Music Monday: Rusty Clanton & Janie Evans

As I mentioned in my first holiday Music Monday post, I first heard She & Him when I saw Zooey Deschanel's version of "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve" on Youtube. I love that song. NYE is a magical night. The parties, the traditions, the elegance. It's a night to have fun, yet reflect on the year that has passed us by.

The last time I was dating someone during the holidays, I was away in Uganda. She spent NYE on Beale Street in Memphis, TN with our friends...I was in the jungle. I can't complain though...we actually managed to make our way into the capital city of Kampala for a little fun. We first prayed at the Nelson Mandella National Stadium and then partied it up in a pretty swanky nightclub thanks to some friends at Bacardi.

Anywho, everyone always stresses the NYE kiss. I stress about the year that has seemingly passed me by and wonder if I took advantage of every minute of every hour of every day.

But let's be honest...I like a good party too. Tomorrow I'll be ringing in the New Year with some close friends in Raleigh, NC. So I ask you this, what are you doing New Years Eve?

Well here is a great rendition of the song by Rusty Clanton and Janie Evans. Enjoy.

Music Monday: Daniel Ellsworth & Alva Leigh

We are another week closer to Christmas. It’s such an exciting time of year. All morning I’ve been emailing back and forth with my parents and siblings about the Christmas plans since my brother and I live out of state. It’s an exciting time to see family and friends.

I remember a few years ago, I was in Jinja, Uganda spending Christmas alone in a hotel room. My luggage wasn’t able to make the trip apparently and all I wanted was to be home. That Christmas changed my outlook on the holiday and being with family.

But this time of year means different things to different people. Religious or not, it’s a time to be cherished with loved ones. But what about those that have lost loved ones? Those spending the holidays in need or alone? It can be tough.

This week’s Music Monday post is “It’s Christmas, I Love You” by Daniel Ellsworth and Alva Leigh (Music City Unsigned Family Christmas). 

“…those who got time, well they’ve got time to lose. I’m sorry I’m not leaving here without you. Love, take your hands out from your winter coat and wrap them around me like we used to know. It’s that time of year, starting again. It’s Christmas, I love you. Please let me back in.”

The holidays are often a time for reflection. As we inch ever closer to the new year…we will all take a look back on the time that has seemingly passed us by. Are you where you wanted to be today, a year ago? This song speaks to me on that level in several ways.

So I leave you with this..

It’s Christmas, I love you. Please let me back in

Southernism: Coke & Peanuts

A tradition that reminds me of summers growing up, an a southernism that makes my office of yankees cringe. Of course, I could only be talking about Coke & Peanuts.

Yesterday I was sitting at my desk with a bottle of Coke with a handful of peanuts in it and my colleagues refused to talk to me while I enjoyed this wonderful treat. I reckon I've found a way to get them to leave me alone when I'm busy.

My department consists of about 15 mid-twenty year old transplants from all over the country (and a Canadian, eh). This quirky snack had them all up in arms. "THAT IS NOT A THING!" They claimed. Yanks. If you google Coke & Peanuts, the FIRST result is the Coca Cola website. If that's not proof that it's a thing, I don't know what is.

But their inquisitive minds got me thinking. What is the origin of this odd, yet delicious combination? It appears that no one really knows. Many, however, believe that it stemmed mainly out of convenience for the hard southern workers. Need to keep working while you eat a snack? Driving? Smoking? Hands dirty from working on cars? This southernism allows you to keep one hand free while enjoying the sweet and salty duo.

I remember doing this when I was growing up. Our parents would drop us off at the pool for swim team practice every morning where we would stay until they got off work. I'd drop a handful of peanuts into a coke bottle so I didn't have to worry about my soaking wet, chlorine hands messin' with my peanuts.

 One summer in college, I worked in a small mountain town in Grundy County (kinda Middle/East TN). The days were hot and long and many afternoons were spent on the front porch of a civil war era hotel in a rocking chair with coke and peanuts.

Now this pairing has sprouted many interesting recipes like Coca Cola cake with Broiled Peanut Icing and my personal favorite: The Tallulah (coke, peanuts, and whiskey). So the next time your enjoying some peanuts, plop a few in your coke. You can thank me later!

