The sun is out, the birdies are singing, and tomorrow I turn 27…

Wait, what?! Seriously. Where this year went I haven’t the faintest. I swear the better life gets, the faster it flies by. So bittersweet, really. These days I’m lucky to report I enjoy every moment, of everyday, but I also find myself sitting in the dark at night, wondering where all the hours go… and why they must go in such a hurry. Time… can you please just pump the breaks a moment! I want to enjoy you just a little longer.

And so on my last day of my 26th year, I’m feeling nostalgic and whimsical and full of hope. Getting older, well… it’s a weird thing; there’s no denying it. But it’s also wonderful. I really mean it. Every year that passes I find myself more in sync with who I really am – and what I really want – and going after those things is what makes life so worth living. I can only imagine what this year holds. I get excited just thinking about it!

One of the best parts of this year was the day I left my 9-5 job and said HELLO to being a full-time blogger. I never really went “public” with this announcement because, well, honestly, I was scared as shit. Leaving a well paid, stable position for the uncertainty of online success isn’t all layer cakes and cookies. It’s an extremely populated field full of amazingly talented folks, and um, jumping in with both feet, well, it was scary as hell. It was also the best decision I’ve ever made. Like, ever ever ever. And so I just want to take a moment to thank you. You made this past year the BEST. You make me living my dream possible. And well, I just really love you. I am so-so grateful for your presence in my life.

One last thing before we get to this majorly gorgeous cocktail I’ve been visually teasing you with while I babble about me and my little life (I swear I’ll only do this once a year!) – I’d like your advice. About this here blog. And about what you want more of. Or less of! Or new things you’d really like to see. You can email me, or comment, or comment anonymously, but please let me know what you’re in the mood for, because making this space better for you – better for fostering our relationship – is what this next year is all about. I’m open for any and all suggestions, and I thank you in advance for your time.

And now – at last – it’s cocktail time! First of all, I’ll say what you’re probably already thinking – yes, I am watermelon obsessed! I made those strawberry watermelon daiquiris last week and just knew I’d be using the other half of that sweet juicy melon for more drinks. I’m so bad! They’re SO good! It’s all about balance 😉

This drink is easy as can be to make, and you have the option of making them individually, or as a pitcher. I personally like to make them as I go, but for parties and larger gatherings, I say by the pitcher ALL THE WAY.

The drink is made up of watermelon juice (which you’ll make by simply pulsing watermelon in the blender until liquified), lime juice (just squeeze), bourbon (did I mention to drink slowly…?), and lime seltzer (that’s our fizzy fizz fizz). That’s it! Like I said, these couldn’t be easier to make… or drink! And I just know they’ll be a hit at your next party, BBQ, or cocktail hour. xoxo