Paradise

Hello lovelies, I hope this Monday finds your week off to a great start.  I must say that I have no complaints; I am such a lucky girl to have a job that affords me the opportunity to travel to amazing places.  Last year it was Paris and this year it is Nevis, West Indies - a tropical paradise if there ever was one.  Yes, I am very lucky indeed. 

There is real work involved, I can assure you of that, although one can hardly complain when my office is a stunning resort for the next week.  That being said, I hope you don't mind if I stay away from the blog for a bit more, as I enjoy this magical place.

And for those of you with a trip to a similar destination on the horizon, I beg of you to take a look at the Calypso St. Barths collection, I would glady snap up any of these gorgeous pieces fit for an island queen.

Enjoy your week - be back soon with tales from the island.

End of days or just the begining....

If you trust the Mayan calendar (among others) than this is our last year here on planet Earth.  Now, I have a feeling that when January 1, 2013 comes around that we will still be alive and well so I am approaching 2012 as just the begining of what could be one of the best years yet.  You see, I have a lot in mind for the next twelve months; begining my college education perhaps.  getting healthy and strong.  fine tuning my home and leaving no project left undone.  enhancing this blog.  being a saver, not a spender.  being a better friend.  expanding my garden and thus my canning adventures.  

And that is just the tip of the iceburg.  Honestly, I feel full of energy and inspiration for what the year has to bring.  A huge part of that is that I have this online journal as an outlet and reference for my life - it helps keep me accountable and pushes me to stay involved in the things that truly bring me joy. 

 And I have you, my sweet readers who I appreciate so much!  I hope to get to know you a little more this year with some new features on the blog and by encouraging you to connect, share your blog, introduce yourself, etc. 

I can't wait for all that is instore....

Finally - a holiday recap

Hello everyone, as promised here is just a little recap from the holidays and some thoughts on the new year that is already upon us.

Christmas was simply wonderful.  We spent it with both of our familes and were loved and spoiled by both not just with lovely gifts but also with fun evenings and delicious dinners.  Christmas Eve was with Justin's family, I love when all of us get together [sadly it doesn't happy nearly often enough] and sitting in front of the fireplace watching the nephews play, hearing Justin and his sister banter back and forth, and him with his folks, it all just made my heart very happy.  Justin's sister and the boys got me this very cool chef's coat monogramed with my initials which I instantly gave my cooking ego a bit of a boost...just kidding but it does make me feel super official.

(chef's coat and sneak peak of our mudroom redo)

Christmas day was with my familia and I loved of every minute of it.  There is something to be said for the comfort that comes from your family's traditions- and that is one thing you can count on from the Purcell family.  Mom set a beautiful table and we enjoyed our classic "program", and a fantastic dinner, along with lots of amazing gifts.  I love being back in the home that I grew up in with my family (with the exception of Aaron & Lauren who we missed terribly), it just feels very right. 

 (Evan having some fun with the ipad photo booth Justin introduced him to)

Once Christmas was over, we quickly turned our sights to New Year's.  This year we headed south to Scottsdale with some friends to celebrate our anniversary but more importantly our dear friend Craig's 40th birthday, we also added in a trip to the Fiesta Bowl since Craig is Stanford alum.  It was great to be in the warm weather and we came home exhausted with a ton of new stories and a new appreciation for the Jersey Shore since that is all we watched each morning as we nursed our coffee and bagels. Who knew Snooky would be one of the normal ones? 

(New Year's Eve dinner, sparkler and free desert for our anniversary)

(me and Jus at the game)

(everyone needs a friend like Jay, this was his outfit for the big game)

That brings us up to speed, lots of good down time but now it is time to gear up for what will be, me and Justin's busiest month of the year.  I think throughout the rest of January we see each other for maybe 3 days, not exactly my favorite way to start the year but a neccessary evil with our jobs.

I am so looking forward to February when I can get back to a bit of a normal routine and dive in to some much negleted projects around the house.  I have some fun things planned and big goals for the blog - so tune in tomorrow for a round-up of what 2012 has in store.

XOXO



Hello again blogger friends

I have been away far longer than I anticipated, and will fill you all in with a mammoth post over the weekend. But for now I'm pushing to finish the week strong with lots of work tasks and the last few days I have with the Mr. before we hit the road on a whirlwind month. In the meantime please Enjoy some of the images that have left me day dreaming on projects for the new year...

