Memorial Day Celebration

Happy Memorial Day!  I decided to escape the hot city for the weekend and enjoy some Western NC fun.  Flyfishing on the Davidson River, shopping at the local farmer's market, and catching up with great friends at the lake (who are always up for a board game or 2)...

I feel like this weekend has also been filled with flowers, from the flowers sold by the southern lady in downtown Shelby to the beautiful wild flower bouquet given to me by a sweet friend in the mountains.  I can't help but smile when I'm around flowers.  My ideal Memorial Day would be spent with you, around these flowers...

and sipping on this delicous, fresh drink...

Enjoy, my friends!

Memorial Day Blackberry Cocktail

1 (0.75 oz.) package fresh mint sprigs

12 (1/4 inch-thick) cucumber slices

2 (6-oz.) packages fresh blackberries

3/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 3 limes)
8-12 tsp. turbinado sugar
1 cup plus 2 Tbsp. gin
1 cup cold club soda
Crushed ice

Place first 5 ingredients in a large pitcher.  Gently press mint leaves, cucumbers, and blackberries against side of pitcher with a wooden spoon to release flavors.  Stir in gin and club soda.  Serve over ice.  Garnish if desired