The Paloma

My brother and sister-in-law gave me one of the best gifts ever when they gifted me with a copy of Shake: A New Perspective on Cocktails along with the most amazing Mason Jar Cocktail Shaker, Hardwood Muddler and Double Jigger.  The book is a must-have for anyone interested in engineering their own cocktails.  It provides what they refer to as Cocktail Crafting 101 - the essentials you need for stocking your bar, the appropriate glassware to pair with the right cocktail, provides pros and cons of cubed ice vs. crushed ice and even more!  I love the way the book is exceptionally organized into cocktails by season - incorporating seasonal herbs, fruit and spirits into artfully crafted cocktails.

Clifton Inn - Charlottesville, Virginia

Deep summer is when laziness finds respectability.  Amidst the deep summer of Charlottesville, we found a respite from the hum-drum of our busy lives to find and respect a bit of laziness.  Clifton Inn is a hidden gem in the hills of Charlottesville, Virginia.  It offers 100 acres of southern charm and hospitality.