tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80670293656430396252024-03-21T10:17:22.675-04:00The Champagne DietThe Rules (and Cocktail Recipes) for Living Your Most Effervescent LifeCara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-42936876299840337112011-03-31T07:30:00.000-04:002011-03-31T07:30:28.126-04:00Photo of the Day: Champagne Girls 1930's<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vmzqsdEFRPSKcBAcdsTQEt-j-ZIxGOqt71mnTPJ2vHY4XbG2Ts4ebDWb370jXQ6rN0ZnGXp0K2g_TMPIlKOrJqPeqyBc5Pp3UIlyJNYUt62pRij-cZwLf1lAxqyCoFQtk0GKCtqBr9g/s1600/tumblr_le7i642HUR1qbrdf3o1_500.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vmzqsdEFRPSKcBAcdsTQEt-j-ZIxGOqt71mnTPJ2vHY4XbG2Ts4ebDWb370jXQ6rN0ZnGXp0K2g_TMPIlKOrJqPeqyBc5Pp3UIlyJNYUt62pRij-cZwLf1lAxqyCoFQtk0GKCtqBr9g/s400/tumblr_le7i642HUR1qbrdf3o1_500.png" width="400" /></a></div>Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-24788473300570086062011-03-30T21:11:00.002-04:002011-03-30T21:14:11.099-04:00Tre' MagnifiqueI decided to post this after working on my book all day today and realizing I don't spend nearly enough time on Twitter and Facebook (and this blog) on this subject. One of the key, fundamental pieces of The Champagne Diet is about being the <b>best version of yourself. </b><br />
<br />
And that doesn't mean being perfect. It doesn't mean eating tomatoes for dinner so you can fit into your size 4 dress (or in my case, size 10). It doesn't mean being forgiving all the time. And it doesn't mean always saying the right thing (or even doing it). It means being as confident as possible<i> in the person you are.</i> <br />
<br />
The Champagne Diet is about living your best life, and being the best version of yourself is about acceptance. It's about owning up to the fact that you WILL make bad decisions at times, and you WILL gain weight, and you WILL be a complete fool once in a while. And that's okay. <br />
<br />
It's about putting the best, most nutritious foods in your body - and that doesn't mean low-fat or necessarily low-calorie, either. It's about indulging in the things that are healthy for you; both mentally and physically. It's about sitting back each night, raising a glass and toasting to everything you are, and everything you know you can be.<br />
<br />
At the risk of sounding cliche, you, my dear, deserve it all. You are a beautiful creature that was put here for a reason. You are special, you are unique, and you are magnificent. Now get out there and show us who you <b>really</b> are.Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-38135867102380160692011-03-28T12:49:00.004-04:002011-03-28T12:57:59.546-04:00Do You Need Wine?(taken from one of those horribly annoying email chain forwards that I rarely ever read, but chose to pay attention to for some reason this time. I wonder why?)<br />
<br />
Important Women's Health Issue:<br />
<br />
* Do you have feelings of inadequacy?<br />
* Do you suffer from shyness?<br />
* Do you sometimes wish you were more assertive?<br />
* Do you suffer exhaustion from the day to day grind?<br />
<br />
If you answered yes to any of these questions, ask your doctor or <br />
pharmacist about Wine.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogmXtsMZfpXB6BYsGLmAS-KtebcO3QsWql_09qKRbvn54unTLyCIqFPxZKWhHXtylwmt6TgdhefOujPlHHS_w8gHqHzQjGb4m2Px8Hl-FGthCKJHndfHMx9AG24LFSw8UcfCBB4_hRWQ/s1600/red_wine_glass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogmXtsMZfpXB6BYsGLmAS-KtebcO3QsWql_09qKRbvn54unTLyCIqFPxZKWhHXtylwmt6TgdhefOujPlHHS_w8gHqHzQjGb4m2Px8Hl-FGthCKJHndfHMx9AG24LFSw8UcfCBB4_hRWQ/s200/red_wine_glass.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Wine are the safe, natural way to feel better and more confident <br />
about yourself and your actions. Wine can help ease you out of <br />
your shyness and let you tell the world that you're ready and willing <br />
to do just about anything. You will notice the benefits of Wine <br />
almost immediately and with a regimen of regular doses you can <br />
overcome any obstacles that prevent you from living the life you want <br />
to live.<br />
<br />
Shyness and awkwardness will be a thing of the past and you will <br />
discover many talents you never knew you had. Stop hiding and start <br />
living, with Wine.<br />
<br />
Wine may not be right for everyone. Women who are pregnant or <br />
nursing should not use Wine. However, women who wouldn't mind <br />
nursing or becoming pregnant are encouraged to try it.<br />
<br />
Side effects may include:<br />
- Dizziness<br />
- Nausea<br />
- Vomiting<br />
- Incarceration<br />
- Erotic lustfulness<br />
- Loss of motor control<br />
- Loss of clothing<br />
- Loss of money<br />
- Loss of virginity<br />
- Table dancing<br />
- Headache<br />
- Dehydration<br />
- Dry mouth<br />
- And a desire to sing Karaoke<br />
<br />
WARNINGS:<br />
* The consumption of Wine may make you think you are whispering <br />
when you are not.<br />
* The consumption of Wine may cause you to tell your friends over <br />
and over again that you love them.<br />
* The consumption of Wine may cause you to think you can sing.<br />
<br />
Please share this with other women who may need Wine.Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-41136081799665399852011-03-25T11:16:00.002-04:002011-03-25T11:22:05.220-04:00The Cocktail Diaries: I want to hear YOUR story!Chances are, if you've landed at this blog, you love cocktails just as much as I do. Everyone has their drink of choice - be it wine, Champagne, martinis, vodka tonics - whatever it is that sets your heart a flutter when the clock strikes 5 and it's time to unwind. And more than likely, your beloved cocktail has played a part in your life story in some way. I'm working on a super top secret project (which will be revealed later) and I want to hear <i>your </i>story.<br />
<br />
For me, of course, it was Champagne. When I first really discovered the bubbly, I was at a crossroads in my life. I was embarking on a diet (for the 247th time), and as much as I was ready to eat healthy, there was <i>no</i> way I was giving up my cocktails. When a friend suggested I drink Champagne instead of anything else, I laughed. Why would I drink Champagne? Who did I think I was? I had always imagined Champagne be kept for celebrations; wedding toasts, New Year's Eve and the like. So why would I drink it at an Irish Pub at Happy Hour, or after a long day of work when relaxing on my couch in sweats? It didn't seem right. But as my friend informed me, a glass of Champagne only has 100 calories in it, and we all know that little glass gives you a pretty good buzz. That beat out a 500 calorie margarita and a 250 calorie beer any day of the week in my book - and it looks a hell of a lot sexier to drink.<br />
<br />
I was in. <br />
<br />
Through my new "Champagne Diet," I also embarked on a period of self discovery. I started feeling better about myself and finally got out of a terrible relationship. I started pursuing my writing more and chasing after all the dreams I had set for myself, but had forgotten about because I was so down on myself and wrapped up in negativity. This new celebratory dink started taking on a whole new meaning in my life. I was celebrating everything - my health, my dreams, my new positive outlook on life. I was truly living The Champagne Diet.<br />
<br />
So, what's your story? Did you endure a rough divorce and the only thing that saved you from losing your mind completely were your Friday nights where you cried, talked, laughed and eased your stress with your girlfriends and a couple of vodka tonics? Did you recently have a baby and feel like <i>everything</i> changed for you? You knew motherhood would be challenging, but maybe it took more of a toll than you expected, and your saving grace was that one hour at night, when your baby finally went to sleep, and you and your husband curled up with a bottle of pinot grigio on the couch and had some alone time that made you feel human again?<br />
