Around The Table: 2012-06-17

Soon I'll be leaving for vacation. I'm anxious to reach our destination but NOT looking forward to sitting on an airplane for what seems to be days.... Due to my anxiety (ants in my pants and claustrophobia) I've come up with a few travel tips to make it a little easier.

First, I always wear something really comfy (Vince drawstring pants, a tee, and jacket) and I bring a cashmere scarf to keep me warm and I find it also helps me to rest. A pillow for the neck is also helpful if you don't mind packing it with your carry on.

Gucci oatmeal GG cashmere scarf style# 318342701

Flying makes me feel grungy and sticky. Giovanni towelettes help keep my hands and face feeling fresh and I like the lavender scent.

Too keep my tummy from rumbling, I always pack a few snacks for the flight because I don't like the food on the airplane. We also try to buy something like a sandwich in the airport once we pass security. We are fortunate that SeaTac has a nice selection of food options.

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Moisturizer for my hands and lips. Between my flying anxiety and the dry air, my lips are always in need of a little moisture.

Love the diptyque collection. They have a wonderful travel collection perfect for carry on.

I always bring assorted magazines, a couple good books, and a word search.

Any good book recommendations??

I always feel better when I stay hydrated. Lots of water and maybe a cocktail ..

Looking forward to something sweet when I get there..

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I'll try to take lots of pictures..

..but I won't be able to visit my favorite blogs. I have promised to leave my computer at home and give my undivided attention to..

Be back in a few weeks!

xx leslie

With over 1000 different brands of tequila available, it's good to know that they can be divided into two categories, 100% pure blue agave or 'mixed' tequila.

Pure agave can present colored if it's been aged in barrels, otherwise it's clear.

Gold tequilas (mixed) are usually young and are used as mixers in drinks. These mixed tequilas are about 1/2 sugar and a gold because they are colored.

"Tequila Worm" myth

This is a misconception that began as a marketing gimmick in the 1940s. The 'worm' is the larval form of a moth that lives in the agave plant. Finding one while processing indicates an infestation and lower quality product. We've all heard those stories during our college years about the hallucinogenic potential when swallowed (not that I ever hung out with that crowd ;) ...

'Tis' margarita season and so here is leslie's skinny margarita recipe!!

Start with a pitcher filled with ice ~~and a beer~~ (that's my husbands and notice it's a Belgium beer?)

For two margaritas:

1 large lime for 2 shots of tequila (I sometimes use more lime but this is what my husband does)

About a 1/2 shot agave or triple sec. Agave is supposed to be "healthier" but recent studies show the contrary..

Stir and serve up, no ice and I always ask for salt. The last step is a splash of sparkling mineral water. The little bit of fizz makes it the perfect drink to serve at a girls night-out gathering.