paper straws

Smitten with these beautiful paper straws.

sangria

I do love a nice glass of sangria in the summertime. I was intrigued that Martha had a 'Sangria bar' at her latest shindig, and thought it sounded like something worth trying. 

Food & Wine has a selection of yummy-sounding sangria recipes, as well as other drinks that can be served via pitcher right here.

pretty up your drinks

I'm still smitten with these stirrers, from Miss Pickles, via Poppytalk.

white sangria

Donna Hay has this delicious looking recipe for white sangria.

mmm...IZZE!

I discovered IZZE drinks through a friend of mine, who is OBSESSED with them! She talks about her beloved Pomegranate with such reverence, and seeks out IZZE anywhere she goes. I soon saw why she had such a fixation.

IZZE drinks not only look good, but taste good, too. I can see these cans gracing a well-stocked cooler at a party, or even set out on the counter.

When the same friend of mine (a shop-owner) tried to stock IZZE in her store a couple of years back, they were told that the drink company had an exclusive contract with Starbucks. Happily enough, it looks like IZZE has since wised up and are now offering their beverages through several other outlets, including World Market (currently on SALE!) and Amazon.

Some other interesting facts from their website: IZZE was founded in 2002 by two friends who set out to create a distinctive natural beverage while contributing to a higher purpose. IZZE sparkling juice, an all-natural blend of pure fruit juice and sparkling water, is free of caffeine, refined sugars, and artificial ingredients. It is naturally sweetened with fruit juice only. IZZE's philanthropic focus is to improve people's lives through education and to encourage literacy by providing books and educational opportunities to those in need. IZZE brings this focus to life through a partnership with Global Education Fund.