Hosting Heartfelt Holiday Parties

<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsTHBPC7EY5aFJoo-4TOKNizsFM6j0KbhGwH25iiBeoWbcZd1_aAsdo4UMw0qkwohR76toI4Y5K70Ho1-L9pGrHG6Qk8OZyzZzj6-EJIoPLAb_Xbt11i_97yIoH3MOAzBzYwkFFz6kV4xA/s1600/IMG_4648.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsTHBPC7EY5aFJoo-4TOKNizsFM6j0KbhGwH25iiBeoWbcZd1_aAsdo4UMw0qkwohR76toI4Y5K70Ho1-L9pGrHG6Qk8OZyzZzj6-EJIoPLAb_Xbt11i_97yIoH3MOAzBzYwkFFz6kV4xA/s1600/IMG_4648.jpg" width="424" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: start;">As you all know, each month I write an article for My Well-Being.com.  This month I shared my ideas for Hosting Heartfelt Holiday Parties.  It is not too late to try some of these ideas this year - most are very simple and require minimal planning.  Enjoy this excerpt, read the entire article, <a href="http://www.mywell-being.com/enjoy/ideas-hosting-heartfelt-holiday-parties-jhobick-2014-12-14-h0m0p1l2-000011110000">here</a>.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: start;"><br />"Each Holiday season I make our family entertaining plan.  We don't host a large fancy open house or a cocktail party for a hundred people, but we host many small gatherings for our friends and family.  When I make this plan and schedule, we talk about what we really want to experience during the Holiday season - memorable moments with our family, magical experiences with our daughter, festive celebrations with friends and traditions of giving to others.  We do our best to plan our entire month of December around these goals of truly experiencing the warmth, peace and love that the Holidays can bring....</span></div><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: start;">Caroling Party, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: start;">Cookie Decorating Party, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: start;">Candlelight Dinner, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: start;">Stocking Stuffing Party..."</span></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: start;">Keep reading and get more details about each of these parties ideas, <a href="http://www.mywell-being.com/enjoy/ideas-hosting-heartfelt-holiday-parties-jhobick-2014-12-14-h0m0p1l2-000011110000">here</a>.  Happy Holiday Hosting!</span></div><br />

Hosting Heartfelt Holiday Parties

As you all know, each month I write an article for My Well-Being.com.  This month I shared my ideas for Hosting Heartfelt Holiday Parties.  ...

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Metallic Gold Celebration Candles & Chocolate Souffles for New Years | Last Day for Orders!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwUS48xzylxzdp-rgJb6z64t7vAzn4lKrxsvO6s5U_G2-Y9R_yO3VneX5Yr2aTPw_708Odr9NEfaEzebb38Bz7qpwRaXhwWBYGOsTEqlOXJ3UJ4MFgWmaC48agOXAoYUl7gvTnyzbiVmhe/s1600/cc-metallic-celeb-6-gold.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwUS48xzylxzdp-rgJb6z64t7vAzn4lKrxsvO6s5U_G2-Y9R_yO3VneX5Yr2aTPw_708Odr9NEfaEzebb38Bz7qpwRaXhwWBYGOsTEqlOXJ3UJ4MFgWmaC48agOXAoYUl7gvTnyzbiVmhe/s1600/cc-metallic-celeb-6-gold.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div>Today is the day - the last day to order and receive by Christmas Eve!  We've been counting and re-counting inventory to make sure our numbers are correct and there are a couple of things that we "found" and have been restocked.  If you need some last minute gifts, my <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/holiday/products/gift-cards-boxed">Gift Cards</a> make great stocking stuffers and come in a beautiful box ready for giving : )  And, of course $5 shipping on all orders continues!<br /><br />I'm thinking a little about New Years Eve today, and have stocked up on these <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/candles">Celebration Candles</a> ($9-18.50) to ring in the New Year.  I love at home celebrations for NYE - cozy dinner by the fire, then something fun and spectacular for dessert. <br /><br />I carry the <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/candles">Creative Candles Celebration Candles in 6" and 15"</a> - in 8 colors.  These Metallic Gold would be the perfect way to make your at home celebration special and festive for midnight. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2Zq_m3ThWnj0tTMpBP3w0ulX0Giq1pCmcVEyjLH57e5OUHnCq6UZQYheR2S52-YtrggOcS9wTAJ2_7M91MgxLoqgdaXFzDrSvIdtank0PQLWYL57af-D3pTwk07dr-mZGH5p34WGgzKD/s1600/IMG_0654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2Zq_m3ThWnj0tTMpBP3w0ulX0Giq1pCmcVEyjLH57e5OUHnCq6UZQYheR2S52-YtrggOcS9wTAJ2_7M91MgxLoqgdaXFzDrSvIdtank0PQLWYL57af-D3pTwk07dr-mZGH5p34WGgzKD/s1600/IMG_0654.jpg" width="265" /></a><br /><br />Here is a photo that shows the scale of the 15" - they really are super tall.  I was going to try to get around to making a decadent chocolate cake layered with whipped cream and raspberries, but after making a birthday cake for Mike last week and a birthday cake for Emma on Monday, I am a little caked out!  So, you'll have to use your imagination : )<br /><br />In general, the 6" candles look super on cupcakes, and the 15" are great for cakes, or larger desserts. <br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCcFOWkswqQD3_7vfZN84WPjrGeHqBzYhxpdK9AXDH0-DlkKsDEMGitPpNFdV-V9GeEXu_pTSToEapjxYe-Q9pfg1NzkuLprGZlr-lsnrwGDoc0zq96L3g4EjkBkpBOMbJ9L5EjUJVKumS/s1600/cc-metallic-celeb-15-gold_332841a6-b5a8-46b7-b84b-9c59a55a375f.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCcFOWkswqQD3_7vfZN84WPjrGeHqBzYhxpdK9AXDH0-DlkKsDEMGitPpNFdV-V9GeEXu_pTSToEapjxYe-Q9pfg1NzkuLprGZlr-lsnrwGDoc0zq96L3g4EjkBkpBOMbJ9L5EjUJVKumS/s1600/cc-metallic-celeb-15-gold_332841a6-b5a8-46b7-b84b-9c59a55a375f.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here are the gold in 15" - so fun!  I'm going to be giving some as hostess gifts this weekend, too.  I find they are always met with oohs and aahhs, even before lighting.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFCsGTpjRWDSiRJl3RtOki-BHxQbKkVYfcrQ8uMN3BL8eOUmvonxYv4qL_35o_k322T4zgrMq7uJL2pHOlCeVVNsObBrDUXVXgQFT6P_w85yiKBmz9E7jtWI4pfXOF1midif3SCQtECFSZ/s1600/IMG_6818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFCsGTpjRWDSiRJl3RtOki-BHxQbKkVYfcrQ8uMN3BL8eOUmvonxYv4qL_35o_k322T4zgrMq7uJL2pHOlCeVVNsObBrDUXVXgQFT6P_w85yiKBmz9E7jtWI4pfXOF1midif3SCQtECFSZ/s1600/IMG_6818.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>I have one last product to add before this Holiday season is over - these P<a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/souffle-cups">aper Souffle Cups</a>, $8 for 20.  I mentioned them a couple of days ago, but haven't had a chance to actually use them yet - again, you'll have to use your imagination : )  They are great when you are having  a big group and don't have enough ramekins, or don't want to deal with the last minute stress of flipping my Chocolate Molten cakes from the cupcake pan with your fingers crossed.<br /><br />Emma is at home with me today and we are going to try our hand at turning this recipe for my <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/04/chocolate-molten-cakes-in-cupcake-pan.html">Chocolate Molten Cakes</a> into an easy Chocolate Souffle.  Since this is the last day of ordering, I wanted to give you a chance to buy even before I share the recipe, in case you have plans for a party and need a great dessert.<br /><br />I also have hopes of trying a Blue Cheese or Cheddar/Spinach Souffle, ala the Barefoot Contessa, in these, too!  Would be a great accompaniment to the Slow Roasted Beef Tenderloin for Christmas or New Years Eve.  I am planning to use Ina's recipes, but in these cups for an individual size - which always works great for parties.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzoVPjQ-FPOjGPfKT_ah-apGfwCw6bgzmloCvBq3Acg3a2K9n0wR9aV2hWg_pXadLeT-1Hjq6xuP-8BEbTdrsEBOwqSBpILcn-wfMex-5F2whYBHJZHncaUx15Qbf1UKIx9FmfcBZa4iFH/s1600/SFS_ChocolateSouffle_009_article.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzoVPjQ-FPOjGPfKT_ah-apGfwCw6bgzmloCvBq3Acg3a2K9n0wR9aV2hWg_pXadLeT-1Hjq6xuP-8BEbTdrsEBOwqSBpILcn-wfMex-5F2whYBHJZHncaUx15Qbf1UKIx9FmfcBZa4iFH/s1600/SFS_ChocolateSouffle_009_article.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://www.americastestkitchen.com/recipes/1577-make-ahead-chocolate-souffle">Chocolate Souffle</a> inspiration, via America's Test Kitchen.  I'll let you know how it goes... hopefully tomorrow!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOqWpbVd_aKOeGkN0smq1UYN3uqC67nJMU0cMhtJqVAYAcHKl20GrP7dvRbbJFW1xyjE-mblh_XmwD8CBjWKHpmnxZO6K6vYicZoJlSX6pLWsWlFnbzQTqm_T3g8G2xYk_Cr4GSOekd4YN/s1600/320_51+blue+cheese+souffle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOqWpbVd_aKOeGkN0smq1UYN3uqC67nJMU0cMhtJqVAYAcHKl20GrP7dvRbbJFW1xyjE-mblh_XmwD8CBjWKHpmnxZO6K6vYicZoJlSX6pLWsWlFnbzQTqm_T3g8G2xYk_Cr4GSOekd4YN/s1600/320_51+blue+cheese+souffle.jpg" width="359" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/blue-cheese-souffle-recipe.html">Blue Cheese Souffle</a>, Barefoot Contessa<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaw_bVoxxtCf2iYFDY5Egj0Cvp0Qq0KLXLiU5BAjullW2dVETNG6k1Nahj7Az9xYC8n3ZsNRxictV0pEVLnDx3nABkelHJn_cdNVXkLDg5UGQooOCmTuGOx8v40alMEfOJRic0QuGwQqKg/s1600/ina-3-0809-de.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaw_bVoxxtCf2iYFDY5Egj0Cvp0Qq0KLXLiU5BAjullW2dVETNG6k1Nahj7Az9xYC8n3ZsNRxictV0pEVLnDx3nABkelHJn_cdNVXkLDg5UGQooOCmTuGOx8v40alMEfOJRic0QuGwQqKg/s1600/ina-3-0809-de.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://www.housebeautiful.com/kitchens/recipes/ina-garten-spinach-and-cheddar-souffle-recipe">Spinach & Cheddar Souffle,</a> Barefoot Contessa via House Beautiful.<br /><br /><br /><br />

