Please join me in welcoming ultimate fashion blogger and #stylechat peep Lana Parker of @princesslondn, and officially kick-off the Holiday Season with this indulgent "Christmas is all around" post.
The weather outside is certainly frightful, but that does not mean it can’t be delightful.
I for one love shopping for holiday gifts and am excited to share some of my great finds this year.Check out my Pinterest 'Holiday gift guide' for Her, Him, and Kids.
I will also be giving out for the first time my favorite hot chocolate and a delicious Italian Christmas Cookies (Sprinkle Cookies) recipe.
Before I share my holiday tips , I want to thank the lovely Francesca for letting me guest post for her. It has been a true pleasure working with such a talented blogger.
Now let the celebrations begin!
@princesslondn special Hot Chocolate recipe
Instead of using regular cocoa powder to make hot chocolate lets step it up a notch. This recipe takes a few extra minutes to make but it is worth the time.
DIRECTIONS
Start by heating up as much milk as you like once the milk boils take your favorite chocolate bar and stir it in until it melts. You can add mini marshmallows or whipped cream with mini chocolate chips for a decadent touch.
Image Getty.com
Cookie Recipe (Courtesy of Food.Com)
INGREDIENTS
· 1 cup butter, softened
· 2 cups sugar
· 3 eggs
· 1 (15 ounce) carton ricotta cheese
· 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
· 4 cups all-purpose flour
· 1 teaspoon salt
· 1 teaspoon baking soda
FROSTING
· 1/4 cup butter, softened
· 3 -4 cups confectioners' sugar
· 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
· 3 -4 tablespoons milk
· colored sprinkles
DIRECTIONS
In a bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Beat in ricotta and vanilla.
Combine flour, salt and baking soda; gradually add to creamed mixture.
Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 inches apart onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 350° for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
Remove to wire racks to cool.
In a bowl, cream butter, sugar and vanilla. Add enough milk until frosting reaches spreading consistency. Frost cooled cookies and immediately decorate with sprinkles. Store in the refrigerator.
Finally one of my other favorite things about the holiday’s is it gives you an excuse to dress up. I will be sharing some of my favorite pieces that I think you can mix and match for multiple holiday party outfits.
As for shoes I would do a nude heel with the first look. And a gold or black heel with the second look. As long, as you look fabulous and can dance in them.