Leap Day Celebration

It happens only every four years! 

Leap Day

 

Here's a cheerful way to celebrate the extra day we've been given this year.

This whimsical fabric can be found at your local fabric store. The frogs represent the leap in "Leap Day". The ladybugs are a sweet compliment to the outdoor theme.   Upon this table for two, I positioned the  "Love Frog" glitter globe I presented to my husband with his candy on Valentines Day and told him "I toad-i-ly love you!"  He  complimented the table perfectly. (The frog that is!)

Ladybugs want to be part of the fun too!

The flowers complimented the table and the outdoor venue.  

This table looked glorious outside.

Anyone who knows me knows I LOVE red glassware.  

Actually I love all colored glassware.

So what should I serve for lunch?  Any ideas?   

Please don't say "frogs legs".  I couldn't do that!

I'm thinking a bacon, basil and tomato sandwich with a delicious salad of artisan greens, fruits and nuts,  or a pasta salad with a kick, accompanied by my new favorite beverage Sanpelagrino Limonata spiked with strawberries! In the sherbet glasses I believe lemon sorbet topped with mixed berries would be a refreshing conclusion to the lunch.  

Here's a little bit of info about Leap Day in case you are interested: Click Here

If you haven't seen this movie and you love Rom-Coms like I do, you must view this movie before or on February 29th.

Happy Leap Year Everyone!

Valentines Berried Treasure Slushy Punch

One of the very best recipes for punch that I have ever had, is what I call "Berried Treasure Slushy Punch". It is made with Jell-O, fruit juices and lemon-lime soda.  It compliments everything and is quite tasty.  I love its slushy texture which provides an unexpected element.  Versions of this punch have been served at receptions, showers and parties for years. Find the recipe here. 

What I have discovered is that it blends well with sparkling wines as a welcome beverage. I have mixed it with Brut sparkling wine, Peach sparkling wine, but it is a show stopper with Strawberry sparkling wine.  How could it not be?!  I found mine at World Market for about $9 a bottle.  Here is the view of one that would work just as well.

 

Present this drink in a fluted champagne glass topped with a strawberry and sprig of mint leaves for Valentines Day, Mothers Day, birthdays, showers or any other party.  For Christmas top with 3 cranberries and a mint sprig.  I guaranty you that you will hear gasps of delight if you serve this beverage at your party.  Trust me on this!  Totally delightful. Be sure you have enough to offer a second glass to your guests. 

Note: This punch pairs marvelously with any bacon appetizer.