Tis the Season...

Amidst the crazy pace of every day life I can feel the magic of the season finally settling in.  Justin is on the road headed home, time with family is right around the corner, the city is clearing out and the work week is nearing its end.  There is much to appreciate and savor this time of year, make sure you are taking some time to enjoy those things that make the holiday special to you.

Printable Gift Tags

 

 [image above courtesy of Eat Drink Chic]

Wrapping the gifts is always part of the fun of giving.  I tend to always go for the classic paper tied with a bow or a simple adornment; this year I made yarn pom poms to use instead of bows and used craft tags to mark each recipient.  However, I'm half tempted to start over and use these beautiful gift tags found on two very lovely blogs.  If you are looking for something special to top your presents this year, I suggest clicking on the links below and downloading these cute {free}printable tags.

Eat Drink Chic hand drawn holiday tags

Hey Look holiday tags

The Perfect Popover

Last Christmas I was gifted popover pans and have spent the last year trying many a recipe only to have flat, gummy popovers as the result.  In what must have been a Christmas miracle, I made popovers this weekend and they were divine; puffed to perfection, eggy and delicious, and the perfect thing for you to make in the upcoming holiday weekend.

If you are unfamiliar, a popover is an airy, hollow muffin that puffs up and over the side of its tin. It is made with an thin batter and traditionally includes beef drippings, kind of like the American counterpart to Yorkshire Pudding.

I know cinnamon rolls are your go-to, or Holiday Captn' Crunch (my childhood favorite), but I beg you to try these beauties out.  They are amazing with a thick swipe of jam, or dipped in hot chocolate.  They also transition nicely to your holiday feast - serving as the perfect companion for your roast beast.  And the best part - you don't need anything fancy to whip these up.  Yes,  a popover pan is a nice vehicle for this but a standard muffin pan or individual ramekins will do just fine.

Classic Popovers
Makes 6 popovers in a traditional popover pan or in ramekins; will likely make 9 in muffin tins

1 cup milk
3 large eggs
2 tablespoons melted butter, cooled, divided
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon table salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Whisk together the milk, eggs, and one tablespoon of the melted butter.  Add the flour, salt, a few grinds of black pepper and mix until barely combined, some lumps are fine.

Set the batter aside to rest while you preheat your oven to 375 degrees, about 15 minutes. Brush your popover, muffin or ramekin cups with the remaining tablespoon of butter. Fill each cup 2/3 of the way with batter. (letting the batter rest is an important step)

Bake popovers 30 to 35 minutes (if you are using a muffin tin you may want to start checking on them around the 20 min. mark). Try not to open the oven door! Crack it just 1-inch to take a peak if absolutely necessary towards the end. Popovers are done when they’re tall and bronzed. (Be patient, they really POP in the last ten minutes or so, the steam is cooking the interior, pulling them out too soon will result in flat, gummy muffins). Flip popovers out onto cooling rack and let cool for a few minutes before tearing in, even then, they will be filled with steam and very hot in the middle so just be careful.

Best enjoyed when warm from the oven - but I seemed to inhale two at room temperature last night and they were still quite delicious.

Let's try this again....

Last week came and went, without a single blog.  Hopefully that will not be the case this week...I'm doing all I can to ignore the parts of my life that are stressing me out (namely work) and focus on the holiday spirit.  After all, the most magical of holidays is less than a week away.

This weekend brought about some much needed time with these two...

{excuse the blurry ipad photo}

Along with a fun night out with the girls, a little holiday baking, crafting with mom, and general lovliness. 

Our Charlie Brown tree {it makes me smile everytime}.  Popovers Popping.  Twinkle lights and candy canes.  Paperwhites sprouting, alongside beautiful pheasant feathers plucked by Jus.

Here is to a great week...

Good morning

Just wanted to pop in and welcome you to a new week. The gift guides were fun but this week it's time to turn our attention to holiday decor and treat making. Be back soon with some lovely eye candy to set the mood...

MB's Favorites: Stocking Stuffers

Every year growing up, the stockings were the first things we got to "open" each Christmas morning.  They were lined up the stairs and were always filled with an assortment of fun little trinkets, socks, candies, and the requisite clementine.  Here are some of my ideas for stuffing those stockings this year - a little bit of something for everyone in the family.

