Derby Party

I finally took the Series 7 test and passed it on the first try. Apparently this is no small feat so I am very grateful for the passing score. Now I don't have to feel guilty when I am just sitting around and relaxing.

I recently went to the Derby Day party at Bluewater Grill and had a great time. We had mint juleps, shrimp and grits, chocolates...yummy. Oh, and there was a race too. :)

So here's a picture of us enjoying the pre-party. We had a great time.

I had never actually had a mint julep and so I was determined to try one at the Derby Party and you know I really didn't love it. The mint flavor wasn't strong enough and there just wasn't anything fabulous about it. Maybe mint juleps weren't the specialty of the bartender, but he did know how to make mint julep punch. Mint julep punch is a little minty and a little sweet and very delish! I am definitely going to be serving this at a party. I found this recipe online and think I'm going to try it.

Mint Julep Punch
Ingredients
1 (10 ounce) jar mint jelly
2 cups water
1 liter bourbon
1 (46 ounce) can unsweetened pineapple juice
1/2 cup lime juice
2 cups water
ice cubes
2 (28 ounce) bottles 7-Up soda, chilled
lime slice (optional)
fresh mint leaves (optional)
Directions
1Combine the jelly and 2 cups water in a saucepan and heat, stirring, over low heat until the jelly melts.
2Let cool.
3Add the bourbon, juices and 2 cups water and chill in the refrigerator.
4To serve, pour the juice mixture over ice in a punch bowl.
5Slowly pour in 7-Up, stirring gently.
6Garnish with lime slices and fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Cheers!