Issuu

Adventure and ExplorationBuilding Bonds

We live in an efficiency and productivity-obsessed age. And I admit, I fall into the trap sometimes, too. The trap of believing the only things worth doing are those for which I can make an exact calculation of the time, effort and investment it will cost me. The things that result in the highest level of control and least amount of uncertainty.

But the truth is, that is a limiting perspective and unfulfilling way to go through life.

When we leave some room for exploring, for trying new places and things, for being a beginner, even for getting lost we open ourselves up to new viewpoints and opportunities. It is within those unstructured and open-ended experiences where the space exists for connections to be made, friendships to be fostered and trust to be built.

One of my fondest memories involved a fishing/camping trip with my brothers to the Boundary Waters of Northern Minnesota. I was in my early 20s and we thought we knew it all. We had been camping many times before and had even been to the Boundary Waters a few years earlier with my Uncle Dan. However, this trip was different – there were four of us and we were planning a weeklong trip, versus a weekend getaway, on our own. The hardships of our trip were many. Our clothes and gear never were fully dry as it rained on us every day; our food rations ran out after the 4th day because the fish weren’t biting; the weather was colder than normal; and we quickly found out that navigating the land with a basic map proved a lot more difficult than we had anticipated, causing us to get lost many times. In the moment, we were miserable and talked about what a difficult trip it was. But the stories that came out of that adventure, along with the stronger bond my brothers and I formed with one another, was worth every second of “misery” we endured.

Our hope is that this issue encourages you to make room for exploration. To prioritize time away from the regular schedule. To lose yourself on a trail or in a book. To take that trip you’ve been thinking about. Or to find adventure in your relationships and strengthen the connections with people who are important in your life. Find opportunity to engage in the things, or with other individuals, that matter most to you, but often come last on the calendar.

STEVE ROGERS, PUBLISHER @CRYSTALLAKECITYLIFESTYLE

July 2024

PUBLISHER

Steve Rogers | steve.rogers@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Patti Noble | patti.noble@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITERS

Katie Bobrow | katie.bobrow@citylifestyle.com

Klaudia Burian

PHOTO EDITOR

Grace Jackson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Sharmila Taylor, Grace Jackson, David Bradburn

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Supporting Home of the Sparrow at this year’s Black & White Ball at Avante Banquets. 2: Home of the Sparrow’s annual gala drew supporter from around the county! 3: All dressed up at the Home of the Sparrow Black & White Ball. 4: Honoring those who fought for our freedom; Memorial Day at the Crystal Lake Cemetary. 5: Enjoying the beautiful weather at this year’s Peddlepalooza event in McHenry County. 6: Participants had a blast at the Peddlepalooza to support Family Health Partnership Clinic. 7: Volunteers welcomed Peddlepalooza participants as they arrived at Crystal Lake Brewing.

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SHARMILA TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY

DAVID BRADBURN, FORK THE MAN

SILVER MCALLISTER, SILVERSTUDIO

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5/17/2024 2/29/2024

business monthly

Smokin' Hot Supplies

Started with a passion to raise the level of the barbecue, Blue Smoke Barbecue, located in the unassuming Coventry Plaza Shopping Center, provides customers with over 150 top-grade BBQ rubs and sauces, supplies, and high-quality fuel sources such as 100% natural hardwood pellets, premium lump charcoal, logs, chunks and chips. Barbecue enthusiasts are sure to find something to tempt their tastebuds and the tools to create their masterpieces this summer. Learn more at: bluesmokebbqsupply.com

Marine Vet Turned Chef

Marine Corps Veteran, Chef, and self-described "barbecue-obsessed," Jason Hertha is the owner and operator of The Semper Fi Chef; a food truck-style business specializing in Southern BBQ, established in 2020. A life-long passion for cooking led to a culinary degree from Chicago's Kendall College. Now, with a business of his own he hopes to inspire others to do the same through his dedication to teaching the fundamentals of cooking while having fun. Follow on Facebook: facebook.com/Semperfichef

