tuesday night's soiree

This past Tuesday night a dozen or so ladies came over to my home for a pleasant night out in the garden. What a lovely evening full of fun for all! I slow-cooked a pork shoulder and marinated a steak during the day while chopping loads of veggies for homemade salsa and toppings for the tacos that would be coming later. The shoulder was pulled apart and placed back in it's juices which were well spiced and fortified with some dry vermouth. I arranged fresh flowers, lit all the lanterns outback, set out black grapes, boursin cheese & a liver pate' and fired up the grill while waiting for the girls to arrive. I made a welcome cocktail for each guest served in a crystal teacup and named it The Painted Lady (see recipe below). Many bottles of wine were consumed and the soiree turned quite merry and even bawdy. The last of the lasses finished the night with a strong pot of English Breakfast tea spiked with Pimms. The food was delicious and enjoyed by all and I even have had leftovers for days. I have had so many texts of thanks from my good friends and just as many requests for another party soon. I hope we can have another before the season turns to cold!

The Painted Lady Cocktail

one ice cube

a crushed wedge of orange topped with

equal splash of ginger brandy and pomegranate soda

finish by topping off with Lillet Blanc

garden party

Tonight I will be hosting a garden party for the ladies in my gypsy den hideaway. Stay tuned later in the week for a recap of the evening. It will be a good one. For now here is a selection of inspiring photos for al fresco good times...

photos taken from

outdoor sanctuaries

gypsy purple home

nestdreaming

raise a glass

it is the weekend after all...