High Expectations

Every year I start the holiday season full of ideas. Decorating ideas, DIY ideas, food ideas, gift ideas etc etc. And every year I disappoint myself and do none of them.

This year, especially with the introduction of Pinterest to my life (feel free to follow me: Nakiya Schurman), I found myself overwhelmed with projects. So I bought pre-made cards (THE HORROR!) instead of making these:

(Idea from here)

And instead of making new decorations, like this gorgeous wreath below, I decided to stick with the decorations I already owned.

(From here)

However, I DID keep my idea of making homemade edible gifts on my list. Specifically: marshmallows. A comment on my Facebook page stirred this interest within me, and then a recent conversation with a friend solidified it. I am going to make marshmallows.

(Found here)

As well as marshmallows, I am thinking about making some Chai Tea Mix, some Bark, and some yummy cookies as well.

I'll let you know what I end up making (and hopefully I won't end up saying "nothing!")

What about you? Any homemade gifts, edible or non-edible, to make soon?

FREE Martha Stewart's 2011 Thanksgiving Cookbook

Just like last year, Martha Stewart and Sirius have teamed up to offer Martha's entire 2011 Thanksgiving Cookbook for free!

Here are some of the recipes I would love to show up at my Thanksgiving:

Soups and Starters

• Pumpkin Soup

Turkey/Entrees

• Leg of Lamb in a Clementine Crust
• Riesling Roast Turkey with Fig and Root Vegetable Dressing

 Sides and Salads

• Caramelized Chestnuts and Brussel Sprouts

Desserts

• Pear and Hazelnut Cake

Party Like it’s 1929 At Mr. Rain’s Fun House!

This sounds like SO. MUCH. FUN.

Here's the press release from Mr. Rain's Fun House about their 1929 Prohibition-style Repeal Day Dinner.  LOVE IT!

On December 4, Mr. Rain’s Fun House will host a prohibition-style

Repeal Day Dinner with food, cocktails, and music straight from the roaring 20s

Don your best flapper dress and pinstriped suit and head to Mr. Rain's Fun House for a night of dinner, dancing, and of course, cocktails on Sunday, December 4, at 6:00pm.   Chef Bill Buszinski has created a special menu for the Repeal Day party inspired by the most delectable dishes enjoyed in that era. To pair, Mixologist Perez Klebahn is serving up classic libations, as well as his modern-day spin on each drink. The Baltimore Jazz Alliance will also be on hand to provide lively entertainment all through the night—“period” attire is highly recommended!

            The Repeal Day Gala will begin at 6:00pm with light hors d’oeuvres served in Mr. Rain’s bar area. At 7:00pm, guests will be seated in the dining room and treated to a five-course tasting with an incredible menu featuring:

Oysters Rockefeller

Gruyère Cheese, Anise Butter

Lobster

Heart of Palm, Passion Fruit Ganache, Coconut Pearls

Rabbit

Pancetta Parsnip Puree, Carrot Chips, Lavender Cream

Short Ribs

 Root Beer Cure Vanilla & Grafton au Gratin, Glazed Fennel

Baked Alaska

Classic Preparation

Cocktails designed to pair with each course will available for purchase a la carte ($10-13) and include both a traditional version and contemporary interpretation of a French 75, Sidecar, Negroni, Sazerac, and Mary Pickford. As dinner commences, the Baltimore Jazz Alliance will play live music and guests are encouraged to hit the dance floor. At 9pm, Mr. Rain’s will offer food a la carte, allowing anyone to stop in for a cocktail, a bite, and some jazz and enjoy the festivities. The evening will conclude with a Champagne toast at midnight; the perfect send-off to a fantastic night. 

The Repeal Day Gala at Mr. Rain’s Fun house will take place on Sunday, December 4 from 6:00pm-12:00am. The five-course tasting, plus hors d’oeuvres and a champagne toast is $65 per person, not including tax and gratuity; cocktails can be purchased a la carte for $10-13. Reservations are required and can be made by visiting www.mrrainsfunhouse.com or calling 443.524.7379.