The Pink House of Claremore

I know what you’re thinking... Summer’s here... temps are climbing higher... and the kids are home from school, clamoring for things to do... how could I possibly relax this summer?

Well, fear not... I’ve come to the rescue.

Here are my three tips for rediscovering your carefree spirit this summer...  

• Switch to vacation mode. It may take some doing, but it’s all in the attitude. Don’t feel you have to keep the same breakneck schedule or keep everyone happy with constant activity. Summer’s the time to slow down and relax a little. Time to look at everything a little differently and forget your to-do list.
• Enjoy the small pleasures of life. You don’t have to plan a big, expensive trip to Disney World or the beach to enjoy the summer. Think of your own small pleasures and do them throughout the day. It may be running through the sprinklers with the kids or sitting on the patio to enjoy a beautiful sunset. It’s up to you... as long it helps you relax and get refreshed.
• Breathe some fresh clean air. You wouldn’t believe what a 30 minute walk can do for your mood. Breathing in clean country air is nature’s way of reviving us and helping us deal with stress. Go outside today and enjoy God’s creation for a little R&R.

So, there you have it... 3 tips for relaxing this summer. Try these over the coming weeks and see if you don’t feel better. 

If all else fails, you can always visit us here at the Pink House Restaurant.  We’re the perfect place to relax and enjoy the pleasures of summer.

Visit us anytime for lunch or dinner... AND remember to leave your worries behind.

See you soon,

Margo

Ever feel like shopping and eating chocolate should be declared an Olympic sport? If so, then here’s something you’ll absolutely love...

On July 14^th, the Pink House is partnering with All the Rage Fashions for a night of fashion and decadent chocolate feasting...and guess what? You’re invited.

No, this isn’t the Olympic trials but it will be an evening like no other.

The event will be 5pm to 8pm at All the Rage Fashions where you’ll be able to shop your head off...and sample all different kinds of chocolates, cake, and baked fudge courtesy of the Pink House Restaurant.

Just click on the attached flyer (to the right) and print if off. It will be your ticket to get into the special sale and will earn you 25% discount off your entire clothing purchase!

Remember, July 14th at 5-8pm at All the Rage Fashions, 502 South Lynn Riggs Blvd in Claremore, OK.

Join us for a night that will make even Willy Wonka envious. Oh, and bring a friend... and you’ll even receive a FREE gift!  

Can’t wait to see you there.

What could more American than July 4^th and everything that comes with it...fireworks, a bbq in the backyard, old glory flying high above? I’m talking, classic.

But, just because you’ll be sweating as it is (this is Oklahoma you know) that doesn’t mean you need to sweat the details of your July 4^th menu also. Go with the traditional barbecue favorites, but add a little spice of your own for a simple yet savory summertime feast.

• Hamburgers. Could there be anything more quintessentially American? A tried and true classic if there ever was one, but ripe for a little flavor finagling. I like minced onion on my patties and a little salt personally. But, I’ve heard adding a little barbeque habanera sauce will add a kick that will send you into the next county. Something to try.
• Potato Salad. How about putting in onions, cheese, sour cream. And, you guessed it, a little bacon? It’s like a loaded baked potato. You’ve got to try it...I promise, you’ll love it.
• Buttered corn on the cob. No need to tamper with perfection. Right?
• A little green for the kiddos. Green bean casserole is a terrific side dish and easy to make. Or, something cool and leafy will help offset a hot and filling meal.
• Oh, and you got to have something fruity for dessert...peaches, blackberries, it’s all good. Or, you could just cut up a watermelon in two seconds flat. To me, it’s the perfect summer dessert.

Finally, add all the extras and you’re good to go... chips, drinks, and of course, your red, white, and blue décorations.

Now, nothing left to do but sit back and enjoy. Oh, and be sure to give thanks for your freedom.

Ahh, the joys of summer.

I love summer fruit and picking out the juiciest ones I can to put in salad, desserts, or just for popping them plain. We have a large selection of fruit here in Oklahoma , but trouble is... a lot of people don’t really know how to choose the fruit when they’re at their peak.

Here are some ideas I use personally and at the Pink House:

Blueberries. Look for deep purple berries that are smooth and wrinkle free. If they’re soft and watery,  it means they’re too ripe. Avoid containers that are stained which may indicate bruised fruit or ones that could possibly be moldy.

Peaches. I absolutely love peaches and can’t wait for their season. Look for smooth skin and a heavy feel to the peach. Ripe fruit will give off that sweet peach aroma and will have a soft texture but not mushy. For best flavor, it’s better not to store in the fridge.

Cataloupe. You’re looking for a nice shape that’s round with a nice golden color. A ripe fruit will give off a nice mild aroma. If you buy it green, then just store it at room temp for a couple days and it will ripen on its own.

Strawberries. Plump, bright red berries are the choicest fruit. Look for fresh, green leaves and be sure to discard any bruised or damaged berries. Now I ask you... is anything better than sweet red strawberries in the summer?

 Watermelons. With watermelons, you want to look for firmness. The trick is in the thump you give it...if it gives a hollow sound you know it’s ripe. The outer rind also needs to have a dull look to it, not dark green.

Hope this helps. Summer will soon be here, and it’s a great time to enjoy the fruit of the season.

Blessings,

Margo