<br />
Whatever it is, I'd love to hear about it. Shoot me an email at TheChampagneDiet@gmail.com and let me know! Cheers!Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-27996434538991422011-03-24T10:33:00.002-04:002011-03-24T10:34:11.439-04:00Photo of the Day<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4sk0_kTQK9xymDSparZwmWlPz92G5LO7frGNT0Umff-DySmFZaTtT_fyXlm0IP7vFFWYXe_Y5kcgkviwrwWkvMrFUiPoMvRq3YdtWFwtS0iausDsR8Fw1keXyhj8snMqGAb_L69Z1SU8/s1600/Pink+Champagne+cocktails+with+blue+background.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4sk0_kTQK9xymDSparZwmWlPz92G5LO7frGNT0Umff-DySmFZaTtT_fyXlm0IP7vFFWYXe_Y5kcgkviwrwWkvMrFUiPoMvRq3YdtWFwtS0iausDsR8Fw1keXyhj8snMqGAb_L69Z1SU8/s320/Pink+Champagne+cocktails+with+blue+background.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thirsty?<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-52704742482555180172011-03-16T14:32:00.000-04:002011-03-16T14:32:59.166-04:00Be Good to Yourself!One of the things I discovered, while embarking on <b>The Champagne Diet</b>, is that it is so crucial to be good to yourself. And I think there is a huge misconception with that notion that needs to be addressed.<br />
<br />
Being good to yourself doesn't mean being reckless and selfish and going out and purchasing a Louis Vuitton bag instead of paying your rent. Nor does it mean over-eating to the point of disgust because you "earned" that double bacon cheeseburger with a side of fries and a shake. Being good to yourself means a lot of things, but mainly, it means viewing yourself in the highest regard. Knowing that you deserve all the best that life has to offer: the best, most nutritiously rich foods, the best career, the best shampoo, the best husband, the best pair of jeans that look amazing on you. <br />
<br />
And being good to yourself has more benefits than you realize. In a recent study posted in the <a href="http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/02/28/go-easy-on-yourself-a-new-wave-of-research-urges/?emc=eta1">New York Times</a>, researchers found that there were tremendous health benefits for people who go easy on themselves. "The research suggests that giving ourselves a break and accepting our imperfections may be the first step toward better health. People who score high on tests of self-compassion have less depression and anxiety, and tend to be happier and more optimistic. Preliminary data suggest that self-compassion can even influence how much we eat and may help some people lose weight."<br />
<br />
So next time you find yourself dipping into the donuts, or not working as hard as you probably should have on a project, don't beat yourself up. Feel it, and move on. Your body (and brain) will thank you.Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-67978494829142181002011-03-12T09:32:00.000-05:002011-03-12T09:32:21.948-05:005 Things You Thought You Knew About Booze (But You Were Totally Wrong!)<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Myth #1: Alcohol makes you fat</b></span><br />
This wide misconception has plagued the weight loss industry for years. For some reason, we’ve been convinced that if we drink, we will gain weight. That could not be further from the truth. Drinking – in moderation – can actually help women lose weight, according to recent studies. In a study done on nearly 20,000 women of average weight over the course of 13 years, research showed that the women who drank a glass or two of red wine a day were 30 percent less likely to be overweight than the nondrinkers. The women who took part in the study also drank beer and liquor, but it was found that red wine had the strongest correlation. Drinking alcohol can pack on extra pounds because of it’s caloric content, so the trick is to be selective and to enjoy it in moderation. For instance, a four-once glass of wine has about 100 calories, as does a bottle of light beer, and a shot of vodka boasts about 55 calories on average. Choose those over a margarita, which can have up to 700 calories in one glass.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Myth #2: Alcohol converts to sugar in your body</b></span><br />
Despite what you’ve been told, alcohol does not turn to sugar in the body. In fact, alcohol is not digested in the same way as the carbs, fats and proteins are. Alcohol is metabolized by our liver, while carbs, proteins and fat are broken down by a multitude of enzymes in our intestines and then absorbed. While this is great news, it’s crucial to keep in mind that alcohol does contain calories, and when consumed in excess, will lead to weight gain. Moderation is key.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Myth #3: Drinking kills brain cells</b></span><br />
Drinking alcohol – even excessively – doesn’t’ actually result in the death of brain cells. However, it can do some serious damage to the ends of neurons, which are called dendrites. The cell itself isn't damaged, but the way that it communicates with others is altered. According to Roberta J. Pentney, professor of anatomy and cell biology at the University at Buffalo, this damage is mostly reversible. On the flipside, moderate drinking, specifically Champagne, can actually improve brain function. An article published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry reported findings that link Champagne as a source of brain protection. According to the study, this delicious sparkling wine may help protect the brain from the injuries common with Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and stroke. Champagne’s high presence of polyphenols, according to the researchers at Italy’s Universita degli studi di Cagliari and England’s University of Reading, are at the root of it’s benefits. Polyphenols are chemical substances derived from plants, are antioxidants, which help cells fight diseases like cancer<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Myth #4: Alcohol kills your sex drive</span></b><br />
While an overload of alcohol can cause you to be lethargic and kill the mood in the bedroom, a few glasses of wine or Champagne can actually increase your libido. Dr. Max Lake, a vintner and MD in Australia, discovered that the scent of some champagnes replicated the scent of certain female pheromones. Look for wines that have a heavy yeasty, brie cheese, bread-dough notes. And because of its effervescent qualities, Champagne’s affects come on much stronger and quicker than a glass of still wine. Just a few sips can relax you and your partner, making you more inclined to initiate sex. According to Amy Reiley, author of “Fork Me, Spoon Me: The Sensual Cookbook,” Champagne should be the drink of choice in the bedroom. “First of all, all alcohol is considered aphrodisiac for its ability to lower inhibition. But Champagne has the extra, attractive attribute that it hits the blood stream more quickly than still wine (thank you bubbles) and can give you that giddy feeling after as little as half a glass.”<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Myth #4: Beer gives you a gut</b></span><br />
Most women stay away from beer to avoid the dreaded “beer belly.” There is actually no such thing – the only way to get a gut is from overeating and consuming too many calories. Beer is actually 93 percent water and contains no fat. Researchers in Britain and the Czech Republic surveyed almost 2,000 Czechs, who are generally regarded as the world's biggest beer drinkers. They found no link between the amount of beer they drink and the size of their stomachs.Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-89193936948964209902011-03-06T09:49:00.001-05:002011-03-06T09:53:43.165-05:00Breakfast in Bed: Champagne Diet StyleSunday morning is upon us and there's a general sense of calm all around the world. It's a day to stay in your most comfy pajamas, a day to reflect on the past week, and prepare for the week ahead. And for most people, it's a day to indulge in yummy food and sneak in a few extra cocktails. Why? Because you deserve it!<br />
