I remember when I tried my first Mojito and I thought that I had found my signature drink. Oh fickled taste buds, the love affair didn't last. Somehow I returned to my Gin and Tonic and wondered if I would find a signature drink that I wouldn't stray from. Well, this weekend, I will try to make Raspberry Mojitos which may in fact be my drink for the summer and hopefully a hit at many housewarmings, game nights and more. I am always excited to try something new and this drink recipe and many others, are available on Cocktail Times which is my go to place for the best drinks and meals that you would want to incorporate into a future function! So if this drink doesn't hit the spot, there are plenty of other ones that you will love making as you begin to play bartender! I love that this recipe is simple and that there are so many fresh ingredients as well.

Raspberry Mojito Pitcher
Ingredients:
- 6 oz Cruzan light rum
- 4 oz Rock Candy Syrup (or simple syrup)
- 6 lime halves
- handful of raspberries
- 30 - 40 sprigs of fresh mint leaves
- club soda

Build in mixing pitcher. Press 6 lime halves and simple syrup. Add rum, mint leaves, raspberries, crush, fill with ice. Stir and top with club soda.

We take this break from the Mercedes-Benz Miami Swim Fashion Week to suggest that there is only one thing that this event is missing and that is yummie Pinkberry and hello, Lychee is back! I never knew they had it but being a purist, I never have any toppings on my Green Tea Pinkberry but this weekend, I will enjoy having Lychee which is one of my favorite fruits to enjoy. Now if I was at the runway shows I would love to see Poko Pano's show on Mon with a cup of Pinkberry in my hand, I do believe that it would make my experience complete and absolutely tasty as well! If you're in NYC this weekend, you know where you may find me (my fave one is by my wing place with amazing pint specials) - of course when I am heading on the train, there is one that I like to go to there as well to make my walk a little cooler! I don't really care about the health debate about Pinkberry or the Fro Yo wars that are going on, I'm a Pinkberry Girl (and yes still a Buttercup Girl as well).

Today we are taking a bit of a breather since the week has been so busy! So instead of mentioning great places to get a drink or a way to make a new one, we want you to relax a bit and have something a little fragrant that you can enjoy in whichever way you decide to spend today! With notes of White Tea and Pink Peppercorn, there are definitely sweet smells to be had with the Hard Candy Fragrance and because of this, it was a natural choice in terms of our weeklong giveaway where 4 lucky winners will get to try this out for their very own!

Congratulations Dorian, Kam, Jennae and Michelle! I will definitely contact you individually but loved hearing about your favorite scents. It's amazing how many we go through and which ones we love no matter what. With that being said, I hope this is one that you will make a fave in your cabinets!

One weekend my boyfriend and I went out to a really good sushi restaurant in Long Beach and I happened to order a plum wine. I did it because it sounded really good and as much as I love Sake, I wasn't really interested in having it. I loved how sweet and smooth it was! Later on that weekend when we made dinner, we bought Sake and Plum Wine, intending to have it together as a Bonsai. We ended up just drinking the Plum Wine and more specifically, we had selected Fu-Ki Plum. Now I am truly hooked on plum wine and although I have had it with Sake, I prefer to drink it alone. The other weekend we went to Sushi House in Hoboken and I had their Plum Wine - so it is confirmed that this is something that I do enjoy having even when I'm not eating it with sushi or fish. It is absolutely refreshing and I think that it works well with all seasons which is very important as well. I look forward to trying the different kinds and seeing the ways that it can be mixed together.

Can you believe that June is almost over? Fourth of July is days away and so you have to think about what you're doing, what party you will plan and more. Well here is a drink that you could make for your guests during your party - American Patriotic Tea! I love that this recipe on Cocktail Times is one that you can modify with a variety of flavors! If you love this recipe, you'll have to visit the site to find a lot more that would work with a number of dinners, events and more that you'll host! For me, I would add raspberry liquer in this as well as I think that that would be a refreshing flavor. I think even adding in a molasses taste would be nice as well. So definitely try it like this and then let your creativity kick in!

AMERICAN PATRIOTIC TEA RECIPE

Ingredients:

- 4 cups water

- 1/2 cup sugar

- 8 black tea bags

- 1 lemon, cut into 8 wedges

- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves

- 2 cups American Honey liqueur

In a large saucepan, boil 4 cups water. Add 1/2 cup sugar; stir to dissolve. Remove from heat; add 8 teabags of black tea. Steep 10 minutes; discard teabags. Add 4 cups cold water; transfer to pitcher and chill. Mash or muddle lemon wedges and add to pitcher. Add 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves. Using a wooden spoon, crush mint until fragrant. Stir in 2 cups of American Honey liqueur. Serve over ice.

