and on Wednesdays...

We drink WINE!

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To me, wine is proof that Jesus loves me... and you.. and well all of US!

And shoot, Jesus drank the wine.

Therefore, you should too!

Since I love Jesus and I love the Wine, I decided to start a new series. 

Each week, on Wednesdays to be exact, I will be bringing my “Pick of the Week”  from the Vino aisle.

We shall call it #WineWednesday

Sounds sooooo good, doesn't it?

I know I want a glass now too!

This week, I am going to talk to you gals and guys about unoaked wine, specifically Chardonnay, and all its unoaked glory.

But first, lemme tell a story... (shit, I should hashtag that, huh?)

But first #lemmetellastory. 

(ahh much better)

Last weekend I went to my favorite place the Liquor Store and I was approached by the lovely teller (quickly after I just downed a tester of Texas Honey Liqueur - BTW delish!) I assume she thought I needed some help walking as I was quickly proceeding to the wines. It was urgency that I think she was mistaking for being drunk. Anyway, seeing as she worked there I thought she and I could share some great conversations about WINE and other sorts of spirits, and possibly become the greatest of buds - so I decided to take her on my trek to the wine aisle... However, there was a quick halt in the urgency as she directed me to the Kendall. I was out on that with a quickness. No offense and nothing against a cheap wine. In fact, I LOVE CHEAP WINE! Just not the Kendall, and definitely not Beringer (unless I am desperate buying roadies at the gas station to help soothe a hellacious day that was ending at wedding with no alcohol!! What?! I didn't even think that was possible) Anyway, I digress… and yes, I did sneak wine into a wedding. Call me what you want.

But seriously, and back to the story, if I am out in 90+ degree whether shopping for (& in dire need of) some wine, Kendall is definitely NOT what I had in mind. She was a wonderful lady, and I sincerely appreciated her kindness and company, and I guess subtle help, but I can only assume that she was new in the Vino district. So I took things over from there.

My new liquor store friend kept touching and pointing to a lovely little bottle that said unoaked Chardonnay. She proceeded to ask me if I had unoaked wine and I told her “I didn't even know that existed!” “What is unoaked wine?” Feeling slightly ignorant after my gag-face when she pointed to the dreaded K, and then realizing we were probably on the same level of Vino knowledge. I decided to try it regardless.

According to Liquor-store Lady, unoaked is wine that has been aged outside of the oak barrel…

Okay guys, I kind of figured that it had something to do with the barrel and production!! But what the hell does it do to the wine??

I grabbed the bottle and hit up the Google, and now, I give you my thoughts and knowledge on this whole Unoaked Wine Thing.

BTW, I did check with my very legit wine expert. One who I've know since middle school, and who happened to be one of our groomsmen in our wedding.

Yep, that's him. He's worked and lived in the beautiful wine country for several years now, and we happened to take a nice little trip to visit him the night after we were engaged. We talked about wine and even privately toured one of the wineries. Therefore, his wine knowledge is precious to me so I had to pick his brain over the whole unoaked thing. Now, this is where I have to tell you, he is not endorsing this wine, he simply made it sooooo easy for me to understand unoaked Chardonnay and I'd feel really silly if I didn't ask for his help. Plus, he drinks the good fancy stuff, it's practically right at his fingertips.

Basically, Chardonnay is typically fermented or aged (OR BOTH) in oak barrels to give it that beautiful rich bold flavor that I've come to adore. However, using oak barrels can become pricing which leads to an increase in price... did I mention I like inexpensive wine? But this wine, and it's unoaked process was so good and just as good as any of my other go-to Chards with bold nutty flavors.

So here's the deal:

Wine: 2013 A by Acacia Chardonnay Unoaked (love that it has my first initial right on the label)

Price: $10.49 + tax (to be exact - I would know since I spent an hour trying to peel of the price tag label for photos)

Taste: Very smooth and definitely BOLD (which is soooo my type of thing!)

Serving Suggestions: Serve this wine chilled, like I would suggest for any other white wine

Initial Thoughts: Now this is MY KIND OF WINE. Honestly, I was completely expecting to have a mouth full of sweetness (sorry, just not my thing), and sure enough it was right up there with my go to!

Final Thoughts: I would totally buy this wine again, especially for myself, or as a hostess gift if I am feeling generous. No dreaded headache the next morning like some other less expensive wines. Nope, just a nice all-around great wine. Go getcha some!