Just Chillin' in the Hot Tub

Chillintub, owned and operated by a local father and son team and based in Crystal Lake, provides delivery and setup services for hot tub rentals, ideal for any occasion. The hot tubs have therapeutic jets and controls along with multi-colored lighting. Add-on options include deck surrounds for placing drinks, snacks, towels and an umbrella (for protection from the elements). All tubs are scrubbed, disinfected, and double-checked before each delivery and installation. Learn more at: chillntub.com

A United Front

How Aaron and Shelly’s Partnership Blends Business Success with Adventure, Exploration and Playfulness, Inspiring Everyone Around Them

ARTICLE BY PATTI NOBLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARMILA TAYLOR

If you ever need evidence that true partnerships exist, look no further: Meet Shelly and Aaron Poling, undeniably destined to be together. Not only do they share a life, but they also run A.S.A.P., a successful garage door installation, service, and repair business side by side. Their union is marked by continuous laughter and camaraderie; making it clear that they are not just spouses, but as Shelly is quick to suggest, best friends as well. Avid outdoors people, they are the epitome of the “work hard, play hard” philosophy.

True life partners, they have also proven to be a savvy business union, building their business from the ground up, putting in hours of dedication. For Aaron, this was not something new. Growing up in a meager and often tumultuous environment, he quickly learned to be self-reliant. An entrepreneur from the young age of 13, starting a landscape business. By age 15 he and a friend took over a small pet store and made it their own. It was there that a blond 16-year-old walked in with her friend and caught his eye. Aaron describes “hitting the jackpot” when he met Shelly because she was adventurous, loved to fish and snowmobile, was up for trying new things, and the perfect ‘yin’ to his ‘yang’. From that first meeting, a beautiful friendship quickly blossomed into a heartfelt romance leading to a marriage when they were just 18 and 19 years old.

“They are the epitome of the ‘work hard, play hard’ philosophy.”

Thirty-six years later, their mutual trust and admiration is as strong as ever and has expanded to include a son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren. Today, the love and respect they have for each other is readily apparent from the moment you meet them.

After that fateful pet shop closed, Aaron worked for his dad for six years, but the long hours with little fulfillment caught up with him. So in 1993, with another partner, Aaron and Shelly took the leap into entrepreneurship once again. They began by renting a small building in Elgin which they outgrew by 1998, and moved the operation to Huntley where they rented a larger space. By 2005, the business was solely theirs, they owned a building and property rather than renting, and their sights were set on continued growth while staying true to their standards, commitment, and connection to their employees, clients and contractors.

To this engaging couple, relationships are the foundation of their business and personal lives. While the business name, conceived by Shelly, exemplifies their commitment to providing timely and thorough services As Soon As Possible, it also carries a deeper, more personal significance. See, Aaron and Shelly’s son is named Aaron, and their last name is Poling. Together, they are A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair, Inc. But this family business extends beyond the Polings. Their warm and inviting nature has created a bonded work environment where employees are treated like family and in return have been with the company for years, if not decades.

The story of their business is inspiring, but it is their relationship that really stands out. You know the type of people who, upon meeting them for the first time, you feel that you have known for years? This is who the Polings are. Their relaxed nature and ease between each other makes you feel instantly welcomed and comfortable. And when they start sharing stories, finishing each other’s sentences and giggling like they share an inside joke, their joy is so infectious that you can’t help but want to be part of it.

For Aaron and Shelly, life is an adventure, meant to be shared together and with others. They approach their business earnestly and with dedication, always remembering their roots, but they don’t take life as seriously. They enjoy hours of fishing or snowmobiling while also savoring the simpler moments. Aaron is an avid hunter, Shelly is a nature-lover who accepts her husband’s passion. Shelly is the dare devil of the two. Aaron, on the other hand, holds his breath every time she exclaims, “That was fun!! Can I do it again?” Their differences complement their similarities, something they attribute to the longevity of their relationship.

“Their relaxed nature and ease between each other makes you feel instantly welcomed and comfortable.”

Today, they spend time at their ‘homes away from home’ - one on the beach in Clearwater, Florida, the other on a lake (ironically called Clear Water Lake) near Three Lakes, Wisconsin.

