So much love. So much laughter. So many blessings. We are grateful.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you! We hope you are sharing smiles with your loved ones today. May all your hearts and bellies be full!
I’m having a bit of writers block- and to be totally honest with you I’m running around like a chicken with my head cut off trying to check everything off my to-do list today, SO- here are some super scrumptious last-minute, easy to make, alternative-to-pie, pecan pumpkin pie bars!
Happy Thanksgiving!
XO,
Recipe by Joy The Baker
It goes without saying that we claim more of our hair tutorials than not to be easy, easy, easy. While we stand by those claims we have to admit that this particular up-do is without a doubt the simplest one yet. Grap, knot and pin – that’s all there is to it!
So if you are looking for just the right hairstyle to rock with all those oversized sweaters look no more…
A few tips:
xo,
“It’s a rather blustery day.” That was certainly the theme in our neck of the woods. For an area rather used to wind I was in awe of the way mother nature unleashed herself today. (No one’s hair stood a chance – including yours Sticky.)
Of course all that blowing can only mean one thing – frigid air is on it’s way. While this is not the best news it does at the very least give us a free pass for snuggling up in something cozy. With all the crop tops, short skirts and fitted dresses on the racks it’s nice to shop for something you can “hide” in a bit. With that being said this is not a one size fits all look. If you are petite steer clear of thick,chunky material in longer lengths. They will add too much bulk to your small frame. Shop for lighter material with a shorter length. Ladies with a larger bust may want to steer clear of bulky cowl and turtlenecks. A more open neckline will flatter your build and keep you from looking top heavy. If you are lacking in curves go for bulky, more oversized sweaters (keep size in mind because there is a fine line between oversized and “your sweater is way too big”). Also look for details like zippers to add shape.
Here are a handful of my favorites:
1Fasion Union Oversized Sweater with Stepped Hem and Zip Detail 2Nasty Gal Drop It Sweater 3Necessary Clothing Chunk Cowl Neck Oversized Sweater 4Forever 21 Fair Isle V-neck Sweater 5Victorias Secret Ribbed Double V-Neck Sweater 6H&M Wool Blend Sweater
Finding just the right oversized sweater is definitely a trial and error process. Once you have found a good one though you will never want to take it off.
Stay cozy,
Last year we featured a Moscow Mule Gift Kit that we knew would be a hit. And it was, even more than we anticipated! This time around not only are we posting another fabulous cocktail kit (with free printables of course) but we are giving away one of the most important components to it — the JAM! And not just any jam…Messmakerbaker jam. (Yes, we are obsessed with Vicki and her scrumptious jam.)
Before we get into all the giveaway details let’s talk cocktail! One that is unusual, a little sweet and slightly creamy. A drink that bourbon enthusiasts will appreciate, and will make non-bourbon drinkers asking for more. Ladies and gentlemen we present to you the Winter Bourbon Smash.
Items needed for this fabulous kit:
Tie labels on ingredients with twine or ribbon, fill container with tissue or shred and arrange items in a pleasing way. Top with recipe and just like that you have a gift that will make someone very, very happy.
Sticky is a big, big bourbon fan. Me not so much. It’s a bit strong and just not something I have ever wanted to sip on — that is until now. There is something about the sweet jam and citrus dancing around in the warm whiskey, it tastes…cozy. Like grab a good book and cuddle up in a great big leather chair cozy. It is still bourbon though, so no chugging. That is of course if you have nothing to do the rest of the day.
Now about that jam. Vicki is graciously giving one lucky winner a jar of her Raspberry Vanilla Preserves! A deliciously fruity flavor with hints of warm vanilla that pairs perfectly with bourbon (or toast, or ice cream, or oatmeal, or straight out of the jar). Here is all you need to know on how to enter:
Giveaway is open to US winners only, you have until Friday, 11/28/14 at 11:59PM EST to enter. Winner will be contacted via email and will have 72 hours to respond or another winner will be selected. Good luck!
(Vicki also has a wonderful instagram account with gorgeous images of food. Follow her, she’s fabulous.)
Here’s to bourbon, jam and fantastic gift giving!
Cheers!
recipe from Minimalist Baker