Have you tried an unoaked wine? Did you love it? Hate it? Share your thoughts, I'd love to know how you feel about unoaked wines.

  oxox, 

Amanda

Kitchen Quick-Tip Tuesday: Use a Hand-Mixer (+ a link-up)

This Tuesday’s Kitchen Quick-Tip is brought to you by the lovely little Hand-Mixer.

No longer is the hand-mixer confined to baked goods: cakes and brownie mixes…

Oh no. The hand-mixer is  SOOOO much more!

Ready to whip up some amazing ...(wait for it)...

...........................................................

MASHED POTATOES??!!

Get out that mixer, Brother and Sisters!

Wait! Maybe I should be calling them more appropriately = Whipped Potatoes.

Yes, Whipped Fluffy Creamy Mashed Potatoes.

I remember standing in my friend’s kitchen one night as she was making the biggest batch of Mashed Potatoes for her hubs and small troops of kiddos. I asked her what her secret was to such incredible mashed potatoes since I had yet to master any type of culinary magic. Plus I had a feeling that if I could just make a great batch of mashed potatoes then I would immediately be a master in the kitchen... I mean who doesn't love a great mashed potato? I knew I could swoon any eater with great mashed potatoes, and, this girl seriously had the BEST mashed taters around! (sorry Mom) 

So, you know what my friend told me? To get rid of that pesky potato masher and use a hand-mixer. My mind. was. blown! Then she told me a couple of other tricks that I'll include for you below.

Ready to whip up some Whipped Fluffy Creamy Mashed Potatoes?

Here’s what you’ll do:

After boiling your fresh, cubed potatoes drain them and throw them in a nice large bowl while they're still warm.

Next, add some whipping cream, butter, and (my special secret, so don’t tell) - Sour Cream! {and a smidgen of cream cheese - trust me, okay?!}

Add a little bit of each of these. You'll be good to go!

Then, whip everything together with your hand-mixer until nice and fluffy (or your desired consistency).

Add some salt and pepper to taste, give it a good stir.

And, VOILA! Beautifully Mashed Whipped Potatoes

What are some of your kitchen quick tips? Link them up here and share the Fun!

    oxox, 

Amanda

An InLinkz Link-up

Five Faves Friday (Father's Day Edition)

Couple of things:

1. Did you realize today is Friday the 13th??! Has nothing to do with Father's Day but I just wanted you to be aware in case your super superstitious like me... I’ll be seeking shelter shortly after this post is finished.

2. Did you know that THIS SUNDAY is Father's Day??! I know, pretty awesome! That time of year has come agian where we can show Dad our appreciation for his all around awesomeness.

Image // via

Okay, I am sure you knew both of those things but how else was I supposed to get this post started?

Anyway, I am sharing with you my Fave Fives. Father's Day style.

Ready. Set.

GO!

1. Because Dad’s are Rad you should definitely start Father’s day off with a BANG and prepare him these amazing little Bacon Deviled Eggs, the uber sexy Chrissy Teigen has so gracefully delighted us with.

Then you can show Dad all of her amazing photos of her hotness - both are sure to please any man!

BTW, her blog, So Delushious, is SO freaking awesome, so is she!

Be sure to go check it out, promise you'll love her and her food!

2. Next, be sure to find the way to Dad’ heart (which if you didn't know is through his stomach) and fill his belly with this awesome Wine-Braised Beef Brisket. O.M.G!

3. Ummm, so can I give a quick shout-out to Ice Cream Cakes? Seriously, who doesn't love cake AND ice cream?

Do Dad a favor and go grab one - it’ll be the “ice-cream on his Cake” for his big day!

Plus, you can sneak a piece in too! #winning

4. Father’s Day Cards!

They’re imperative to Father’s Day.

Be sure to get the really deep and sappy one, and then be sure to write your sweet & heart-felt Thanks to Dad.

Dads LOVE these, just do it!

5. And, lastly, if you’re feeling like giving Dad a grand adventure, take him back in time to slaying dragons and being called “me  Lord” - take him to Medieval Times

Yep, you heard it hear first. Just as thrilling and fun as when you were a kid, except now you can scream your heads of with pints of beer and crowns adorning your heads… it’s a blast!

proof is below

There ya have it! My five faves for Father's Day.

How are you planning on giving your special Dad the royal treatment this Father's Day?

oxox, 

Amanda

When I grow up...

Alright. 

So, first I have to apologize. 

I know it's  been practically eons since I've shared a food post on FITO Blog 

& I am sorry. 

You see, it's slightly difficult to come up with new recipes to post when my entire kitchen is stowed away in boxes and then split in-between two residences.

In fact it's been difficult to post anything in general, but I am dying to be here & write... and to cook again!