I hope everyone takes some time to check out Solstice in Times Square brought to you by SoyJoy! What a great way to ring in the summer at the center of Times Square! I will not be able to attend this; however, I know that many people will be able to join this event. In addition to having SoyJoy as a prime participant, the Times Square Alliance has also brought this amazing event! I really love the idea and can't wait to post the video of seeing Times Square getting a little relaxing love with so many yogis in the area! I love that this will be offered throughout the day and you will also be able to see the participating studios as well! Bring a friend and some comfortable clothes to enjoy this event. Visit the Times Square Alliance site to see the schedule and what you will be attending!

In addition, I would also check out SoyJoy to see the amazing bars that are great to eat throughout the day. Not only are they tasty but they are perfect to have when you need to get a tasty snack! With so many great flavors, you're bound to have more than one that you'll find yourself nibbling on! I think that the site is super cute and just as a means to relax, you'll love opening the site and seeing the cute parade of bars and the bunny walking across your screen!

If you ended up attending this event, please leave your comments and let me know what I missed! I look forward to hearing and if you take yoga in NYC, let me know as I am looking for a facility that I can go to as I am still searching for the perfect studio! I will also check out the list so I am excited to see your comments!

Last weekend while I was up at a lake house with my boyfriend and additional couples, one of them mentioned that they wanted to make daiquiris. I had forgotten how much I loved the refreshing beverage and since my boyfriend and I are taking some down time this weekend (ie not looking at more condos), we are going to cook dinner and I think we are going to make Mango Margaritas which is probably my favorite drink to have when you are talking about these kinds of drinks. I also love that they are easy to make so all skill levels should be ok! Also with the basic ingredients provided, you can make one that is to your liking in terms of flavors as most people can't agree on what they want for the next round! But regardless of what you choose, this recipe is not only quick but begs to have you tweak it so that you can make it your own every time people come over to have it!

Mango Margaritas
- 2 Cups of Bottled Margarita Mixers
- 1/2 Mango Diced
- 1/2 Cup Rum
- 5 Cups Ice
- Mango or Lime for Garnish
* Blend everything
* Add ice and continue to blend 45 - 60 seconds or until desired consistency
*Garnish

So last weekend we were hot and sweaty during the Snapple Big Apple BBQ Fest. We were settling down to sampling and we wanted to get something to drink and one of the booths we were at had run out of regular Snapple Tea and at first, could only offer diet. Since neither of us were fans, she did say that they had Snapple Antioxidant Water. At the time I was fine with it but when we sat down I wondered if I would like this as much as my Vitamin Water but with the heat - who could second guess cold liquid? Interestingly enough we had the Agave Melon drink that is on the far right and we enjoyed it a lot. I know that a lot of people talk about how much sugar is in these drinks and honestly I have never really checked but I love how refreshing and colorful they are and I am actually going to try each flavor. When it's hot out and you have been consuming normal water throughout the day and you don't feel like or may be unable to consume a frosty libation, this should be a great option to try out!

When I was in South Beach, I fell in love with ceviche. This is a style of food that is Latin American food that typically has lime juices, chopped vegetables and more. It is refreshing and perfect to have with cocktails and wine. Well there is a place in Midtown East that has focused on this style of food! Crave Ceviche Bar brings SoBe to Manhattan and is refreshing! Earlier this year due to a crane accident, various shoppes and restaurants were affected and closed temporarily. Now that we are in half day Fridays, this is a great place to visit and to support as it has a great clean and minimalistic look and is perfect to go out with friends to relax. Take some time to check out their restaurant and visit their site to see what ceviche is all about.

Crave Ceviche Bar
946 2nd Ave
NY, NY 10019

On the day of the DVF shoot, I decided to walk. Why I did this on a day that was a little chilly and still a little rainy - I don't know. But I have to say that I enjoyed walking down 5th Ave to see everything that was around. By the time I got closer to the Meat Packing District, I noticed this super cute bakery known as Billy's Bakery. Right now I am in a bit of a cupcake battle. I have to say that I am a Buttercup Cupcake girl and my sister is in love with Magnolia Bakery; however, I am always interested in trying something new. The inviting look of this yummie bakery definitely made me think of stopping by on a day when it wasn't busy. I love the mint green bench and how everything is in a light yellow trim that reminds you of something to be found on a cupcake!