1.  Luxurious but affordable shave cream [$4] is great in unscented for the men and vanilla for the ladies.  2.  What kid wouldn't want a giant gorilla eraser [$8]?  3. Snazz up those sneaks with fun laces from J.Crew [$5-6].  4. Baby, Baby, Baby Oh!  These new balms [$4] from Maybelline are budget friendly and so silky. Justin Beiber wouldn't stand a chance.  5.  Young or old artists would appreciate these organic pencils [$8].  6.  Bathroom humor?  These playful matchbooks [$20 for nine] are great for the men, who let's face it, usually cause the stench.  7 & 8.  Pistachios are a little luxury, especially festive over the holidays, and Toblerone reminds me of my childhood.  9.  Embrace your inner 21 year old and head to the jewelry department of Forever 21 for affordable and pretty baubles [starting at $2] for you and your tween.  10.  Mini spatulas [$3] come in handy for creating holiday treats.  11.  Little girls with curls, tie them back with this adorable felt barrette [$3].  12.  Suitable for anyone, this unique toothbrush holder [$8] makes brushing your teeth look fun.  13.  For your munchkins {or your mom} nothing compares to classic Playmobil [$8] toys.  14.  Cute packaging and heavenly scents combine in these solid perfumes [$9].  I travel with mine and they are the perfect pick-me-up on a long flight.  15.  Lego Man Crayons [$6]?  Yes please.  16.  After the bustling holidays, a good nap is in order, enjoy yours in style [$24].

Note: Items without a link are widely available at grocery stores and Target.

MB's Favorites: Gift for the Hostess

Today I've pulled together some favorite treasures that make great gift for the hostess or just a special treat for a gal that likes to entertain.  The idea here to find that perfect thing that they want but wouldn't buy for themselves.

1.  Every woman appreciates a nice hand cream and L'Occitane delivers with this snappy little set [$50] that can be broken up and used for multiple gifts.  2.  Give an adorable hand towel [$20] that nods to where she's from 3.  A beautiful napkin elevates any gathering, this rainbow set [$20] is bright and fun.  4.  Any drink would be thrilled to find a home on one of these festive coasters [$18].  5.  Agate is all the rage and these gorgeous drink stoppers [$30] are the perfect present for your wine lover, or even as a elegant stopper for that bottle of olive oil.  6.  Anytime you can gift a personalized item it instantly makes the recipient feel special, I received a set of these handcrafted initial mugs [$8] and I can attest to their beauty and function.  7. Capri candles are worth the splurge, they last forever and have a such beautifully blended scents.  My favorite is this mercurial encased gem [$25].  8. Striped straws [$4] just make me happy and they snazz up any party.

Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Let me introduce you to a new classic Holiday cookie - Salted Carmel Butter Bars.

Just the name makes my heart stop - a combination of all that is good in baking: butter, sugar, salt.  A perfect marriage of sweet and salty with the richness of classic shortbread.  Its heaven.  And it's easy.  So no excuses, whip up a batch and savor their deliciousness today. 

Salted Caramel Butter Bars
For the Crust:
1 lb. salted butter room temp
1 cup sugar
1½ cups powdered sugar
2 Tbs vanilla
4 cups all purpose flour

Lightly butter a 9×13 inch baking pan and preheat the oven to 325 F.

In a large bowl [use your standup mixer if you have one] combine the butter and sugars. Beat together until creamy and then add the vanilla and beat until combined. Sift the flour into the butter mixture and beat on low speed until a smooth soft dough forms.  Press approximately 1/2 of the dough into your baking dish to form an even crust (about 1/4-1/2 inch thick).

Bake uncovered until firm to the touch and the edges are just barely turning a golden brown.  It took me about 22 minutes to reach that stage, but just watch closely after the 18 minute mark as you don't want to over-bake.  Place on a wire rack and cool for 10-15 minutes.

Place the remaining dough in the fridge.

While the bottom crust is baking a its time to make the caramel filling. I chose to use make the Six Minute Caramel that is all over Pinterest right now.  I was skeptical but it really does turn out perfectly and tastes delicious. [Note: the recipe below can be made and used as caramel candy.  Just place in a lightly greased pan and chill before cutting into individual pieces.]

Filling: Six Minute Caramel
1/4 c. unsalted butter cut into chunks
1/2 c. granulated sugar
1/2 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. light Karo syrup
1/2 c. sweetened condensed milk

Place all of the above ingredients into a medium sized microwave safe bowl and microwave for six minutes, stirirng every two minutes.