<br />
So here is my Sunday <b>Perfect Pairing</b>, Champagne Diet style:<br />
<div style="color: #e06666;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></b></div><b style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-size: large;">Avocado & Tomato Sandwich with a Sunrise Mimosa</span></b><br />
<br />
<b>Directions:</b> Lightly toast a whole wheat english muffin. Spread lowfat cream cheese on one side. Add slice of roma tomato. Cut half an avocado, and add to a bowl. Smash the avocado until it has the texture of guacamole. Season with a pinch of salt, pinch of cayenne pepper and add lime juice. Spread the avocado mixture on the other side of the english muffin and make a sandwich. Pair this with a sunrise mimosa, crawl into bed, and enjoy!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuc3CWXhyphenhyphenCgTG76QJUW1DvmPr2JQcBhnmLrOVhvkrMOJZ-OhA9g993HqKOkgTTBktMXpxwpnpV9iqbsONbNprzsCc-e_lTozeDmuqYojpJsly-IFz10hLZgiO2s4ma2oMZSXpOkHjHP3Y/s1600/Mimosa-Sunrise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuc3CWXhyphenhyphenCgTG76QJUW1DvmPr2JQcBhnmLrOVhvkrMOJZ-OhA9g993HqKOkgTTBktMXpxwpnpV9iqbsONbNprzsCc-e_lTozeDmuqYojpJsly-IFz10hLZgiO2s4ma2oMZSXpOkHjHP3Y/s320/Mimosa-Sunrise.jpg" width="233" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<b>Sunrise Mimosa: Extra dry Champagne, splash of OJ, splash of cranberry juice</b>Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-41361969730421394512011-02-27T09:54:00.000-05:002011-02-27T09:54:47.094-05:00New York Wine Expo with Thirsty Girl!I really can't think of a better way to spend a Friday night than learning about and pouring wine for a bunch of Thirsty Girls (and guys!) When Ashton Keefe from Thirsty Girl invited me and my hubby, Ryan, to work the TG booth at the 4th Annual New York Wine Expo, I jumped at the opportunity to hang out with some of my favorite, adventure-seeking, wine-loving ladies. But I had no idea just how much fun it would be.<br />
<br />
Naturally, Ryan and I migrated toward the bubbly, and served up 3 different sparkling wines for thirsty girls (and guys), all from the Gloria Ferrer company. All the wines at the TG booth were hand picked by head thirsty girl (and wine expert) Leslie Sbrocco and they all were simply amazing - not that I'd expect anything less!<br />
<br />
First up was the <a href="http://www.gloriaferrer.com/va-de-vi">Va de Vi </a>, which is a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with a touch of Muscat, which makes for a light and refreshing, slightly fruity taste with a soft finish. This was a huge fan favorite and everyone seemed to just adore it (including me and Ryan!)<br />
<br />
Next up was the <a href="http://www.gazette.net/stories/02242011/enteres131217_32537.php">Segura Viudas Brut Reserva</a>. This inexpensive Cava (Spanish sparkling wine) is easy to drink, with hints of almond and floral aromas. Another crowd pleaser, especially when everyone found out it's less than $10 a bottle!<br />
<br />
And lastly, the<a href="http://www.freixenetusatrade.com/Wines.php?Wine=347"> Elyssia Gran Cuvee Brut</a>. This refined Cava is more complex in flavor than the Segura Viudas, with hints of roasted nuts, citrus fruit and honey. Flavors of lemon and melon give way to a spicy finish. It sounds intimidating, but it was nothing short of delicious. I highly recommend this for a "splurge" as Leslie suggests, around $25 a bottle. Yum!!<br />
<br />
One of the best parts of working with the TG ladies was their enthusiasm. Everyone loved what they were doing - whether it was pouring wines, educating the crowd about what Thirsty Girl is, or taking photos in feather boas at the TG photo booth. Can't wait for the next event with these fab ladies!<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfEoH3qHnfXpfa5u7G_QaUDrqcwqsUl-CXOt1gZRfYRz5op_DBciHHO7IjMnllAODHJWYfBsxbb06Azsb2fpvlYu1mgGjCzXzaxhyphenhyphenOgFBLc4eFhOdTlDkYMfMBh8xBsppqbqzpNTuCZbE/s1600/DSC06206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfEoH3qHnfXpfa5u7G_QaUDrqcwqsUl-CXOt1gZRfYRz5op_DBciHHO7IjMnllAODHJWYfBsxbb06Azsb2fpvlYu1mgGjCzXzaxhyphenhyphenOgFBLc4eFhOdTlDkYMfMBh8xBsppqbqzpNTuCZbE/s320/DSC06206.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TG photo station (with props!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV433rdRHFKaJERo08avQZ-QxDpRUq4VK3evgg_5iV36Vw0oYBlRZhuwUW-AeaYjyrkUR5F-4gfEVzXIBhlTaB6WI11abeBQSp4aaaCUXcVhZkmNUx_2rXcw190RSDXJ9tG6KpUdjZi1k/s1600/DSC06207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV433rdRHFKaJERo08avQZ-QxDpRUq4VK3evgg_5iV36Vw0oYBlRZhuwUW-AeaYjyrkUR5F-4gfEVzXIBhlTaB6WI11abeBQSp4aaaCUXcVhZkmNUx_2rXcw190RSDXJ9tG6KpUdjZi1k/s320/DSC06207.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUS1LRwXWSadBJm66EeYoQHeMg2KmQigAu84_seHS_lUudsLGRukV1t0wwLSCw3LAQ0ycY3U2RS8g0ks1UItVU3pvDmEX30MTaqps9F01OVkRV7yjS4AlaKtJZsR6DFRZ663A-wPCyQ_M/s1600/DSC06205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUS1LRwXWSadBJm66EeYoQHeMg2KmQigAu84_seHS_lUudsLGRukV1t0wwLSCw3LAQ0ycY3U2RS8g0ks1UItVU3pvDmEX30MTaqps9F01OVkRV7yjS4AlaKtJZsR6DFRZ663A-wPCyQ_M/s320/DSC06205.JPG" width="289" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ryan pouring some bubbly!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirRwBVdsGNTWJOeezzxIOyTN37xsLYVXRtpWOTa9apZGqCxYxVYsbBhlEC9BhuU1KQCEOWb_AtR1FSiSquwwkgswDKa3W4mM8VC_S5TahRVwttpncg_K6aqmBGT_Vw7JW79f_jKTA-0wo/s1600/DSC06208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirRwBVdsGNTWJOeezzxIOyTN37xsLYVXRtpWOTa9apZGqCxYxVYsbBhlEC9BhuU1KQCEOWb_AtR1FSiSquwwkgswDKa3W4mM8VC_S5TahRVwttpncg_K6aqmBGT_Vw7JW79f_jKTA-0wo/s320/DSC06208.JPG" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me with Thirsty Girl Ashton Keefe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-46566989322444691732011-01-20T14:44:00.001-05:002011-01-20T14:47:28.108-05:00Name the Signature Champagne Cocktail at my Wedding & WIN!So we all know (unless you're living under a rock or have avoided being spammed by my Twitter feed) that I'm getting MARRIED! And what would the author of The Champagne Diet's wedding be without a signature Champagne cocktail at the reception? We've decided to go with a classic - Champagne & Chambord. But now we need a name! I'm going to run a small contest and whoever comes up with the most creative name will WIN a bottle of bubbly hand-picked by me!<br />
<br />
Here are some fun facts about our wedding:<br />
<br />
<ul><li>We're getting married on Valentine's Day</li>
</ul><ul><li>Our wedding will be held at the Empire State Building</li>
</ul><ul><li>We met and fell in love in New York City </li>
</ul><ul><li>My favorite color is pink! </li>
</ul><br />
Submit your idea in the comments box below and I'll pick a winner on <b>Monday January 24th!</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrZJ6Y3Foxy8IvIDBcL3psDbGUuI-_8QLTNRPRxgYub5P5gW0UjAARQGaQCE89ZFKAfPZG4-aPwnuGQz8WTCYoZ_-04aZ-M8K27i1RI5BJiVi5NzHj5FBGZMb8lWJ6znC8Qhk8ApPzdCU/s1600/chambord-champagne-especiale-216x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrZJ6Y3Foxy8IvIDBcL3psDbGUuI-_8QLTNRPRxgYub5P5gW0UjAARQGaQCE89ZFKAfPZG4-aPwnuGQz8WTCYoZ_-04aZ-M8K27i1RI5BJiVi5NzHj5FBGZMb8lWJ6znC8Qhk8ApPzdCU/s1600/chambord-champagne-especiale-216x300.jpg" /></a></div>Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-78189832063390053092011-01-06T10:22:00.002-05:002011-01-06T10:26:01.685-05:00Resolution for 2011: Look & Feel More Fabulous<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhENdgvPYbyACOklKWcRDxmdEZoRKooqzlUeblPAAXUzadzGA9zEfK5Bn8GQonr5OqFBoa4SIjnXPlnneiiRwV67-nCID00ynkwSnyBCaecGPuS8Ag0gRFqesiI-MiY6K5mkk4TtspqHac/s1600/vs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhENdgvPYbyACOklKWcRDxmdEZoRKooqzlUeblPAAXUzadzGA9zEfK5Bn8GQonr5OqFBoa4SIjnXPlnneiiRwV67-nCID00ynkwSnyBCaecGPuS8Ag0gRFqesiI-MiY6K5mkk4TtspqHac/s320/vs.jpg" width="237" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I know it's hard to believe, but this model is NOT actually me</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Way back when I launched The Champagne Diet, one of my mantras was to always look and feel as best as possible. I don't necessarily mean this in a superficial way. What I mean is that you should never completely let yourself go, because no matter how much you think you're too busy, or you're doing it "for comfort" or ease, at the end of the day you're going to wind up feeling like crap.<br />
