table possible in Albuquerque, by serving simple food prepared expertly using as many local ingredients as possible. She put a farmer's name on the salad's arugula when that was only done in California, served foie gras off-menu to anyone who asked, converted countless beet haters with a divine pureed soup, then closed meals with cardamom ice-cream. 
• 4615 Menaul Boulevard NE, +1 505 884 3860, jenniferjames101.com

Sophia's Place

Dennis Apodaca started as a very good cook at a doomed burrito joint on 4th Street in the North Valley. When it was gone, he took over the tiny building and opening a little breakfast-lunch spot named for his daughter. Customers flood the cosy space for lemon ricotta pancakes, duck confit tacos, Asian-style noodle bowls and breakfast egg platters smothered in red chilli. After tasting his creations, few diners can believe that the kitchen that served them the best breakfast they've had all year is barely larger than a camper van.
• 6313 Fourth Street NW, +1 505 345 3935, no website

Mary & Tito's Cafe

Photograph: Hm Vanderbeek

New Mexican food near the UNM campus is an energetic local experience, but just a few miles away one can take in a complementary dining venue – that of working folks and families – while consuming amazing carne adovada. The recipe starts with a simple red chilli sauce containing barely more than dried red chilli pods, water, salt, and garlic. Served as-is like an earthen soup it can warm anyone's heart, but used to marinate then roast cubed pork results in edible ecstasy. If you see her, thank 90-year-old Mary for five decades of love, sweat and tears.
• 2711 Fourth Street NW, +1 505 344 6266, maryandtitoscafe.com

66 Pit Stop

New arrivals to the state will soon learn of the green chilli cheeseburger: it's simply the American favourite gussied up with fiery green chilli. Manyrestaurants have a "GCCB" on their menu; few are as memorable as the Laguna Burger. The 66 Pit Stop is a convenience store at the western edge of town where one can order a half-pound burger for under $5 then watch it cooked from one of a handful of seats. Once delivered, it will occupy both hands until gone, when reaching for the napkins is advised.
• 14311 Central Avenue NW, +1 505 352 7848, no website

Farina Pizzeria

At the Farina Pizzeria, east of downtown, a scorching oven cranks out thin crust pies to rival the best (in this country, anyway). The founding owners consulted with Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix before turning out their own charred creations such as the Pepe Caldo with broccolini, hot pepper and ricotta. Balsamic meatballs are a beloved starter along with a shareable chopped salad; to close, salted butterscotch budino may induce visible swooning.
• 510 Central Avenue SE, +1 505 243 0130, farinapizzeria.com

Torino's @ Home

Several years ago Maxime and Daniela Bouneou brought their vision of homestyle Italian greatness to town. Maxime is French, Daniela is Italian; together they make beautiful plates of delicious food. Daniela seems to radiate delight at greeting and then feeding everyone who walks through the doors. Diners are plied with salt cod, marinated figs, beef brisket ravioli, stuffed calamari and, if you trust the chatter, the best tiramisu anyone has ever eaten in the history of tiramisu.
• 7600 Jefferson Street NE, +1 505 797 4491, torinosfoods.com

The Frontier Restaurant

Directly across Central Avenue from the UNM campus sprawls nearly a half-block of legend: the five dining rooms of The Frontier Restaurant, home to late-night study sessions and Sunday morning families alike for over four decades. Locals appreciate fast service and burgers with chilli hot enough to scare the tourists, who appreciate the gooey-sweet cinnamon rolls. Everyone flocks to the breakfast burrito stuffed with scrambled eggs, cheese, crispy potatoes and green chilli. Until it closes down (perish the thought), no other place will ever win "best breakfast burrito" in town, for very good reason.
• 2400 Central Avenue SE, +1 505 266 0550, frontierrestaurant.com

The Grove Cafe & Market

Just as the local food movement was gaining traction in Albuquerque, a quirky market appeared between campus and downtown where stylish staff serve coffee and cafe nosh for discerning eaters. If that sounds twee, rest assured the experience at The Grove Cafe & Market is a serious endeavour serving food that are made just right. The swirl of honey butter on the oatmeal, the from-scratch English muffins, the side dishes of cut fruit or bean salad so good they are eaten before the shaved roast beef and pepper sandwich – that's the kind of place Lauren and Jason Greene wanted to launch over five years ago, and waiting for a seat is still a good idea.
• 600 Central Avenue SE, +1 505 248 9800, thegrovecafemarket.com

Monte Carlo Steakhouse

Sometimes only a steak will do. That steak should be broiled to order, served to exacting done-ness after an appetizer of chilled shrimp and an iceberg lettuce salad with blue cheese dressing, followed by … baklava? Only at the Monte Carlo Steakhouse, perched near the Rio Grande on Central. As with many other landmarks, it was opened by a local Greek family, proving that imported feta cheese works perfectly well on a steakhouse menu. On weekend nights the regulars plan a trip for the 12 ounce prime rib, but everyone saves room for that homemade baklava.
• 3916 Central Avenue SW, +1 505 831 2444, Facebook page