Whiskey Wednesday: Date for Your Bourbon Type by Bianca Spriggs
Lexington-based poet Bianca Spriggs shares some insights about dating and bourbon in the Bluegrass State.
My friend Bianca Spriggs has a guest essay for us that is, well, perfect for anyone who's dating a Kentuckian. Then again, I've never read anything that Bianca has written that isn't pretty great.
Here's her official bio: Bianca Lynne Spriggs is an award-winning poet and multidisciplinary artist from Lexington, Kentucky. She is the author of four collections of poetry, most recently, Call Her By Her Name (Northwestern University Press, 2016) and The Galaxy Is a Dance Floor (Argos Books, 2016). You can find out more about her work at: www.biancaspriggs.com. What she's left out is that on top of being tremendously talented, Bianca is funny, inspiring, and nurturing of her tribe. I'll let her essay tell you the rest of the story.
I like my men like I like my bourbon: Top shelf. Neat. Smooth. Complex. Hard to find. In other words, I don’t risk a heart hangover for just anyone.
Recently, I was speaking with a girlfriend about a couple of fellas she was dating. With the first guy, given what I knew about him (dubious living circumstances, place of work—we’re actually still not sure where that is—and all the personality of steel wool), I blurted out, “No! Way! You’re like a Pappy Van Winkle! He’s Rebel Yell! What do you look like running around with some Rebel Yell?” We both started laughing because being Kentucky-bred women, bourbon is the quintessential metaphor to contrast her qualities with his. No more needed to be said. The next of her prospects was a sight better—this guy wasn’t too hard on the eyes, kept a decent job, paid his rent on time. But I surmised he was more like a Maker’s. And in Kentucky, that’s like saying he’s the Coca Cola of bourbon. Basically? He’s basic. She could go to any bar in America and find the same guy.
One of the issues I’ve noticed with a lot of women is that they tend to be much too modest about assessing their own profile! The problem therein, is that if a person doesn’t value their own traits, they’re going to end up attracting riff-raff. Some of my girlfriends tend to make compromises (because, let’s be honest, the pickings are pretty slim in a state that notoriously contains more bourbon barrels than people) so inevitably some well-dwellers are going to end up on the wrong shelf. But after you date so many bottom-shelf people, you can forget you’re a total catch. Thus, I developed this handy-dandy bourbon classification system because there’s quite the difference between a Basil Hayden’s and an Old Crow. All we need now is a Buzzfeed quiz to establish what bourbon type we are and what might correspond in a partner!
But perhaps, deep down, most of us would probably already be able to say what shelf we’d belong on if we were a bourbon. That means some of us might have to admit: ‘You know what? I’m Wild Turkey right now. If I don’t want to date Wild Turkeys (heh), then maybe I should spend some more time in the barrel.’ I don’t claim to be a bourbon expert, but everyone knows that the longer bourbon sits in its barrel letting the right combination of ingredients do its thing, the better quality the bourbon. In people terms, spending more time in the barrel might translate to getting one’s career or finances or health on track. But the longer we hold out in the barrel ourselves means the more likely we are to attract someone who can not only appreciate the finer qualities of what we have to offer, but will match them.
Now, before hurt feelings start amassing (particularly from the folks who are inevitably going to get that friend-zone text: “I need a Blanton’s in my life, not a Very Old Barton”), hear me out! This doesn’t mean there is going to be an increase of lonely nights ahead for everyone. The system actually works in terms of whatever you’re looking for in a partner at any point in your life! So, say you are feeling a little reckless. It happens! By all means, go for the Kentucky Gentleman. That person just might help you forget your cares for a night or two even if they burn like the devil going down. If the hangover from that little experiment is worth it, more power to you.
Maybe you’re not even be looking for tip-top shelf. You could be totally cool with someone who is consistent. A Knob Creek or Four Roses. Someone you can count on to meet your needs whether it’s just you two hanging out or you’re in a Derby-sized crowd.
Now. If you’ve reached a certain point where you think you’re ready for someone more seasoned, someone with all the right ingredients who has taken extra time to mature, this might mean you go out on fewer dates, but let’s be honest. Anyone who’s ever tasted Pappy Van Winkle 23-Year, can tell you just how worth it is for the wait.