<br />
In the past year, I got in a very bad habit of wearing anything to bed. An old t-shirt with a hole in it, gym pants, whatever I could find that wasn't jeans. And the more I wore those crappy clothes to bed, the easier it was for me to lounge around and snack all night long. I'd look in the mirror and I wasn't impressed with what I saw - mainly because I looked like I had just stepped out of a trailer somewhere in the Bible Belt. I didn't look sexy, so I didn't feel sexy. So it became that much easier to eat a bag of Cheetos and fall asleep without even brushing my teeth.<br />
<br />
So as the holidays approached, I started thinking about where I saw myself in 2011. I had all the important stuff under control - I was focusing on getting all my debt paid off, I was putting the finishing touches on my wedding plans, I had a game plan for saving more money, and my apartment was looking fabulous. But what about me? I knew I had gained a couple pounds and hadn't gone shopping in months, and I was feeling much less than glamorous. So I marched to Victoria's Secret and I invested in two pairs of gorgeous satin pajamas. I got them home, put on the leopard pair (yes, I'm a die-hard leopard girl), and poured a glass of Champagne as I got ready to go out on a date with my fiance. I felt AMAZING. It occurred to me that such a small change, like switching up my lounge wear could do me so good. I know it may sound silly, but as I was relaxing on the couch, sipping my bubbly, I felt like a million bucks. If I had been doing it in that ratty t-shirt and gym pants, it just wouldn't feel so special.<br />
<br />
So my goal for 2011 is to look - and feel - more fabulous. I've already knocked off 13 pounds and have fallen in love with working out all over again. I'm taking care of myself in every way possible. Even if it's something like buying a fancier face wash at Sephora or keeping up with my pedicures (before my toenails look like a creature from The Hobbit). And I really suggest you do the same. We only have one life, so let's make sure we live it fabulously.Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-43941994842294974012010-12-27T13:08:00.002-05:002010-12-27T13:10:41.300-05:00Winter Dessert: Sauteed Apples with Honey<div style="color: #666666;">I made this yesterday while we were snowed in. So yummy and easy to make! In a skillet, cook and stir apples in hot butter over medium high heat for 6 to 8 minutes or until tender. Stir in about a tablespoon or two of honey and add cinnamon if desired. Serve hot with a pump of fat free whipped topping and a glass of bubbly!</div><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6pK5k51LTS_c_Jwxoe9wlPsQ8uEG7OVqo6aqea2kbpJDrSFYlwpMIModsMf6GCCNBwpH-iRal4Sqkw7MWCUSPgdxv3S9DeeXWxjVHiaiO1alB37G_OKBTv_et3WzqXdInVEvdCP4U87k/s1600/DSC05550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6pK5k51LTS_c_Jwxoe9wlPsQ8uEG7OVqo6aqea2kbpJDrSFYlwpMIModsMf6GCCNBwpH-iRal4Sqkw7MWCUSPgdxv3S9DeeXWxjVHiaiO1alB37G_OKBTv_et3WzqXdInVEvdCP4U87k/s320/DSC05550.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span>Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-52041344834280401712010-12-20T16:09:00.000-05:002010-12-20T16:09:02.735-05:00Isn't This the Cutest?<div style="text-align: center;">Just came across this on Etsy. Too cute! Happy holidays!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDioH0wB6gBuEoqgbZyYPwqQB76GdH8J1qnWZJnSJWmxzirDuKEmOWiIN-AE-WoZFZtq5eiSZbxseY-as5vdzYaBYOMlyNOwOefCCLHrzjmYedHQdgFbBiVQCuRhiVNxaRz0NjVa8zy7E/s1600/il_430xN.102354336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDioH0wB6gBuEoqgbZyYPwqQB76GdH8J1qnWZJnSJWmxzirDuKEmOWiIN-AE-WoZFZtq5eiSZbxseY-as5vdzYaBYOMlyNOwOefCCLHrzjmYedHQdgFbBiVQCuRhiVNxaRz0NjVa8zy7E/s400/il_430xN.102354336.jpg" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://www.etsy.com/listing/34467414/large-celebrate-the-holidays-champagne</td></tr>
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</div>Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-73207811105139716002010-12-16T11:32:00.000-05:002010-12-16T11:32:44.841-05:00The Champagne Diet's Holiday Gift GuideThe holidays are upon us! Snow is on the ground (in some places), Starbucks has busted out the red cups and those fabulous, calorie-ridden gingerbread spiked drinks, and you are ripping your hair out trying to figure out what to get your loved ones. Well, I can't say I have<i> all</i> the answers, but here are a few of my ultimate go-to gifts for the boozehounds on your list. (No, none of these items are sponsored, so rest assured they are my REAL picks!)<br />
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<b style="color: #e06666;">Pink Bubbles!</b><b><span style="color: #e06666;"></span></b><br />
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Rose is typically a more festive Champagne. First of all, it's PINK, so it's perfect in my book. Secondly, it tastes fantastic and it compliments almost any meal or dessert. My first pick is<span style="color: #e06666;"> <b>Veuve Clicquot Rose</b></span>. A bottle runs right around $70. Another great option (for about $50 per bottle) is the <b><span style="color: #e06666;">Moet & Chandon Rose</span></b>. And if you're looking for something a little more wallet-friendly, go with a sparkling wine. <b><span style="color: #e06666;">Chandon Rose</span></b> is a perfect pick for about $17 per bottle. These are all fabulous, festive choices and will make any bubbly lover very happy!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNA34Sfh8KWqUVhyJot7zPtaWtXqINlaOdiX9nIEfJLGSdy0HrbzTplCNfyyyqNr7PlP0TS8Bqy3UzRCs9CBN35Ga8d7JNBF4Q9sRLslHQL99H1OOav1SlJagaH9ifVWLIrqKS_cIvEeQ/s1600/vc.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNA34Sfh8KWqUVhyJot7zPtaWtXqINlaOdiX9nIEfJLGSdy0HrbzTplCNfyyyqNr7PlP0TS8Bqy3UzRCs9CBN35Ga8d7JNBF4Q9sRLslHQL99H1OOav1SlJagaH9ifVWLIrqKS_cIvEeQ/s320/vc.JPG" width="242" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Veuve Clicquot Rose - $70</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilmCHTSlZHkaH55qUZhp7uRCdQiXy-d6LTq20UrkoAEC2uVt8BldfFuqF4UIrZ2h71TlkMu6bJhHymD__uS_-yuVSVkam8nc3kBc1uycDGlHrfCPL2kZN0gMaC6h-MVaBEt5LK2WLPyJA/s1600/moet_chandon_rose_nv_champagne75cl.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilmCHTSlZHkaH55qUZhp7uRCdQiXy-d6LTq20UrkoAEC2uVt8BldfFuqF4UIrZ2h71TlkMu6bJhHymD__uS_-yuVSVkam8nc3kBc1uycDGlHrfCPL2kZN0gMaC6h-MVaBEt5LK2WLPyJA/s320/moet_chandon_rose_nv_champagne75cl.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moet & Chandon Rose - $50</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimv2RHH7JoOL3hi88fhYigDyEb6F7w9xbxL1PoC4D1fEIa-uS4NzS2zcxV3SXj9MlWifXfOOScZ_EjRiFJuL89CW2APc_hgTrikUPbrhwwMKBgGJOxOgxd54xj9Z1A4lTu9AJ6a-6pgms/s1600/Chandon-Rose.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimv2RHH7JoOL3hi88fhYigDyEb6F7w9xbxL1PoC4D1fEIa-uS4NzS2zcxV3SXj9MlWifXfOOScZ_EjRiFJuL89CW2APc_hgTrikUPbrhwwMKBgGJOxOgxd54xj9Z1A4lTu9AJ6a-6pgms/s320/Chandon-Rose.gif" width="105" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chandon Rose - $20</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<b><span style="color: #e06666;">Champagne (Yes, REAL Champagne)</span></b><br />
