Summer BBQ!

Memorial Day marked the official kick-off to the summer season, and with summer comes BBQ’s! I absolutely love food cooked on the grill, and pitcher drinks are the best accompaniment to keep you cool, refreshed and GLAM in the summer. I love Sangria and white sangria is light, flavorful and certain to make a splash the next time you entertain.
Sangria Naranja
1 (750 ML) bottle of fruity red wine or fruity white wine
1/2 Cup Imported Gran Gala Triple Orange Liqueur
1/3 Cup Good quality brandy, such as Stock '84 V.S.O.P. Brandy
2 bay leaves
1 Orange, sliced into rounds
1 Pear and/or apple, cored and cut into thin wedges
1/4 Cup white sugar
Cut the orange in half. Using a vegetable peeler, cut off the thin outer peel of the orange half, avoiding the bitter pith. Slice the other half of the orange and use for garnish.
In a bowl, use a wooden spoon to mash the sugar into the orange peel so the sugar absorbs the oils. Stir in all remaining ingredients. Cover and chill for eight to 24 hours.
Remove the orange peel and bay leaves. Serve Sangria in a pitcher garnished with reserved orange slices and fruits. Add three or four ice cubes to each glass.
For white Sangria, substitute white wine for the red and peaches for the pears

Cinema and Cocktails

Cinema and Cocktails

by Lisa
Although I really love the escape that watching a good movie provides, I rarely go to the theater. Considering the fact that a trip to the theater can average well over $11, I often feel like I would prefer to visit the red box, and have “Movie Night” at home. Whenever I do venture out to the cinema, I prefer a luxe experience… enter Landmark Theaters!

There are several locations throughout the US; however I have a special affinity for the Harbor East location. The theaters offer a sophisticated, adult theater experience which includes gourmet snacks, and my favorite amenity- cocktails!!! You can even take your libation into the theater with you.

Cinema and cocktails make for the perfect date, or evening out with your friends.

Visit www.landmark.com for more details

Vacate for WELLNESS SAKE!

Some of us miss out on great vacationing opportunities to pursue when it is time to go on vacation. I know when you think about vacationing you want to be as far away from the norm as possible. Who doesn’t? The thought of islands, beautiful sand, clear beaches, and tropical music has encapsulated my mind as I write. For some, financial responsibilities inhibit our ability for spontaneous vacations out of the country. If you are anything like me, you may have to financially plan for vacations like this, but when you are blessed to reap the benefits of being able to truly vacation without worrying about spending limits it is truly worth it.
Throughout the years, I have witnessed many stay at home during their vacation time because they were not able to travel to their ideal vacation destination for the year. I do understand that one may feel bummed about the results; however you owe this to yourself to truly enjoy your vacation. All year you have worked and now it is time to play! Your mind, body, and emotions need this and it’s up to you to make it happen.

Begin with changing your definition of vacation. Last year my friends and I went on daycations! Daycations are daily trips to different places that you would not typically venture to. We visited Virginia, extensive parts of Maryland, and Washington, D.C. in 3 days!

If that is not your thing, try visiting another state and research activities being offered during your stay. 1)Make a list of all the people you know in other states 2)Select one 3)Make a phone call to ask about staying at their chateau 4)Decide upon best route of travel and voila…..you have vacated!

No matter your preference for vacationing…JUST DO IT. Your body will thank you later.

Live Well Glami’s!

Glam Libation Thursday- A Different Point of View

by Lisa

Glam Libation Thursday- A Different Point of View


It’s Glam Libation Thursday and of course the Glam Society wants to keep you in the know about all things FAB. As the Glam Society counts down to the most highly anticipated movie release for every fashionista- Sex and the City2… we thought it not robbery to showcase one of our favorite local haunts that allows us to channel our inner Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte and Samantha!

The W hotels are widely known for their sexiness; featuring great culinary delights and even better libations and people watching. From the moment you step in the lobby of the hotel, you are greeted with opulence and hauteness… Take the elevator up to the Point of View (POV) roof top bar, and you will be treated to one of the greatest views of our nation’s capital. The menu features one of my favorite champagne’s SEX, and I am completely in love with the chicken samosas.

Reservations for the POV are highly recommended, so grab your girls, dress sex and the city chic and be inspired by one of the most fabulous bars in DC!!

Wellness at the Workplace

With common phrases like “hump day Wednesday” and TGIF (Thank Goodness It’s Friday) it is not uncommon for people to reflect upon Monday as the dreadful beginning to another work week. Well, Glami’s we have all felt this way about Mondays, however in maintaining an optimistic attitude, for those who are employed, it is important to be humbled by the notion that you still have employment.

The workplace for some derives the most stressful situations as there are time lines, deadlines, and protocols to be followed. I invite you to try some wellness tips in your workplace that may remove some of the stress at work or at least provide a detour.

1)Eat Breakfast-this provides a quick metabolism jumpstart to help sustain a demanding day.

2)Take trips to the water cooler-I know the caffeine is calling, but you should aim to obtain energy from food options. Walking to get water will allow for exercise and some down time to relax your mind.

3)Get outside of the office for lunch-being cooped up all the time can have negative effects. If you bring your lunch, opt to eat outdoors. You can also eat lunch with a friend that works at another location. Change the scene it helps!

4)Take advantage of company opportunities-some companies provide wellness programs, gym membership discounts, training opportunities (external to required trainings relative to your position), or tuition assistance. Utilizing any of the above can help you loosen up regarding your workplace.

5)Suggest a quiet room or space where you work-the room could be small but accessible for all employees to use. I have seen offices include a massage cover for a chair as their quiet room. Bring in a few floor pillows, a small stereo with a calming cd, and let the peace begin. This is also a great place to practice some breathing techniques.

