For the record, yes we did go with the huge colored bulbs on the tree this year. Let's just hope that the tree doesn't burn up because those suckers are hot!
On to other things...Tyler and I are the geeks that get a Christmas ornament on every vacation or trip we go on.
Here are a few of our new additions for 2010:
Charleston- March 2010
New York- Oct 2010
South Africa- Nov 2010
Now, the good stuff. For the past few years we have tried to come up with a small homemade gift to give out to friends and coworkers. This year was no exception and we decided to go with, drum roll please......... Cranberry and Orange Infused Vodka.
Cranberry-Orange Vodka
(recipe adapted from Michael Chiarello)
Ingredients
2 pound fresh or frozen cranberries
2 cup sugar
4 tsp vanilla extract
2 oranges, peels cut into 2-inch strips
1 (1.75 L) bottle vodka, or a handle as we call it down south!
Directions
Place cranberries, sugar and vanilla in a medium saucepan. Place pan over medium heat and stir. Simmer cranberry mixture until the berries burst, about 10 or so minutes.
Place orange peels in a 2 large glass containers with an airtight lids, or large mason jars with lids. Pour vodka over the orange peels.
Allow the cranberry mixture to cool. Pour the cooled mixture into the glass container(s). Cover tightly and set aside for 1 week. After 1 week, strain out the cranberries sand orange peels and pour mixture into a clean bottle, using a funnel. Store vodka in the refrigerator.
To serve: Pour 2 ounces of vodka mixture over ice in a tall glass and top with tonic water. Garnish with a slice of lime.
Don't worry we taste tested and it's GOOD!
PS: this is what Strongbow does all day since it has been soooo stinking cold outside!