Although I didn't go in, there were tons of people in this cute little shop that definitely made me think that this was the place for me to try and perfect to bring your best friend or sig other! After visiting the site, I loved seeing that you could buy cute merchandise and read up on a lot of press as well. As the weather gets better, start taking some trips around the city and make Billy's Bakery apart of your travels. Whether you love cupcakes, Key Lime pies or more this is the perfect way to pair up your Soy or Organic Milk with something extra tasty I also love that they run some late hours as well which is perfect for a late night sugar urge.

Billy's Bakery
184 9th Ave
NY, NY 10011

Any trip needs a little research in my opinion. Even if you never really go on the trip, having a little knowledge never hurt anyone. When it comes to Astor Wines and Spirits, this is a great place to go to see a variety of wines and spirits - those that you know and those which may not be familiar to you. I also love that when visiting the site, you can register so you can learn more about classes and tastings that are offered. Now you can branch out beyond your favorites and find housewarming gifts, something to bring for dinner and much more as we get closer into the summer. This is also a great way to pass the day when you had yet to plan to do anything and it is a tad too hot outside to do anything else. Take some time to visit the site and then head down to Astor Wines and Spirits!

Astor Wines & Spirits
399 Lafayette Street at 4th St
NY, NY 10003

Who doesn't like finding a place that people are not familiar with? It's so much fun to try something new and to make sure that other people know that you are so the go to person to finding the best picks in town! Today, I introduce you to - White Rabbit which is down in the LES and is known for its crisp and minimalist approach which is great to go with friends or to take a large group of people. As you flip through the website, you will see all the angles within this club which has a beautiful bamboo bar! I also love that this place was named after a child's candy which is available on the bar - white rabbit. When it comes to items to nibble on, they have amazing shrimp wontons and summer rolls as well. What a great way to take a rest and to leave all thoughts of the city behind as you go into this amazing venue. Take a trip down to the LES and invite some friends along.

White Rabbit
145 Houston St
NY, NY

The other day my boyfriend and I headed out to Park Slope to visit condos. I have to say that the condo search for him has lead me to a variety of new areas and for this girl who hasn't been in Brooklyn very often, it's nice to have a new area to see with fresh eyes. I have to say that we stopped into the bar Alchemy and it was so cozy and they had an amazing Strawberry Mojito that was really interesting and until then, I had never tried Mussels - loved them. It was such a cozy vibe and everyone was so nice and I love that it had the perfect dark atmosphere which leads to amazing conversation. So, since today is all about beverages, if you're in the area you should definitely pop in - I would also suggest the calamari and they have an interesting Chickpea snack which was addicting.
ALCHEMY
56 5th Ave
Park Slope, Brooklyn

This the best time of year - you know the part that you know that the weather is getting better and that you need to start thinking about what the perfect drink and place will be. When it comes to NYC, the perfect place is a roofdeck or a nice patio area. Now that choice seems easy but then again you have to decide what place has your favorite spot - when it comes to that, you're so on your own! In the meantime, for those that are rum fans - here is the perfect recipe courtesy of Cocktail Times.com. Not only are they a great place to go to get recipes for your next party, but they also have great recipes for meals that you would like to cook as well. They are definitely a go to site of sorts!

FUNKY DIVA

- 1 1/2 oz Leblon cachaça
- 1/2 oz Aperol liqueur
- 1/2 oz Grand Marnier
- dash of simple syrup
- blood orange, cut into chunks
- Champagne

With these ingredients, you're ready to make the Funky Diva; however, you'll also need to do the following which is suggested by Cocktail Times.com as well: " Muddle blood orange and simple syrup. Shake with all the ingredients except Champagne. Pour into a tall glass and top with Champagne."

When the weather is amazing, there are no excuses to stay indoors! It's all about having a good time with friends and trying something out. You can always go somewhere to try something and then on to the next if you like. Felice Wine Bar is located on 65th and Lex and is an Italian Rustic wine bar that is definitely one that would be interesting to go to after a day at Bloomies or some of your other favorite stores in the Upper East Side. I definitely love the rustic vibe and I think it's fun to go somewhere where you intended to only stay for drinks and ended up staying well into the night. Fortunately for you, they also have an amazing menu which only guarantees that you will have a very long but full night!

I love cats and when it comes to big cats, I love them too. This post ties in a lot of different items together! First off, the Coffee and Tea Festival is only days away and will be held at the Metropolitan Pavilion! I love that this is going to be a great event that will have the best in coffee, tea and cocoa. Not only can you enjoy warm or chilled beverages, you can also get great products for your drinks. Today's Sippin' Saturday includes this beautiful teapot from Cardew Design, Inc. I love the vibrant orange colors (obviously I am tying this into our THINK CITRUS theme for this month as well) and think that this is really cute and I love the lid with the tiger cub on the top. Definitely visit the site to see a lot more of the interesting canisters, mugs, coasters and tea pots! Of course if you're in NYC, you definitely need to attend the show!

