Happy Halloween!

Trick or Treat!

Miss T in her Halloween costume!

Don't I make a cute mouse?

Lots of Candy!

Almost three weeks ago, I received a HUGE package in the mail from my parents! It was filled with all the candy you see above! I'm known to have a sweet tooth and my Mom sure knows my favorites! All the candy is from Bomboy's, a candy store in Havre de Grace, Maryland. They are known for their homemade chocolate caramels and chocolate top cookies. The two boxes that are wrapped in the photograph above have chocolate caramels in one and nonpareils in the other. Needless to say I was in heaven with it all! And three weeks later all that's left is a couple chocolate caramels. Oops! Wait, isn't that what Halloween is all about?

Wishing you all a very Happy Halloween filled with lots of sweet treats!

What a hoot!

When I first came across this idea in the October 2009 issue of Southern Living I knew I wouldn't be able to resist making this fun treat! They were fun yet easy to make and were a big hit!

Easy Owl-Ween Treats!

Ingredients

Oreos

M & M's

Candy Corn

Chocolate Sprinkles

MoonPies

Chocolate for Candy Coating

12-x 1/4- inch Dowel

Directions

Secure cookies and candy to your MoonPie with melted chocolate candy coating. Then insert a 12-x 1/4-inch dowel, into marshmellow center and secure with more chocolate. Let candy coating harden overnight.

ENJOY!

Halloween Inspired Cocktails

Looking for some Halloween party ideas? Well look no further! I was recently paging through the Pottery Barn catalog that came in the mail and noticed they had some neat ideas for a Halloween party and thought I would share two of their cocktail recipes with y'all.

To be honest, I don't like dressing up for Halloween. If you twist my arm I will certainly do it, but it is not something I plan or look forward to myself. I enjoy Halloween for two reasons: 1) seeing little kids all dressed up and 2) all the candy. Who doesn't enjoy celebrating a holiday that is full of candy and more candy???

Whether you are like me or are the complete opposite and go all out on Halloween, I thought the cocktail recipes below were easy yet creative for any Halloween celebration!

Ghoul-a-tini

Serves 1. To make a batch for a party, multiply recipe by the number of guests.

*Give this classic a Halloween makeover with a pair of onion "eyeballs."

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon dry vermouth
3 ounces gin
2 cocktail onion "eyeballs" for garnish

Preparation:

Chill martini glasses in the freezer or fill with ice and water
Pour the vermouth in a cocktail shaker or glass, swirl around to coat the sides of the shaker then pour it out.
Fill the cocktail shaker or mixing glass with two thirds full of ice cubes. Pour in the gin. Shake or stir in glass for 15-30 seconds.
Strain the drink in to the chilled glass.

**For the "eyeballs" pierce two cocktail onions with a paring knife and place one large black whole peppercorn in the slit of each. Spear the onions with a cocktail pick, place in glass and serve.


Monster-ita
Serves 1. To make a batch for a party, multiply recipe by the number of guests.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 ounces premium tequila
1 ounce fresh lime juice
1 ounce Cointreau or other orange liqueur
1 teaspoon simple syrup
drop of red food coloring
sliced lime, for garnish

Preparation:

Fill a cocktail shaker with crushed ice and ingredients above.
Shake well to blend.
Pour over ice into salted and chilled over sized Margarita glass.
Add lime to garnish: place one drop of red food coloring at the top of the lime and let it drip down like blood.

ENJOY!

What an Experience! (Alt. Title: Redneck Weekend!)

Remember my post from Friday and how I was excited not to do anything over the weekend? Well that sure didn't happen, but I rather of had the weekend we did then stay at home!

Squee! Thomas and I were given tickets to the NASCAR Dollar General 300 Race in Charlotte on Friday night. This is something I have had on my bucket list for a while now, at least since I began living in the South. My Mom's response when I told her what we were doing Friday night was, "I didn't think that would be something you would be interested in." Well she's right. I'm really not at all interested in the sport of racing, but I am interested in experiencing the NASCAR environment. I just couldn't imagine what the track looks and feels like with cars going 170+ mph around and around.

Welcome race fans!