6)Listen to music-Music motivates! Pop in your favorite cd, click on an internet radio provider, Ipod, or MP3 player and get to work.

7)Separate your time-Leave work at work as it will be there tomorrow! If you work for yourself, designate a time to end for the day and enjoy some of your favorite things to do.

Live Well GLAMI’S!

FOODIES LOVE FRIDAY

By: Stacie Forrest

Okay so I am way off of my game-and I so apologize. Sometimes, life gets in the front seat and all the secondary stuff gets in the trunk. I promise to do my very best to make sure that I post at least weekly about what’s new and fabulous in food. So, without further ado-let me tell you about what I am loving this week.

THE GRILLED CHEESE COMPANY

The history of the grilled cheese sandwich is as long and storied as the country that we live in; and its history has made its way into the lives of billions of people. I recently read an article that claimed that grilled cheese sandwiches were making a comeback, which completely confused me because, I never knew it left. I can’t think of a time when I wasn’t in the mood for a gooey grilled cheese sandwich; two pieces of good hearty bread, slathered in butter with some of my favorite cheeses sandwiched between the two slices. Heaven! And what about the days when I’m ready to kick it up a notch? Thick sliced bacon or yummy Tuscan ham, portabella, maybe a slice of tomato to add to the Vermont cheddar, fontina or Land O Lakes American?

I am so smiling right now.

During award season, Wolfgang Puck served little grilled cheese sandwiches at the Vanity Fair soiree. At a recent party at the Tenjune club in the NYC, Kim, Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian munched on these little delights until the wee hours of the morning. Just last night, my 15 year old told me that he wanted grilled cheese and fries instead of the barbequed chicken, macaroni and cheese and green beans that I made. Feigning frustration-I had the same!!!

So my love for grilled cheese sandwiches was refreshed when I learned that a couple of gentlemen decided to set up a shop dedicated to the grilled cheese sandwich. The Grilled Cheese Company is housed in a small unassuming edifice in Catonsville and boy is it terrific! These guys have learned what works; we want it simple, we want it fast and we want it good and this joint aims to please on every level. Try their crabby melt, or the chicken cordon bleu or the wonderful portabella! I warn you that the seating and space is very limited…but don’t let that sway you. I am a believer that if the line is extended OUTSIDE THE DOOR, then there must be something going on behind that counter. I won’t stop until I have tried every last offering and even after that-I still won’t stop. And neither will you!

http://www.ilovegrilledcheese.com/

Vidalia

Vicky Johnson, resident Glami and event designer extraordinaire, recently whisked her hubby off for an adventure filled weekend to Panama – and he didn’t know a thing about it…how awesome is that??? But, before they left for parts unknown, Vicky took her main man to famed D.C. eatery Vidalia. Chef Jeffrey Buben’s contemporary American treasure is in the heart of downtown D.C. His concept has charmed the culinary enthusiasts with a simple but refined selection of course offerings that has kept this restaurant in the mainstream.

Earlier this year, Vidalia added the Vidalia 24 feature to the menu which Vicky dubs the “best buy in the Mid-Atlantic area because all of the drinks are included.” When describing her experience she used words like, “phenomenal” “amazing” “nothing like she’s ever experienced.” I would be remiss as a foodie to not give this spot honorable mention.

So intrigued with what she told me, I decided to take my research a bit further. I recently spoke with special events coordinator of Vidalia, Jacqueline Herrera, who told me that bookings are now over a month in advance and since this new concept took shape, Vidalia is experiencing a new surge in popularity.

Vidalia 24 is held on Friday and Saturday evenings and service starts promptly at 7:30 p.m. For $150 per person, you are served a whopping 24 eclectic courses, each paired with a suggested wine or spirit. There is very limited space and the restaurant will only take 8 reservations for each. Chef de Cuisine R.J. Cooper designs the meal just 24 hours prior; ensuring that each ingredient is the freshest, that the flavors are executed to the letter and that each plate exudes the confidence and style of the Vidalia brand.

Described by Vicky as a “Top Chef” experience; dishes are prepared and plated tableside with a brief description of the chef’s interpretation. Everyone has a chance to provide commentary on what they feel about each dish. Top Chef’s own Tom Collichio was in attendance as well as Paul Kahan, Owner and Executive Chef of Chicago eatery The Publican-so needless to say, wonderful food and insightful dialogue share the spotlight at Vidalia.

In a few weeks, I plan on making my way to Vidalia to experience this culinary delight myself. It appears that people from as far as Ohio are driving in for the Vidalia experience and I need to make sure that I can get in where I can fit in! I will definitely keep you posted.

http://www.vidaliadc.com/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Washington-DC/Vidalia/290763734542

Until next week, Cheers!

Wine in the Woods!!

Wine in the Woods is the official beginning of the summer wine and festival season. This weekend, Symphony Woods in Columbia, MD will play host to some of Maryland’s most prominent vineyards and wineries. In addition to being able to sample some of the finest libations Maryland has to offer, there are also food vendors, and an educational component which includes an understanding of Maryland varietals, and a guide to understand how to appropriately taste wine.

Grab your friends, pack a picnic basket and prepare to have an afternoon of great foodie fun!

Here’s an overview of how to appropriately taste wine from the Wine in The Woods Website:

Wine Tasting 101
• See - Hold the glass up at a slight angle and observe the wine’s brilliance and color.
• Swirl - Hold the base firmly on the table and give it a good swirl. This gets oxygen to the wine and helps it to “open up.”
• Smell - You’re checking to make sure the wine has not “turned” or been stored improperly. Smell for odors reminiscent of musty cardboard or vinegar, which means the wine is flawed and should be replaced. Don’t send back a wine just because you don’t like it. If the wine smells off to you, have your server smell it and they should happily replace it - but generally the wine will be just fine.
• Sip - Take a sip and enjoy!