They make time for each other and to explore new ideas, opportunities and experiences. Their journey together is a testament to their unwavering dedication and mutual support. A relationship, marked by adventure, playfulness, and deep affection, serves as an inspiration to others. Aaron and Shelly’s story reminds us that true success is not just about professional achievements but also about cherishing and nurturing the bonds with those we love.

ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW

A REALTOR’S JOURNEY FROM BUSINESS OWNER TO DEDICATED REALTOR, HIGHLIGHTING HER COMMITMENT TO CLIENTS, FAMILY, AND COMMUNITY.

GOING ALL IN

In a town full of realtors, it is often hard to decide which one to use when you are buying or selling a home. And while there are many wonderful realtors here in Crystal Lake, we were able to sit down with one of them and talk about not just her business but her life, her journey into real estate, her time here in Crystal Lake and her travels around the globe.

These skills have proven invaluable in her real estate career. She learned how to gather information, align everyone's efforts towards a common goal, and achieve successful outcomes, making her adept at managing the complexities of real estate transactions.

One of Angel's standout qualities as a realtor is her ability to connect with clients on a personal level. It is evident

“ANGEL’S STORY IS UNIQUE, BUT IT IS ALSO UNIVERSAL.”

To meet Angel Collins is to meet someone who immediately puts you at ease. She has a calm confidence and a radiant smile that invites conversation. Angel’s story is unique, but it is also universal. A story of traversing through life’s ups and downs while trying to forge your own path. Angel will be the first to tell you how lucky she is to walk through life with her best friend and husband of 42 years. After meeting in college, they married and started a family, moving around quite a bit before settling down in Crystal Lake in 2000.

Angel and her husband once owned a kitchen exhaust cleaning service, a niche and emergent business that often had them handling stressful and time-sensitive situations in the middle of the night. Running this business taught Angel invaluable lessons about triaging situations, listening to others to find solutions, and maintaining composure under pressure.

when speaking with her that she genuinely cares about helping people navigate significant life changes, stating that one of the things she loves about being a realtor is that it has given her the opportunity to use her unique skills to help people. This commitment is obvious in the way she handles each transaction, ensuring that her clients feel supported throughout the process.

Angel recalls a particularly memorable experience involving a client who had lived in her home for 50 years. The thought of preparing the house for sale was overwhelming for her, but Angel wasn’t deterred, she stepped in with her “all in” approach, a clear plan, and unwavering support. Together, they methodically tackled each room, de-cluttering and organizing to enhance the home's appeal. Angel helped move boxes and organize the garage, demonstrating her desire to help in anyway necessary.

This led to ten offers and a sale above asking price, a result of her expertise and dedication.

Another “all-in” moment for Angel was when a first-floor condo under contract experienced sewage overflow. Angel didn't hesitate. She quickly brought in a trusted contractor, coordinated with the insurance adjuster, and managed the entire repair process for her client. Her efficient handling ensured the sale closed on time, much to the client's relief and satisfaction.

Her approach to real estate is encapsulated in her motto: "When I'm in, I'm all in." However, Angel’s all-in attitude is not just reserved for her clients. It is evident in the way she lights up when talking about her friends and family that they receive Angel’s wholehearted approach as well.

Outside of her professional life, Angel is a devoted mother and grandmother. She shares the wisdom she has gained from raising her children, stating, "Always have faith in your children, let them be, they may surprise you." This belief in allowing her children to grow and learn on their own terms reflects her supportive nature. A trait put on display during her travels to Ireland with friends in 2023 when she honored a friend who couldn't join due to illness.

“WHEN I’M IN, I’M ALL IN.”

Knowing how much this very anticipated trip meant to her friend, Angel created a "Flat Stanley" figure of her friend and her friend's husband. This thoughtful gesture included getting their picture on the Jumbotron at a Notre Dame game in Dublin, fulfilling a long-held dream of her friend who once cheered at Notre Dame. Just one example of Angel’s thoughtfulness.

Angel’s journey from owning a small business to becoming a trusted realtor in Crystal Lake is not a story so unique that it is inspirational, it is inspirational because it is universal. Angel lives an ordinary life in an extraordinary way. Her adaptability, dedication, and commitment to helping others is what is inspirational. Her personal values and deep care for her family and community are a reminder for all of us to go “all-in.”