Is it hard being single as a Kentucky woman? Sure. This state is brimming with women who pair off straight out of college and busy themselves with getting hitched, procreating, and so on. To each their own. And I get it. The older and more solo you become, the more people start y’know…wondering. I get that the pressure mounts to find the right person. Your person. But my point is, baby-girl, understand that this is less about getting that dreamy forever boo or nabbing someone that will do in the meantime to keep up with your friends. This is more about learning how to value yourself. Learn to recognize what you are bringing to the shelf first, so you will more readily recognize those qualities in someone else.
My suggestion if you’re serious about settling down? Don’t date ‘em if they’re further than one shelf down. The closer to the bottom-shelf, the more time they could use in the barrel. And if you find yourself indulging from that shelf a little too often, maybe so could you.
(Bourbon photos: Heather C. Watson)
Happy Birthday, HerKentucky!
Five years ago today, HerKentucky.com went live. We started with a crew of 6 writers, posting 5 days a week about our Kentucky experiences. Over the years, our writers have gone on to create some amazing projects of their own, and many return from time to time to share a story or a favorite Kentucky spot!
When we started HerKentucky, we certainly never imagined that it would reach to over 22,000 social media followers. In fact, several of the social media channels we use today weren't yet in existence in 2011! Thank you so much to everyone who has taken a moment to read our stories, share our social media posts, and comment with your own Kentucky stories! I wish I could share a cupcake or a glass of champagne with each of you!
We'll have special birthday giveaways and perks this week just for you. Check out our Facebook page for a drawing for a Lilly Pulitzer Agenda!
Thank you so much for supporting HerKentucky!
My Proudest Moment As A Kentuckian
I remember it like it was yesterday. The year was 1999 and I had just started my freshman year at Transylvania. I was head over heels in love with college. Every class was a revelation. Every new girlfriend was a friend for life. Every day the first day of the rest of my life. Me and a group of my new girlfriends had run down to the campus center where there was a giant television.
It was September 18, 1999, and the Miss America pageant was on.
I was never a huge Miss America fan. I didn’t dream about being crowned as a little girl or compete in pageants. I would watch if I happened to be in front of the TV on that particular night but would never search it out. After all, Miss Kentucky had never won. It was always so disappointing when she didn’t make the cut and we only saw her for a few seconds in the beginning introductions.
“I’m Miss Kentucky!”
And that was it. However, that night one of my new found girlfriends was from Maysville. Miss Kentucky was from her hometown. Her name was Heather French and Cady insisted that she was going to win.
The night seemed impossibly large already. We were at the end of sorority rush. We had just attended our last Preference Party. Dressed up and full of anticipation, we had each signed our preference cards and had to wait until tomorrow to see if the sorority we wanted wanted us as well.
That night came at an important part in the process for all of us as freshman girls. The lines had not yet been drawn. We still identified with each other more than with our yet-to-be-determined sisters. We weren’t Phi Mu’s or Chi O’s yet. We were still just girls. The only characteristic that mattered that night was one.
We were Kentucky girls and we wanted Miss Kentucky to win.
As we gathered around the TV, the final minutes of the pageant were playing out. Cady was right. Miss Kentucky was in the Final Five!
Then the Osmonds were calling runners up. Fourth runner up, third runner up, only Miss Kentucky and Miss Illinois were left. As Marie called Miss Illinois as the final runner up and the exhilaration flooded Heather French’s face, we all squealed with delight.
Miss Kentucky had just been crowned Miss America!
Not just ANY Miss America, she was Miss America 2000. She was the first Miss Kentucky to be crowned the winner and it felt like she had won the crown for the entirety of the 21st Century. Waves of pride swept over me and everything about Heather French seemed perfect. This was not some Barbie-doll blonde from Texas. She was brunette! She had short hair and dimples for days and she was FROM KENTUCKY!
Being a Kentuckian isn’t always easy. When you want to be at the top of the list, Kentucky is often at the bottom - most educated populace or fewest gun deaths. When you want to be at the bottom of the list, Kentucky is often at the top - obesity rate or most teenage pregnancies. We are the butt of jokes and the basis for many a stereotype.
I have never once been embarrassed to be from Kentucky BUT, every once in a while, it’s nice to be able to brag...about something besides sports. THAT night I could brag. THAT night every little girl in the country wanted to be from Kentucky.
But THAT night surrounded by girlfriends, I actually was.