Music Monday: Pentatonix

The Little Drummer boy has never really been one of my favorite. However, while I was sitting on Facebook the other day I kept seeing this video pop up on my newsfeed. It seemed as though everyone was posting it, so I gave it a listen. WOW! Talk about phenomenal! I love A Capella groups and this one was impressive. So I'll keep it short this week and let you go ahead and dive into this rendition of "Little Drummer Boy" by Pentatonix.

Drink This: Aged Whiskey

To say I love bourbon is an understatement. With so much variety out there, I love experimenting with new bottles. I'm excited about today's post because of a variety of reasons.

Reasons Bow Tie Gent Loves Today's Bourbon Post:

1. On this day 80 years ago, prohibition ended

2. Tips are pouring in regarding the missing Pappy Van Winkle

3. I love bourbon....

So here we go. Now we all know that I enjoy making things. I enjoy building, crafting, cooking, and infusing alcohol (see my post on habanero infused vodka for bloody mary's) Anywho, I went to one of my favorite bars last night, The Crunkleton, in downtown Chapel Hill, NC. It was pretty cozy last night with the Christmas decorations up, moose and deer heads on the wall and Christmas lights lining the streets outside. So I made myself comfortable in one of the oversized worn leather chairs positioned by the window and gazed outside at the passersby. I started out with my usual Old Fashioned, but later switched to a couple of glasses of Pappy Van Winkle (in his memory during these tough times). I love 20 year old Pappy, obviously. It doesn't get much better than that. I find it no coincidence, however, that the box of the month from Bespoke Post, aptly titled "AGED" is a whiskey aging kit.

It's simple: choose an unaged liquor, pour it into the aging kit, wait 10 days, and BOOM! This process changes the character and flavor, mellowing the taste. This kit takes a process that normally takes months, and gives you that barrel aged taste in just under 2 weeks!



So pour yourself a glass, turn on a Christmas movie, and enjoy a nice evening at home.

Now Playing: "Christmas Blues" by G. Love

Music Monday: She & Him

CHRISTMAS IS UPON US! I'm so glad I can finally say that. I'm a stickler for waiting until after Thanksgiving to begin the Christmas festivities. However, I must be honest and tell you that I did in fact put my tree up last weekend (that way it would already be up when I returned from my holiday traveling).

Anywho, I'm going to be doing Christmas songs for the next few weeks as the Music Monday posts. However, I'm going to try and mix it up a bit and expose you to some less mainstream versions. Now, I personally love Zooey Deschanel. In fact, in my first Music Monday post I compared Stacy Lantz to the actress. I think she has an extremely unique voice. So naturally, I really enjoy listening to She & Him.

She & Him is an indie duo consisting of Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward. I remember the first time I heard She & Him was after a friend posted a video of Zooey singing with Joe Gordon-Levitt a song called "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?" and I began to seek out some other songs. So for this week I've selected "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas". This is probably my all time favorite secular Christmas song. ENJOY!

Buy This: Bittermilk

 

My family always jokes about me never reading. It's true, many nights I'd rather sit in front of the TV and catch up on some shows (I recently took a dive into Breaking Bad, once the series ended). I recently purchased the "Southerner's Handbook" from the Editors of Garden and Gun magazine. AMAZING! I'm also an avid reader of Garden and Gun, and lets be honest, I read a ton of blogs..

Garden and Gun recently concluded the 4th Annual Made in the South Awards. These awards cover a variety of categories such as:

1. Food
2. Drink
3. Style & Design
4. Home
5. Outdoors

I decided to check out the winners and see if anything sparked my interest. Boy did it! I loved all of the winners, but the drink category definitely caught my eye. Now, we all know that I enjoy my drinks. I have a healthy relationship with bourbon and LOVE the fact that there is a private bourbon bar in Chapel Hill, NC called The Crunkleton that I'm able to frequent.

I digress.

The winner of the drink category was Bittermilk.

"Bittermilk compounds are designed for the modern day cocktail enthusiast, to help mix up unique, quality cocktails following a simple ratio of Bittermilk to your choice of spirit. Each of our products use a bittering agent, a sweetener, and an acid to achieve a balanced cocktail. The labor is in the bottle."

Life changed.

Bittermilk currently has three compounds available. Smoked Honey Whiskey Sour, Tom Collins with Elderflower & Hops, and my personal favorite Bourbon Barrel Aged Old Fashioned.

