The housewarming party has come and gone, and we are finally to a place where every day isn’t centered around “getting the house ready”. I’ve become horrible about taking photos, and it’s especially difficult when hosting about 60 people, but I wanted to share a few pics along with a tasty drink recipe.

I kept the food simple to keep me from turning into a raving lunatic on the day of the party. Your usual suspects of pimento cheese, hummus, a veggie plate, a cheese plate and a couple of dips were present. My mom had this fruit bouquet delivered, which went over well with the kiddies at the party. We also picked up some pulled pork from Fox Bros to use for sliders, and just typing that has me wanting ribs and a frito pie.

I made White Sangria (above) and Rosemary Grapefruit Margaritas (below) and both were a hit. I cheat on my Sangria recipe so it’s not traditional, but it does the trick.

*Muddle about half a cup of sugar with sliced lemons and limes in the bottom of your serving vessel.
*Add bite sized pieces of apples, peaches, pears, oranges, anything that is firm and in season.
*Next add about 12 oz of Vodka and about 6 bottles of white wine. I used Trader Joes Sav Blanc.
*Do this the day before or first thing the day of the party and let sit in the fridge so the fruit and booze can meld together.
*Before serving add a bottle of sparkling water.

This “recipe” is for a 2 gallon container and could easily be adjusted to make a pitcher for just a few people.

The Margaritas went quick and they were STRONG. Probably a little too strong, but not for this crew. For this drink you will need to make a simple syrup. If you aren’t already keeping a basic simple syrup on hand in the fridge you probably will be soon. I save glass bottles from water or wine, add a pour spout, and store in the fridge. They are handy for sweetening cocktails, teas, or iced coffees. I have recently made a mint simple syrup, a ginger lime syrup for Govt Mules, and the rosemary simple syrup for this margarita.

*For the rosemary simple syrup add fresh rosemary sprigs and about a cup and a half of sugar to a sauce pan and muddle together to draw out the oils in the herbs. Add water and let this steep on the stove for about 15 minutes. Pull out your herbs and funnel into a glass bottle.
*In your drink dispenser add equal parts tequila and the best grapefruit juice you can find. Next add about 2 cups of lime juice and a cup of the rosemary simple syrup (more or less to taste).
*Stir and garnish with rosemary sprigs and lime wedges.

All drinks should be served over LOTS and LOTS of ice.

A few more snaps of our guests and some of the amazing gifts we received. Thanks again to everyone who came and for being so generous and celebrating with us!