Around Town ~ KJ's Boutique

     

    Just over a year ago, KJ's Boutique opened its doors at 214 Main Street, bringing children's fashion to downtown. The sister store to Marlene's Sass and Class, KJ's was named after owner Marlene's first granddaughter's nickname — a sweet tribute that turned into a thriving business. Shoppers can visit in person Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or browse anytime at www.shopkjsboutique.com.

The idea for KJ's took root years earlier. Shortly after Marlene's opened more than eight years ago, customers kept asking for children's and tween clothing. When Marlene's first grandbaby was on the way, and the building next door happened to come available, KJ's Boutique was born. Today the store carries girls' sizes from newborn through tween (14/16) and boys' sizes from newborn through 7/8, with newborn items quickly becoming customer favorites.

Clothing is only part of the story. KJ's also stocks toys and squishies, including Discovery Toys; a popular educational brand you won't find in big department stores. Whether you're looking for a thoughtful gift or a cute new outfit, it's an easy stop for the kids in your life.

Marlene has also made sure shopping with little ones in tow is easy. A dedicated play area with books, toys, and movies keeps kids entertained while parents browse. That attention to experience extends to the staff, personal shoppers are on hand to help customers find just the right piece for any occasion.

Many of the items at KJ's are one-of-a-kind finds you won't see at corporate retailers, including matching outfit sets for moms and their kids that are especially popular for holidays and family photos, and tend to sell out fast, so it pays to shop early.

KJ's also hosts a regular lineup of community events, many of them free. Storytime with Kate is a favorite, along with craft and painting projects for tweens led by Babrae McFarlin (a small fee covers supplies). Seasonal events have included Valentine's bath bomb making, egg decorating, ornament decorating, and visits from the Easter Bunny and Santa. Follow KJ's on Facebook and Instagram for the full event schedule.

Kids who love the spotlight can stop by to "model" new outfits for the shop, while parents can head to the Hat Bar to personalize their own trucker hat.

As football season approaches, KJ's is the place to find cheer outfits, not just in Sulphur Springs colors, but for surrounding area schools too. Check back this fall for costumes and "make-believe" play outfits, and watch for holiday pajama sets arriving in September.

Herb Infused Cocktail ~ Blueberry Basil Margarita

 

Summer is coming in hot this year! Pun intended! The weather has been erratic at best and those temps are creeping up quickly so that your outside time should be from 5 a. m. to 8 a. m. or late evening hours. If only that worked in the real world.  At least, we have the perfect cocktail to help cool you down, after working in the garden, or just for sipping on the back deck.  

What is a better way to cool down, than with some favorite summer flavors of blueberry and basil?  Toss in an extra mint leaf and you have a drink worth sipping, to cool you down, or to enjoy with friends.  The white tequila and fresh lime give it a great flavor while being refreshing and cooling over ice.

Blueberry Basil Margarita

1.5 ounce Tequila Blanco

½ ounce triple sec

¾ ounce fresh lime juice

½ ounce simple syrup

8-10 blueberries

3 fresh basil leaves

1 mint leaf

Salt and lime zest for the rim

Prep your glass by running the lime round the outside and partially down the side.  Roll in the salt and lime zest.  Muddle blueberries, mint and basil together, with the simple syrup.  Add in the tequila, triple sec, and lime.  Shake with ice until the shaker cup is cold.  Strain into your prepared glass over fresh ice.  Garnish with blueberries and basil.  

This simple drink is perfect to prepare for friends, for a dinner party or back yard barbeque.  Be sure to not over muddle the herbs, so they do not become bitter, just enough to release their flavor into the syrup and spread color into your glass from the berries.

We have three different types of basil and three different types of mint growing in our garden.  For this drink we use the standard green basil, you can find at your local grocer and any of the mint will work as well.  If you do not like mint, feel free to leave it out.  Make this drink your own with your favorite liquor and herbs.  

We think you will enjoy it no matter how you make it.  As always please drink responsibly and have a designated driver. Cheers!