If we are being completely honest, my love of Old Fashioneds sprang from Don Draper drink countless glasses of this concoction. Finding a bartender that can make a decent one is harder than it should be. Bittermilk solves this problem. Simply add a couple of spoonfuls of their compound to a glass of your favorite rye or bourbon and BAM! Old Fashioned.

So, ditch your old college home-bar consisting of nothing but empty bottles you think look cool, stock up with the real stuff, and add some Bittermilk to your arsenal. I've already ordered a few bottles for mine!

Now Playing: "Hold On" by the Alabama Shakes

Buy This: AroundCampus

Everyone knows that I'm a sucker for a good deal. I'm always looking for bargains, coupons, etc. When I was in college, I discovered AroundCampus.com. This is a deal-driven, school specific website and smart phone app (iPhone AND android) that features a business directory AND coupons at over 200 colleges and universities in the United States. They have awards to prove it!

I'm a huge proponent of social media. Obviously. I took a fun, anonymous twitter account that promoted chivalry, southern lifestyles, and fashion and turned it into a freelance marketing project. I worked with companies like High Cotton Ties, Over Under Clothing Company, Volunteer Traditions, and more.I'm constantly looking for ways to help small businesses grow. THIS IS IT!

In this age, we all love to shop online. GREAT! But don't forget about the stores around you. Sometimes we have to search, but find some real gems.

AroundCampus makes this all the more easier. Not only will it tell you what is around you, it'll allow you to search by category to help you find exactly what you're looking for. You are able to print and email the coupons...AND share on Facebook and Twitter! That way you can let all your friends know about the deals YOU like. The app also allows you to redeem the coupon right on your phone, so if you're like me and don't have a printer at home, or find a deal in the middle of a shopping excursion...this app is for you!

So go check it out, find some deals, and save some green.


Now Playing: "Blue Rose Stroll" by the Dirty Guv'nahs

Music Monday: Ben Rector

Music is a HUGE part of my life. I have been blessed to see a ton of great musicians live. Last night was no exception. I went to see one of my absolute favorites, Ben Rector at the Carolina Theater in Durham, NC. Tyrone Wells also opened for Ben.

I first heard of Ben when my friend suggested I cover one of his songs at a show I was playing. That song, "When a Heart Breaks" has made it into my Top 10 all time favorites. But, surprisingly, that will not be the song featured on today's post. No sir.

This week's Music Monday post highlight's Ben Rector's song "Sailboat". It's a song that really speaks to me right now in this moment in time.


"I feel just like a sailboat. I don't know where I'm headed, but you can't make the wind blow from a sailboat. I have seen the sun; felt the rain on my skin. I've been lost and found, but mostly I've been waiting. Oh I'm out in the waves. I'm hoping and praying. Please let this wind blow me home. Night after night there's and empty horizon and my God do I feel so alone. Sometimes I, most times I, feel just like a sailboat..."

Going to the concert last night (even solo) was a life changing experience. I hope you take the time to listen to Ben Rector.

Buy This: Ya'll Sweatshirt

It's the middle of October, the leaves are starting to change, girls are wearing leggings, the temperatures are beginning to dip, and Starbucks is serving Pumpkin Spice Lattes. YUP! It's fall, y'all!

One thing I didn't like about Texas this summer was the lack of trees compared to my home in Tennessee...one thing I LOVE about North Carolina is how many MORE trees it has than Tennessee. HOLY COW! I'm looking forward to a weekend drive through the mountains with my camera to capture the absolutely amazing beauty.

Now I know yesterday was a Buy This post, but thanks to my friends at Old Try, I found out about this little gem that went on sale today at Kentucky For Kentucky. That's right, this "Y'all" sweatshirt went on sale first this this morning as a play off of the coveted "Yale" sweatshirts for ivy league wannabes (I can say that...because in high school I wore a Harvard hoodie).

So head on over to Kentucky For Kentucky and pick one up today!

Buy This: Old Try

As I mentioned yesterday, I recently moved to Durham, North Carolina (RTP). I have a great apartment that was put together with items from my old apartment, my childhood home, my dad's house, and even my stepmom's old house. Everything came together perfectly. There are a few pieces on the walls but not much. So for Christmas this year I have introduced my friends and family to Old Try. My hope is to fill some of the blank spaces with reminders of my southern heritage and my old Tennessee home (sorry, Kentucky).