Metallic Gold Celebration Candles & Chocolate Souffles for New Years | Last Day for Orders!

Today is the day - the last day to order and receive by Christmas Eve!  We've been counting and re-counting inventory to make sure our n...

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Christmas Brunch Menu

<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOv9J9HTtGW_H-hLPx7Dc5UWd_cSNLqUo_DqhufIjpu_freMlWdtaRlhzCwIO0y_d5BkKXjxmUsHmdx-RMkMKCnLCPss4-p1JFzRzNVAIgcFkmAhmZ9SLqE7J8JoEbRvS0UJgkHr60_Ojb/s1600/IMG_4530.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOv9J9HTtGW_H-hLPx7Dc5UWd_cSNLqUo_DqhufIjpu_freMlWdtaRlhzCwIO0y_d5BkKXjxmUsHmdx-RMkMKCnLCPss4-p1JFzRzNVAIgcFkmAhmZ9SLqE7J8JoEbRvS0UJgkHr60_Ojb/s1600/IMG_4530.jpg" width="425" /></a>Last week I shared my all time favorite Christmas Dinner Menu (Crab Cakes, Beef Tenderloin, Chocolate Molten Cakes, etc.) and today I am sharing my favorite Brunch menu.  It is hard to narrow down, because I share a lot of brunch recipes here, so choosing amongst my favorite can be a challenge.  However, for Christmas Brunch I have my favorites that my Mom has fixed year after year.  </div><div><br /></div><div>Bloody Marys</div><div>Shrimp Cocktail</div><div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/09/easy-weekend-brunch-menu-apple-cinnamon.html">Lox & Bagel Platter</a></div><div>...</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2010/01/recipes-brunch-quiche-recipes.html">Crab Quiche</a></div><div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/07/summer-peach-inspired-brunch-menu.html">Bacon</a></div><div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/10/happy-halloween-from-princess-emma.html">Orange Cranberry Scones</a></div><div><a href="https://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/monkey-bread-pans-paper-disposable">Monkey Bread</a></div><div>Fruit Platter</div><div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/07/summer-peach-inspired-brunch-menu.html">Orange & Peach Smoothies</a> topped with Champagne</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-tvKh66CeJaUPRqvjKFJQHCYKjfbj35j-KE67jHXZpCEK_6SjAZkGheEl1yI3qX-KinkUXlp_FqWY15XCP4lo8f5E4IZphVxdctAp4X_mMUTJtMm_eUrDJbbbF55VQyx5cQoC3CVF86F/s1600/IMG_0683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-tvKh66CeJaUPRqvjKFJQHCYKjfbj35j-KE67jHXZpCEK_6SjAZkGheEl1yI3qX-KinkUXlp_FqWY15XCP4lo8f5E4IZphVxdctAp4X_mMUTJtMm_eUrDJbbbF55VQyx5cQoC3CVF86F/s1600/IMG_0683.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This was a photo from a couple of years ago at our Christmas brunch right after Emma was born.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-krit0krcjabywWTe840WlGBKDSY-kdU9-kBDU93InRfaSvxkDDLPdCvLpUBgrmsy335NHbaf3M2o1UcSnrNZ3sE1B9JqcwczmfQQWUCh92QDPhTG5DfkOIxfxUKv0BKXqbNZ3YBY37Qg/s1600/IMG_0681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-krit0krcjabywWTe840WlGBKDSY-kdU9-kBDU93InRfaSvxkDDLPdCvLpUBgrmsy335NHbaf3M2o1UcSnrNZ3sE1B9JqcwczmfQQWUCh92QDPhTG5DfkOIxfxUKv0BKXqbNZ3YBY37Qg/s1600/IMG_0681.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn2lohEw_iVE93s3LRHC62NYH0Tcn-KZFvigdnyph7qIP7rG91fT3sKEp-kVvkaWXiTlVnqiIOh84PYxEXrkVqCxdvAJaVxz4bE9pc4V0kJ-1bwQAPlAGML_zwHHwSLvxEyAbUpG5xfOZr/s1600/bagel-and-lox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn2lohEw_iVE93s3LRHC62NYH0Tcn-KZFvigdnyph7qIP7rG91fT3sKEp-kVvkaWXiTlVnqiIOh84PYxEXrkVqCxdvAJaVxz4bE9pc4V0kJ-1bwQAPlAGML_zwHHwSLvxEyAbUpG5xfOZr/s1600/bagel-and-lox.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>I don't know what it is about Christmas, but I could have good old fashioned Shrimp Cocktail for every meal. I serve it on ice in a shallow platter like this with an empty bowl for tails.<br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/09/easy-weekend-brunch-menu-apple-cinnamon.html">Lox & Bagel Platter</a><br /><br />This is a new addition for us - something that was always served at my favorite brunch spot.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiG-koEVVFW4qiqa4Klt286Jh0LtcTl6sBvgKWqA0F6yZxMIl93bXHc5rws3of-S2pcQlb314Ql2JVV7XO4ybA0AOxBP4xULuym3pzL_xNzwGGuen3WCuztjBdknYAniPN84nhPv8JGCFq/s1600/IMG_0450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiG-koEVVFW4qiqa4Klt286Jh0LtcTl6sBvgKWqA0F6yZxMIl93bXHc5rws3of-S2pcQlb314Ql2JVV7XO4ybA0AOxBP4xULuym3pzL_xNzwGGuen3WCuztjBdknYAniPN84nhPv8JGCFq/s1600/IMG_0450.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2010/01/recipes-brunch-quiche-recipes.html">Crab Quiche</a><br /><br />We love seafood at our house, and making this a crab quiche with lump crab meat makes it feel like a special brunch.  My mom usually makes a sausage and mushroom quiche, too.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0xDPeZS_kF7-gdpeUs1CseZ5byAZ9PWAXFx2i9BwRsgQtCkeL-5DF7nGbzlq2HG9cUxX6IpxNvzmjj2baNBGSMUPV4TH-tzJ108F49cq0f31Gsp1UB5umnSohkINg2MvYHUdIxcq8KSLl/s1600/cranberry-orange-scones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0xDPeZS_kF7-gdpeUs1CseZ5byAZ9PWAXFx2i9BwRsgQtCkeL-5DF7nGbzlq2HG9cUxX6IpxNvzmjj2baNBGSMUPV4TH-tzJ108F49cq0f31Gsp1UB5umnSohkINg2MvYHUdIxcq8KSLl/s1600/cranberry-orange-scones.jpg" width="426" /></a><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/10/happy-halloween-from-princess-emma.html">Orange Cranberry Scones</a><br /><br />Citrus and Cranberry = Holiday even though we love these all year long.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjGAfl5NRe-WGRkIEDo26u6C_ZynubCsFHK1gdspaVJYvAlkX8MTMPmDuyhUIu2uE3Q4Vqy3-rYu5dvlGgjHnMOFCR0wDTXXBs1s5Qq9QmBOItesgVhWo94RhrIOLFOWA2TN-K3T9pjBn9/s1600/IMG_9746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjGAfl5NRe-WGRkIEDo26u6C_ZynubCsFHK1gdspaVJYvAlkX8MTMPmDuyhUIu2uE3Q4Vqy3-rYu5dvlGgjHnMOFCR0wDTXXBs1s5Qq9QmBOItesgVhWo94RhrIOLFOWA2TN-K3T9pjBn9/s1600/IMG_9746.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><span style="background-color: #f7f7f8; font-size: 14px;">The bacon getting ready to be baked in the oven - 325 degrees for 18-22 minutes.  The BEST way to fix bacon.</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQh_7O-zHKtZR8pJVf5MZ5r8oWR_WM4aLbv_yPOE_OIMYFxtcOQSF-QDRu4A46enewjUxDYkzW0EKC0abinOe72ux0d0X-hy7t7DiaNfWcsWp1qiQ5g1k2nd52NTprs_7dQhneiU7zB7Hl/s1600/IMG_0449-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQh_7O-zHKtZR8pJVf5MZ5r8oWR_WM4aLbv_yPOE_OIMYFxtcOQSF-QDRu4A46enewjUxDYkzW0EKC0abinOe72ux0d0X-hy7t7DiaNfWcsWp1qiQ5g1k2nd52NTprs_7dQhneiU7zB7Hl/s1600/IMG_0449-1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Bountiful fruit platter keeps us from being too indulgent.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7RKtMD3g4lqeoqEjUhDp-kZG79XMApzwTekry6R3qyXJM8hutzjdCmZzBkRpegc-HlegGp33Gjy6ELesPWOgKaKH4F5XFQQG0kkXJNXfx-o5q7OYAOIAgIwieSHllQwOeKemCqWgDhKF/s1600/IMG_4150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7RKtMD3g4lqeoqEjUhDp-kZG79XMApzwTekry6R3qyXJM8hutzjdCmZzBkRpegc-HlegGp33Gjy6ELesPWOgKaKH4F5XFQQG0kkXJNXfx-o5q7OYAOIAgIwieSHllQwOeKemCqWgDhKF/s1600/IMG_4150.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjg2mxiIWbufCyM61Lr4uJDK4Mc7Tecsbm-QiF-wVyDTJZnvBQhaWM3up_8t7yUWfRPoj7Lp9JUsDt5sS7W9l1JBQFf2eCqmtQt7dnfePyobC2T9NF0V2TVB6brRytHbVGoUMXcuwwA6hu/s1600/peach-smoothie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjg2mxiIWbufCyM61Lr4uJDK4Mc7Tecsbm-QiF-wVyDTJZnvBQhaWM3up_8t7yUWfRPoj7Lp9JUsDt5sS7W9l1JBQFf2eCqmtQt7dnfePyobC2T9NF0V2TVB6brRytHbVGoUMXcuwwA6hu/s1600/peach-smoothie.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><a href="https://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/monkey-bread-pans-paper-disposable">Monkey Bread</a> - very indulgent, but the fruit balances it out, right?<br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/07/summer-peach-inspired-brunch-menu.html">Orange & Peach Smoothies</a> topped with Champagne<br /><br />You can follow the recipe, or just use frozen peaches in a blender with orange juice - easy!  I love the taste of fresh peaches on Christmas morning.  Granny used to bring her summer peaches that she had frozen over for Christmas brunch every year and they were such a treat!<br /><br />I'd love to hear about your favorite Christmas Brunch recipes and traditions, too.  I hope everyone is enjoying this last week before Christmas.  Emma's birthday was yesterday, so I stepped out of the Holiday limelight for a couple of days to celebrate with her.  I feel like we have sort of checked all of our Christmas must-dos off of the list and now we can just relax and enjoy the season... that's the goal anyway.  I'm sure Christmas Eve will get here before we know it and I will be scrambling for something!  Always.<br /><br />

Christmas Brunch Menu

Last week I shared my all time favorite Christmas Dinner Menu (Crab Cakes, Beef Tenderloin, Chocolate Molten Cakes, etc.) and today I am sha...

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My Favorite Holiday Dinner Menu | Crab Cakes, Beef Tenderloin, Truffled Mashed Potatoes & Cabernet Mushrooms