Clearbrook West enriches the lives of 250+ individuals in the McHenry County area impacted by intellectual and developmental disabilities. With eight locations in 39 communities, Clearbrook empowers those entrusted to them to live their fullest lives possible

Scan here for a quick home evaluation.

The Art of Stylish Living

Call

If you’re searching for a real estate agent with a proven track record, look no further.

Schedule your appointment today to get a complimentary market evaluation.

Angel Collins Realtor®

C: (815) 355-0108

O: (815) 459-5900 angel.collins@starckre.com

Grills for Every Budget

Don’t let the stress of choosing a grill keep you from enjoying BBQ this Summer

As we approach the season of sun tans and sprinklers, warm nights and laughing neighborhood children, we also enter the time of year that has everyone dusting off their grills and their smokers for those backyard BBQs.

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, there is something magical about the aroma of sizzling meats and vegetables in the air. Outdoor cooking is often better enjoyed with company; whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a festive weekend barbecue, the grill becomes the centerpiece of many cherished gatherings.

For many, these summer evenings spent around the grill are more than just about food; they’re about connection. It's the laughter, the stories, and the shared anticipation of a delicious meal made from fresh ingredients. The stories told as marshmallows are toasted to golden perfection are what childhood memories are made of. The grill, in all its smoky glory, becomes the center of these shared experiences, taking a simple meal and turning it into a summer celebration.

However, as nice as all of that is, finding the right grill to fit your needs and budget can be a challenge with so many options available. From high-end gas grills to budget-friendly charcoal models, how do you choose? We've selected four excellent grills to suit every budget, so that you can enjoy grilling season without overspending. Whether you're an experienced grill master or just starting out, our guide will help you find the perfect grill to enhance your outdoor cooking and make every gathering memorable.

So, fire up your appetite, choose the perfect grill for your summer feasts - no matter your budget, and let the grilling adventures begin!

ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW

The Weber charcoal grill is a classic and you can never go wrong with a classic. Inexpensive to purchase, easy to set up, and easy to store and keep clean, this grill is perfect if you are limited on space or funds. It is also suitable for people who may not grill often but still appreciate a summer burger every now and then.

Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill 22" $219

Char-Broil PERFORMANCE

SERIES™ 6-BURNER GAS GRILL

If you have been interested in making the switch from charcoal to gas, this budget friendly gas grill is a great entry point. It's perfect for entertaining any size group. With 725 square inches of cooking space, an internal sear burner, and a side burner, it offers versatility and ample capacity. Easy assembly and electronic ignition enhance its convenience for easy backyard grilling.

For the home chef who loves cutting edge tools, you can’t go wrong with the Big Green Egg which ranges in size and price. This grill stands out with its unique kamado-style design and advanced ceramic technology, offering superior heat retention and precise temperature control. It is also versatile; allowing for grilling, smoking, and baking. The Big Green Egg is a great choice if you are after quality and simplicity.

This grill offers a unique grilling experience with its wood-fired flavor, a distinct advantage over traditional gas grills. Unlike gas, pellet grills use wood pellets, providing a smoky taste and precise temperature control. The Timberline’s WiFIRE technology and advanced features make this the most expensive option, however if you are looking for a backyard investment, this grill offers exceptional flavor and versatility while staying user-friendly.

Large Big Green Egg Traeger Timberline Pellet Grill

$499

$1099

$3000

DANIEL TONYAN OWNER

EXPLORE LOCAL NOURISHMENT

The whimsy and diverse nature of a local farmer’s market invites curiosity, imagination and exploration.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KLAUDIA BURIAN

Once upon a time, there was a little boy named Jacob. Jacob’s mama loved to nourish his curiosity, grow a love in him for exploring nature’s nourishment, and create space for him to explore his wild.

“Jacob and the Garbanzo Bean: An inspiring tale of how a culinary magical garden sparks a love for nature’s nourishment.”

When Jacob was 5, he was already a pro at eating his way through a garden. He knew to hold up the fruit or veggie and ask if it was ok to eat. When he found his way to a tender patch of new, green garbanzo beans, his mother told him it was ok, and he ate one. Not having much processed sugar at his age, his tongue recognized the subtle sweetness, indicating nourishment - and he wiped out the whole patch. He’s a legend, and his story is true.