I've always been a statesman. I take pride in my home and the history behind the Volunteer State. Whereas I have moved to an AMAZING place, nothing will ever replace Tennessee and the memories I have there.

It's only appropriate that I pay homage to my home.


So while my family begins to search for the perfect gift for me this Christmas (cough cough) I reached out to Marianna & Micah Whitson of Old Try to pick their brains a little bit about their tribute to good ole' Dixie.

 

 Old Try has a great collection of state and city themed prints as well as prints that generally apply to the south as a whole. The great thing about the South is our rich heritage and unique traditions.  So I found myself a few North Carolina prints to show represent the new chapter in my live. Check out a few prints and shirts for yourself and keep reading to see the interview with the folks behind Old Try! 

 NAME: Micah Whitson

HOMETOWN: Athens, AL

CURRENT CITY: Charlotte, NC

ALMA MATER: Ole Miss (Business) 

WHEN WAS YOUR COMPANY ESTABLISHED 2011

WHY OLD TRY? Well, Old Try wasn't going to make prints, initially. I came up with an idea of making throwback college letter sweaters. So, Old Try came from the old college try. Figured we might as well give it a shot and see where it would take us. And the logo just kind of came to my brain. The hammer represents the state bird of Alabama (the yellowhammer) and the scissors represent the textile history of NC.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU? After being up North for four years, I really started missing home. And just a few weeks earlier, I'd seen a really beautiful letterpress poster on a light pole. So on the bus home one evening, I said 'Drop the sweaters. Let's make posters for the South. And send those love letters on home.

WHAT'S YOUR DRINK OF CHOICE? Bourbon, neat. 

WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE SONG? Most of them. 

WHO DO YOU CHEER FOR EACH SATURDAY? - My Rebels of Oxford, Mississippi  

Now Playing: "Dear Alice" by The Dirty Guv'nahs

Music Monday: Amos Lee

Again, I apologize for the lack of posts lately. This time it is for an exciting reason! About 3 weeks ago I got a phone call asking me to fly to North Carolina for a follow up job interview for my dream job. The next day I was offered the position and asked to start within about a week. LET THE CHAOS BEGIN! Luckily all my belongings were already boxed and in storage from my last move prior to my travels in Texas all summer. So here I sit. In my cubicle at work in Chapel Hill, NC. It's been relatively gloomy for the past week or so and today is the perfect day for today's Music Monday musician.

When I first found out I would be moving to Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill I hopped on TicketMaster to see what concerts would be in the area. My friend had been asking me to go to the Amos Lee concert in Memphis and/or Nashville prior to me moving and I hated I wouldn’t be able to make it. LUCKILY! Amos Lee will be in NC the following week.

 I first started listening to Amos Lee back in 2006 when I was in my musical prime. Between my own music career and the variety of indie artists I was listening to, I had it together. His self-titled album remains one of my favorites (Arms of a Woman is one of my go to songs)

 But Amos Lee has other great albums, including his most recent one, “Mountains of Sorrow, Rivers of Song”. This week’s Music Monday post comes from that album. “Chill In The Air” has been on repeat all morning.  

“Well the morning came like a freight train, bearing down on me from a thousand miles away. Well it came and gone and kept rolling on, laying up all night with tear stained sheets as my veil…now the evening’s come, and I’m all alone. And I can’t tell if silence is my foe or my friend. Well I’m holding on, but I ain’t too strong. I’ve gotta get some rest before that train come back around the bend.”

 It’s not a Monday pick me up by any means. But on this rainy Monday it fits just fine.

Music Monday: Garrett Hinson

Photograph by Chad Karnes

For this week's Music Monday, I have chosen "Among the Weeds" by Garrett Hinson. I have watch Garrett Hinson grow musically over the years. From playing in church sanctuaries, coffee shops, and university student unions...he's come a long way and has been one of the most talented musicians I've ever shared a stage with.

At the age of 17, Garrett was one of the most diverse musicians I had heard. With a wide range of musical influences. I've seen him grow through multiple bands. I've heard him sing the songs of home with a bluegrass feel. I've heard him sing with his soul as he belts the blues.

