Designing with a Sharpie

Look what you can do with an oil-based sharpie and a plain, white coffee cup. It becomes a one-of-a kind Valentine's gift. All right, maybe not a Valentine's gift, but really cool. And it's permanent. If you are nervous that the design might disappear in the dishwasher, don't be. It's called "Permanent" for a reason. Design away!

Limecello

After getting a great deal on some organic limes, I decided to make Limecello, my version of the popular Italian aperitif limoncello.It's based on a recipe from Epicurious.

• 10 limes*
• 1 bottle (750 ml) 100-proof vodka
• 4 cups sugar
• 5 cups water

Wash the limes, then peel them so there is no white pith on the peel. To a 1 gallon jar add one bottle of vodka and lime zest. Cover the jar and let sit at room temperature for at least (10) ten days and up to (40) days in a cool dark place. After the mixture sits for a desired amount of time, it's time to make the syrup.  In a large saucepan, combine the sugar and water; cook until thickened, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Let the syrup cool before adding it to the Limecello mixture. Allow the syrup and vodka/lime mixture to rest for another 10 to 40 days. After the rest period, strain and bottle: discarding the lime zest. Bottle and keep in refrigerator until ready to serve.