DIY // Natural Christmas Garland

Natural Christmas Garland | Tutorial on simplyhappenstance.comDIY // Natural Christmas Garland

I love all things gold and sparkly {just take a look at my pinecone garland from last year!}… but I also love natural things, as well! I guess it depends on what I’m in the mood for… and the purpose of the piece. In this case, it was my sweet mama who planned this outdoorsy garland to make with her grandchildren over Thanksgiving. Unfortunately, we ran out of time, but she did leave the supplies with me to complete the simple DIY with my kids. {Thanks, Mom!} I’m crazy about how it turned out… and the kids and I had so much fun putting it together for the birds in our backyard to enjoy! 

Natural Christmas Garland | Tutorial on simplyhappenstance.com

Natural Christmas Garland DIY via Simply Happenstance-29 [Read more…]

Christmas Cranberry Spritzer

chirstmascranberryspritzer2

:: Christmas Cranberry Spritzer ::

It’s Christmas time and boy do I absolutely LOVE a fun holiday drink! This Christmas Cranberry Spritzer is a new favorite.  Made with St. Germain, a little bubbly {champagne/sparkling wine}, a splash of cranberry juice, and a dash of blood orange vodka. This drink is definitely something to say “Cheers” to. 

Lately, when Shane and I have had a moment to go out to dinner, we have noticed that the cocktail menus in most restaurants are creating libations with St. Germain.  It is a flowery liqueur that when combined in a tangy drink it adds a hint of sweetness to a cocktail.

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Cranberry Sauce

 

Cranberry Sauce for Thanksgiving.

:: Cranberry Sauce ::

**Gobble Gobble**

We are just days away from enjoying our yummy and thankful Turkey dinners.

I enjoy this time baking desserts.  I have yet to host an actual Thanksgiving.

I am the eldest of 5 sisters and a brother. Yes I know a big family.

If I am not visiting my husband on Thanksgiving at the fire station {he is off this year hooray!}.

I am visiting either Shane’s family or mine for holidays.

I would love to host {{hint, hint}}.

Brandy and cranberries for Cranberry Sauce

Though I am not, I am required to bring a few things to dinner.

One of my favorites is my Cranberry Sauce.

Either you like the gelatine type sauce or you don’t.

Mine is not from the can and it is a little chunky.

Just how I like it.

Perfect for left overs {we don’t have any since we don’t host}

or for the Turkey sandwiches you can make for lunch via sliced meat

or even better with the real thing.

I think the sauce is a healthier side than a huge pile of gravy, and its home made!

Orange zest for easy Cranberry Sauce

Here is what is needed:

*2 packages of fresh cranberries

{I actually think Ocean Spray’s Cranberries are the best, but Trader Joe’s are good too.}

*1 cup of sugar {healthier, I know questionable but these little guys are tart}

*1 cup of Brandy {a must and the alcohol burns off so no need to worry}

*3 tablespoons of Orange Peel

You then fully rinse and throw out any berries that are punctured or bad.

Lay the berries in a 9×13 inch pan and heat the oven to 325 degrees.

You will then use a place the 3 tablespoons of orange peel over the cranberries,

along with the sugar and brandy.

Once you have placed all the ingredients into the pan mix everything together.

Fold the berries into the mixture and then place into the oven.

It usually takes about an hour for the liquid to evaporate.

While the sauce is cooking your home will smell heavenly.

The oranges and the cranberries cooking are the essence of holiday!

Once you have noticed most of the liquid has evaporated,

pull the pan out of the oven and let it rest for a half and hour.

Spoon your sauce into a storage bag or tupperware.

Make ahead and freeze for up coming events or place in the fridge for three days max.

Great for impressing guests and even better than the molded kind in a can.

Enjoy!!!