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Jill_Bauer

How to Take a Summer Staycation

by ‎06-16-2015 04:26 PM - edited ‎06-16-2015 04:57 PM

Hi, everyone!

 

Is a vacation not in the cards for you and your family this summer? You can still “getaway” by doing a staycation in your own backyard.

 

Just picture your favorite place and bring in elements that belong there. For example, the beach is my happy place. So on my staycation, I’d make my home an oasis. I’m picturing a big, colorful umbrella and rug, lounge chairs, and my favorite music playing on the Bose. If you’re lucky enough to have a pool, that just sweetens the deal. If you don’t have a pool, get creative with the hose or find a shady spot where you’re shielded from that hot summer sun.

 

Summer Staycation

 

How’s that for an oasis! That’s the Flameless Seahorse Candle and Nautical Holder by Candle Impressions, and the Set of 3 Starfish Luminaries by Valerie Parr Hill. You’ll find that snack mix recipe on QVC.com.

 

And of course, what tropical oasis would be complete without a fruity drink?!

 

Red and White Sangria.jpg

 

Red & White Wine Sangria

Other combinations of fruits or berries can be used in these sangrias such as peaches, plums, or apples, according to the season. However, for the white sangria, make sure to keep the citrus fruits included for great color and flavor.

 

Red Wine Sangria

Ingredients:

  • 1 bottle of your favorite red wine (Merlot or Pinot Noir work well)
  • 1 (48-oz) bottle of pomegranate-blueberry juice
  • 6 oz brandy
  • 1 cup fresh blackberries
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries

 

Preparation:

Combine all of the ingredients in a large pitcher and let steep for 3 hours, or overnight. When ready to serve, garnish with a sprig of fresh basil.

 

White Wine Sangria

Ingredients:

  • 1 bottle of your favorite white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay work well)
  • 1 (48-oz) bottle of Lemonade
  • 6 oz Limoncello liqueur
  • 1 cup fresh lemon slices
  • 1 cup fresh lime slices
  • 1 cup fresh star fruit slices

 

Preparation:

Combine all of the ingredients in a large pitcher and let steep for 3 hours, or overnight. When ready to serve, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

 

Pitcher of Lemonade.jpg

 

Raspberry Lemonade

Ingredients:

  • 1 (12-oz) can frozen raspberry lemonade concentrate
  • 3 cups water
  • 3/4 tsp lime juice
  • 1 (12-oz) can lemon-lime soda
  • 1 cup crushed ice
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries (optional garnish)
  • 18 mint leaves (optional garnish)

 

Preparation:

In a large punch bowl, combine the raspberry lemonade concentrate, water, and lime juice. Stir in the lemon-lime soda and crushed ice. Garnish each glass with fresh raspberries and a mint leaf, if desired.

 

Don’t forget to organize some family games of wiffle ball or basketball. Winner gets first dibs on the s’mores sticks…use the fire pit or a grill!

 

Happy staycationing! See you soon!

—Jill

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