Dressing up the Buffet with a bit of Holiday

I wanted to spruce up my buffet for the Holiday season so I went to a local garden/holiday gift shop and stocked up on some supplies. First I got some fun bows of pine and some wintery branches. I didn’t attach the branches in any special way – I just piled them up together to create a nice layered look, with the green bows on the bottom. This mixed with Pottery Barn like lanterns (but for half the price), and some Target stocking holders I am very happy with the way it turned out.

Christmas Tree!

This weekend my boyfriend Chris and I went to get our Christmas tree. It has always been a family tradition of mine to go out and spend way too long finding the perfect tree and cutting it down. I love the fresh smell of the pine and the hunt is something I cherish. Since I have very tall ceilings in my loft style condo I wanted to take advantage and get as tall a tree as I could find. So we went out to search for the perfect tree – tall but not too fat. Since I haven’t had a tree THAT many years I have always used a couple tricks to help my tree look more full without spending a LOT on ornaments. For my first tree I went and bought some fake poinsettias in purple and in white. The poinsettias are fun since they are pretty and take up a good amount of space. Next I always wrap my tree in ribbon which helps to take up space and is simply lovely. Another trick is to go to a craft store and get some fun fake branches to stick in the tree. They are cheaper than lots of ornaments and take up more space! Happy Decorating!

 

 

 

 

Thanksgiving Tradition: Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake

I started baking when I was very young with my mom. She taught me all the basic tips and tricks to make the perfect treats. I love baking so much that I have continued challenging myself with all sorts of delicious things ever since. When I was about in middle school I found this Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake recipe. It immediately became a family favorite and I have been making it yearly ever since. With a ginger snap crust and a dollop of whipped cream on top your guests will fall in love with the unexpected Thanksgiving dessert, just as my family has. I am making mine this afternoon. Enjoy!