The Finishing Touch

Pillows Cute and Sweet Enough to (Almost) Eat

So last night I dreamed that I was doing the back stroke through pink, vanilla-flavored frosting, only stopping to take a bite now and then. Colored sprinkles were like flotation devices, and white, fluffy cake resembled a trampoline.

Then my alarm went off and reality hit like a giant trough of unflavored oatmeal. Bye bye frosting. So long sprinkles (or jimmies, or hundreds-and-thousands, etc.).

DIY: Everything You'll Need for a Fully Stocked Bar at Home

The holidays are a time to spend with family, sharing recipes, gifts, and even the occasional cocktail. Don't be a Scrooge; if your plans to host a gathering are hindered by your seriously-lacking bar, spruce it up with these easy solutions:

If your house doesn’t have a built-in area for a bar, make one yourself! Start with a smallish free-standing island (preferably on wheels so you can roll it into storage when you need to). You can purchase this custom unit with a steel counter top, which is super easy to clean. Or if you’re looking for a less expensive alternative, opt for the Ikea island. Both will work.

 

Purchase standard bar tools. You’ll need:

•  a corkscrew
• Shaker
• ice bucket and tongs
• strainer, jigger (the ½ oz + 1 oz version is usually best)
• Beer bottle opener
• Stirring spoons, lime sqeezers, and muddlers (tools used to mash up mint, lime, etc) are optional, as you can accomplish those tasks without the tools

 

In most cases you can purchase these tools all together, like this chic set from Crate and Barrel.