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Most people think Champagne and immediately see dollar signs. While you can spend hundreds on a fabulous bottle of bubbly, there are many reasonable Champagnes that taste wonderful and won't break the bank. One of my all-time favorite Champagnes is <b><span style="color: #e06666;">Perrier-Jouet.</span></b><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"> <span style="color: #666666;">A bottle of the "Grand Brut" non-vintage will run you about $40, and it is sure to impress. </span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv_YlVgr9Rr6Cbacz2MDaRF4kUBF8cNC6SlP6zVXdYTSjli1JIdYohiD2zlSgD-e2yXU68E_V63XYTNH6ykQH3oM6j_Oh7XIgbmbfgqOLXTvRFqdMvbaav4klEObWw2oxB9k0y4INZGBY/s1600/523d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv_YlVgr9Rr6Cbacz2MDaRF4kUBF8cNC6SlP6zVXdYTSjli1JIdYohiD2zlSgD-e2yXU68E_V63XYTNH6ykQH3oM6j_Oh7XIgbmbfgqOLXTvRFqdMvbaav4klEObWw2oxB9k0y4INZGBY/s320/523d.jpg" width="104" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perrier Jouet Grand Brut - $40</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="color: #e06666;"><b>Sparkling Wine</b></div><br />
This is a great alternative to Champagne, and honestly, most people don't care that it's not from France - they just see bubbles and get excited. Again, one of my favorite sparkling wines is from California. <b style="color: #e06666;">Chandon Brut Classic </b>is about $30, and has a crisp, clean taste that makes you feel like you're drinking a more expensive wine. There's also <b><span style="color: #e06666;">Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut,</span></b> which runs about $18 per bottle, and also boasts high ratings and tastes great.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFSars92IyIEzTOES6v5UKl8KGJJXgZ26Fhwu8JuT8eWkGiCH2kmTus9yfMobb8AGVpD9h-1Xqatw2k9d6hy6LwuoIShyphenhyphenV2Xg8_RUW0O9TrqT-DW7YEcJsaU_vE5csieu0MZKRjyY1C7k/s1600/3619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFSars92IyIEzTOES6v5UKl8KGJJXgZ26Fhwu8JuT8eWkGiCH2kmTus9yfMobb8AGVpD9h-1Xqatw2k9d6hy6LwuoIShyphenhyphenV2Xg8_RUW0O9TrqT-DW7YEcJsaU_vE5csieu0MZKRjyY1C7k/s1600/3619.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chandon Brut Classic - $30</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi150W4xQ2NUAGY0hFFaMtH4wc4v7msYlfSkNTsVoBi5oNXT8uxolKQJ8ykXxCqHd8WvgZw38nDF1NTVs2d2gLNDGVzbvB3iQJwMPy2MCtNqkQ5NNID6NqkjeBTbwtftciX3ljbdoUtq8Q/s1600/GLORIA+FERRER+BRUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi150W4xQ2NUAGY0hFFaMtH4wc4v7msYlfSkNTsVoBi5oNXT8uxolKQJ8ykXxCqHd8WvgZw38nDF1NTVs2d2gLNDGVzbvB3iQJwMPy2MCtNqkQ5NNID6NqkjeBTbwtftciX3ljbdoUtq8Q/s320/GLORIA+FERRER+BRUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut - $18</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-82939015009535204842010-10-04T11:27:00.000-04:002010-10-04T11:27:30.853-04:00Marilyn Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> I have little to no motivation to actually DO anything today, although I'm thinking up a bunch of great ideas (I swear!) Apologies for not keeping up with my posts lately - just realized it's been over a week since my last blog. I'm in nesting-mode with my sweetie pie, and we have been dedicating our weekends to apartment renovations. There WILL be more fun stuff posted this week, I promise! In the meantime, enjoy a fun dedication to one of the sexiest Champagne Dieters of all time! I am sure Miss Monroe would have followed our lifestyle "diet," don't you think? <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7I-jhtyGLJ9nArbeqiIfdI81deBxOh8ioJURm1dlRWyhOEJ8mq3lzZeqY8Yvi9VEI8R6lbSreSpkrSrGZ6gEaQnBOopizOxvRbdaLgIrVQb5Y4PpsxGmL1ZdCT8S8WNuQ1vd-jZqnRQ8/s1600/14650_512x288_manicured__xl-bj8rpemujuuld64zjg-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7I-jhtyGLJ9nArbeqiIfdI81deBxOh8ioJURm1dlRWyhOEJ8mq3lzZeqY8Yvi9VEI8R6lbSreSpkrSrGZ6gEaQnBOopizOxvRbdaLgIrVQb5Y4PpsxGmL1ZdCT8S8WNuQ1vd-jZqnRQ8/s320/14650_512x288_manicured__xl-bj8rpemujuuld64zjg-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKbE8AJF_UT_9fh5QcMmydkjF5bTf6xKVG3TrHPiNhJLPYjVrEnj0ayIh2VA2zQlyuqq58TANWBR6xbg-BC0vS2h4kx2vfXhe9CzhO6N8nRBw2eha2YM1m3YOiqTbpWRSwkHY1MNz88VE/s1600/silveritch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKbE8AJF_UT_9fh5QcMmydkjF5bTf6xKVG3TrHPiNhJLPYjVrEnj0ayIh2VA2zQlyuqq58TANWBR6xbg-BC0vS2h4kx2vfXhe9CzhO6N8nRBw2eha2YM1m3YOiqTbpWRSwkHY1MNz88VE/s1600/silveritch.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQDrM-3IJQ9QIIxri9yzZKWS8l1HPrBDXUX_x_7PSXBtAxU2rbUwpNQs55ypnf9pFP7tcu9vcbqPA_RwWY13Izy4ZpfG0Lez2cMxu2OfHLSEaxvNo-fmI5roI_t6ySWSPaBJ9iTEAc91Y/s1600/loreleilee-2009060915843-1443_618964790_marilyn_monroe_388__-original.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQDrM-3IJQ9QIIxri9yzZKWS8l1HPrBDXUX_x_7PSXBtAxU2rbUwpNQs55ypnf9pFP7tcu9vcbqPA_RwWY13Izy4ZpfG0Lez2cMxu2OfHLSEaxvNo-fmI5roI_t6ySWSPaBJ9iTEAc91Y/s320/loreleilee-2009060915843-1443_618964790_marilyn_monroe_388__-original.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-8365585525699285652010-09-23T10:41:00.001-04:002010-09-23T10:47:21.677-04:00Move Over Boys, It's a Woman's (Champagne) World!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiznxuZsb7ymTtGhOgleGTkAegN27TSkc1FzgZ_kYxfhImWOe-y44sKK7vc1EbuJ7OSb883zdo0K4PhaHfw3IyGzwJB7M1FnQ3EO1ZK9P9T8OaZ1PKPAMBPTmU2scFFQ1N4Gc6mMno6klQ/s1600/3770368209_97ba336dbc_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiznxuZsb7ymTtGhOgleGTkAegN27TSkc1FzgZ_kYxfhImWOe-y44sKK7vc1EbuJ7OSb883zdo0K4PhaHfw3IyGzwJB7M1FnQ3EO1ZK9P9T8OaZ1PKPAMBPTmU2scFFQ1N4Gc6mMno6klQ/s320/3770368209_97ba336dbc_z.jpg" /></a></div>If you love all things bubbly, you may know the story of Madame Clicquot. Veuve (which means "widow" in french) Clicquot was named after <b><span style="color: #ea9999;">Barbe-Nicole Clicquot Ponsardin</span></b> after her husband passed away in 1805. With absolutely no knowledge of the business and a young daughter to take care of, she gracefully took the reigns and went on to produce Veuve Clicquot, one of the most popular Champagnes in the world.<br />
<br />
But did you know that there are a host of other widows who took the Champagne industry by storm after their husbands died? <br />
<br />
<b style="color: #ea9999;">Louise Pommery</b> took over the winery in 1858, developing a brut style of Champagne that became wildly popular and loved by the British.<br />
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<b style="color: #ea9999;">Madame Camille Olry-Roederer</b> took over the Champagne business in 1932 and went on to produce Cristal, the most high-end Champagne available from Roederer. <br />
<br />
And in 1941, <b style="color: #ea9999;">Madame Lily Bollinger</b> became the head of Bollinger Champagne. She is known for the famous quote, "I only drink champagne when I'm happy, and when I'm sad. Sometimes I drink it when I'm alone. When I have company, I consider it obligatory. I trifle with it if I am not hungry and drink it when I am. Otherwise I never touch it - unless I'm thirsty." I'm with her on that!Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-63684639070599841262009-05-13T21:30:00.004-04:002010-09-20T16:25:31.461-04:00Perfect Pairings: Whole Wheat Pasta with Spinach, Capers and Gorgonzola with Extra Dry Champagne<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhorYAYmfyM1BDEeFsrsJh6cc1SYwdH2h-agb390XxBowfh25Q-jizjchYFKIx-hKwB9-Oj6BSLYifEv51e3Wm02qEDVMmzNUXoc2Dq_XWUs6AyT1TKBU_k3WmxizUaOoaOiXj-Xf44TuA/s1600-h/pasta.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335487936675557442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhorYAYmfyM1BDEeFsrsJh6cc1SYwdH2h-agb390XxBowfh25Q-jizjchYFKIx-hKwB9-Oj6BSLYifEv51e3Wm02qEDVMmzNUXoc2Dq_XWUs6AyT1TKBU_k3WmxizUaOoaOiXj-Xf44TuA/s320/pasta.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 213px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
