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."

Watching all of those shows on Food Network wants you to bring out your inner cook. But where can you go when a cookbook looks like a foreign language and somehow all your testers have the need to wash their hair this weekend after your last tasting? Try the Instutute of Culinary Education which not only offers courses for those who seek a career in food - but you can sign up for recreational courses and even have private funcations here as well. In no time you'll find that the Food Network will be a source of additional ideas that you will be able to take on AND that your tasters have no excuses to come over and taste your excellent work. Sign up for emails so that you can be in the know on what course will be offered next.

I can claim many titles, Internet Personality, designer, accessories obsessed, etc; however, when I speak with friends on the great debate on where they sit as a Baker vs a Cook - I do sit silently thinking that it would be nice to learn some recipes. I have to say that it can be a little intimidating. Somehow the idea of dealing in fashion, writing about accessories on See Pretty Things, posting here and designing for Kitten Couture - I never run out of ideas or steam; however, the idea of cooking makes me run for healthy takeout or wimping out by making salads. Maybe I'm not being completely fair since I have found ways to limp by - I am a fan of chicken. Not to say that I don't do chicken well (thanks to Wholefoods having pre-marinated chickens of various seasonings); however, I would like to know how to make some sides and do a little something. Ironically enough, I do enjoy watching the Food Network; however, I have yet to become completely introduced to the inner workings of my kitchen. A cookbook is definitely something that I should think about having and one of the cooks I respect is Rachael Ray who is able to integrate taking things that are pre-made with those things that you do yourself and within 30 mins. I also love that she has this cookbook of 365 items that you can make without any repeats! This is something that interests me! Run out and begin your collection with this book and I hope to let you know of successful recipes that I have been able to create and maybe I will create my own (baby steps). Check out various items from Rachael Ray that are available on Food Network and also check out her very own site as well.