Enjoy this little ditty and start your week off on the right foot! When you get home, be sure to download Garrett's album on iTunes or listen on SoundCloud. 

Bow Tie Friday: Volunteer Traditions

For this week's Bow Tie Friday, I reached out to my buddy Mason Jones at Volunteer Traditions. It is only appropriate that I feature a great Tennessee company after just arriving back home in Memphis. Volunteer Traditions brings pride back to the states, a truly Southern way of life. They feature great accessories like bow ties, belts, key chains, and koozies as well as AWESOME shirts. One of my personal favorites are the different versions of the Tennessee flag (various colors) that are perfect for your upcoming tailgating needs. I also hear that they will have some great stuff coming out next week so you should definitely check it out!

YOUR NAME:

Mason Jones

HOMETOWN:

White House, TN

CURRENT CITY:

Nashville, TN

ALMA MATER:

I studied business at the University of Tennessee

WHEN WAS YOUR COMPANY ESTABLISHED?

2006

WHY VOLUNTEER TRADITIONS?

Back when we created the brand the only thing that was being made was South Carolina merchandise. South Carolina's flag features the Palmetto & Crescent Moon and is called the Palmetto State. So, we looked at the state of Tennessee, which nickname is the "Volunteer State",  and thought it would make the most sense to build off that concept.

WHAT GOT YOU STARTED?

We honestly just wanted to make Tennessee Flag Belts as we saw a variety of South Carolina products and believed that Tennessee needed the quality products that didn't look like they came from Gatlinburg....you know the outline of a state with a guitar/bass fish/etc jumping out of the state.

When we got the belts in, it was obvious that people loved the concept and we made hats and ties shortly after featuring the "Tristar" image/ It's such a clean design, and the circle with 3 stars looks awesome on a hat/tie/tee due to the basic concept and balance.

As we grew, we set out to make designs that were original for each state featuring the intricate designs of the state's flag within the outline of the state. Some were easier/better received than others due to the nature of the state's flag.

WOULD YOU DO IT AGAIN IF YOU HAD TO START OVER?

We have had a blast making our products the past couple of years. We have really enjoyed seeing how passionate people are about where they are from, not only in Tennessee, but all over The South.

WHAT IS YOUR JAM?

Tough question...people tell me that I like terrible music. Either "In a Big Country" by Big Country or "Deep As It Is Wide" by Eric Paslay. 

WHAT FOOTBALL TEAM ARE YOU READY TO SEE TAKE THE FIELD?

Tennessee, since I spent the better half of a decade there.

The Yellow Cab (Crispy Apple Cocktail with Bacon Garnish)

Like any American man, I love bacon. I was extremely impressed by my friend, Suzanne, last Valentines Day when she gave her boyfriend a heart shaped box full of cooked bacon, although the was no time to snap a picture for evidence due to the quickness with which he consumed the gift.

The immense popularity of bacon has people creating all sorts of ways in which to utilize it outside of a breakfast side dish/staple. For this week's CHEERS! post, I bring you The Yellow Cab (Crispy Apple Bacon). This recipe also calls for candied bacon as a garnish, which is GREAT as a stand alone snack!

For the Candied Bacon:

6 slices of bacon (the smokier the better!)

2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar

Maple Syrup (to lightly coat bacon with sugar to stick)

***For y'all with access to H-E-B, I suggest 1 teaspoon Better Than Good Bacon Jam

For the Drink:

1 1/2 ounces rum (I used Texas-made White Hat premium rum)

3 1/2 ounces apple juice

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

2 to 3 drops old-fashioned bitters

Pinch of salt

Put It All Together

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Toss the bacon in a bowl with the brown sugar and syrup/bacon jam and place on a rack set on a rimmed baking sheet so the fat drips down. Bake until it's very crisp, about 30 minutes. Let cool.

2. Combine the rum, apple juice, lemon juice, bitters and salt in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well and pour into a lowball glass. Garnish with a slice of candied bacon.

Music Monday: Aaron Lee Martin

Photograph by Jessica Noelle Photography

Like last week's Music Monday post, this week will also feature a musician that I have had the pleasure of sharing the stage with. I first met Aaron Lee Martin when a mutual musician friend of ours, Tyler Clarensau, asked me to arranged a gig for the three of us in Memphis back in the spring of 2007. The only venue I was able to secure was a Starbucks, that is quite possibly the smallest one ever built.