Today is my dear friend Crissie's birthday and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious, healthy dinner. Crissie and I have been friends since the 4th grade, and spent many years snacking on pizza and hot dogs, but this year I decided to spice it up and make her a memorable birthday dinner. I literally JUST made this meal and loved it so much that I went back for seconds. Now I'm stuffed. Hope she enjoyed it as much as I did!<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
Whole Wheat Pasta with Spinach, Capers and Gorgonzola</span><br />
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Ingredients:<br />
<br />
1 box whole wheat pasta - rotini or penne works just fine<br />
2 tbsp olive oil<br />
2 garlic cloves, diced<br />
2 cups baby spinach<br />
1/2 cup sun dried tomato pesto sauce<br />
1/2 cup capers<br />
1 cup Gorgonzola cheese<br />
<br />
<br />
Directions:<br />
<br />
Bring pasta to a boil, cook about ten minutes until slightly soft<br />
In a frying pain, heat oil and garlic<br />
Add spinach, capers and sun dried tomato pesto sauce<br />
Heat thoroughly<br />
Once pasta is cooked, drain and add veggies<br />
Top with Gorgonzola and enjoy!<br />
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Pairs with: glass of BAREFOOT BUBBLY Extra Dry!Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-61878481083091106592010-09-20T14:51:00.000-04:002010-09-20T14:51:22.707-04:00Nobody Looked Better Drinking it...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqTAxJq9O9BJq0fjslUKCDMS4tDcobyvizHtdTqRIIpdRoCjv7QtWDyJ6t3W9ud5AWoOlxfjYPtn2kF9lD2lVdup2rimKaMipnxw0ItqSgzGLGXveFnB5Oc2vYMZR-1CCMA2wceJpamRQ/s1600/Barris-champagne-orange01_1_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqTAxJq9O9BJq0fjslUKCDMS4tDcobyvizHtdTqRIIpdRoCjv7QtWDyJ6t3W9ud5AWoOlxfjYPtn2kF9lD2lVdup2rimKaMipnxw0ItqSgzGLGXveFnB5Oc2vYMZR-1CCMA2wceJpamRQ/s400/Barris-champagne-orange01_1_.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The beautifully timeless Marilyn Monroe enjoying her favorite drink, Champagne</div>Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-19428571715085934502010-09-20T13:41:00.001-04:002010-09-20T13:42:34.449-04:00Penne with Butternut Squash, Toasted Walnuts & Goat CheeseMaybe it's the leaves turning, or the chill in the air, but I tweeted about this recipe last night and <b>everyone</b> has been asking for a copy of it. The original recipe was courtesy of Giada De Laurentiis. I love Giada, but for some reason her recipes always need some tweaking. So here's my version of it. Enjoy this with a nice autumn-feeling red wine like <b><span style="color: #ea9999;">Cabernet Sauvignon </span></b>or <b style="color: #ea9999;">Malbec</b>. Cheers!<br />
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<div style="color: #ea9999;"><b>Ingredients</b></div><br />
1 (2-pound) butternut squash peeled, seeded and cut into 3/4-inch cubes <br />
1 onion, diced into 1/2-inch pieces <br />
Olive oil, for drizzling <br />
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper <br />
1 whole wheat pound penne pasta <br />
1 1/2 cups of goat cheese, crumbled <br />
1 cup coarsely chopped walnuts, toasted (see Cook's Note) <br />
1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan<br />
1 cup chicken broth<br />
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<div style="color: #ea9999;"><b>Directions</b></div><br />
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.<br />
Spray a baking sheet, liberally, with vegetable oil cooking spray. Set aside.<br />
<br />
Mix the squash and onion together and arrange in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Bake for to 40 to 45 minutes until the vegetables are golden and cooked through. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.<br />
<br />
While the squash mixture is cooling, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain. Heat 1 cup chicken broth. Once chicken broth is heated, put the pasta, 1 cup goat cheese and 1 cup of chicken broth in a large serving bowl. Toss until the cheese has melted and forms a creamy sauce. Add the squash and onion mixture, top with the walnuts. Crumble remaining 1/2 cup goat cheese and 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese on top. Toss well and season with salt and pepper, to taste, and serve!<br />
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<div style="color: #ea9999;"><b>Cook's Note:</b></div>To toast the walnuts, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 350 degree F oven until lightly toasted, about 6 to 8 minutes. DO NOT overcook. Cool completely before using.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzPbWKU8RYwbIg_k2zQcSNBxK22_Q05RngZQbILnhvDDV46oOHhEptG-Ir1bnDmnjVWZcEStkEGy16CUYXtb8BdxTAnVY7N8uHe2dodM866SarOPnzmrZEVNdZnGvYhIxc9E6u5Wgrp6U/s1600/penne1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzPbWKU8RYwbIg_k2zQcSNBxK22_Q05RngZQbILnhvDDV46oOHhEptG-Ir1bnDmnjVWZcEStkEGy16CUYXtb8BdxTAnVY7N8uHe2dodM866SarOPnzmrZEVNdZnGvYhIxc9E6u5Wgrp6U/s400/penne1.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNCJspWXQqKm6Z9xztyKi9rorIqfxAkztsk4zCeiLwCQsqoC8bWTZ-YU2HKcKtmI93-HHJ3s4NEusvv9RYyRTD7hZj4ODlCGowQ5EK0zrXA3Y3j1IUL56_rtMd_PBF04nQ2tnIxKWKmrc/s1600/penne2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNCJspWXQqKm6Z9xztyKi9rorIqfxAkztsk4zCeiLwCQsqoC8bWTZ-YU2HKcKtmI93-HHJ3s4NEusvv9RYyRTD7hZj4ODlCGowQ5EK0zrXA3Y3j1IUL56_rtMd_PBF04nQ2tnIxKWKmrc/s400/penne2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-73529668098168234862010-09-20T09:46:00.002-04:002010-09-20T09:46:50.092-04:00Happy Monday!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh75zBBIUpyhwwY9sza1rWmiiTGwICdUcUV9zpht-3foTT6S0Gta713JnEqU2AyrBr6a3SN4HbW5xO2Lc0wm4UkCBOmfPcoBdhvqbmpGdFCw-IDwY4z0UoFN41jgXr2Peg9sbbObUybulY/s1600/champagne_oclock_1c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh75zBBIUpyhwwY9sza1rWmiiTGwICdUcUV9zpht-3foTT6S0Gta713JnEqU2AyrBr6a3SN4HbW5xO2Lc0wm4UkCBOmfPcoBdhvqbmpGdFCw-IDwY4z0UoFN41jgXr2Peg9sbbObUybulY/s1600/champagne_oclock_1c.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Dreaming of a place I'd rather be than at my desk....</div>Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-81565180140875740442010-09-17T16:21:00.001-04:002010-09-17T16:22:54.745-04:00Q&A with Jennifer Wall of Barefoot Wine & Bubbly!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZGbDduud5JX_s9x4cIDmOcJNK2MeOfcGOmL4H6BvWYCnf0hOR5zHf-FXABYhG0QX3s_dXQ1wUDVWZLEc5-3fIMlDLSAaZ4jnMKyKrjnIdJf0LFKgy0QNTfWYrEf7PB-npJWKDVvlktM0/s1600/BF+Wine+%26+Bubbly+Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZGbDduud5JX_s9x4cIDmOcJNK2MeOfcGOmL4H6BvWYCnf0hOR5zHf-FXABYhG0QX3s_dXQ1wUDVWZLEc5-3fIMlDLSAaZ4jnMKyKrjnIdJf0LFKgy0QNTfWYrEf7PB-npJWKDVvlktM0/s320/BF+Wine+%26+Bubbly+Logo.jpg" /></a></div>When I first started drinking wine, I was in my early 20's, and I knew absolutely nothing about it. My first experience drinking wine, actually, dates back to a summer when I was about 15 (shhh) and I convinced a deli clerk near St. Mark's Place in the East Village to let me buy a bottle of Boone's Farm. Me and my friends washed down a bag of Doritos with it in a park and I don't think I ever touched wine again until I was 21.<br />
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Of course, at 21, your budget for fine wine isn't much, so I was forced to try and find affordable wines that actually TASTED good. That was a daunting task, until I discovered Barefoot. I remember the day I found my first bottle. I can't remember exactly which one it was, but it was a red, and it was cheap. Then I tasted it - jackpot! I bought another bottle, and brought it to my mom's, then another, to my best friend's house, and before I knew it, Barefoot was my go-to wine for every event. Whether it was a girl's night, or with dinner, or just a quiet night at home after a long day of work, I was falling in love with this fun, fabulous wine - quickly. Then a few years ago I discovered the Barefoot Bubbly...and the rest was history.<br />
<br />
