Countdown to the Holidays!

via Minna An, Glut with Guts

Things are starting to get festive around here! As a perpetual apartment dweller, I've never been much for decorating, other than a bunch of flowers every rare once in a while. Living with Sharx, she loves decorating, and we got together with friends for a holiday baking party. I must say, these ladies are pretty talented.

via Minna An, Glut with Guts

I'm addicted to clementines in the winter, they're like candy to me! Anyways, thanks PINTEREST, for the awesome instructions on making these clementine candles! You just peel the skin evenly, pour in a smidgen of olive oil, and it burns like a candle!

I've never been much for baking (I much prefer cooking), but it was so fun and festive to make these beautiful (and not so beautiful) treats!

A Rice Crispy Treat Snowman! via Glut with Guts

Creme Brulee via Glut with Guts

via Glut with Guts

The "winner" cupcakes, via Glut with Guts

via Glut with Guts

via Glut with Guts

The "reject" cupcakes, via Glut with Guts

How are you getting ready for the holidays? Any festive plans in mind?

Holiday Season w/Dose

Recently, Monica and I have visited many many many shopping events, but the best so far this holiday season has been the HoliDose Market! Held monthly at the River East Arts Center, this is one of the largest indoor markets, with food and products one would ACTUALLY want (no offense, but granny knit scarves and ornate ornaments are not my thing). Below are some photos from the December holiday themed market. Read more about it at the Chicagoist.

via Minna An--Chicagoist, aka Me

via Minna An--Chicagoist

via Minna An

via Minna An

via Minna An

via Minna An

I'm so excited for my indulgent purchases! I bought Bourbon glazed churro flavored marshmallows (to torch with my new creme brulee torch!), bourbon aged maple syrup (starting to notice a love for bourbon here..), ROSE PINK CAVIAR, toasted macroons and a new Zagat wine opener, the one I'll plan on carrying in all my purses, you just never know!