Off to the Races!!!

In honor of this year's Preakness,

I created two new tote bag designs

featuring the Black-Eyed Susan...
Maryland's state flower - and the official flower of the Preakness

This year marks the 136th running of The Preakness Stakes traditionally  held on the third Saturday in May at  Pimlico Race Course just outside Baltimore, MD.  The Preakness Stakes has been termed "The Run for the Black-Eyed Susans" because a blanket of Black-eyed Susans  is placed around the winner's neck. (the horse's neck, of course:)

The interesting part is ....... Black-Eyed Susans do not bloom in Maryland until June or July!
No worries -- they just take a little 'creative license' and come up with a great look-alike instead.   Some years they have used daisies, others chrysanthemums.  Once the center is darkened who can tell the difference?  It works!
Here are two close up views of the Black-Eyed Susan tote..
complete with sparkles, jewels and glitter!

and just one more thing......
(in case you want to plan a party;)

Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail Punch

1 - 1/4 cup vodka
4 cups orange juice
1 - 1/4 cup light rum
ice ring
3/4 cup triple sec
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
4 cups pineapple juice

Chill all ingredients.
Just before serving combine in a punch bowl.
Unmold ice ring and float in bowl. Serve in tall glasses. Makes 10 large servings.