What I love most about Barefoot is it's style. It's all about fun. The only turn-off about wine (in my opinion) is the amount of "snoot" associated with it. People take it all too seriously sometimes. Drinking and learning about wine isn't a competition - it's an enjoyable experience that should be met with an open mind. Barefoot's mantra is totally in line with that theory, and my interview with the<b style="color: #ea9999;"> infamous Jennifer wall, Barefoot's award winning winemaker,</b> proves just that. Read on, and cheers!<br />
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<br />
<div style="color: #ea9999;"><b>CD: Can you tell us about how you first discovered your passion for wine?</b></div><br />
JW: I originally intended on attending medical school after receiving a bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of California at Santa Cruz. Following graduation, I moved to Sonoma County, where I got my first winery position at a custom wine processing facility. There I started at the ground floor of the operation working in the lab and checking fermenting tanks daily, ensuring the juice was turning into wines as they should. After spending one harvest working at the winery, medical school was a distant memory for me. During the harvest of 1995, I started my career as the winemaker for Barefoot Winery. <br />
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<b style="color: #ea9999;">CD: What makes Barefoot special?</b><br />
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JW: There are a lot of things that make Barefoot Wine special, but to me it’s the friendly, approachable nature of our wine. We believe that wine should be less serious and more fun. Our motto is “Get Barefoot and Have a Great Time,” and we embrace this spirit not only in our winemaking efforts, but also in our community presence. You can find our Barefooters, or brand ambassadors, getting Barefoot at charity events across the country. They put the “fun” in fundraising and have been supporting not-for-profit organizations for more than 20 years.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdapHwBFYa5qvR9zykKSx49v-5OSZqjWZRi9ZPFOdfPXTEQn4QuTLz2_UidbIH2BS6QIr_SKAkdgTPjJkg3I6LZ7yyGEyTk8368ZKxe2xGrXmypqHQxi6jPXOSr-p0FKmdyKn5G2dX_ao/s1600/Moscato+Spumante.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdapHwBFYa5qvR9zykKSx49v-5OSZqjWZRi9ZPFOdfPXTEQn4QuTLz2_UidbIH2BS6QIr_SKAkdgTPjJkg3I6LZ7yyGEyTk8368ZKxe2xGrXmypqHQxi6jPXOSr-p0FKmdyKn5G2dX_ao/s320/Moscato+Spumante.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<b style="color: #ea9999;">CD: Was it your idea to start producing sparkling wine? What "sparked" it?</b><br />
<br />
JW: In summer of 1998, we released our first sparkling wine, Barefoot Bubbly Extra Dry California Champagne, to provide people with an affordable sparkling wine that offers the same fun and flavor as our Barefoot still wines. Since then we’ve also unveiled Barefoot Bubbly Brut Cuvee, Barefoot Bubbly Moscato Spumante, Barefoot Bubbly Pinot Grigio and Barefoot Bubbly Rosé Cuvée. I’m proud to be the winemaker for the most awarded sparkling wine under $20. <br />
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<b style="color: #ea9999;">CD: Do you prefer sparkling or still wine?</b><br />
<br />
JW: It really depends on the occasion! I love still wine with dinner, but I always keep a bottle of bubbly in my fridge and find every excuse to open it with friends or my husband. A glass of bubbly turns even an ordinary day into a celebration.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #ea9999;">CD: What's your favorite bubbly and food pairing?</span></b><br />
<br />
JW: I believe bubbly can pair well with almost anything! I love serving it with appetizers like soft white cheeses, puff pastries and stuffed mushrooms. Bubbly is also a great complement to salad and first courses. Bubbly can even pair well with main courses, particularly spicy foods (IE Thai cuisine). Our Barefoot Bubbly Moscato Spumante is on the sweeter side and pairs well with desserts with some tartness like sorbet or citrus tartlet. <br />
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<b style="color: #ea9999;">CD: Any advice for those who want to get into the wine industry?</b><br />
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JW: The wine industry is a special profession and should be reserved for those who love wine, food and people. For those folks who are thinking of entering into the industry, I suggest they follow their passion and not be afraid to start at the ground level and work their way up. It is important to know how all aspects of the business works including checking brix during harvest, running quality control on the bottling line and even becoming a server or chef and learning how to pair wine and food. This combined with hard work and education will take you far. <br />
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<b style="color: #ea9999;">CD: Favorite Barefoot wine?</b><br />
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JW: I love all of the Barefoot wines but always love my ‘new releases’ the best! Last year we released the Barefoot Bubbly Moscato Spumante and it quickly became my favorite wine. It pairs well with lots of types of cuisine and is easy to drink without food as well. I’ve found that no matter who is in the crowd, everyone loves the Moscato Spumate… it’s a real crowd pleaser (and a great toasting wine for those celebrating a special occasion!) It’s a fun wine that can be takenCara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-61166244711851742332010-09-16T12:16:00.000-04:002010-09-16T12:16:57.116-04:00Could It Be I'm Fallin' In Love... (with Ayala Zero Dosage Brut)About a week ago, the kind folks at <a href="http://www.cognac-one.com/">Cognac One</a> reached out to me on Twitter about their <b style="color: #ea9999;">Ayala Zero Dosage Brut Champagne</b>. They recommended I try it, and promptly shipped a bottle over to me (heaven on earth, right?) When I found out that the Zero Dosage has no sugar added to it, I was really excited to give this Champagne a whirl. A pure, refreshing bubbly that's not jaded with anything else but grapes and bubbles? Sign me up. So, I rounded up my partner in crime (my darling husband-to-be) and presented him with our challenge.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjceDrDrgOUxk1ynjqPab55ONGZ29kDhsePgFrhLmHntIA9rUpswrNmGTBNNN2hc1DXvYJZ5XDXN0eCaX_t8dSI_fxwCcgKQpLyqkEbAmiV2ZiZRcqdsNS9lUoA5FoOKLLp-uAHK2HZ5r0/s1600/ayala.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjceDrDrgOUxk1ynjqPab55ONGZ29kDhsePgFrhLmHntIA9rUpswrNmGTBNNN2hc1DXvYJZ5XDXN0eCaX_t8dSI_fxwCcgKQpLyqkEbAmiV2ZiZRcqdsNS9lUoA5FoOKLLp-uAHK2HZ5r0/s400/ayala.jpg" width="141" /></a></div>We decided to try this Champagne as an aperitif, since I read that it pairs wonderfully with or without food. The first sip of this bone-dry bubbly was <b style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="color: #ea9999;">b</span>right and refreshing, and by the second taste our mouths were met with a rich, green apple flavor with a long, smooth finish.</b> I absolutely loved it and will definitely be stocking up on more. Maybe next time I'll experiment with some <a href="http://champagnediet.blogspot.com/2010/09/wine-cheese-please-beginners-guide-to.html">cheese pairings!</a>Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-54558915201669124092010-09-15T08:07:00.001-04:002010-09-15T08:11:18.150-04:00"Bubbly in the Budoir" Featured on Thirsty Girl!A couple weeks back, I wrote a piece called <a href="http://champagnediet.blogspot.com/2010/08/bubbly-in-budoir-champagne-can-improve.html">"Bubbly in the Budoir: How Champagne Can Improve Your Sex Life.