cool it

Depending on where you live in the world, September doesn't automatically= Fall. Here in New England, we're still having some very hot, humid days and this drink is one of the best ways to deal with the heat.

There's a quaint farmer's market on Martha's Vineyard that my family and I love going to. Sure the produce and flowers are great, but I make a beeline for the stand where they make the citrus coolers (and fresh-squeezed lemonade), to order. 

this is all you need to make the drink

I've watched them make it for many years and I think I've just about perfected the recipe. I was obsessed with these drinks when I was pregnant. 

with a twist of lemon

Citrus desserts aren't necessarily my favorite because I will always pick something chocolate instead. But on a hot day, like when your neighborhood is having an outdoor block party, the idea of chocolate melting all over the place isn't appealing anymore.  

So I made these and one of my neighbors actually asked me if I was Italian because apparently only Italians use Ricotta, and only they can bake the best Ricotta cookies. We all had a good laugh at the thought of my pale, pink skin having any Italian heritage. 

Springtime flavors

First of all, thank you again Blog Better Boston for choosing me, along with four other talented bloggers, for the Boston Strong roundup. They're featuring my Boston Strong Chocolate Protein Energy Bars. I love how the other bloggers paid tribute to the city of Boston and the marathon- please check them out here: 

I mentioned making these cupcakes when I was feeling negligent in my Pinterest duties- just pinning like crazy but not doing anything with the pins. Well finally one of them can be crossed off the list!

                                        

Lemon and raspberry just feel right for Spring. They evoke a clean and simple taste that when paired together... dynamite! And the cream cheese frosting is perfect at pairing down any over-the-top zest-iness that this dynamic duo can often create.