Countdown to Mardi Gras: Partying all the Way

The Carnival season has been swinging for a few weeks now and in one week it will be the day everyone's been waiting for for an entire year, Fat Tuesday, the biggest party of them all. For the longest time I didn't understand the concept of Carnival and Mardi Gras beyond the fact that it was filled with colorful parades, tons of booze and women flashing for beads, but there is a reason for this season so I'll give it the run down. The Carnival season begins in New Orleans and around the world on The Twelfth Night, or Feast of Epiphany (this year it happened to be January 6th), and ends on Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, which is always the day before Ash Wednesday (February 20th of this year). The purpose of this month long partying season was originally meant to allow Roman Catholics to let loose before the devotional sacrifices of the Lenten Season; throw a party that lasts from Christmas to Fat Tuesday and begin Lent with one killer hangover. Parties and parades get bigger and more extravagant as Mardi Gras approaches and on Fat Tuesday it's a free for all of indulgence. What a great concept! So, as we hit these last 6 days, 15 hours and 22 minutes until Fat Tuesday, I'd like to remind you of a few classic cocktails that are a must for any Carnival reveler. The three New Orleans originals: Hurricane (pictured), New Orleans Fizz and Sazerac. And for a taste of Carnival from a little farther south, the national drink of Brazil: Caipirinha.

About's Valentine's Day Recipe Exchange...
The last day of our sweets, treats and other dishes from around the world chosen specifically for Valentine's Day has some delicious oprtions that make my mouth water.

Valentine's Day would not be the same without lots of candy and Elizabeth, Guide to Candy, has some wonderful ideas:
Mint Chocolate Chip Cups- Dark chocolate cups are filled with whipped white chocolate-mint ganache. These are delicious and indulgent enough to be a dessert course by themselves.
Chocolate Berry Boats- An elegant variation on chocolate-dipped strawberries. Fresh berries of your choice float in a smooth, rich chocolate "boat" in this easy, beautiful candy.
Raspberry Truffles- Raspberry Truffles are a smooth, bite-sized candy with a cream cheese base and a delicious raspberry flavor.

Darlene, Guide to Thai Food, has a full menu of recipes from Thailand to suggest for a Valentine's Day meal:
Mussels Cooked in White Wine with Basil Coconut Sauce- This Thai mussel recipe makes a great appetizer or main course. Served with a nice wine, it makes a great dish for a romantic evening at home.
Thai Red Chicken Curry- This new improved red curry is fragrant and sumptuous, and can be made anywhere from mild to red-hot, depending on how much spice you prefer.
Crunchy Fried Bananas with Chocolate Sauce- Finish your meal with this quick and easy dessert that is topped with chocolate and whipped cream for a stunning presentation.

Drinks are an essential compliment for Valentine's Day. Here are a few spirited suggestions from Colleen, Guide to Cocktails:
Elegant Valentine's Day Cocktails- Champagne is a staple for romantic dinners but doesn't always have to be served straight out of the bottle, instead mix it up and add some flavor to your bubbly.
Forget Me Not Fudge- Spirits are not only for drinking. Adding bourbon to fudge creates an interesting, underlying flavor and makes a fantastic chocolate treat to share with your special someone on Valentine's Day.

Photo Courtesy of: © www.CocktailTimes.com