Tyler and Aaron were on tour together for about 9 weeks from Kansas. Aaron absolutely blew everyone's mind. Aaron, with his long beard, barefeet, and torn jeans had a slight mountain-man vibe. With no need for a microphone, Aaron belted his songs while playing banjo and harmonica, and stomping on a tambourine with his bare feet. I have been rocking out to the same Aaron Lee Martin album ever since that show.

I chose to feature Aaron this week because of his song "McPherson, KS". I have now been on the road, mainly in Texas, for 16 weeks and the time to go home is drawing near. I used to work at a church camp on the Tennessee River not far from Nashville, TN and there was a DuPont plant across the water. When Aaron sings "I arrived so early that the lights of the refinery were brightly glowing welcoming me home", I cannot help but think of the many summers spent at that special place.

This song has been my theme song for the past few days as I have prepared to go home, been delayed, and prepared again. This is a more mellow version of my eccentric friend, but one that I'm sure you'll enjoy!

(There's a bit of talking before the song plays, the song starts at 00:01:34)

Dollar Shave Club

I'm a huge fan of various "___-of-the-month" clubs. I have gotten almost every box from Bespoke Post and truly believe in their business concept.

In a meeting with a team of interns a few weeks ago, they told me about the Dollar Shave Club. Of course, they were merely showing me the viral commercial for the company to get my thoughts (afterall, we sell advertising so they were trying to get my insight into the approach). I've posted the video below for you to watch and enjoy. Honestly? Dollar Shave Club has done what Old Spice has been trying (unsuccessfully) to do with their commercials.



So why am I really doing a post about Dollar Shave Club? IT WORKS! Raise your hand if you use a Gillette Fusion (or similar). Now, raise your hand if you HATE spending $30 on replacement cartridges. DOLLAR SHAVE CLUB IS FOR YOU!

Starting at $1 a month, you can get a razor with 5 catridges a month from Dollar Shave Club (shipping and handling not included). Having used all 3, my go to is The Executive (naturally). Ladies, The 4X (aka The Lover's Blade) is even one that you can steal and use yourself!

So STOP spending money on those expensive blades and get something that's great for your face and your wallet!

Bow Tie Friday: Bluegrass Accents

As you can imagine, I love bow ties. I feel like the growing trend of wearing bow ties is a step towards classic southern elegance. As one of my favorite quotes says, "wearing a bow tie is a way of expressing an aggressive lack of concern for what other people think." It's true. Anyone can wear a regular neck tie, but it takes a confident man to rock a bow tie.

For this week's Bow Tie Friday, I talked to Kyla Cochran of Bluesgrass Accents about her bow tie business and the story behind it! As you'll see below, Kyla is the epitome of a Southern Belle. Even when reading the words she speaks, her bluegrass accent will catch your attention. In the photograph shown below, Kyla is sporting a dress that she made herself, showing that her skills do not stop at bow ties!

YOUR NAME:

Kyla Cochran

HOMETOWN:
I was born in Matewan, WV (YES! The "Hatfield and McCoy Feud" Matewan...I'm actually a Hatfield if you go back far enough).

CURRENT CITY:

I grew up all over Kentucky and have happily been calling Lexington "home" since 2008.

ALMA MATER:

I am currently attending the University of Kentucky (Go Cats!). After trying a couple of different majors, I chose to pursue a degree in what I'm passionate about, so I'm studying Merchandising, Apparel, and Textiles

WHEN WAS YOUR COMPANY ESTABLISHED?

2011

WHY BLUEGRASS ACCENTS?

We originally were established as House of Southern Accents, but have since undergone a name change. As proud as I am to be a part of the South as a whole, having grown up all over Kentucky, I wanted to sort of pay homage to all the places that have made me who I am, and the brand what it is. So, in June 2013 we underwent a name change to Bluegrass Accents.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START THE COMPANY?

In January 2001, my family lost my beautiful cousin, Crystal, to cancer at the age of 29. My cousin and I were very close and being close in age as well as the only female grandchildren, we grew up more like sisters than cousins. Her house is where I spent much of my childhood drawing, painting, and creating. I remember when she was in her teens and started sketching beautiful dress designs that I was in awe of. Design wasn't her passion though, children were. She became a Kindergarten teacher and used her creativity to inspire her students, but she also inspired me more than I can ever put into words. Her sketches will always be in the back of my mind, and the strength she had gave me what I needed to set out on a dream of my own.

