Cheers to 2016

So, this new years eve was very low key for us.  We went out for a nice dinner at a local brew pub and headed home with our darling 5 year old son for a quiet night watching a movie.  I'm a little embarrassed to say that all 3 of us were sound asleep well before midnight. 

Is it sad that this is how we rang in 2016? I don't know.  I was with the ones I love in a safe, warm environment with a full tummy.  That is something I personally am thankful for.  The older I get, the more appreciative I am of the little things in life.  After all, it's all the little things put together that make up our journey here on Earth.

Speaking of little things, I have been home brewing kombucha for close to a year now - and really feel that I've gotten good at it. (Shout out to my friend Erica who gave me my first SCOBY to get started!)  I only brew about a gallon at a time - just for my own consumption; although, I have gotten my husband into drinking it a little bit when I remind him how good it is for him.  I have not really attempted to get my little one drinking it - maybe because I don't think he'll like it - OR - maybe because I don't want to share it just yet! ;)

toasting the new year with homemade pear & cranberry spiced kombucha

Many people are familiar with kombucha, but for those of you who aren't - here is one (of many) views.  I personally enjoy the process of making and flavoring this slightly effervescent drink and feel that is it doing good things for my health and well-being.  I know that there are differences of opinion about this beverage - so I make no claims of what it will do for you.  Interested?  Do your own research.  If you like what you learn, try some bottled from your local health food store or restaurant.  There are several commercial brands - with lots of different flavors.  In the greater Philadelphia area, there is even a local brand on tap in many trendy eateries.  If you try one flavor or brand and it doesn't do it for you, don't give up on it all together - the flavor possibilities are endless!

freshly bottled in the second fermentation to add fantastic flavors

 Much of the fun to me is trying new flavor combinations and the creating occasional goofy names.

 
Truth be told, I was a little nervous the first time I tried making home brewed kombucha.  I even had a small bottle explode in my kitchen! But now that I've gotten the hang of it, I enjoy the process almost as much as I enjoy drinking it.  Admittedly, I find myself craving a glass of it daily.  It's almost as fun as having a glass of champagne. Almost.

Have you tried kombucha?  What do you think of it?  Interested in making your own?  There is a TON of information online.  Have fun exploring!