Time to Wine...

Scoop for my fellow oneophiles...The Miami International Wine Fair is coming up in less than a month!

500 producers will be at the Miami Beach Convention Center showcasing more than 1,500 wines from 20 countries. An event that takes place the weekend of September 26th and 27th and is not to be missed. Ooo, last time I went I picked up a handful of amazing dark chocolate samples... a perfect accompaniment with that big glass of Cab.

I can't wait! BONUS: There is a 15% discount code at LocalWineEvents.com, just sign up for "The Juice" newsletter and pick up the code here: http://www.LocalWineEvents.com/users/register/148247-60

See you there!

Honestly, I have had the hardest time finding a gorgeous lightweight scent that doesn't overwhelm or overpower in this crazy August Florida heat... but I came across one recently and had to share. It's brought to you by the terrific folks at Tocca, (famous for their luxurious candles) check out Amalfi Aqua Profumata! Refreshing notes of cucumber and mint headline this awesome little find.

I'm just loving it... and at $38, it won't break the bank!

http://www.tocca.com/store/catalog/tocca-beauty/fine-fragrances/amalfi-aqua-profumata

Goin' Nuts

Following the Costa Rica vacay (which consisted of many ice cold Imperials and other carb laden indulgences... yep, told myself carbs don't count when you are out of the country...lol), I decided to put myself on a training diet.

In the process of researching healthier food options, I heard about one of the yummiest ideas yet!

If you are a fan of peanut butter, check this out...
http://www.peanutwonder.com/

Made from peanuts that have actually been DE-FATTED!!! 85% less fat and 40% less calories! Crazy, I know, but wait til you taste this stuff. Every bit as good as normal peanut butter. Actually, I think it's better. My new fav snack is "Peanut Wonder" on slices of Granny Smith apples. I got a few jars at Whole Foods, but most larger health food stores carry it.

An Awesome Wine Deal... In a Snap!

My lovely girlfriend Sus recently introduced me to a killer wine bargain... normally I would keep this information on the "DL" because it's really almost too good to share, but I need to throw you all a bone since I've been offline for awhile. LOL!

Check out the '07 Snap Dragon Red from Cali. At about $8 a bottle, you simply cannot go wrong! It's also listed in the September issue of "Food & Wine" magazine as one of California's top wines at $15 or less. A serious steal. If you live in the SWFL area, head into The Liquor Store at Fiddlesticks. They are one of the few places locally that carry it! Plus, the owners are WAY cool.
Directions here: http://www.theliquorstore.net/directions.asp

Costa Was The Mosta!

My lovelies! I am SO sorry that I have neglected you for nearly 90 days... shame on moi! At any rate, I am back and with more tales of adventure than you can imagine.

The gypsy soul in me began to stir again in July as the Babbling Blonde made her way to the gorgeous... I repeat, GORGEOUS country of Costa Rica for a week with the darling Miss Christy.

Days of hiking, zip lining and (of course) fishing led into nights of sipping Catena Alta Malbec on the balcony while listening to howler monkeys call into the dark treetops.

Perhaps my most cherished experience was that of the Simbiosis Volcanic Hot Springs in Rincon De La Vieja National Park. Glimpses of my youth came rushing back as we turned ourselves into human mud pies, brushing on the steamy mineral coating from head to toe.

If you ever consider a visit to Northwest Costa, do not miss Rincon De La Vieja and Simbiosis. Read more about the spa and its history here: http://www.simbiosis-spa.com/