They race two weekends a year in Charlotte; May and October. Let's be honest here, we were treated like royalty. The tickets we were given were for the Speedway Club with reserved parking & seating and we were given a dress code to follow. Yes you read it correctly, a dress code! Our tickets were like going to an NFL Football game with box seats.

Let's gooo #33!

I think the start was my favorite part, but I will say the entire race was entertaining! I could never imagine watching 200+laps on TV but it's completely different being there. Oh and there were a couple of wrecks which made it even more exciting and I can say that because no one was hurt! Both of us had an absolute blast and would definitely go back!


Now fast forward to Sunday with me because honestly any Gamecock fan wants to forget Saturday. Sunday evening we went to the State Fair. I look forward to this day every year and Thomas does too. Last year we did a much better job of "eating our way through the fair", literally, but we didn't do too shabby this year either.

We started with fried mushrooms. Probably the best fried mushrooms ever.

Next Friske french fries, so tasty with lots of salt and vinegar I forgot to take a picture.

Main Course: Slice of Pizza for me.

Italian Sausage for Thomas.



Dessert: Fried Oreos. Absolutely postively the most delicious. Don't judge.

YUM!

After finishing our main course we walked around the entire fair and saw the sights and saw some sights, literally!








Can you imagine eating a cheeseburger with two Krispy Kreme doughnuts as the buns???

I challenged Thomas, but he didn't give in!

Here are pictures of a few of the animals:


No petting allowed, that's a Katie rule not a fair rule because I am a big time germ-a-phobe!


18lb. rabbit??

Cute!


I think this guy likes getting his picture taken!

We had so much fun at the fair, I already can't wait for next year!

Brain Dump

Boyfriend gave in and upgraded to the iPhone4 this weekend.I can't wait to try out face time.I wish every day could be a weekend-day.Where did the Fall weather go?Groupon you are my new obsession. For the best deals ever sign up here.I wish there was such as thing as the laundry fairy.I could eat fried Oreos every single day.I'm so excited to start my Christmas shopping.Why do the Gamecocks always seem to disappoint?Hopefully this weekend will be better.I can't wait for the Holidays.I love giving gifts.I've already made a huge dent in my Halloween candy from my parents.It's only 4 days old.I wish I could stop, but I can't.I wish I had all the money in the world. Don't we all?I still haven't bought a pumpkin.Running out of time.Yikes.I can't wait to share my post from this weekend.Come back tomorrow.I can't get enough of reading all of your blogs.I need a pedicure.My feet are really dry.I know there's a big change that is about to take place.I don't think I will ever be prepared for it.But I know it's for the best.I wish I going shopping today instead of to work.It's hump day. Alleluia.

Ice Cream Flavors

Do you have a Publix near you? If you do, have you tried any of the Publix brand ice cream flavors? I love ice cream, but rarely buy it for myself, as it is way too much for one person to eat before it gets freezer burnt. However, the Publix brand ice cream flavors sound A-MAZ-ING.

One flavor in particular has caught my attention, Lemon Sugar Cookie. I think I am going to have to break down and buy a half gallon just so I can try it!

Have you tried any of the Publix brand flavors? What's your favorite?

Happy Monday!

I just can't get enough of these two!

What makes you smile on this Monday?

Have a great day!

This Weekend

This is the first weekend in three and half months that I don't have anything on the calendar. It was one busy summer and start to fall and I couldn't be more thankful for all the experiences I have had. Whether it was spending time at the beach with my family, celebrating the 4th of july & my birthday, seeing John Mayer in concert, celebrating Lindsey's birthday in Charlotte, girls weekend in Wrightsville Beach, trip to Debordieu with great friends, celebrating friends engagements, road trip to Atlanta to celebrate Hudson's 1st Birthday, trips home, being there for my cousin Kelly's bridal shower, my fabulous trip to Austin to see a wonderful friend, football games, having my Mom come and visit and our trip to Charleston, another trip back home, Katie & Dan's engagement party, and Kelly & Chris' wedding!

This weekend I am looking forward to not having any scheduled obligations. Except one thing, Gamecock football at 6pm on Saturday, but that doesn't count! I have lots of things I need to do that I have fallen behind on like laundry, re-organizing, my closet, decorating for Fall, did I mention my closet?, grocery shopping, and the list goes on.