Where can this secret be found outside the garden? The local farmer’s market of course! Farmers know their land is a magical place, with islands of nibbles to delight the senses. Their plants are wild and alive with nourishment, waiting for that perfect

moment to harvest and take a trip to the market, to fortify communities.

When raising kiddos, the invitation is to take time to let them explore the market, with the goal of investigation and discovery. Let their imagination run wild. Feel the food, admire the color, be curious, and tap into their wild. For the "young at heart," cultivate this secret garden within by grabbing a friend and casually stroll through the market arm in arm, taking in the color, sounds, and artistry of the community. It might feel like a day in a story book. This month's recipes invite a fresh approach, where local ingredients take center stage on our garden grill.

GRILLED PANZANELLA SALAD

All the ingredients can usually be found at the farmer’s market, serves 6

Ingredients:

• 2 romaine hearts, cut in half lengthwise

• 3 shallots, cut in half lengthwise

• Larger cherry tomatoes, cut in half lengthwise or Roma tomatoes, quartered

• 1 red bell pepper, quartered and seeded

• 3 medium zucchini, each sliced into 3 long pieces lengthwise

• Long carrots, peeled and quartered lengthwise

• 2 cups fresh green or cooked garbanzo beans

• 1 baguette - sliced in half lengthwise

• Olive oil

• Salt and ground black pepper

• 3 fresh garlic cloves, peeled

• Herbed lemon dressing (recipe opposite page)

Brush cut side of romaine with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Set aside on a platter you can carry to the grill. Place shallots, tomatoes, peppers, zucchini and carrots in a large bowl. Gently massage with olive oil, salt and pepper to coat evenly. Brush the baguette with olive oil, salt and pepper on the cut side. Take all the seasoned ingredients to a grill prepared to medium heat. Grill the romaine first for about 2 minutes, cut side down only. Remove from grill. Next, grill carrots and allow them to cook for about 4 minutes before grilling everything else. Place the remaining veggies and bread on the grill, flipping often to keep from burning (remove when done to your liking). Allow the ingredients to cool slightly before chopping into bite size pieces for the salad. Rub the grilled side of the bread with garlic before slicing into bite size ‘croutons’. Place veggies, romaine and croutons in a bowl. Toss with ¾ cup of dressing, and allow to sit for a few minutes before serving, letting the flavors blend, and the bread to soak up the juices. Add garbanzos for protein and a complete meal.

“Casual, easy clean up, grilled meals aren’t just for meat. Make this delightful, satisfying complete meal after a casual morning at your local farmer’s market, and savor the satisfying and fresh flavors of summer.”

HERBED LEMON DRESSING AND BREAD DIP

This versatile dressing puts that potted herb garden to great use. Swap out any of the herbs for whatever is in season, and use it on grilled veggies to add an herby flavor to your meals. It also makes a delicious marinade for chicken and fish on the grill. Note: The acid in the lemon can actually ‘cook’ a delicate fish, so only marinade for about 20 minutes. Have fun exploring with this gem!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup extra virgin olive oil

• ½ c. fresh lemon juice

• ½ c. chopped fresh basil

• ½ c. chopped fresh parsley

• ¼ c. chopped fresh oregano

• ½ medium shallot chopped fine

• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 tbsp raw sugar

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp fresh black pepper

This recipe makes enough dressing for the panzanella salad, and enough for a knock out bread dip.

In a 16oz jar you can shake, mix lemon juice with sugar and salt until dissolved. Add remaining ingredients and shake well. Add more lemon juice if it looks too thick. Taste for sweetness and adjust to your liking. Allow the dressing to develop and blend the flavors for at least 30 minutes at room temp, shaking often, before dressing the salad.

