An Adorned Basket
A Golden Birdcage
A Present-Like Box
A Vintage Mailbox
A Window Box
In honour of booking my second trip to Vegas, I though I'd post about my first adventure there...
Where: Las Vegas, NV
When: November 2013
We, as a group of six, had decided a long time prior to turning 21, that once all of us were of age, we'd go celebrate in Las Vegas. Our last one became 21 at the end of September, so we utilized a long weekend in November and went!
Bridesmaids
Menswear
Bouquet
Reception Decorations
Outdoor Space
Extra Fun
Holiday Themed Photo
Carriage Ride Getaway
For these and more, see my Pinterest board: Inspiration: Christmas
Berries and Pinecones on a Wooden Cake Stand
Simply Rustic Florals
Tiffany Blue with Snow Covered Pinecones
Snow Capped Tiers
Etched Wood with Owl Toppers
Hot Cranberry Cider
Bailey's Irish Coffee
Cozy Ginger Tea
Peppermint White Hot Chocolate
Cranberry Spice Tea
For a games night last year, I decided to try this recipe I had found on Pinterest called THE Mac-n-Cheese. And let me tell you, it was delicious! What I decided to do to make it a little more interesting was create a Mac-n-Cheese bar. I set bowls out with things like ham, broccoli, tomatoes, bacon, and caramelized onions for my friends to add into their dish.
To Make:
1 pound pasta (I used cavatappi)
½ cup butter (1 stick)
½ cup flour
4 cups whole milk
6 cups shredded cheddar
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon pepper
2 tablespoons butter
½ cup panko bread crumbs
Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
Boil pasta in salted water.
Melt ½ cup butter in large saucepan over medium heat.
Sprinkle in ½ cup flour and whisk together for 2-3 minutes.
Slowly pour in 4 cups whole milk - whisk as you go, until smooth.
Add 6 cups shredded cheddar.
Add 1 tablespoon salt and 1 tablespoon pepper.
Add sauce to pasta and stir.
In small skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
Add in ½ cup panko bread crumbs.
Stir constantly until golden brown.
Sprinkle over mac-n-cheese.
Bake in for 12-15 minutes.
The Final Product
Butternut Squash Soup
Holiday-Themed Cheese and Crackers
Individual Mini Pot Pies
This long weekend, one of my best friends from UC Davis came back up to visit. While she was here, we went shopping (I got new boots), celebrated Clara's birthday (at Chicago Fire), went clubbing (at The Park), and lastly, went wine tasting in Napa! It was a busy weekend, but beyond worth it!
Here is our Napa Valley trip in a nutshell:
Illuminate the Table with Candles and Mason Jars
Tall Vases with White Roses and Twinkle Lights
Two Takes on Pinecones and Apothecary Jars
A Rustic Tablescape with Birch Wood Place Settings
In my second year of college, I took a class that was required for what my major at the time was (biomechanical engineering) that involved sketching. Each week, we had to complete a certain number of free sketches to get used to it, something that I never thought I'd enjoy. However, the more I did it, the more I really truly enjoyed it. When that realization occurred, I decided to challenge myself to completely fill a sketchbook. Tonight, I completed that goal. I started it January 17, almost exactly three years ago, and whenever I found myself with some free time, I'd take out my book and sketch away! It's never been something I've shared with people, but I'm proud of accomplishing this task I set out for myself, so I've decided to share some of my favourites. Enjoy!
xoxo