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
Super Refreshing Watermelon Bourbon Fizz // Reflections on 26 // and a HUGE Thank YOU
Ingredients
- 4 cups diced watermelon
- 10 ounces bourbon
- 1/2 cup lime juice
- 1 1/4 cups lime flavored seltzer
- Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions
- Place watermelon in the body of a blender and puree. You may choose to strain the juice post blending, but I don't find it necessary.
- Divide watermelon juice among 5 glasses, or pour it into a pitcher. Top each glass about 2 ounces of bourbon, 2 tablespoons lime juice and 1/4 cup seltzer. Alternatively just pour everything into the pitcher and then serve.
- Garnish glasses or pitcher with the lime wedges.
Anna (Hidden Ponies) says
Hope you have a happy happy birthday, and I just love the joy bursting from this post!! Cheers to next year being even better 🙂
Tieghan Gerard says
Happiest birthday, girl!! You are amazing and I am in awe of you daily!! Congrats on full-time blogging and this drink!! So pretty!
Eileen says
Yay! Congrats on going full blogger, and happy early birthday! (Although I have to mention that I myself am going to be turning 37 later this year…so, uh, not sure what point I want to make about that. Maybe just that aging is not the horror that people think it is? Yeah. 🙂 ) And hooray, watermelon! This sounds like one of the most refreshing summertime cocktails ever. Definitely perfect for a party!
Christine @ Cooking with Cakes says
happy birthday dollface, 27 is an AMAZING year and I have a feeling you are totally going to crush it!!! enjoy a beautiful day 🙂
Stephanie @ Girl Versus Dough says
Happy birthday, sweet lady, and CONGRATS on going full-time with the blog! You are a rock star. AND you made a drink with bourbon. I wish I could hug you right now.
bakerbynature says
I wish that, too!!! I must meet you (and the baaaaaaaby) very soon!!!
Matt says
Happy Birthday, congrats and holy cow I love this drink! Perfect for summer!
bakerbynature says
Thanks so much, Matt! Bourbon and watermelon… swoon 😉
Librarian Lavender says
Happy birthday! And what a wonderful cocktail recipe! I love the blog, I don’t have any comments, just praise 🙂
bakerbynature says
You are too kind 🙂 Thank you, dear!
Abby @ The Frosted Vegan says
Yay!! Happy Birthday! I wondered if you had gone full time, congrats girl! I would love to chat with you about blogging sometime! : )
bakerbynature says
Thanks, Abby! Feel free to shoot me an email anytime, babe! xo
Kathryn says
Happy almost birthday!! Congratulations too on taking the leap into full time blogging – how brilliant!
bakerbynature says
Thank you, Kathryn!!! You’re so sweet, girl!
Kayle (The Cooking Actress) says
* claps* yayyy! So happy you’re doing well and that I got to meet you! And happy ALMOST BIRTHDAYYYY! Yay yay yayy!
bakerbynature says
Kayle, you’re the sweetest! I am so happy we got to meet in real lifes!!! Come visit soon, ok!?