WHY BOW TIES?

I knew I wanted to create, but I hadn't quite settled on what I wanted to create. That's where a good friend of mine and a great fraternity come into the picture. My best friend, Will, needed a date to a fraternity date function and, of course, we wanted to match. He didn't have a bow tie that matched the dress I was wearing so I set out to make him one. That one turned into 4 (one for each date party) and those 4 were the start of everything. That's where we are today, and by "we" I mean myself and my dog, Chessie.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BEVERAGE?

Being a Kentucky girl, I would be remiss if I didn't mention bourbon. However, most of the time you're likely to find me with a glass of sweet tea.

WHAT IS YOU "JAM"?

I am country music all the way. In general I prefer the legends over today's country (think The Possum, Garth, George Strait, Hank, Dolly, and Chris LeDoux) though I'd be telling a tall tale if I said I wouldn't shake it if Luke Bryan asked. I have to say though, in the past couple of years, I've been lucky enough to know a few great musicians, and having seen them play live just last Saturday, "Lilly" by Sundy Best is the song that is currently stuck in my head and on repeat on my iTunes!

FAVORITE FOOTBALL TEAM?

The Kentucky Wildcats, for better or worse.

Bacon Habanero Infused Vodka

Since coming to Texas 15 weeks ago, I have made it a point to enjoy brunch every weekend. I LOVE brunch, but my college town barely had anywhere open on Sundays and those places that were were overrun by the locals getting out of church.

I have found some great brunch spots on the past 3 months or so. I've also had my share of disappointments. However, they all have one thing in common...Mimosas and Blood Mary's!

I'm not usually a Bloody Mary kind of guy...but when I need one...I need a good one. I had one the other day that just about knocked my socks off. Later that afternoon I was piddling around on Pinterest and found the following drink recipe compliments of Kitchen Konfidence. All credit for this recipe go to those guys! Since I love making infused drinks, this one was fun a real treat. As any true-blooded American man, I love bacon; so this was only fitting.

Photograph by Kitchen Konfidence

Bacon and Habanero Infused Vodka By Kitchen Konfidence
Adapted from Croce’s Restaurant & Jazz Bar.

6 strips of bacon
3 habanero chili peppers
2 serano chile peppers
1 liter good quality vodka (this is not exact)

"Add strips of bacon to a dry, cold, large skillet.  Warm the skillet over low heat.  Cook bacon until crispy, flipping the bacon several times throughout the process.  Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel lined plate and set aside to cool.

Remove the stems from each chili pepper and slice in half lengthwise.  Add peppers (with seeds) to a large, airtight jar.  Once cooled, add bacon to the same jar.  Fill the jar with vodka to cover the bacon and peppers.  Seal the jar and let steep for 7 days in the refrigerator.*

After 7 days, strain the vodka through a cheese cloth lined fine mesh basket strainer into a clean jar or bottle.  If you see any major particles floating in the vodka, strain a second time.  Discard the bacon and peppers.  Store in the refrigerator.

Makes 1 liter.

*Letting the vodka steep with the chili peppers for 7 days will result in an extremely spicy infusion.  If you have a low heat tolerance, I would recommend steeping for a shorter period of time.  You can start tasting half way through and strain the infusion once you reach your desired heat level.  Keep in mind that this vodka will be used in a bloody mary.  You want it to be overly spicy because the tomato juice will turn down the heat level a bit."

Next week, I'll discuss bacon infused bourbon that is delicious, especially when garnished with candied bacon.

