Five Things

 {writing out Christmas thank you cards}
Here are a few things that have kept me inspired this week.
 {homemade cocoa and candy cane}
 {Herend cupcake from my dad}
 {the shower in my new house}
{heart shower curtain perfect for Valentine\’s Day}

NYE: Pretty in Pink Cocktail

The new town I live in has a New Years Eve ball drop so I will be having a couple friends over before hand for hors d\’oeuvres and cocktails. Since my party color theme is pink and gold the signature cocktail is a “Pretty in Pink”. To make fill a glass with pink cotton candy and slowly pour champagne over it. The beverage is beautiful and you can even make it kid friendly by using 7-Up in place of the champagne. Remember to drink responsibly. xx

Christmas 2012 Review

I am grateful that I was able to spend this Christmas with my family. Saturday my grandparents hosted a wonderful Christmas dinner. Followed by my mum\’s birthday on Christmas Eve where we celebrated in style with cocoa, cake and candies. Christmas began our yearly tradition of mimosas, coffee cake and my mums overnight egg dish, then came opening stockings (where Jack became exhausted and fell asleep), presents, Honey Baked Ham lunch and movie night snuggled in my parents bedroom. I hope you had a wonderful day surrounded by family, friends and those who mean the most to you. xx

Merry Christmas

Wishing you and your family a warm and wonderful Christmas. xoxo, Erica (and Jack too!)

Church Windows

My first Christmas away at college I went to a cookie exchange party, and received recipes for a wide range of cookies and treats sure to make the holiday sweet. One that I continue to make every year is Church Windows. Not only are they gorgeous, they are simple to make and always a huge hit at holiday gatherings. 

Church Windows
Ingredients
1 package (12 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup salted butter
1 cup walnuts, chopped
1 bag (10-12 ounces) mini colored marshmallows
1 bag(14 ounces) shredded, sweetened coconut

Directions
1. Melt the chocolate chips and butter in a saucepan that has been placed in a pan of water over love heat (or use a double boiler). Stir until smooth and cool for about 1-2 minutes. Add the nuts and marshmallows and mix to coat.
2. Using wax paper, shape the mixture into three round logs. Roll each log in coconut and shape wrapping firmly in wax paper. Freeze over night. While frozen, slice each log into desired sizes and enjoy.