~ Sarah Stewart Holland
How to Eat Lunch Like a Lexington Local
I get a whole lot of emails and texts and Facebook messages asking where to eat lunch in Lexington. The truth is, I have a bad habit of sticking to two or three favorite lunch spots that remind me of all the fun I had as a student or a young professional in the LEX. So, I reached out to several Lexington locals to see where they're eating lunch these days. If you're planning a trip to the LEX soon, click here to download a printable version and try a few of these restaurants out for yourself!
North Lexington
Windy Corner Market
The Po Boys are legendary!
4595 Bryan Station Rd
Mon-Fri 7 am – 8:30 pm; Sat-Sun 9 am – 8:30 pm
Downtown
Stella’s Kentucky Deli
Get the Griff Burger!
143 Jefferson St
Mon-Fri 10:30 am- 4pm; Sat-Sun 9 am – 9 pm
Limestone Blue
Don’t miss the Achy Breaky Heart!
133 N Limestone
Mon-Fri 10:30 am – 10 pm; Sat 9:30 am – 10 pm; Sun 10 am – 3 pm
Lexington Diner
Alton Brown recommends the Kentucky Nachos!
124 N. Upper
Mon-Sat 8 am – 3 pm; Sun 10 am – 3 pm.
Buddha Lounge
Best sushi in town!
109 N Mill
Mon – Fri 11am – 10 pm; Sat 6 pm - 2 am
Doodle’s
The Pigs and Puffs are a must!
262 N Limestone
Tues-Sun 8 am – 2 pm; Closed Mondays
Sawyer’s Downtown Bar & Grill
Lexington’s favorite hamburger!
325 W Main Street
Mon-Wed 11 am- 3 pm; Thur-Sat 11 am- 7:30 pm
Nat's
The best Thai food in town!
111 S Upper St
Mon- Fri 12 pm – 3 pm; 5 pm – 10 pm; Sat 5 pm – 10 pm; Closed Sunday
Lockbox
Order the Griddled PBT!
167 W Main St
Mon– Thurs 7am-10am, 11 am – 2pm, 5:30 pm – 10 pm; Fri 7am-10am, 11 am – 2pm, 5:30 pm – 11 pm; Sat 7 am – 2 pm; 5:30 pm – 11 pm; Sun 7 am – 2 pm; 5:30 pm – 9 pm.
Wine + Market
Duck confit and bleu cheese on ciabatta, please!
486 W Second St
Mon-Sat 10AM - 8PM; Sun 1PM - 6PM
Campus/ Chevy Chase
Blue Door Smokehouse
Don’t miss the brisket!
226 Walton Ave
Mon-Thur 11 am – 3pm; Fri-Sat 11 am – 8 pm; Closed Sunday (Or until Meat sells out!)
Joe Bologna’s
Seriously, you need to order a breadstick!
120 W Maxwell St
Mon-Tues 11 am – 9 pm; Wed-Thurs 11 am – 10 pm; Fri-Sat 11 am – 11 pm; Sun 11 am – 10 pm.
Sav’s Grill
Where else can you find authentic West African food in Lexington?
304 S. Limestone
Mon-Sun 11 am – 9 pm
National Provisions
They had me at hamburgers and macarons.
710 National Ave
Mon and Sat 7 am – 10 pm; Tue – Fri, Sun 8 am – 10 pm
Campus/ Chevy Chase
Josie’s
Everybody’s favorite Chevy Chase lunch spot!
821 Chevy Chase Place
Mon - Sat 8 AM - 9 PM, Sun 8 am - 2 pm
Tomo
The Sushi Lunch Plate is the best deal in town!
848 East High Street
Mon-Thur 11 am – 10 pm; Fri 11 am – 10: 30 pm; Saturday 5:30 pm – 10:30 pm; Closed Sunday
Tates Creek
The Mousetrap
Best pimiento cheese in Kentucky!
3323 Tates Creek Rd
Local Chains
Athenian Grill
Lexington’s favorite Greek restaurant!
313 S Ashland Ave; 115 N Locust Hill Dr
Ramsey’s
Southern-style favorites!
4391 Old Harrodsburg Rd; 3090 Helmsdale Pl; 4053 Tates Creek Centre Dr; 151 W Zandale Dr
Mon-Fri 11 am – 11 pm; Sat-Sun 9 am – 11 pm
Vinaigrette
The best salads in town!