Assembly
Pour the caramel filling over the crust, careful its really hot, and sprinkle with the 1 T. of course sea salt.

Remove the remaining chilled dough from the refrigerator and crumble it evenly over the caramel.  It does not have to cover it completely, leaving some gaps is fine.

Return the pan to the oven and bake until the filling is bubbly and the crumbled shortbread topping is firm and lightly golden, about 25 – 30 minutes.

Let cool before cutting into squares.

This is rich, and addicting so I would recommend cutting into small squares so it can be enjoyed responsibly.  Also, these keep great so the option of making them in advance is definitely an option.

MB's Favorites: gifts for the gents

Is it just me, or are guys the hardest to shop for?  They have a tendency to buy what they want, and give vague options as to what they need.  I tend to try to treat Justin to something he uses everyday, but just elevate it so it feels more special.  Hopefully these ideas will provide some inspiration.

1.  If your guy is anything like mine, t-shirts are the go to choice for daily dressing.  Amp his up with a stylish Ames Bros [$32] one.  2.  Coax out the inner gentleman with a handmade dapper bow tie [$68].  3.  OBSESSED.  These amazing Victrola ipod/ipad docks are so beautiful and genius; despite their hefty price tag [$600-$1000] they are sold out everywhere but I still had to share, they would just make the perfect gift.  4.  Treat them to a special cool-down with the delicious small batch spirits from Death's Door [$35], their White Whiskey is unique and beautifully packaged.  5.  Find a piece of art that speaks to their heart, this one is perfect for Justin.  6.  Every guy likes to feel like McGuiver and this handy Swiss Army Knife [$50] can get them out of any situation, and includes a USB.  7.  Moccasin love is not just for the kids, keep your guy's feet warm and toasty with a plush new pair [$45].

MB's Favorites: Gifts for the kids

Although my house is not filled with children, my life certainly is between my niece and nephews and all of our friend's little ones.  These are just some adorable options I'm loving for the kiddos this year.

1.  blabla [$24-$48] has some of the cutest options for stuffed animals and toys, the bugaloos are some of my personal favorites.  2.  my niece Megan is getting a kitchen this year, this charming set of wooden veggies [$24] would make the perfect accessory.  3.  a simple and pretty little frock [$39]  4. indulge your little Star Wars fan and keep them on time with this Darth Vader alarm clock [$25].  5. you can't go wrong with books, especially classics like Roald Dahl [$45]  6.  Iconic footwear [$75] for your mini diva  7.  Slithering [$6] stocking stuffer  8. doesn't get much cuter than mini moccasins [$25]  9. bring nature to life with this whimsical bird puzzle [$58]

MB's Favorites: Gifts for the cook

All this week, tune in for my favorite picks for gifts this year- we'll have options for kids, some for the gents in our lives, and plenty of others.  Today we are starting with my favorite things for the cook in your life, none are essential but all are beautiful and would make lovely additions to that someone special's kitchen.

1  WeckJars [$24] are the gold standard in beautiful canning and have endless uses  2 I am obsessed with individual butter dishes [$5] and these simple white ones are perfect  3 this Verdant Bread Bin [$158] is so beautiful and unique, a thoughtful splurge for your baker  4 every kitchen needs lovely dish towels [$15], etsy is the source for gorgeous handmade ones  5 elevating the essentials with this amazing Ash Cutting Board [$32]  6 cheeky and adorable, on my lust list and a great vase [$48] for the kitchen/dining room  7 every cook appreciates a new cookbook [$21] and this one is chock-full of inspiration  8 Rifle does recipe cards [$12] better than anyone, these ones are especially cute  9 I was gifted these by my sister and they are fantastic and create the perfect chopped herbs every time

Kitchens to love

It's always at this time of year when I yearn extra hard for a bigger kitchen; one with endless amounts of counter tops, plenty of storage for baking suppliers and pretty serving dishes, and room to make the messes I'm famous for.  All of the spaces below represent what my ideal kitchen would be...bright, charming, vintage touches, plenty of open shelving, and industrial accents.

But for now, I'll happily make do with my little space.  The holiday's always bring about baking inspiration and I have a few recipes up my sleeve this weekend that I can't wait to share with you next week.