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitIpkTwt6fTqIo8-mzgYrwqOw8gXXdLBIqO19B1rJjZMlOVvlcTKnvzVCZE2c6vJxx4vs7u_x6Kap1nGuuW0NFgcCFPTuM8vEUY43sjQaobSK9OWIr5y5a3LEYNfLvHhTnc29crP0Zg8TX/s1600/Crab+Cakes+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitIpkTwt6fTqIo8-mzgYrwqOw8gXXdLBIqO19B1rJjZMlOVvlcTKnvzVCZE2c6vJxx4vs7u_x6Kap1nGuuW0NFgcCFPTuM8vEUY43sjQaobSK9OWIr5y5a3LEYNfLvHhTnc29crP0Zg8TX/s1600/Crab+Cakes+2.jpg" width="320" /></a>My Favorite Holiday Menu<br /><br />Four years ago, I would have been in full catering mode - sometimes I miss spending nights at really festive, warm homes, but I don't miss schlepping food around town and my car always smelling a bit like crab cakes and blue cheese : )<br /><br />At this point, I would have roasted 20 Beef Tenderloins, and formed 200 Crab Cakes and served a hundred Chocolate Molten Cakes.    I found that I always recommended pretty much the same menu for every holiday party I catered - it always got such rave reviews, and many of my clients requested the same menu year after year because they loved it so much.  The good part for me was that I could prepare this menu in my sleep.  I did it so often that I came up with great shortcuts, and methods for making almost everything in advance... because that's what I had to do when I had back to back holiday parties for 3 weeks straight.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />Here it is my "go-to" favorite holiday menu - I never tire of it.  It is special, festive and a treat of a meal.  It can be fancy, or served family style for a more laid back group.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Appetizers</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Prosecco</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/07/crab-cakes-with-panko-bread-crumbs-red.html">Petite Crab Cakes</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/05/how-to-build-beautiful-bountiful-cheese.html">Cheese Board</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Soup</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/01/lobster-bisque-easy-creamy-seafood.html">Lobster Bisque</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Dinner</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/12/slow-roasted-beef-tenderloin-holiday.html">Slow-Roasted Beef Tenderloin</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/11/blue-cheese-sauce-for-beef-tenderloin.html">Blue Cheese Cream Sauce</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/02/slow-simmered-cabernet-thyme-mushroooms.html">Cabernet & Thyme Mushrooms</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/03/roasted-colorful-carrots.html">Roasted Rainbow Carrots</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/12/truffled-mashed-potatoes-ultimate.html">Truffled Mashed Potatoes</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Dessert</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/04/chocolate-molten-cakes-in-cupcake-pan.html">Molten Cakes with Whipped Cream & Berries</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUmW92wESf0SrYueZ698H2MHPG_Hyusqf_Hlqk4-UUSLJVqkwnpzJfA5xUWp0qyibDmm2gNKuqpBBV1T4TrlmvWIiaagqc4H_WHyrm4pEGuoT8lDV_RxQh46r19oLEqqaY8GBsnlHrzbNT/s1600/IMG_0545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUmW92wESf0SrYueZ698H2MHPG_Hyusqf_Hlqk4-UUSLJVqkwnpzJfA5xUWp0qyibDmm2gNKuqpBBV1T4TrlmvWIiaagqc4H_WHyrm4pEGuoT8lDV_RxQh46r19oLEqqaY8GBsnlHrzbNT/s1600/IMG_0545.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/05/how-to-build-beautiful-bountiful-cheese.html">Cheese Board</a></div><div><br /></div><div>While I like to serve the Crab Cakes passed, warm from the oven, I like to have something that everyone can graze on and gather around - isn't that what the Holidays are all about?!  Then, whenever I bring the crab cakes around everyone oohs and ahhs.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioBUzn51ys-37wiYA6bzw4vufe00upxPDRnW5wYDMtKf8SfxlYBp9qnvya1hQlVxW8asBJl7vnnbFEkdOhB28PzFmZwEuEwEYVGmOZwhu9tHtAwpWdvhZcGP4w_1wjQ-KbnmzjFIIrsIpG/s1600/lobster-bisque.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioBUzn51ys-37wiYA6bzw4vufe00upxPDRnW5wYDMtKf8SfxlYBp9qnvya1hQlVxW8asBJl7vnnbFEkdOhB28PzFmZwEuEwEYVGmOZwhu9tHtAwpWdvhZcGP4w_1wjQ-KbnmzjFIIrsIpG/s1600/lobster-bisque.jpg" width="321" /></a></div><div>Lobster Bisque</div><div><br /></div><div>A soup course isn't necessary, but really makes the meal so special.   It is so creamy and luxurious - your family will love it and feel so treated!  It is easy to make ahead of time and you can use a combination of shrimp and lobster, to stretch it.  </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiajukjhTT1PIyfzYHLaeQYHRk0zBRmqKUMbSsKpTopqeOTrIFai_cStjsF73z6lpPUQvHMTSLuA4F3-kmVnJL7k5ppu1718-GWQR5LrnORjw3ZeQOCICPlGBeF460QXfPh97fZIoX7BAtF/s1600/IMG_6612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiajukjhTT1PIyfzYHLaeQYHRk0zBRmqKUMbSsKpTopqeOTrIFai_cStjsF73z6lpPUQvHMTSLuA4F3-kmVnJL7k5ppu1718-GWQR5LrnORjw3ZeQOCICPlGBeF460QXfPh97fZIoX7BAtF/s1600/IMG_6612.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHG16btlLEzltnxBdZHHiwFpTutPiYyeZZW4rSfmWBOCu3WvVTQHPhtkIVYYEaHElx97gUrwloYdU77PL-rtXlaL5a9NmGlR3XAJL5-lUr7DT4tvSpkKOVWvqmxmz0eioANnHqRJHBk0L4/s1600/mushrooms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHG16btlLEzltnxBdZHHiwFpTutPiYyeZZW4rSfmWBOCu3WvVTQHPhtkIVYYEaHElx97gUrwloYdU77PL-rtXlaL5a9NmGlR3XAJL5-lUr7DT4tvSpkKOVWvqmxmz0eioANnHqRJHBk0L4/s1600/mushrooms.jpg" width="425" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHG16btlLEzltnxBdZHHiwFpTutPiYyeZZW4rSfmWBOCu3WvVTQHPhtkIVYYEaHElx97gUrwloYdU77PL-rtXlaL5a9NmGlR3XAJL5-lUr7DT4tvSpkKOVWvqmxmz0eioANnHqRJHBk0L4/s1600/mushrooms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHG16btlLEzltnxBdZHHiwFpTutPiYyeZZW4rSfmWBOCu3WvVTQHPhtkIVYYEaHElx97gUrwloYdU77PL-rtXlaL5a9NmGlR3XAJL5-lUr7DT4tvSpkKOVWvqmxmz0eioANnHqRJHBk0L4/s1600/mushrooms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/12/slow-roasted-beef-tenderloin-holiday.html">Slow Roasted Beef Tenderloin</a><br /><br />I talk at length about how much I love slow roasting beef tenderloin.  Do not be scared by it - it is sooo easy to do.  It can seem expensive, but you don't have too splurge on too much else for this dinner so it can be the star.<br /><br />You can serve it with this <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/11/blue-cheese-sauce-for-beef-tenderloin.html" style="text-align: center;">Blue Cheese Cream Sauce</a> or a classic Horseradish. <br /><br />Slow-Simmered <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/02/slow-simmered-cabernet-thyme-mushroooms.html" style="text-align: center;">Cabernet & Thyme Mushrooms</a><br /><br />This is a new dish to my repertoire, but I would've loved serving this to my clients.  I would've made a huge batch, then used them all week long for each party.  <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHw8lt1ZDZN-FvEsC0E7Moodc9xzKHjKHIcsOFJ3aM-lIib27kuzy7Zc-zTxXzz9gTTOKq62FYbxtaGsG_a6a80UsKrUd1rwNVpFDTNWDmwkmSB8M70JmFtlgiSrmDTw1CcxBk-sdg-oLA/s1600/IMG_6613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHw8lt1ZDZN-FvEsC0E7Moodc9xzKHjKHIcsOFJ3aM-lIib27kuzy7Zc-zTxXzz9gTTOKq62FYbxtaGsG_a6a80UsKrUd1rwNVpFDTNWDmwkmSB8M70JmFtlgiSrmDTw1CcxBk-sdg-oLA/s1600/IMG_6613.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuoWjIBa_FJJpRRhqGoYnbxuwCotQ001K4esTebI0cgVGzfdFgN2EwrvL7pb2Nc1fwXsThNOAXoEhcOnePU0ytUlfL6Kst0Wd6jpng1TkpvP-EcAfWoYRSZOuI_1mW0cUYeiSH6dnESjgv/s1600/IMG_8997.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuoWjIBa_FJJpRRhqGoYnbxuwCotQ001K4esTebI0cgVGzfdFgN2EwrvL7pb2Nc1fwXsThNOAXoEhcOnePU0ytUlfL6Kst0Wd6jpng1TkpvP-EcAfWoYRSZOuI_1mW0cUYeiSH6dnESjgv/s1600/IMG_8997.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/03/roasted-colorful-carrots.html">Roasted Carrots</a><br /><br />Carrots are my favorite way to add brightness to a meal.  They are easy and roast right along with the beef.<br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/12/truffled-mashed-potatoes-ultimate.html" style="text-align: center;">Truffled Mashed Potatoes</a><br /><div><br /></div>I don't think I need to even say anything about these - right?  Such a treat!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIr493y_lJgdGhlHgEMn0epD7j6dUnRvZV8F_zk1DWeqihX1uwhpf7JedywicvBx9p9dQKu4qyWkicUGUiIzLNRnESFEx-LD902FZ_awylFMO9muzIiOUgi4khQs0qejXwhY09vaLOG4m6/s1600/Chocolate+Molten+Cakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIr493y_lJgdGhlHgEMn0epD7j6dUnRvZV8F_zk1DWeqihX1uwhpf7JedywicvBx9p9dQKu4qyWkicUGUiIzLNRnESFEx-LD902FZ_awylFMO9muzIiOUgi4khQs0qejXwhY09vaLOG4m6/s1600/Chocolate+Molten+Cakes.jpg" width="494" /></a><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/04/chocolate-molten-cakes-in-cupcake-pan.html">Chocolate Molten Cakes</a><br /><br />I have a little something special in store for these Chocolate Molten Cakes.  I'll be using the same recipe, but have found some great individual paper souffle cups to make them in.  I'm experimenting with them tomorrow morning, so I'll let you know how it goes!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-3mLDBb4uiRE%2FVInWBsGSDOI%2FAAAAAAAAapI%2F5Jcqp03IQDI%2Fs1600%2FIMG_8997.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuoWjIBa_FJJpRRhqGoYnbxuwCotQ001K4esTebI0cgVGzfdFgN2EwrvL7pb2Nc1fwXsThNOAXoEhcOnePU0ytUlfL6Kst0Wd6jpng1TkpvP-EcAfWoYRSZOuI_1mW0cUYeiSH6dnESjgv/s1600/IMG_8997.jpg" -->