From now until April 12th, The Kitten Lounge will be presenting a sampling of exhibitors that will be attending The 3rd Annual Coffee & Tea Festival NYC at the Metropolitan Pavilion from April 12th - 13th. Many of you know that I am a huge fan of Tea and for those that are Coffee lovers or enjoy the treats that come along with this, this is definitely going to be a fun event. What a great way to see the various tea shops that are throughout this area. One of the exhibitors will be Tavalon Tea Bar (which is a personal favorite).

Tavalon Tea Bar has these amazing Bloom Teas that you place the pods into a container and not only can you enjoy the aromatic smell but you can also see them expand and "bloom" in front of your very eyes. This blend is the Vesuvius Sunrise which includes green tea, hibiscus and lavendar. Available at Tavalon within their super cute shop on 14th street or on their website, this is a great way to enjoy tea in a different way. Take some time to visit them virtually, at their shop and of course - make sure that you go to the festival as well. If you would like to go, you can check out the website to reserve your tickets OR you can also win one of 2 tickets right here on Kitten Lounge which will allow you and a friend to attend to see exhibitors, sample beverages, attend classes, shop and to enjoy the Java/Tea Lounge which will have music and entertainment! To win one of these passes this week, add a comment onto this post letting us know your favorite tea spot or blend. One person will be randomly chosen next Saturday.

Tavalon Tea Bar
22 E 14th St
NY, NY 10003

3rd Annual Tea & Coffee Festival NYC
Metropolitan Pavilion
125 West 18th St
NY, NY 10011
April 12 - 13th
11:00AM - 6:00PM (Sat)
11:00AM - 5:00PM (Sun)

Just thinking about an Island Blossom, makes me put myself miles away from going to the office and working! Something like this is perfect to sip while hanging out at the beach or while in your studio creating amazing pieces that are definitely going to wow your many followers (although too many sips and the actual creativity may have to be questioned). That being said, this drink has three of my favorite ingredients: Pomegranate, Lychee and Tequila. In addition, I love the color and it happens to fit with the theme: THINK CITRUS. Thanks to Cocktail Times, this recipe and others like it, will have us on our way to being budding mixologists!

Island Blossom
Ingredients:
- pre-marinate fresh fruit pieces with lime juice and Malibu passion fruit rum
- 1 part pomegranate juice
- 1 part orange juice
- 1/4 part simple syrup
- 1/2 part Soho lychee liqueur
- 2 parts Tezon Blanco tequila

Mix juices, tequila, syrup and lychee liqueur with pre-marinate fresh fruit pieces in a mixing glass. Serve in a rocks glass over ice.

First off, Happy March - we are that much deeper into the winter (which hasn't been too bad if you're in the NYC area), we're about to "spring forward" in time and of course the summer is that much closer (ah flip flops and shorts - have we really been parted this long)? So with that in mind, the Kitten Lounge is launching it's month long theme - THINK CITRUS. For the entire month of March, we're carrying you through this season with thoughts of citrus. We will be infusing your homes, wardrobe and palate with all things that are citrus! So if you think you have something that fits within this taste or within the color scheme - you'll find it right here.

Now, on to raising a glass. This recipe, which was found on Cocktail Times, combines my three loves: citrus, lavender and of course martinis. This definitely something that is aromatic to the senses and is also a great way to learn a new drink that is perfect for gatherings at your home or an event that you will be attending.

Citrus Lavender Martini
Ingredients:
- 1 wedge fresh orange
- 2 fresh lavender leaves (or 5 - 6 pieces dried lavender)
- 1 1/2 oz Level vodka
- 1/2 oz Cointreau
- 1/2 oz Sweet & Sour mix
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 packet of sugar in the raw

Muddle orange wedge and lavender at the base of the shaker (or a mixer). Add vodka, Cointreau and sweet and sour mix over ice in the shaker. Shake well and strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass. (Optional: Rim martini glass with honey and dip rim in sugar)

The other day I had Arizona Green Tea with Pomegranate Acai tea bags. I am such a fan of the cold beverage but I never thought that I would love it in this version. I love the rich taste and the fact that it has green tea in it as well. I would say that you should definitely give this a try and I enjoy drinking it this morning. Nothing is better than sipping on this while building websites, blogging and more.