This post is sponsored by Blue Diamond - Almond Breeze Almondmilk. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

Certain things in this chronic condition we call 'Life' are simply meant to go together, some as a rite of passage from one season to the next, others as a singular, blissful moment for which we endure all of the trials that came before it. A late afternoon with hard cheese, crusty bread, and a common vino de mesa - simplicity in itself. A lingering round of cavas on a crisp summer night after a long dinner with friends - the essence of living. Sweet almond cream and limoncello - a smile for any occasion.

During the summer season, as the days grow warmer, down time or 'me time' grows proportionally sparser with the increase in frequency of get-togethers with family and friends. The uptick in site work also serves to take a bite out of recreational time as we put out a continual line of summer entertaining tips and shortcuts to accompany our themes.

However, in those brief moments where I can take an unhindered breath, I refuse to treat myself any less than I would treat a guest, or take any less care with myself than I would with my site themes. One of my favorite items to pair either with a balmy summer afternoon or as the end to a pleasant summer night is a sweet and savory blueberry slushy.

Using crushed spring water ice cubes as the base, I mix in Blue Diamond Almond Breeze Hint of Honey, which will give the beverage a slight bit of body and just a hint of reserved sweetness. For flavor and acidity, I add of half a lemon along with mint for seasonal crispness and fresh basil leaves, while a batch of blueberries provide the fruit and the main flavor profile.

For garnish, top the cup with whole blueberries and a sprig of mint, fresh basil leaves and a thin slice of lemon; you've just taken care of yourself like you were a guest being served at the end of a summer dinner party.