My Favorite Holiday Dinner Menu | Crab Cakes, Beef Tenderloin, Truffled Mashed Potatoes & Cabernet Mushrooms

My Favorite Holiday Menu Four years ago, I would have been in full catering mode - sometimes I miss spending nights at really festive, warm ...

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Pancake Mix Gift with Maple Syrup for Friends & Neighbors

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifp_mpchCyQiUNY9gjUXS9_vBo3MLTlIXeA8XjRIe3Z1zk4MTSh6YsyldbGp2nLjpLabSbtFLfFMjoEv7N6y4k91QO-o8-IooLyorw3mFZi51t0ake2jV7cwlveytbfDaWNa-N6JySMBR7/s1600/IMG_7314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifp_mpchCyQiUNY9gjUXS9_vBo3MLTlIXeA8XjRIe3Z1zk4MTSh6YsyldbGp2nLjpLabSbtFLfFMjoEv7N6y4k91QO-o8-IooLyorw3mFZi51t0ake2jV7cwlveytbfDaWNa-N6JySMBR7/s1600/IMG_7314.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge9meBpNHkM0eYjq4f73Lh06ynYzL8asdXABUpepc_yO3QPB3kwtls-lg8_qEsTc_R-ZCHcYKEQ2ofMMCuChsOhCJChBjiCWtx0uINKbr7TxyVxDPItrvO217BBGAURVPzT_5hXXsi4VNj/s1600/IMG_7303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge9meBpNHkM0eYjq4f73Lh06ynYzL8asdXABUpepc_yO3QPB3kwtls-lg8_qEsTc_R-ZCHcYKEQ2ofMMCuChsOhCJChBjiCWtx0uINKbr7TxyVxDPItrvO217BBGAURVPzT_5hXXsi4VNj/s1600/IMG_7303.jpg" width="420" /></span></a></div><span style="background-color: white;">Food "kits" are one of my favorite things to give, especially when they combine our favorite things to share.  We (mostly Emma and Mike) are really into pancakes this year, and with <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/11/annual-new-england-trip-concord-ma.html">our recent trip to Vermont</a>, this seemed like a great way to share our favorite things as gifts.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">The other great thing about this gift is that it is an "assembly only" gift - no baking, no cooking, no drizzling, no frosting.  The only thing you have to do is stir together the dry ingredients (you may not even have to go to the store) and put them into a Kraft Bag (10 for $12).  I printed an <a href="http://mad.ly/signups/127090/join">"Our Favorite Pancake Mix" label</a> on the front, then included instructions on another label on the back.  <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2DcVXUz7YF02x6ECohNbVOyvH26pVJW4EdYhEAHBmGiKeQltcXgfiTtVbFdexhWQamq9U9N8MTEfmhxMWFlfbi-ZpiqCIty-V0bIjMZWCRjVp2MwVMGrQzMbRrwBIEADrzhC6SvuBCge/s1600/IMG_7302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2DcVXUz7YF02x6ECohNbVOyvH26pVJW4EdYhEAHBmGiKeQltcXgfiTtVbFdexhWQamq9U9N8MTEfmhxMWFlfbi-ZpiqCIty-V0bIjMZWCRjVp2MwVMGrQzMbRrwBIEADrzhC6SvuBCge/s1600/IMG_7302.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">You can download the labels that can be printed on my <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/printable-labels">Printable labels (in kraft or cream)</a> - download them <a href="http://mad.ly/signups/127090/join">here</a>. </span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">Here is the recipe I used : </span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><div style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;">5 cups flour</span></div><div style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;">1/2 cup of sugar<br />2 1/2 tablespoons baking powder<br />1 tablespoon kosher salt</span></div><div style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Te5Ka7XK2Org0Bjxfq2FvHn2dgPWbnwSxMmr0NirnonnDepTSojCllfX3Ogpfq6vzkjlD5XBh3dLZkLhnwHxJsAGi8Ng1_cURHlT3OJ79CNZ5XFwmhGI6zV9MImXYgGThQXkxcGRlrQB/s1600/IMG_7321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Te5Ka7XK2Org0Bjxfq2FvHn2dgPWbnwSxMmr0NirnonnDepTSojCllfX3Ogpfq6vzkjlD5XBh3dLZkLhnwHxJsAGi8Ng1_cURHlT3OJ79CNZ5XFwmhGI6zV9MImXYgGThQXkxcGRlrQB/s1600/IMG_7321.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;">The directions for using the mix is on the back - all they have to do is add milk and eggs, then stir together.  </span></div><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9vz4Q0JkrNpTO76uG_ni2Xb9QyrZST4C58hTdHClwmT2unv2oGFf7LRi62RBT8uZ1eQ6l4wbbMiU2BJFnWOWfiWMsE-GdfzPZHuUNDqZZ2vJVXIp4PUW7MCnh26CyzLipU_2CZqJpi6P/s1600/IMG_7318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9vz4Q0JkrNpTO76uG_ni2Xb9QyrZST4C58hTdHClwmT2unv2oGFf7LRi62RBT8uZ1eQ6l4wbbMiU2BJFnWOWfiWMsE-GdfzPZHuUNDqZZ2vJVXIp4PUW7MCnh26CyzLipU_2CZqJpi6P/s1600/IMG_7318.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">The other special part of this present is the <a href="http://www.farmhousepottery.com/">Farmhouse Pottery</a> syrup pitcher and their little bottle of Vermont Maple Syrup.  This was a treasure we found on our trip!  I will post more about our visit to their pottery studio and how perfect, creative, beautiful, rustic, cozy, elegant, modern and perfect (did I say that?) everything was.  I have a couple of other things I had them ship back to me for gifts, too, and gifts for our new kitchen... that I'll be giving myself around Easter, it seems.  Let's just hope it is not Mother's Day!</span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">Of course, if you want to find any bottle of Maple Syrup, that would work, too!  I'm thinking of adding some homemade biscotti, as well.  </span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJ3TryXoNCWNcGbrGSNnm8T3SAHHuzsMRbCs8soMUbndF2sbKVqon7G8TxyYaUh0FMkOtYLvaeCnsriEaWe2js3KjbYbjVLRVSmdafTvmpejlpy-0ujy315M3rn7Vlk0o3xiG-U54WsQu/s1600/IMG_7312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJ3TryXoNCWNcGbrGSNnm8T3SAHHuzsMRbCs8soMUbndF2sbKVqon7G8TxyYaUh0FMkOtYLvaeCnsriEaWe2js3KjbYbjVLRVSmdafTvmpejlpy-0ujy315M3rn7Vlk0o3xiG-U54WsQu/s1600/IMG_7312.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div><br /><span style="background-color: white;">I haven't found the perfect basket/box/container yet for our gifts, but I will show how I ultimately end up packaging at some point.    </span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">Products Used :<br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/kraft-coffee-bags">Kraft "Coffee" Style Bags, $12 for 10</a></span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/printable-labels">Printable Labels, $5 (on sale!) for 50</a><br /><br />Enjoy $5 Shipping on all orders today and many markdowns on Christmas packaging, tags, ribbons and cello bags.  You can see all sale items, <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/sale">here</a>!  Happy Gifting!</span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">Jenny</span><br /><br />