So, now that that's outta the way... I am glad so glad you're here today!

and THANK YOU for hanging in there fore me.

 FITO Blog is what I'd like to consider a lifestyle blog. 

A place where I can openly share with you my thoughts, regardless of the topic. 

(now don't go running away)

Let's talk Goals! Ambitions! Our dreams! 

Dreams: something in which we all share 

- things in which we all aspire to accomplish... while we are still living and breathing!

  

With this new chapter B and I are embarking on in our lives, our move to our new home  has my brain running wild with possibilities, future goals, and things I would like to see us accomplish in the near future.

 Today I thought I would share with you some of my goals, dream jobs, or aspirations, if you will.

 One day, when I grow up.. I'd like to be able tackle these goals.

Some might be so far fetched, but Hey! They're called dreams and goals. And, I know one day I can accomplish each one of these things... maybe just not all at once! 

But, what would this life be if we all didn't dream a little bigger? A little bolder? A little brighter?

\\MY TOP 10 ASPIRATIONS//

(in no particular order)

One of these days I'd like to become...

+ a Chef (okay that's a given, duh!)

+ Professional photographer - there's just something magical about a beautifully captured image

+ College professor - maybe it's all those years I played "teacher" growing up - which was complete with projectors, "transparencies", vis-a-vis', and all! (shout out if you even know what those are)

+ a Mother

+ Children's book author - my writing desires grow deeper and deeper everyday

+ Professional wedding planner - I had such a blast planning every last detail of our wedding I'd just love to do it over, and over again

+ Flower farmer - I have a very strong passion for growing plants, especially beautiful flowers (see some pictures of our garden here). Therefore, the thought of growing and harvesting flowers all day would just be simply AMAZING!

+ Floral designer - that way I could beautifully display my beautifully grown flowers ; p

+ Florist - kind of goes hand-in-hand with the whole flower farmer and floral designer thing

+ Founder of a Charity - I have a strong need to be able to bring something positive to others, especially those in a time of need. I also feel very passionately about the good welfare of animals. (ummmm,hello. we DO have several rescues) But, mark my words, one day B and I will be able to give back & hopefully in more ways than just one.

Image// via

There ya have it. What do you want to accomplish in this world? What are you dreaming about today?

Always Dream Big!

oxox, 

Amanda

DIY - Mother's Day "MOM" Succulent Planter

I'm such a sucker for Succulents. 

They are the perfect little plant.

Succulents need minimal maintenance.

They're super hearty.

Succulents are wonderful center pieces.

They are the perfect addition to any desk, nightstand, coffee table, or back yard patio. 

Most importantly, Succulents make a perfect GIFT.

This year instead of sending Mom a bouquet of flowers 

(which are pretty awesome too)

Give her a lasting gift.
Made from the heart.

This year make your Mom her very own "Mom" Succulent planter. 

Got 15 minutes? 

Follow these four super quick and super simple steps.

Here's what you'll need

SUPPLIES

+  1 large round succulent 

+  15 - 20 small succulents - variety (4 oz containers or smaller)

+   potting soil - "Cactus Mix"

+  long rectangular planter/ pot

+  rocks

+  moss

+ water

*Note: I was able to find the planter, rocks, and moss at my local Dollar Tree for only a $1 each!

STEPS

Step 1: Place rocks at the bottom of the planter.

This will ensure good drainage for your plants

Step 2: next, cover the rocks with a layer of moss.

Step 3: Then, fill the rest of the planter about 3/4 full with the Cactus (Succulent) Potting Soil Mix.

Step 4: Using the small succulents, spell out the word MOM. Use the large round succulent as the "O"

Lastly, fill the rest of planter with soil.

I also like to add some rocks 

Like so:

Make sure that you soak the plants.

Just enough until you see air bubbles.  

Lightly water the plants about once a week. 

Wishing all of the Mother's out there a WONDERFUL Mother's Day!!

Thank you for all that you do!!

oxox, 

Amanda

Photos from Our Garden + Happy Earth Day

In honor of Earth Day today, I thought  I'd share some photos from our garden.

Since we're in the process of moving, we haven't quite yet started the whole Spring/ Summer planting this season.

BUT we're working on it. 

I've managed to add some "enhancements" to the landscape at the new place, so I'm slowly getting some gardening time in. 

B is excited to install some new garden boxes on our new property as well.

 However, that won't be for a couple of months. 

