Dear Hillary,

Now that the Democratic Convention and Obama’s nomination are all wrapped up, it’s time to acknowledge the achievements of perhaps the strongest fighter in the Democratic primaries. Weeks of watching Super Tuesday coverage and shouting, “You go, girl!” at the TV were not enough to save your campaign, but I am not bitter nor rethinking my allegiance to the Democratic Party. The truth is, Hilldog (may I call you that?), that your candidacy has only strengthened the party and proven to America, and to the world, that a woman president is possible in the near future.

At the risk of sounding schmaltzy, I would like to thank you for your contributions to the Democratic Party and America as a U.S. Senator. Your relentless push for quality health care for all Americans, begun during your time as First Lady, will certainly be met with open arms by the Obama administration and a (hopefully) Democratic Congress. Your commitment to women’s rights, especially the right to choose, is one for which all women, regardless of political persuasion or moral compass, should be thankful. Your work in the Senate will undoubtedly continue, and I hope to see you become Senate Majority Leader under an Obama administration. A partnership like that would end the gridlock that currently plagues Washington. Read More »

Ah, the Fourth of July. The best day of the entire summer to sit back, throw some burgers on the grill, set off illegal fireworks, and get sloshed in the name of our forefathers. Besides Father’s Day, the fourth is really the only summer holiday, sandwiched between the glorious three-day weekends of Memorial Day and Labor Day.

That said, if you are planning to celebrate our nation’s birthday this weekend, I hope you do it in style. Here are some patriotic concoctions that will make you declare your independence…from your dignity, that is.

Red Sangria and White Sangria

Sure, sangria originated in Spain somewhere, but its gotten so popular in the past few years, that even Applebees has a signature sangria on its drink menu. Besides, this recipe is totally Americanized– even George W. could follow these directions!

In a punch bowl (preferably a clear one so you can display your creatively festive colors), combine a 750 mL bottle of red or white table wine with a cup of peach schnapps, two cups of pineapple juice and one cup of lemon-lime soda. Add more peach schnapps for a sweeter punch, or more juice if you don’t want it super-strong (baby). Read More »