Pancake Mix Gift with Maple Syrup for Friends & Neighbors

Food "kits" are one of my favorite things to give, especially when they combine our favorite things to share.  We (mostly Emma and...

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Very Tall Edgartown Sand Taper Candles

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdp3OzbPp9Izs2k95gkLh7sdJcSMd-l2DYuhfPBEO36xIEYFEc0Vgt8cfGuA3F1AT-TQbZTXGQhX_7pZb5AgQzLd5ZgiwKTKiOLoQguKlTbA4017E63y7CHchFSQluINLdI45e2oJ3pR6m/s1600/IMG_7288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdp3OzbPp9Izs2k95gkLh7sdJcSMd-l2DYuhfPBEO36xIEYFEc0Vgt8cfGuA3F1AT-TQbZTXGQhX_7pZb5AgQzLd5ZgiwKTKiOLoQguKlTbA4017E63y7CHchFSQluINLdI45e2oJ3pR6m/s1600/IMG_7288.jpg" width="426" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">My friend Tessa from <a href="http://www.nineandsixteen.com/" style="background-color: transparent;">Nine and Sixteen</a> requested that I carry these new <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/candles/products/18-hand-dipped-taper-candles-set-of-2">18" Edgartown Sand Candles ($15)</a> in the store.  She had set her Thanksgiving table (see it <a href="http://www.nineandsixteen.com/2014/11/our-thanksgiving-in-pictures.html" style="background-color: transparent;">here</a> - very lovely) with a pair in a muted orange she had found at Williams-Sonoma and was looking for a set in my Edgartown Sand color to use for Christmas.  </div><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px;">My candle maker makes the candles for Williams-Sonoma (and... Pottery Barn, Neiman Marcus, Martha Stewart, Simon Pierce, etc.) Because Tessa has always pointed me in the right direction for new products (hello, <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/holiday/products/boxwood-wreaths-preserved-14">boxwood wreaths</a>!) I knew you all would love these, so I ordered some <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/candles/products/18-hand-dipped-taper-candles-set-of-2">very tall 18" Tapers in my Edgartown Sand</a> color.  A standard taper is 12" so you can see in the photo how much taller the 18" look - they are really stunning.  </span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px;">I love them in my </span><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/candles/products/candle-holders" style="color: #a9cdd6; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; outline: none; text-decoration: none;">Medium or Small Wood Candle Holders</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px;">because they are so simple holding the strikingly tall candles.   I love that with a set of these candles and my wood candle holders, you can have a really stunning centerpiece for about $20.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;">I also carry a <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/candles/products/very-tall-bees-wax-taper-candles-15-set-of-2" style="color: #a9cdd6; outline: none; text-decoration: none;">15" Candle in Natural Beeswax</a>, if you are looking for a creamier color.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2sCXYVFvRHoWGiPyEGgkVDMezpNmwI26nw5s9Ry9G54gyr9JRaL9Os0CzbSOPa6l2C0BgbbQPgiv_HKksX_bGjBBKudC42zlqbpigW7YCmvqjJjCSK_8cbF2wCj_Fx4dDbsyo7cBCfsP/s1600/IMG_7210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2sCXYVFvRHoWGiPyEGgkVDMezpNmwI26nw5s9Ry9G54gyr9JRaL9Os0CzbSOPa6l2C0BgbbQPgiv_HKksX_bGjBBKudC42zlqbpigW7YCmvqjJjCSK_8cbF2wCj_Fx4dDbsyo7cBCfsP/s1600/IMG_7210.jpg" width="426" /></a>I used the candles to dress our kitchen table [and when I say "our" I mean Mike's parents', since that's where we are living during construction :)] up with my Bulb Baskets that I finally got around to planting. </div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;">I think this is the perfect Christmas Morning brunch table - cozy, fresh and festive.  </div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;">Products Used :<br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/holiday/products/bulb-basket">Bulb Baskets, $24</a><br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/linens/products/linens-red-natural-stripes">Natural Linen & Red Striped Square Table Cloth (I only have 1 of these left), $88</a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/candles/products/18-hand-dipped-taper-candles-set-of-2">18" Edgartown Sand Candles, $15</a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/candles/products/18-taper-candles-extra-tall-set-of-2">12" Edgartown Sand Candles, $10.50</a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/candles/products/candle-holders">Medium & Small Wooden Candle Holders, $4-6 for set of 2</a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/holiday/products/copper-cookie-cutters-holiday">Holiday Copper Cookie Cutters, Set of 3 $34.50</a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhao2vMQNurGoWXBrchIDRQNh0F-VThj944ctuJhysi8QXihACb1LJQ-qiQmL_d5591ZXScq0GsN0kewMPW2EjxHxf6PP7nPpOYCC0JY_mNJLaGSKNq-hpbRseNfJqC1FK4Z84fHQQyKSsl/s1600/IMG_7164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhao2vMQNurGoWXBrchIDRQNh0F-VThj944ctuJhysi8QXihACb1LJQ-qiQmL_d5591ZXScq0GsN0kewMPW2EjxHxf6PP7nPpOYCC0JY_mNJLaGSKNq-hpbRseNfJqC1FK4Z84fHQQyKSsl/s1600/IMG_7164.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I used sprigs of cedar and fir to make a garland down the table, then nestled the copper cookie cutters throughout. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindKQShh90n9O3rtTxZqhrxiMq7KnuRhznjP4xIm_feCIBgizWA-7EfGie8OiB4iyNReJsBqzO-brd695OzzVFTV862qRzpLpNfNEylWXOaxM5NKdnuo8GNpxFv_6qMTP7rgTy8gg0rHpG/s1600/IMG_7157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindKQShh90n9O3rtTxZqhrxiMq7KnuRhznjP4xIm_feCIBgizWA-7EfGie8OiB4iyNReJsBqzO-brd695OzzVFTV862qRzpLpNfNEylWXOaxM5NKdnuo8GNpxFv_6qMTP7rgTy8gg0rHpG/s1600/IMG_7157.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The Bulb Baskets come with a glass liner, so I just transplanted the one I purchased from the grocery store (dirt and all) into this basket.  I used some cedar to hide the dirt, but can also use my <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/products/sheet-moss">Sheet Moss</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUOBER1TP1kARPGkgEsGNeVX4O3tXz58w23U0ASKQQaWsb-2tEIgGngdNhYhyphenhyphenB7-bdHBCWceFja127mvN6w1pqC8FmsSMNaFP2oOmxfyH_sMFKFKf0cywDxJYgCqPuEJ8Gxziz-zEV1gKU/s1600/IMG_7165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUOBER1TP1kARPGkgEsGNeVX4O3tXz58w23U0ASKQQaWsb-2tEIgGngdNhYhyphenhyphenB7-bdHBCWceFja127mvN6w1pqC8FmsSMNaFP2oOmxfyH_sMFKFKf0cywDxJYgCqPuEJ8Gxziz-zEV1gKU/s1600/IMG_7165.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ7PMp33r2BFfNdHqi9FonGeLstjHfLtdofmpFEr_zuCVmE1HNY9UvyqQ2i9iH2LZT31Rbz_vewuEag_wYGHiwMw1m5QsCWLgkXRrLrlIxHrZEIhQv12iEXUJMfM3WXCe4vmfPLALgdbjb/s1600/IMG_7174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ7PMp33r2BFfNdHqi9FonGeLstjHfLtdofmpFEr_zuCVmE1HNY9UvyqQ2i9iH2LZT31Rbz_vewuEag_wYGHiwMw1m5QsCWLgkXRrLrlIxHrZEIhQv12iEXUJMfM3WXCe4vmfPLALgdbjb/s1600/IMG_7174.jpg" width="426" /></a><br />You can see, the Amarylis is just about to open.  The 18" tall candles are just about as tall as they are - if that gives you some prospective of how tall they really are. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSXTrDkn3JuI_Uqj-Ck56fd_jSOvVl4I8hyphenhyphen9TdInbWWmXqKWqvpV54IDxsXCydNDfhztUIMkbu3XObv7myUDCB95zKGkfaEepk13ska0d27FRPEjylHn2IYyu_OpmQfH1kSlDOiDxKYZa6/s1600/IMG_7190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSXTrDkn3JuI_Uqj-Ck56fd_jSOvVl4I8hyphenhyphen9TdInbWWmXqKWqvpV54IDxsXCydNDfhztUIMkbu3XObv7myUDCB95zKGkfaEepk13ska0d27FRPEjylHn2IYyu_OpmQfH1kSlDOiDxKYZa6/s1600/IMG_7190.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1loBPrNba5naZuBBvSrnoWS3igN_4TAVmow0koopn-g1Z4ibNFKcQII8TD22ViGWRCnqO7RsR8z18_Hkhtqb9Gthq4rPMsEbFoRXvthSV9tw78iAFKhLyallCLRPSsteW53dLw3RTr8EU/s1600/IMG_7194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1loBPrNba5naZuBBvSrnoWS3igN_4TAVmow0koopn-g1Z4ibNFKcQII8TD22ViGWRCnqO7RsR8z18_Hkhtqb9Gthq4rPMsEbFoRXvthSV9tw78iAFKhLyallCLRPSsteW53dLw3RTr8EU/s1600/IMG_7194.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>I love setting a table that will look fresh and festive all season long.  It makes everyday feel that much more special.  I will be filling these with Paper White bulbs just after Christmas, too.<br /><br />I have a couple of more Holiday Baking Gifs coming this week, along with some creative gift wrap ideas, then I'll be focusing on Menus for Entertaining.  I  also have a house update - finally.  Should be a fun week! <br /><br />Jenny<br /><br /><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;">Products Used :<br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/holiday/products/bulb-basket">Bulb Baskets, $24</a><br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/linens/products/linens-red-natural-stripes">Natural Linen & Red Striped Square Table Cloth (I only have 1 of these left), $88</a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/candles/products/18-hand-dipped-taper-candles-set-of-2">18" Edgartown Sand Candles, $15</a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/candles/products/18-taper-candles-extra-tall-set-of-2">12" Edgartown Sand Candles, $10.50</a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/candles/products/candle-holders">Medium & Small Wooden Candle Holders, $4-6 for set of 2</a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/holiday/products/copper-cookie-cutters-holiday">Holiday Copper Cookie Cutters, Set of 3 $34.50</a></div><div><br /></div>