So in the meantime, let's all enjoy the beauty of this Earth 

(and some photos from our gardening seasons past)

'Dallas' Red Lantana

Colorful Zinnias

I love that Zinnias come in a variety of colors and shapes

Corn

 Mini Pumpkin

Freshly picked basket of garden goodies

Colorful and Fresh-from-the-Garden Bouquet

Some of the new landscaping "enhancements" + the first plant I ever planted at our new home

"Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair"

- Kahlil Gibran

Happy Earth Day my Friends!

oxox, 

Amanda

Five Faves Friday

Image via // Made by Cay

1. Favorite Go-To Wine: Cupcake Chardonnay

In my post last week  I spoke about a delicious Chardonnay  that I recently tried (here). However, for everyday occasions and sipping Cupcake Chardonnay is my go-to wine. Everyone from my husband to my parents know to keep a bottle handy when I am around. It is by far my FAVORITE Chard. It's reasonably priced and has the perfect blend of flavor for my palate. By the way, are you noticing a trend here? Yes, I am what some would consider a Wino - nothin' wrong with that. 

2. Some back (porch) deck sittin'

Since we've purchased our new home we have spent many of weekends on our marvelous back deck. It over looks our canal leading into the lake and it's the perfect spot to watch the sunset. The other weekend, we were "deck-sitting" and I was reflecting about how amazing life can be. Although we don't have our dishes moved, a bed to sleep on, or any furniture delivered (both inside and outside) it was just one of those peaceful and magical moments. I cannot wait to make so many new memories at this new home, as well as enjoy our deck - morning, noon and night. I took this picture right after B's incredible orange margarita (with an extra kicker) that he made for us after working in the yard all afternoon. Hence, our little burn bonfire which we took full advantage of later that evening. I just love the small, yet uniquely special times in life - I hope this weekend you can find a nice porch, deck, patio, whatever it may be that you can enjoy with your loved ones.  

3. Dr. Pepper Cake

Ummmm, hello Yummy! Here's the deal with this cake (background story): Currently (while in between residences) we rent a house where I work, which is right outside of a small Texas town called Dublin. Known for none other than the most incredible: Dublin Dr. Pepper (now Dublin Bottling Works - they have some amazing products, check them out). Well, you may know, the big shots over in corporate world decided to pull the plug on decades of tradition and pure amazing and happiness in a bottle -  and pulled the dubbed Dublin Dr. Pepper from shelves. It's the most ridiculous story so I won't get into to too much detail, but if you lived anywhere west of the Metroplex (WestoPlex) you heard all about the battle of Dublin Dr. Pepper for months and it was a very sad day when the judgement came through. If you were never able to experience a true Dublin Dr. Pepper I am hugely sorry and I wish I could slowly pour you a nice ice cold Dublin Dr. Pepper (preferably over ice cream - we call that a Dr. Pepper float). So good. Anyway, nowadays you can't even mention Dublin Dr. Pepper throughout the county without someone looking at your sideways. Anywho, our local grocer, carries these cake mixes by Debbie - I don't personally know Debbie, but I know we would definitely get along! Her cake mix is combined with a bottle of Dublin Dr. Pepper (if you were smart enough to save some preserves of the drink, like yours truly) - and it is pure bliss in your mouth. By far my favorite chocolate cake mix. When we leave, I am purchasing cases of this stuff. Maybe even truckloads. The mixes make wonderful gifts that you can pair with some bottles of Dublin Dr. Pepper, and is an amazing deserts. I've also tried Debbies' Peach Cobler mixes, with Dublin Bottling Works Texas Sweet Peach (which BTW, are both equally fabulous - alone or together)! Purchase a mix and I promise you will be so happy you did.

4. Cat Shaped Cutting board

A cat-shapped cutting board.... need I say more? Obviously one of my faves by the plethora of knife marks. It just makes me HAPPY! The End.


5. Big Ass Rice Crispy Treats

One more thing I will miss when we make the "official move" to our new house this summer - Big Ass Rice Crispy Treats. We frequent a little deli in town for lunch and they have some of the best sandwiches and soups. They by far have some of the freshest ingredients and provide the perfect combinations for lunch. But, my ultimate favorite is when they make huge cube-shaped homemade rice crispy treats. Just like the ones you had as a kid, except adult sized.  Or, Texas Sized, if you will. Guess, I am going to have to start learning how to perfect the big ass rice krispy treat. 

So there it is - this week's Five Faves. Is there anything making your faves list this week? Comment below to share your latest faves and craves.

 I hope you're able to take time this weekend to enjoy the little things, embrace magical moments, and have some fun along the way. I wish each and everyone of you, and your families, a very happy and blessed Easter.

oxox, 

Amanda  

PS. This week I'm linking up with Sarah over at Venus Trapped in Mars for Fan Friday