At the beginning of the week, I was looking forward to not having anything planned this weekend. I was looking forward to being home and spending time with Thomas and of course going out to dinner together. But then what do I start doing? Thinking of all the things I would love to do this fall and picking apples is top on my list and there isn't much time left. How much fun does driving to the mountains in NC just about 2 hours away and spending the day in a mountain town picking apples and walking around? Sounds like the perfect Fall day to me! So what do I do next? Start researching orchards and of course I found one that is definitely manageable for a day trip and send Thomas a text asking if he wants to go picks apples this weekend. His reply "let's talk about it tonight."

I didn't even bring it up at dinner on Tuesday night because honestly what am I thinking? I was just looking forward to a relaxing weekend at home and there I go planning something for us to do. Am I crazy? There is just not enough time to do everything I want to do or at least that's how I feel!

Well, crazy me is at it again and no I am not planning an adventure for this weekend, but I sure can't make any promises an adventure won't happen. Either way, the relaxing weekend at home is turning in to a mile long to do list, I'm exhausted just looking at it!

What are your plans for this weekend? Do you have a fun Fall adventure planned?

TGIF! Go Cocks!!!

In a Pinch and a New Found Love

First things first, have you ever caught yourself in a beauty pinch? For example, you are about to go out of town on an airplane that has a schedule time for departure and you haven't had time all week to pick up refills of your make-up? Well if you have you know how I felt last Thursday night. That's when you have to start thinking outside the box as my boss would say. So, I sent a message to my cousin Liz who lives back home and works in the best salon and is a licensed esthetician and make up artist. She is the one who originally did my make up, so who else to better turn to? The easy part: I needed a refill on two products that I am currently using. The hard part: I was using another brand of blush and finally ran out and needed a replacement and I also wanted a new lip gloss. All of this was major because of Kelly's wedding on Saturday!

You know someone is an expert when they can pick out a color blush and lip gloss that will look good on you when you can't be there in person. Liz knew without any hesitation exactly what would work! These are the kind of people we all need to have in our life, whether they are family, close friends, or someone who truly knows you to help you when you are in a pinch. Thank you, Liz!!!

Fast forward to Saturday, I was in my bathroom putting my make up on for the wedding my Mom walked by and and asked if I curl my eyelashes. I of course said no, because anyone who really knows me, knows I like to keep the steps in my routine down to a minimum. Also, those who know me, know I have long full eyelashes and everyone has always paid me a compliment on them and by everyone I mean my Mom and her sisters. I never thought to curl my eyelashes, I thought that was for people with short and sparse eyelashes. Well I am here to tell you, I curled my eye lashes for the first time on Saturday and I can't believe how much bigger my eyes look! I am so happy my mom mentioned it to me because the thought never crossed my mind.

This little $4.00 gadget is now my new best friend!

Thanks Mom!

Do you use an eyelash curler?

What is one product in your beauty routine that you recently discovered and now can't live without?

Wedding Bells

This past weekend Thomas and I traveled to Maryland for my cousin Kelly's wedding! We had a great time celebrating with the bride and groom, family and friends. Their wedding day was perfect in every way! They couldn't have asked for better weather or a more beautiful ceremony and reception. Our Granddad was sure looking down on Kelly and blessing her with an incredible day!

Walking down the aisle!

Bride and Groom saying their vows!

Having fun at their reception!

Thomas and Me (it was windy!)

Congratulations Kelly & Chris!!! We had a wonderful time celebrating with you both and wish you all the best and many years of happiness!

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

3 days later and my smile still stretches from ear to ear!!!

Way to go GAMECOCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pumpkin Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

I came across this recipe last week while I was surfing the net and I of course had to share with y'all. I haven't had a chance to try the recipe myself yet, but it's on my to do list, that's for sure! Can you think of a more delicious addition to oatmeal raisin cookies then pumpkin? I sure can't! If you beat me to trying this recipe let me know what you think.

Pumpkin Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/3 cups quick or old-fashioned oats
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup chopped walnuts
3/4 cup raisins


Directions

1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease baking sheets.

2.Combine flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon and salt in medium bowl. Beat butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar in large mixer bowl until light and fluffy. Add pumpkin, egg and vanilla extract; mix well. Add flour mixture; mix well. Stir in nuts and raisins. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto prepared baking sheets.