</a>" Well, Thirsty Girl decided to pick it up and <a href="http://www.beathirstygirl.com/index.php/quaff/article/bubbly-in-the-boudoir-champagne-can-improve-your-sex-life/">feature it on their site</a>! I couldn't be happier. Thirsty Girl is a group of women who live life to the fullest. Wine expert Leslie Sbrocco leads the charge, after her passion for wine, food and travel prompted her to spread her love with women all around the world. I'm so honored to be a part of the Thirsty Girl movement!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJqcI0V0hRLuYpz-t1swnIbMp37npnkOJQcej5I_yAHuZbAT1NhCjhAkqelIFrH7CXPLjRw5ukFO-9qYxGgIfe8WkO6xihWzYJal6JqvnnGpcOIWIgIw15ZH4vXrsAu2yZbWgV8CTnNYk/s1600/tg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJqcI0V0hRLuYpz-t1swnIbMp37npnkOJQcej5I_yAHuZbAT1NhCjhAkqelIFrH7CXPLjRw5ukFO-9qYxGgIfe8WkO6xihWzYJal6JqvnnGpcOIWIgIw15ZH4vXrsAu2yZbWgV8CTnNYk/s320/tg.png" /></a></div>Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-55106700909809189902010-09-14T14:16:00.000-04:002010-09-14T14:16:43.302-04:00Wine & Cheese, Please: A Beginner's Guide to Pairing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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There's no better meal (for me at least) than wine and cheese. I can eat it for dinner, for lunch, in between meals, while hanging out with the girls, during a romantic night with my man - just about anytime or anywhere. But what are the best possible pairings?<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy3HMhHjNO2JSyB6pA1FvgoQrFQmPCsknjz-1QuV4hbZuhEL-R_hOYMo_HdOTT_KT8EgGPBdNzx3GZLUk-HI5jTF8kI8kUJeO_mcTgHCmgcROGXRLtfSqaubd_rBh5qJdugZFmaedWAoE/s1600/cheese-wine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy3HMhHjNO2JSyB6pA1FvgoQrFQmPCsknjz-1QuV4hbZuhEL-R_hOYMo_HdOTT_KT8EgGPBdNzx3GZLUk-HI5jTF8kI8kUJeO_mcTgHCmgcROGXRLtfSqaubd_rBh5qJdugZFmaedWAoE/s320/cheese-wine.jpg" /></a>No, you don't need to run out and buy a $35 wedge of exotic smoked Gouda and enjoy it with a $125 bottle of Chardonnay. But you also don't need to have Kraft process singles with a jug of Carlo Rossi either. There is an affordable - and approachable - way to pair wine with cheese. Here are some things to keep in mind when planning your menu:<br />
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<ul style="color: #666666;"><li><b>Creamy Cheeses, like Brie, will work better with wines that have more acidity, like a Chardonnay.</b></li>
</ul><div style="color: #666666;"><br />
</div><ul style="color: #666666;"><li><b>Salty cheeses, like Blue Cheese, work really well with a sweet wine, like port.</b></li>
</ul><div style="color: #666666;"><br />
</div><ul style="color: #666666;"><li><b>Harder cheeses, like Cheddar or Parmesan, can handle a more tannic wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon.</b></li>
</ul><div style="color: #666666;"><br />
</div><ul style="color: #666666;"><li><b>Think about regions when matching up wine with cheese. For example, a Chianti from Italy would work best with Parmesan.</b></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOGsYeQZRXdL4W2ldnGjh7lieGge3FDyjLkv8c3TTRYEnv0b6WdxHqHIfRqgHQ1l4Orm-cBKANG7bn7VUYiOvPhOC0gO3YqwOgsEEiymsVP5L02OIHJfEcAj9aogeLuFvjjBJiO4DUzY/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOGsYeQZRXdL4W2ldnGjh7lieGge3FDyjLkv8c3TTRYEnv0b6WdxHqHIfRqgHQ1l4Orm-cBKANG7bn7VUYiOvPhOC0gO3YqwOgsEEiymsVP5L02OIHJfEcAj9aogeLuFvjjBJiO4DUzY/s320/images.jpg" /></a>Here's a guide to the most common pairings:<br />
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<div style="color: #ea9999;"> <b>If you prefer red wine...</b></div><br />
Beaujolais with Brie, Camembert, goat cheese<br />
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Cabernet Franc with Blue, Brie, Camembert, Cheddar, Fontina, goat cheese, Gorgonzola, Port Salut, Swiss<br />
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Cabernet Sauvignon with Camembert, Cheddar, Colby, Danish Blue, Gorgonzola, Gouda, Parmesan, Blue cheese, Roquefort<br />
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<div style="color: #ea9999;"><b>And if you like white wine...</b></div><br />
Chardonnay with Brie, Camembert, goat cheese, Gouda, Gruyere, Parmesan, Provolone<br />
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<div style="color: #ea9999;"><b>And of course....Champagne! </b> </div><div style="color: #ea9999;"><br />
</div>Best paired with Beaufort, Brie, Camembert, Cheddar, Chevre, Colby, Edam, Gouda, Gruyere, ParmesanCara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8067029365643039625.post-49531790223294225162010-09-13T14:30:00.000-04:002010-09-13T14:30:36.266-04:00Boozin' and Bakin'There are very few of us who have time to eat - let alone bake. I always have these wild fantasies when the Fall rolls around about how I'll make all these gorgeous desserts from scratch. I dream about how precious I'll look in my apron, flawless makeup and heels as I stand over my oven, whipping up a pie for my man. I envision baking fresh cookies for my entire office, and making muffins for all my neighbors (that I'll wrap perfectly in gift baskets with curled ribbon).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Q8nTSYej5Mz2LSEd8Pg4Qfhn7cefh9mVCPdGvfMuV-Kgbmf-YDgLjJ3GBK3iwBeOC6uIbA9GKT_343WZuyz33XQqV4l-I_nA8qk3biYM5Gfn40nJtUBfoCAqvELfO-Xwhm1y1hyphenhyphenzshY/s1600/bakinggirl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Q8nTSYej5Mz2LSEd8Pg4Qfhn7cefh9mVCPdGvfMuV-Kgbmf-YDgLjJ3GBK3iwBeOC6uIbA9GKT_343WZuyz33XQqV4l-I_nA8qk3biYM5Gfn40nJtUBfoCAqvELfO-Xwhm1y1hyphenhyphenzshY/s320/bakinggirl.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Yeah - RIGHT. The reality of it is, I work really damn hard. I am balancing a full time career in advertising, while I work on my book, my blog, maintain my social media presence to promote the book and blog, keep my relationship filled with love (and lust...wink wink), design my apartment, and take care of other little things, like sleeping and bathing. So as wonderful as it would be to research recipes all day and have mastered the art of the perfect apple pie by the time Thanksgiving rolls around, I'd have more luck growing devil horns out of my wrists.<br />
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So, I've decided to share one of my favorite - EASY - desserts with you gals. Pair this quick snack with your favorite Extra Dry Champagne, and voila! Tip: this dessert is great when you're having company over. It looks much fancier than it is, and takes minutes to put together.<br />
<div style="color: #ea9999;"><br />
</div><b style="color: #ea9999;"> Very Berry Angel Food Cake</b><span style="color: #ea9999;"> </span><b style="color: #ea9999;">with Crème Fraiche</b><br />
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<b>What you'll need:</b><br />
1 box of Angel Food cake mix (or if you're lucky, your market carries those mini angel food cakes by Hostess. This cake is super low in calories and has almost no fat)<br />
Crème fraiche (you can find this in any gourmet market)<br />
1/2 cup sliced strawberries<br />
1/2 cup blueberries<br />
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<b>What you'll do:</b><br />
Bake the angel food cake mix (it's the simplest thing in the world), or grab your angel food mini cake. Top with about 2 tablespoons of the Crème fraiche, and add your berries. It's such a light treat and it cures your sweet tooth cravings. This is delicious when paired with an Extra Dry Champagne (the sweetness of the Champagne will balance out the cake and berries). Serve this on a dessert plate, or if you're opting for a classier look, you can crumble the angel food cake and put it in the bottom of a fancy ice cream glass, then top with the Crème fraiche and berries!<br />
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So forget the fancy Kitchen Aid mixer (that I still dream I will one day own), scratch the freshly whipped frosting. Who needs all those calories anyway? We need to save them for our cocktails!Cara Alwill Leybahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03122117462685771562noreply@blogger.com0