There’s nothing like waking up on a lazy Sunday morning to find out that it’s National Margarita Day! How this glorious event almost slipped by me is unimaginable since margaritas are my go-to cocktail when I’m not certain how an establishment makes a perfectly pink pomtini. Thank you to my ever diligent husband for bringing this to my attention whether there be ulterior motives involved or he’s just looking forward to cocktail time tonight while I tune into the Oscars. … [Read More]
There’s lots of special treats you can make to have fun with National Popcorn Day. As I was looking through my collection of cookbooks during the holidays, I came across the first book that began my confectionery journey. It was Wilton’s Complete Book of Candy, 1981. In it I found a recipe for popcorn balls. I have a wonderful memory of my grandmother’s popcorn balls that she’d wrap in colored wax paper. They were crunchy and chewy, sweet and slightly… [Read More]
With pie making taking center stage on Wednesday along with all my other prep work for Thursday’s dinner, I’ve planned ahead and taken some steps to make the day less hectic and more organized with “pretty” still in mind. Truth be told, I cannot make a pie without a decorative crust finish. When I won the blue ribbon for my Dutch apple pie at the Orange County Fair, one of the judge’s comments was how pretty the single painted apple… [Read More]
I hope everyone had a nice Mother’s Day. I did! Just a quick check-in today as I’m styling and shooting for a project for Shutterfly that will post on Friday. I’ve had a bit of an injury to my right hand which I believe has been from swiping constantly “to the left, to the left” on my iPad and phone and swirling all around on my track pad on my laptop which I use for everything, even photo editing and… [Read More]
Happy Easter and Passover week! I’d like to share with you what the latest in fashion accessories is for Peeps this spring season. …but before we hit the runway… Did I tell you I was in the Chicago area over the weekend? I attended a fabulous conference at Wilton Industries where I met fellow Sweet Team Members, members of the Wilton School of Cake Decorating, toured the headquarters (incredible) and did some hands-on decorating. I can’t wait to show you… [Read More]
What do music themed cake pops with DIY washi taped covered sticks, DIY pennant cupcake toppers, DIY saxophone floral arrangements, Shutterfly graduation party announcements, thank you notes and “To Do” list party favors all have in common? They’ve all come together today on the blog to throw one swell party and you’re invited! Can you believe it’s time to start planning for graduation celebrations? Last week I was very busy baking, styling and photographing a project in collaboration with Shutterfly… [Read More]
Hello and happy Valentine Week! Just a short recap of the wonderful morning making different Valentine’s Day cookies at the workshop held at West Elm OC on Saturday. As usual, when I’m in ‘event mode’, I’m too busy to snap many photos but luckily there were plenty of photogs in the group. Here we are all set up and ready to go with my booklet of recipes, tips and techniques for baking and icing success. I couldn’t resist giving everyone… [Read More]
If you haven’t read what Shabu-Shaby is, here’s a short re-cap from Part 1 – Supplies Needed – Cooking Equipment; Table Settings Shabu-Shabu is Japanese and consists of taking very thinly slice meats, such as ribeye steak and/or pork, vegetables and noodles and cooking all in a simmering pot that sits in the center of a table on a burner. The cooking liquid can be water, vegetable stock or my favorite – dashi, a broth flavored with kelp. Since everything… [Read More]
Today I’m absolutely giddy to announce I’m partnering with West Elm OC at South Coast Plaza to teach a Valentine’s Day Cookie Decorating Workshop! Nothing says lovin’ like cookies from the oven and if you’re ready to get frosted and Disco Dusted and want to learn how to make some sweet treats to take home for your Valentine then come join us! The event will be held on Saturday, February 8 from 10:00 – 11:30 AM. Go to the West… [Read More]
Looking for something different to serve for a dinner party that will both nurture your body and soul? That would be Shabu-Shabu! I’m going to show you how to host your own Shabu-Shabu party! It’s so much fun! I was first introduced to Shabu-Shabu when I asked a neighbor if she had any ideas of what I could serve for a high school marching band saxophone section party at my house. “Shabu-Shabu!”, she said. I said, “Whaaaat?” Thus began my… [Read More]
Bridal Shower Gifts and Wrapping Ideas
Shaking It Up With Snow Globe Decorated Sugar Cookies
A Holiday Cocktail ~ Carrot Cake Martinis
The Espresso Martini
Baking at The Ronald McDonald House
Wedding Dress Decorated Cookies For A Bridal Shower
“Oh, Sheet … Cakes”!
The Best Pecan Pie and Painted Dough Cut-Outs
