Mardi Gras, Fat Tuesday, Carnival season...whatever you call it, it's an excuse to indulge in some good food and drink on a weeknight. Whether you're in NOLA for the party or not, put on some beads (pretend you earned 'em) and shake up one of these dangerous cocktails to let loose like those parading down Bourbon St. Drinkers beware: just... CONTINUE READING 6

Happy National Donut Day! Yep, the first Friday in June is always dedicated to celebrating the hole-y grail of sweets! See below for my fave DIY donut recipes, plus 10 great donut places across the nation. -Cait Rohan Instead of simply purchasing a donut from Krispy Kreme today, why not use your confection in Paula Deen’s Donut Bread Pudding (on Food Network)?... CONTINUE READING 9

New Orleans is known for three things: Mardi Gras, jazz and Hurricane Katrina. In the wake of Katrina's devastation, New Orleanians and people from around the country and the world came together to support the city in its time of need. While Mardi Gras is back in full swing, the effort to revive and sustain jazz and the cultural arts... CONTINUE READING 6

Vacationing always sounds like a great idea, until we (and our wallets) get a reality check. But traveling across the United States doesn't have to burn a hole in your wallet. Check out four of the nation's top cities and how to enjoy them without wiping your savings clean! -Elana Lott New York If you've ever lived in or visited Manhattan,... CONTINUE READING 12

Not looking to celebrate Mardi Gras with drinks and a wild bar scene? Take it easy, er, Big Easy, with a Bourbon Street Jazz Brunch instead. We're a fan of Celebrations.com’s suggestions for delish recipes like Whoa Nellie cocktails, Eggs Sardou, Cajun Shrimp, Creamed Spinach, plus décor ideas that include a more PG way to use those famous beads. "Celebrate... CONTINUE READING 10

Mardi Gras is underway and we’re here with some Big Easy-inspired libations to help you wash down the Mardi Gras recipes we already provided you with. Bead it and get drinking! -Lynden Halpern Ramos Gin Fizz (our fave recipe via Chow.com) is a Nawlin's born-and-bred drink. Start your Mardi Gras celebrations with a boozy brunch and serve this delicious combo of gin,... CONTINUE READING 15

Mardi Gras, a.k.a. “Fat Tuesday” might not officially be till Tuesday, March 8, but Mardi Gras in New Orleans is (as always!) getting a head start with parades starting this Friday. Get your own celebration started—at least in your stomach—with these Mardi Gras recipes. -Cait Rohan Add a little Southern spice to your typical bread ‘n’ butter appy with the Cilantro Chili Butter... CONTINUE READING 12

I can’t believe Christmas Eve is tomorrow! Whether you find yourself faced with hosting relatives last-minute or want to bring a quick and easy dish wherever you’re headed, we’ve got four delectable appetizer recipes for you. -Cait Rohan Fondue is consistently a crowd pleaser, and this Fiery Fondue recipe  (courtesy the Neelys) on FoodNetwork.com adds chipotle chiles and beer for a zesty... CONTINUE READING 14

When we asked our Staffers about their , BBQ rang in loud and clear. This inspired us to do a little tasting…er, investigating to find the best BBQ around the nation. Summer may be winding down with the start of September, but you can enjoy this seasonal taste year-round. Southern Hospitality (New York, NY) – For all of the taste (and... CONTINUE READING 17

She is just like Angelina Jolie, always going out of her way to help others. Be it baking a casserole for a sickly neighbor or traveling to New Orleans to help the oil spill relief, her selflessness is so inspiring. Her heart is huge—she never stops at just one cause and is never satisfied with helping on only one issue. “Whether... CONTINUE READING 3