1781 Sharkey Way Suite 115; 113 N Broadway
11am-9pm M-Sa, 12pm - 8pm Sun
What are your favorite Lexington lunch spots?
Celebrate College Colors Day in Style!
Fashionable ways to cheer on Kentucky's college football teams!
Happy College Colors Day, y'all! I am just so excited that it's starting to look like fall, and that college football is back! I am so excited to be wearing my Kentucky Blue for College Colors Day, and I picked out a few great ideas for my friends who cheer on all the Kentucky D1 College Teams!
Draper James Tailgate Essentials
Have you seen the newest batch of tailgate-inspired items from Reece Witherspoon's Draper James line? So, so cute, y'all. I feel like the scarf is going to be necessary as the weather gets cooler.
Go Big Blue!
Now, if you've been reading HerKentucky for any time at all, it's no surprise that I ride or die with the Kentucky Wildcats, even if football isn't exactly our premiere athletic program. UK will always feel like the home team for me, in any sport. I lived in Lexington for over a decade, my beau and I hold three graduate degrees from UK, and I grew up on stories of my grandfather and his siblings attending the University in the '30s. The 'Cats and I, we go way back.
I personally believe that there's no such thing as taking your
Go Cards!
Y'all, I don't care what team you rep or what part of the Commonwealth you hail from. That Louisville win was ridic last night. Lamar Jackson was on fire, and my Cardinals fan friends were jubilant. That win deserves several days' worth of team-inspired outfits!!
Cheer on your Kentucky team!
Most of us can find a reason to cheer for just about every Kentucky college, if we look hard enough for a link. My parents each hold degrees from Morehead AND EKU. I have plenty of friends with ties to WKU and Murray State. And the list goes on. There are so many cute ways to rep your team. A Tervis Tumbler and a cap are, of course, standard equipment.
Let me know in the comments below what team you're repping today, and don't forget to visit the College Colors Day website to enter to win a trip to the 2017 National Championship Game! (please note that this post contains affiliate links.)
Whiskey Wednesday: Buffalo Trace Sundae Funday!
This ice cream sundae is definitely not for kids!
When we visited Buffalo Trace earlier this summer, I picked up a bottle of Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream. This liqueur is absolutely delicious, a melding of bourbon with cream and vanilla. Take it to the next level by pouring it over a couple of scoops of vanilla ice cream and, if you're feeling festive, serve it up in a julep cup! (This Louisville Stoneware julep cup is from the Buffalo Trace gift shop!)
Cheers, y'all!
Great Ways to Spend #NationalDogDay with Your Best Friend
I legitimately can't imagine how I'd get through the day without my dogs. They're my alarm clocks, my personal trainers, my neighborhood watch, my therapists, and, of course, my best friends! If you're anything like me, then National Dog Day is just another day, because your furriest buddies are spoiled every day!
Still, it never hurts to acknowledge that your pooch is the absolute best. So, I gathered up a few of the cutest pups I know to share a few great ways to spend National Dog Day with your best friend!
Go for a special treat!
Savvy dog-owners know that a "puppy latte" is Starbucks-speak for a little cup of whipped cream, just for your dog! Here in Louisville, Three Dog Bakery and Barkstown Road have a fantastic assortment of cookies and treats! Lexington's Bluegrass Barkery is another favorite for fresh treats and customized food!
Let Them Tag Along!
My dogs love to tag along. It can be fun to take a well-behaved dog along on a road trip or an outing! Just remember to keep them cool and hydrated and give them plenty of exercise!
Make it a Yappy Hour!
Check with your favorite restaurant, cafe, or bar to see if patio seating is available for your pooch! Your canine companion would love to relax and catch up with friends, too!
Book a Glamour Shots Session!
My BFF took her fur babies for a set of portraits at Jeannie Francis Photography. What a unique and wonderful way to commemorate your furry friends!
Take them for their favorite activity!
My Max is a classic retriever. He has been obsessed with playing with tennis balls for hours on end for 9 years now. It's always his favorite thing to do!!
Sophie, my lab-terrier mix, loves to walk and explore! She loves a trip around our neighborhood, while several of my friends take their pups to one of Louisville's amazing parks!
Several of my friends have dogs who love to hang out on boats!
Whatever you choose to do with your furry friend, make sure that he or she knows how much you appreciate the unconditional love!
How are y'all celebrating National Dog Day?