I recently had a delicious brunch at Croce’s Restaurant & Jazz Bar.  Dining alone and al fresco, I enjoyed a substantial breakfast quesadilla partnered with a killer brunch cocktail – a bloody mary with bacon and ghost chili infused vodka.  Since I have a great love for fiery alcoholic beverages, upon tasting this bloody mary, I immediately knew I was going to have to recreate this at home.  An intense mix of savory and spicy, this Bacon and Habanero infused vodka makes the perfect base to a mouthwateringly complex bloody mary (cocktail recipe to be featured next week).  Continue reading for the recipe. - See more at: http://www.kitchenkonfidence.com/2010/12/bacon-and-habanero-infused-vodka#sthash.ngaQhBtV.dpuf

I recently had a delicious brunch at Croce’s Restaurant & Jazz Bar.  Dining alone and al fresco, I enjoyed a substantial breakfast quesadilla partnered with a killer brunch cocktail – a bloody mary with bacon and ghost chili infused vodka.  Since I have a great love for fiery alcoholic beverages, upon tasting this bloody mary, I immediately knew I was going to have to recreate this at home.  An intense mix of savory and spicy, this Bacon and Habanero infused vodka makes the perfect base to a mouthwateringly complex bloody mary (cocktail recipe to be featured next week).  Continue reading for the recipe.
Bacon and Habanero Infused Vodka
Adapted from Croce’s Restaurant & Jazz Bar.
6 strips of bacon
3 habanero chili peppers
2 serano chile peppers
1 liter good quality vodka (this is not exact)

Add strips of bacon to a dry, cold, large skillet.  Warm the skillet over low heat.  Cook bacon until crispy, flipping the bacon several times throughout the process.  Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel lined plate and set aside to cool.
Remove the stems from each chili pepper and slice in half lengthwise.  Add peppers (with seeds) to a large, airtight jar.  Once cooled, add bacon to the same jar.  Fill the jar with vodka to cover the bacon and peppers.  Seal the jar and let steep for 7 days in the refrigerator.*
After 7 days, strain the vodka through a cheese cloth lined fine mesh basket strainer into a clean jar or bottle.  If you see any major particles floating in the vodka, strain a second time.  Discard the bacon and peppers.  Store in the refrigerator.
Makes 1 liter.
*  Letting the vodka steep with the chili peppers for 7 days will result in an extremely spicy infusion.  If you have a low heat tolerance, I would recommend steeping for a shorter period of time.  You can start tasting half way through and strain the infusion once you reach your desired heat level.  Keep in mind that this vodka will be used in a bloody mary.  You want it to be overly spicy because the tomato juice will turn down the heat level a bit.
- See more at: http://www.kitchenkonfidence.com/2010/12/bacon-and-habanero-infused-vodka#sthash.ngaQhBtV.dpuf

I recently had a delicious brunch at Croce’s Restaurant & Jazz Bar.  Dining alone and al fresco, I enjoyed a substantial breakfast quesadilla partnered with a killer brunch cocktail – a bloody mary with bacon and ghost chili infused vodka.  Since I have a great love for fiery alcoholic beverages, upon tasting this bloody mary, I immediately knew I was going to have to recreate this at home.  An intense mix of savory and spicy, this Bacon and Habanero infused vodka makes the perfect base to a mouthwateringly complex bloody mary (cocktail recipe to be featured next week).  Continue reading for the recipe.
Bacon and Habanero Infused Vodka
Adapted from Croce’s Restaurant & Jazz Bar.
6 strips of bacon
3 habanero chili peppers
2 serano chile peppers
1 liter good quality vodka (this is not exact)

Add strips of bacon to a dry, cold, large skillet.  Warm the skillet over low heat.  Cook bacon until crispy, flipping the bacon several times throughout the process.  Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel lined plate and set aside to cool.
Remove the stems from each chili pepper and slice in half lengthwise.  Add peppers (with seeds) to a large, airtight jar.  Once cooled, add bacon to the same jar.  Fill the jar with vodka to cover the bacon and peppers.  Seal the jar and let steep for 7 days in the refrigerator.*
After 7 days, strain the vodka through a cheese cloth lined fine mesh basket strainer into a clean jar or bottle.  If you see any major particles floating in the vodka, strain a second time.  Discard the bacon and peppers.  Store in the refrigerator.
Makes 1 liter.
*  Letting the vodka steep with the chili peppers for 7 days will result in an extremely spicy infusion.  If you have a low heat tolerance, I would recommend steeping for a shorter period of time.  You can start tasting half way through and strain the infusion once you reach your desired heat level.  Keep in mind that this vodka will be used in a bloody mary.  You want it to be overly spicy because the tomato juice will turn down the heat level a bit.
- See more at: http://www.kitchenkonfidence.com/2010/12/bacon-and-habanero-infused-vodka#sthash.ngaQhBtV.dpuf