Be(a)rry Picking

There is nothing like a well earned cocktail at the end of the day. This drink was inspired out of necessity and the common good...well at least that's what I'll keep telling myself!

It’s summertime, which means adventures, delicious fresh food and time spent out in the sunshine!

But, on a morning walk I was reminded that I am not the only one enjoying everything the season has to offer- the bears are too! The evidence of both bear’s presence and their love for berries is dotted along the trails by the river, in town and of course, around my house!

Take a peek at this helpful guide to see if your house is too welcoming to these giant furry friends…

Around this time last year, it resulted in multiple encounters with Boo; yes, the town gave him a cute name.  One evening, Boo was even relaxing under our pergola until my dog snuck around us at the door and chased him down the street. 

It’s a cute story now, but wasn’t at the time, especially for poor Boo! He was just looking for a treat.

Now, for the delicious part… If you have never had saskatoon berries, they are a treat!  After a good year with some watering, and plenty of sunshine they grow to the size of a blueberry, are sweet, and leave a surprising almond-y after taste in your mouth.  mmMMmmm. 

Now, all that’s left is to pop these into everything I eat this week! They make a delicious addition to salads, baked goods, a fantastic pan sauce on seafood, chicken and beef or simply topped on ice cream. 

I decided that the best way to cap off the day was with a drink. With a bounty of berries and a ridiculous amount of basil, I whipped up this summer cocktail. Oh boy, does it taste like summer!

Ahhh, hard work never tasted so good. Well, it wasn’t really hard work, but this refreshing drink feels well deserved.

Give it a try yourself, and let me know what you think!

Cheers!