Welcome December

Oh lovely month of December, how I've waited for you all year.  I love the wintry weather you bring, the festive invitations and libations that often follow, and the opportunity to sing classics like White Christmas freely.  I love that the streets twinkle with colorful lights and strangers wish you Happy Holidays; not to mention the mountains of baked goods and toasty mugs of hot cocoa that beg to be enjoyed, preferably with family and friends. 

You are one of my most favorite months and I welcome you with open arms and lots of plans for fun, holiday centered posts on this ole' blog.  Stay tuned!

Gone

Jackson Hole - SunValley - Palm Desert

See you back here with new posts next week. Have a wonderful holiday week with the ones you love!

Out and About

Hello Lovlies,
I'm out and about today on a quick trip but will be back tomorrow with a real post. In the meantime enjoy these few pretty images.

MB's Favorites: Beauty

I'm excited to introduce a new feature here on This Full Life - MB's Favorites.  Every once in awhile you'll see this pop up, it's a snapshot of some of my favorite things; food, gift ideas, product love, and today...the beauty products I simply can't live without.

{all products listed clockwise, beginning on top row}

1.  Adara Coconut Oil: I grabbed this out of the sale basket at Anthropologie a few years ago and have been obsessed ever since.  My skin is super dry and I credit this for bringing it back to life, no more scaly legs.  Coconut Oil is solid until it gets heated so I keep this in my shower, let it sit under the hot water and within a few seconds I have a silky smooth oil.  It's not just for the body, I use it my hair too.

2.  Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick in Nectar:  Confession, I used to work for Bobbi Brown and I'm a firm believer in all of her products.  The iconic Shimmer Brick is one of my favs because it adds just the right amount of shimmer without looking like a tween.  Nectar is that glorious coral color and really brightens up my cheeks and doubles as eye shadow some days.

3.  Bobbi Brown Long Wearing Gel Liner and L'Oreal Telescopic Mascara:  This eyeliner is the only one I've found that won't run and smudge.  Some get intimidated by having to use a brush, but trust me it actually is so much easier then a pencil once you've had a bit of practice.  And this mascara is the bomb - it grabs all the little lashes without being a gunk fest and stays put all day.  Love.

4.  Johnson's Baby Lotion in Vanilla Oatmeal:  I'm a lotion lover, my skin craves it and this has been a happy budget surprise.  It's scent is subtle and reminds me a lot of the Laura Mercier Creme Brulee Cream but comes in at just a fraction of the cost.  It's moisturizing without being sticky and a great daily indulgence.

5.  Benefit Coralista: The easiest way to perk up your face is a pop of blush.  Truth!  This little box of magic is a great option, it has the tiniest hint of shimmer but not in the glitter sense and really just enhances your complexion.  It is a very sheer pop of color so even though it reads a bit bright is goes on beautifully and smells oh so divine.

6.  Covergirl WetSlicks: Gloss and I have a love hate relationship.  I love the sheen but hate the goop - enter Covergirl WetSlicks.  This stuff has the right combination of sparkle and slip, no it won't last all day, but it will make your lips look fabulous and it comes in a ton of fun colors.  From neutral to bold you can try them all {they are less than $8 a pop}.

7.  Mario Badescu Glycolic Gel: If I could only live with one product from the list above it would have to be this baby.  Not that many years ago I had what the dermatologist sweetly referred to as "congested skin" aka blackheads, breakout prone, ugly.  I had tried all the usual suspects like ProActiv, Retin A, etc. but nothing really seemed to help.  I can't remember how I found out about Mario but I ordered this and have been obsessed with it for more than four years.  It is the secret weapon for my skin clearing up, it helps with fine lines, old scars, it doesn't dry me out, and it is AMAZING.  I keep it by my bed each night, no washing of the face, no nothing...just this superstar and I have had maybe five breakouts in the last four years. Miracle!

8.  Bobbi Brown Tinted Balm:  Just the fact that this is a balm makes me love this product.  It is a mini hug in a jar, tinted enough to cover basic imperfections but lush enough to moisturize your skin and protect it from daily sins.  It smells live heaven, is so much more than any other tinted moisturizer I've tried, and every morning it brings my skin to life.

So there you go...my beauty arsenal.  These are the items I reach for each and every day to make me feel finished and ready to face the day.  I would love to hear what your favorites are - leave a comment if you want to share.