A SAFETY EXPLORATION

ARTICLE BY PATTI NOBLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID BRADBURN & GRACE JACKSON

ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR ENJOYING INJURY-FREE CELEBRATIONS THIS 4TH OF JULY AND BEYOND

This summer season, it is essential to prioritize safety to ensure your celebrations remain joyful and accident-free. While enjoying personal fireworks is often a popular way to celebrate, it’s crucial to handle them with care to prevent injuries. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 73% of personal firework injuries occur in the weeks prior to and after the July 4th holiday. Burns, overwhelmingly to the hands, face and eyes, account for 38% of those outcomes, followed by other eye injuries, bodily lacerations, and hearing damage. Holding fireworks too long; leaning over fireworks or embers; and flying debris are the culprits to the damage, most often. Here we highlight safety tips to help you avoid a trip to the ER.

SMOKE BOMBS

SPARKLERS

These backyard favorites burn at high temperatures and can cause skin and eye burns or abrasions and clothing fires. Always supervise children; avoid loose clothing; Hold sparklers at arm’s length and away from face and body; and keep a safe distance from others to avoid contact with the sparks. Place used sparklers in a bucket of water to ensure they are fully extinguished before disposal.

At first glance, these may seem harmless, however the smoke can cause eye irritation and, when inhaled, can cause respiratory discomfort or distress. The casing can become hot and cause burns. Only use smoke bombs outdoors in well-ventilated areas and stand upwind. Do NOT hold in hand after lighting and move away quickly when lit. Douse with water to ensure they are extinguished and before handling them again.

FOUNTAINS

GROUND SPINNERS & WHEELS

Whether mounted on a post or laying on the ground these spinning crowd pleasers emit sparks and colors when ignited. Flying sparks may cause eye injury and contact with the hot device or debris can cause burns, cuts or abrasions. For safe use, ensure the area is free of flammable material and the devices are secure. Keep a safe distance, immediately after igniting, and consider utilizing protective eyewear.

02 03 04

These ground-based fireworks emit a shower of sparks and can include various effects such as colors and crackling. Children should be kept at a safe distance. Flying sparks can cause skin or cornea burns and other eye injuries as well as ignite nearby flammable materials. Always place fountains on a flat, stable fire-resistant surface. Maintain a safe distance after igniting and keep water nearby to extinguish any accidental fires.

events

JULY 4TH - 7TH

Lakeside Festival

Dole Mansion Grounds

Lakeside Festival is one of the largest and longest-running summer festivals in McHenry County. Enjoy live music, mouth-watering food Baggo tournament and more. FEST 2024 will be cashless for entrance, beer and alcohol ticket sales. Credit and debit cards, and mobile pay options accepted. Entrance fees: Ages 13+, $10; Seniors 65+, $5; Kids under 12 and active military with ID, Free. thedole.org/the-fest

JULY 30TH - AUGUST 4TH

McHenry County Fair

Mchenry County Fairgrounds, 11900 Country Club Rd, Woodstock

Check out the 2024 McHenry County Fair schedule for concerts, exhibitions, carnival rides and more, to learn when and where it’s all happening so you can make your visit the most memorable yet. Fairgrounds open July 30th at noon. pre-sale tickets available: Adults $8, children under 13 and seniors over 65, free. ($2 more at the gate). For hours and schedule visit: mchenrycountyfair.com/mchenry-county-fair-2024/

Vodka Berry Smash

ARTICLE BY PATTI NOBLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRACE JACKSON

A delicious and refreshing cocktail, perfect for sunny days and warm summer nights

Looking to elevate your summer gathering? This refreshing cocktail combines the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh berries with the smooth kick of vodka, making it the perfect companion for your backyard BBQs and summer parties. Whether you’re hosting a casual cookout or a festive celebration, this Vodka Berry Smash is sure to impress your guests and bring a burst of refreshing flavors to your festivities. Cheers to a delicious and unforgettable summer!

ingredients:

• Fresh blueberries

• Fresh raspberries

• Fresh mint

• 2 oz Vodka of choice

• 1/2 oz Lime juice

• 1 oz Simple syrup

• Crushed ice

directions:

Step 1. Muddle (gently mash) 5-6 berries and large sprig of mint in a cocktail shaker to release the oils. If you don’t have a muddler, use a wooden spoon.

Step 2. Add the vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup. Add a handful of ice and shake until cold.

Step 3. Pour over ice in a low cocktail glass.

Step 4. Garnish with sugared blueberries, raspberries and mint sprigs!