Very Tall Edgartown Sand Taper Candles

My friend Tessa from Nine and Sixteen requested that I carry these new 18" Edgartown Sand Candles ($15) in the store.  She had set he...

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Cyber Monday! Free Gift & Free Shipping

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyZpqSBebKio3ZDvinJPViDsYuvO4_XK1t5cZTagfXrRj3fyHIoEgdcDThBLuaz385qkFyguxf5i1K10SFpKvmnmzT_MgwTM09e5fvrhOBVfqy4J-xxEZq6Cz9CsNGw0D2qG2bEPh2iPTr/s1600/IMG_4080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyZpqSBebKio3ZDvinJPViDsYuvO4_XK1t5cZTagfXrRj3fyHIoEgdcDThBLuaz385qkFyguxf5i1K10SFpKvmnmzT_MgwTM09e5fvrhOBVfqy4J-xxEZq6Cz9CsNGw0D2qG2bEPh2iPTr/s1600/IMG_4080.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPaq5JhCdhYroEKgQVO2kDaIEHoEvEydJOISji4UiM9Nj5XquczvNcidVH8YTl7GFJCwifUtq_Q_q8-qn-vQNtMEcw2hTro2Ko_kQZPt6Z-1ZjOewJn69ZNSHlpezBLWCWod88JT9OvbHY/s1600/IMG_4089.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPaq5JhCdhYroEKgQVO2kDaIEHoEvEydJOISji4UiM9Nj5XquczvNcidVH8YTl7GFJCwifUtq_Q_q8-qn-vQNtMEcw2hTro2Ko_kQZPt6Z-1ZjOewJn69ZNSHlpezBLWCWod88JT9OvbHY/s1600/IMG_4089.jpg" width="266" /></a><br />Welcome to Christmas Baking week and Cyber Monday (more about that below!).  I resisted pre-Christmas season baking this year, so I'm sharing photos from my cookies of Christmas' past today to inspire myself and figure out what I'll be making this year. <br /><br />This photo is of Emma last year helping me make cookies - a flash forward of tomorrow afternoon.  Tomorrow we'll be doing our sugar cookie baking, freezing (before baking) and some cookie decorating, so I'll have those to share with you later this week.  I have some new ideas for using this year's new <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/copper-cookie-cutters-holiday">Holiday Copper Cookie Cutter</a> shapes - especially the trees and the reindeer.<br /><br /><i><span style="font-size: large;">Cyber Monday!</span></i><br /><br />- Free Holiday Copper Cookie Cutter with purchase of a <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/gift-cards-boxed">Gift Card</a> *while supplies last. (code : COOKIE)<br />- <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/copper-cookie-cutters-holiday">Copper Cookie Cutters</a> are bundled - Set of all 4 for $48, save $12<br />- Free Shipping on orders over $50 (code : MONDAY)<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZH6OL9j4H_DBPTrm6yVMiqWHsucy1PyJ-Zt9sWb_Czd3QF52Yk6LdM39lAndI62I9VXQTAHnsmeToLbqy7k6jTVy-1wM4lav_OPlk2kB5BC3Oohxuzq72_G8ltL87_TqLxclAQ3X13KnV/s1600/IMG_4142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZH6OL9j4H_DBPTrm6yVMiqWHsucy1PyJ-Zt9sWb_Czd3QF52Yk6LdM39lAndI62I9VXQTAHnsmeToLbqy7k6jTVy-1wM4lav_OPlk2kB5BC3Oohxuzq72_G8ltL87_TqLxclAQ3X13KnV/s1600/IMG_4142.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuS5K3j8M6TyaPXzYb3M4txkyMy1EidlE9BM-qvXASyVrehcaw_6RXOHveNUtAkU9TJRnwD2XyhCRLy3w3bhR7Ks1SmdAsFIA1nbvEZabYuw7ZljcUR263n0ThzsDt7i7z6E9IhuZRA2I8/s1600/IMG_6263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuS5K3j8M6TyaPXzYb3M4txkyMy1EidlE9BM-qvXASyVrehcaw_6RXOHveNUtAkU9TJRnwD2XyhCRLy3w3bhR7Ks1SmdAsFIA1nbvEZabYuw7ZljcUR263n0ThzsDt7i7z6E9IhuZRA2I8/s1600/IMG_6263.jpg" width="268" /></a></div><br /> <br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/copper-cookie-cutters-holiday"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Copper Cookie Cutters</span></i></a><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/new-for-december/products/copper-cookie-cutters"><i>$15 each or $48 for all 4</i></a><br /><br />Reindeer<br />Mitten<br />Tree (new this year!)<br />Snowflake (new shape this year!)<br /><br />Last year I hosted friends for a cookie decorating birthday party for Emma and gave them these copper cutters as gifts to they could start to grow their collection.<br /><br />The Copper Cutters are handmade.  As they have to be ordered months in advance, I only have a limited number available.  I package each cutter with a recipe card of my favorite Sugar Cookies and wrapped them in a cello bag with a bow and a tag - ready for gifting.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl-XHqJDZL9hp1L5XSGzZx2C2dpSiIx6lPszJO8r6-EMn85DJSu7A0R7S9OIxK1qYivWiHk4jFVvLutsH0P7SWy32bkmlkah6MOIH1Ksj_cwdLH0QIqUvouHW4GQkvYQ2JO1mQh7mJQDTT/s1600/IMG_4193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl-XHqJDZL9hp1L5XSGzZx2C2dpSiIx6lPszJO8r6-EMn85DJSu7A0R7S9OIxK1qYivWiHk4jFVvLutsH0P7SWy32bkmlkah6MOIH1Ksj_cwdLH0QIqUvouHW4GQkvYQ2JO1mQh7mJQDTT/s1600/IMG_4193.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I have also stock these <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/packaging/products/cookie-boxes-set-of-10">Kraft Cookie Boxes</a> in two sizes - Medium (7x7) & Large (10x10).  They are nice and sturdy boxes perfect for homemade treats.  And, this year I also have stocked the <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/silver-dragees">Silver Dragees</a> for adding "Silver Bells" to the reindeer.