3.Bake for 14 to 16 minutes or until cookies are lightly browned and set in centers. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

ENJOY!

Wishing you an enjoyable and relaxing fall weekend! Go Cocks!!!

Five Faves Linky Party

I am linking up with Kelley at The Eclectic Owl you should too!

Here are 5 of my favorite things:

1. Skinceuticals A.G.E Eye Cream

I'm in love with this eye cream. It has dramatically improved my dark cirlces and fine lines. I dedicated an entire post to this product, read more here, I know you will thank me.

2. St. Ives Green Tea Exfoliating Scrub

I have been a long time user and believer in St. Ives Blemish & Blackhead Control Apricot Scrub. Recently I saw an ad for St. Ives Naturally Clear Green Tea Scrub. Both of these products exfoliate to prevent blemishes and clean pores. I look forward to scrubbing my face (every other morning) with either one of these products, it feels so good! Good bye dirt and dull dead skin, hello radiant blemish complexion.





3. Jello Mousse Temptations

I love mousse. I mean love love love it and these treats are delicious. I have only tried the Chocolate Indulgence, but I am hooked! For only 60 calories, this sweet treat leaves me satisfied.



4. Tide with Febreze

I actually discovered this detergent back in the summer, but I absolutely love how good it smells!



5. St. Ives Softening Whipped Silk Lotion

This has been my favorite lotion for I don't know how long. It's not greasy, it goes on very light, and smells great, all while hydrating and silkening your skin! What's there not to love?

What are five of your favorite products?

Chili Weather!

I have two favorite chili recipes and this is one of them. It is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious! The weather this week has gotten me all excited about Fall, what about you?

Black Bean Chili Recipe

Ingredients:

3 (15-oz.) cans black beans
1 large sweet onion, chopped
1lb. ground beef
4 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 (14-oz.) can low-sodium fat-free chicken broth
2 (14.5-oz.) cans petite diced tomatoes with jalapeños
Toppings: sour cream, shredded Cheddar cheese, lime wedges, sliced jalapeño peppers, chopped fresh cilantro, chopped tomatoes, corn chips

Directions:

1. Rinse and drain 2 cans black beans. (Do not drain third can.)
2. Sauté chopped onion and ground beef in Dutch Oven over medium heat 10 minutes or until meat is no longer pink.

3. Stir in chili powder and next 3 ingredients; sauté 1 minute.

4. Stir in drained and undrained beans, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes.

5. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat; cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer 10 minutes.

6. Serve chili with desired toppings.

ENJOY!

You Don't Know Jacques!

One of my favorite fall/winter nail polish colors is OPI's You Don't Know Jacques! I painted my nails this color for the first time this season over the weekend and every time I look at my nails, a huge smile appears across my face! I think nothing completes an outfit more then manicured and polished nails.

If you don't know how trendy taupe is!

What's one of your favorite fall/winter nail colors?

Trail Mix

For those of those of you who know me and others of you who don't need to know I am a huge snacker! I have always had a terrible time eating 3 large meals a day. Trust me I always eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but I can't make it in between those meals without snacking. Because I am such a big snacker, I'm always looking for something new to snack on that has nutritional benefits. With that being said, I wanted to share one of my favorite snack foods with y'all.

Back to Nature, Harvest Blend trail mix makes the perfect snack! Back to Nature products are 100% natural, no preservatives, and no artificial ingredients. The Harvest Blend includes juicy raisins, California almonds, crisp pumpkin and sunflower seeds, crunchy pecans, and sun-dried apricots. With so many different textures and tastes, it makes for a very satisfying snack.


Are you a snacker? What are some of your favorite snack foods?

Around the Web

Two things to share:

1.) When I first started exploring the blog world, I somehow found the blog, Catalog Living. Catalog Living "looks in side the exciting lives of the people who live in your catalogs." This is one of the funniest blogs I have come across and my day is incomplete without seeing what Elaine and Gary are up too. I hope enjoy this blog as much as I do!

2.) My boss sent me an e-mail last week with this video. I thought it was too cute and just had to share!

I hope everyone has a great Friday and an even better weekend!



P.S.- Where did September go??