Mark Twain once said, ” Yesterday, everybody smoked his last cigar, took his last drink and swore his last oath. Today, we are a pious and exemplary community.” Looking around my office, after a brief hiatus between Christmas and the New Year, his words echo loudly in my mind. Like many of us, I spent the latter part of December soul searching, swearing off my vices and eagerly awaiting a new, more exemplary version of myself. 2012 will be the year I master the science of baking, and drink more water (among other things…) While I am busy with self improvement, this January I will be……
Celebrating the Award Season. By the time the last drop of Christmas booze leaves my system, the award season is here to spoil my detox. This year I am serving the Brad Pitt, a refreshing drink that pleases both those holding onto their detox and those thirsty for a cocktail.
Made with cucumber slices, mint leaves and lime wheels, it is best served in a tall chilled glass…as refreshing on your eyes as its name sake, make the non-alcholhoic version in large batches and simply add your Vodka as you serve your cocktails.
Ingredients:
- Cucumber Slices
- Lime Wheels
- Tonic Water
- Mint Leaves
- Vodka (optional)
Directions: Slice the cucumber and lime into thin slices, add to the tonic water and mint leaves and pour over ice in a chilled glass. Add a splash of Vodka for a spirited cocktail.
Embracing Oatmeal. January is National Oatmeal Month, and for those who vowed to start eating healthier, having oatmeal for breakfast and a handful of granola for an afternoon snack is a great way to start your resolution. This month I will be sharing my recipe for Granola that is fabulous sprinkled on yoghurt, or by the handful.
Cleaning my appliances. My fridge, freezer, oven, microwave and grill have been working overtime all season long, earning them a deep cleaning. If deep cleaning in on your list this month, pop over and read my guide to deep cleaning your kitchen.
Planning my year. Ever the planner, I love January for giving me a reason to buy a new wall calendar (yes, I am still stuck in 1989), and the opportunity to map out the year ahead. If your looking for tips on making your calendar do all the hard work for you, read my annual planning tips.
Feasting on Beetroot, my absolut favorite vegetable and enjoying other Seasonal produce including red, white and green cabbages, celeriac, leeks, onions, potatoes, spinach, chard, pears and apples. If fresh nuts are a favourite of yours, stock up now, the season is short and ends in January.
Bring the outdoors in with these seasonal flowers: Bottlebrush, Helleborus, Protea, Holly, Jasmine, Cammellia and Star Gazer Lilly. I will also be planting bulbs indoors to bring life to my otherwise dull kitchen window. If indoor gardening is on your list this month, be sure to read my tips for planting bulbs indoors.
Recommended Reading
Post Holiday Party Ideas | Housewife Bliss
January is..2011 | Housewife Bliss
New Year’s Resolutions that GiveBack | Housewife Bliss