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwkom6MMgFqP2EKi9RoVngAFe06bhDRtb1rrgq-jollGFMkML08YaPB0gpCDBnPaQEnqdeY_mU78GbwtXzJSmYjNKIfUKW-E_BmTYjQDHj-U4k70ZNWT6vQNtWZzhmRHlGggRkKVt_-qOR/s1600/IMG_4210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwkom6MMgFqP2EKi9RoVngAFe06bhDRtb1rrgq-jollGFMkML08YaPB0gpCDBnPaQEnqdeY_mU78GbwtXzJSmYjNKIfUKW-E_BmTYjQDHj-U4k70ZNWT6vQNtWZzhmRHlGggRkKVt_-qOR/s1600/IMG_4210.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is the <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/cookie-boxes-set-of-10">Medium Cookie Box</a> filled with <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/packaging/products/natural-krinkle">Natural Krinkle</a> filler.  I decided to add this color (in addition to the Kraft Kinkle) for the holidays because I thought it would make the brown <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/copper-cookie-cutters-holiday">Reindeer</a> standout against the Kraft box.  The <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/cookie-boxes-set-of-10">Large Cookie Box</a> holds 3-4 cookies.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfgvAup9OK3o5QHGdzlISJAlI6Wz9fx5NJ_nPXOWwPsnKc2ZkEd5ryRL8QimC9_n65R8UHOxL3bSItWA9Ha5D_IHGCQtt5hyvbsnJ6LbV0tk5qd_iWLgVUyhJMToSLGDHHFapxxsMDsH52/s1600/IMG_4188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfgvAup9OK3o5QHGdzlISJAlI6Wz9fx5NJ_nPXOWwPsnKc2ZkEd5ryRL8QimC9_n65R8UHOxL3bSItWA9Ha5D_IHGCQtt5hyvbsnJ6LbV0tk5qd_iWLgVUyhJMToSLGDHHFapxxsMDsH52/s1600/IMG_4188.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>This snowflake cookie that I iced and accented with my <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/sugars-sprinkles">White Nonpareils sprinkles</a> - the sanding sugars also look great...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKsh35tdn85ifSEB_b_Mxek7tfwG4XxUWFwCcyzbMTenwNsUATB8aC0nuMEuZkVCTw_fgSrOkji1-GX1_fyIgshjmVAbTuK0-ladoYmhlgca2etmYNoK_XrSeUza2kVAT61kpiz8j4VIGd/s1600/IMG_9318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKsh35tdn85ifSEB_b_Mxek7tfwG4XxUWFwCcyzbMTenwNsUATB8aC0nuMEuZkVCTw_fgSrOkji1-GX1_fyIgshjmVAbTuK0-ladoYmhlgca2etmYNoK_XrSeUza2kVAT61kpiz8j4VIGd/s1600/IMG_9318.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Like these that I did a couple of years ago for our neighborhood open house.  This is the <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/sugars-sprinkles">Course Sanding Sugar</a> for a really glittery look.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitng5cIQtaaIFbYwU5uPjGI0e9vkhCI0NLkK8qlyGMQr5qYwwCIr85LMNoDnjnH_ag3ZfaL8pamDpuemjlWxUWq50_UI5f1YEzUg1QfykdTFtH7tCkjBwpSKKYycewQ9P_m3WuHap3WTC3/s1600/IMG_9343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitng5cIQtaaIFbYwU5uPjGI0e9vkhCI0NLkK8qlyGMQr5qYwwCIr85LMNoDnjnH_ag3ZfaL8pamDpuemjlWxUWq50_UI5f1YEzUg1QfykdTFtH7tCkjBwpSKKYycewQ9P_m3WuHap3WTC3/s1600/IMG_9343.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />Here is the display I put out for our party - I also love ginger cookies.  This year I think I am going to do the snowflakes and trees in gingerbread, then ice them with white icing and <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/sugars-sprinkles">sanding sugar</a> or <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/sugars-sprinkles">white nonpareils</a>. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdExHg8ARaakuB7eEBZI-xQlC-4GzGEJZ7K5Lnw_dMvN-xaRPWgjBwAjJ7D00GpsnkktUufN_G7P0oPWKHCdX2LoVc5qYET_HcHxsehAr1_JK-YgrujZHwxpCdAnLWyckQBQqlohX3Pv3t/s1600/IMG_4242.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdExHg8ARaakuB7eEBZI-xQlC-4GzGEJZ7K5Lnw_dMvN-xaRPWgjBwAjJ7D00GpsnkktUufN_G7P0oPWKHCdX2LoVc5qYET_HcHxsehAr1_JK-YgrujZHwxpCdAnLWyckQBQqlohX3Pv3t/s1600/IMG_4242.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />As you can see from these photos from last year in my kitchen, the copper cutters are even so cute to display, too.  I really like the addition of the warm, warn copper to my kitchen.<br /><br />Happy Cyber Monday - I hope you get some great deals out there.  I'm looking forward to getting most of my shopping done so I can spend the rest of the season not running around and baking more sugar cookies instead  : )  <br /><br />Again, here are my deals for the day :<br /><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />- Free Holiday Copper Cookie Cutter with purchase of a <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/gift-cards-boxed">Gift Card</a> <i>while supplies last</i> (code : COOKIE)<br />- <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/copper-cookie-cutters-holiday">Copper Cookie Cutters</a> are bundled - Set of all 4 for $48, save $12<br />- Free Shipping on orders over $50 (code : MONDAY)<br /><br />Happy Hunting!<br /><br />Jenny<br /><br />

Cyber Monday! Free Gift & Free Shipping

Welcome to Christmas Baking week and Cyber Monday (more about that below!).  I resisted pre-Christmas season baking this year, so I'm sh...

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