Monday, February 26, 2018

Macarons

When my husband got home from work a few weeks ago, he gave me a well deserved baby break. All I wanted to do was stop by my favorite French bakery for a coffee and a treat. 


I was craving macarons, but I've had to follow a dairy-free diet while nursing, so I couldn't eat any of those pretty little cookies behind the display case (often due to the filling.) 


So, I decided to make my own dairy-free macarons!
I've heard macarons are difficult to make, but I've been wanting to try them out for some time now, so I figured it was the perfect time. 


Isn't it funny how a photo can sometimes disguise reality?


To be completely honest, this is how most of my macarons really turned out! 


These little guys are temperamental. I've been following this straightforward recipe on Pinterest, but my shells keep turning out flat and hollow. 


I'm determined to make successful macarons! I've made them a couple times, and I've been trying to trouble-shoot and fix the flat, hollow shells, but I haven't had any luck so far. (Any suggestions would be appreciated!) It has definitely been a learning experience though. I now know some fancy macaron terminology, like "folding in" and "feet".


I will let you know when (or if!) I master the macaron. 


Have you made macarons? What's your favorite bakery treat?

~Jess

Monday, February 12, 2018

Valentine's Day

I don't have a lot of Valentine's decor, 


but here are a few pink and reds around my house. 





Wishing you a week of love!


~Jess

Monday, February 5, 2018

A Very Special Announcement

I have some exciting news to share, friends...


You know how I just love books, right?



Well, I am delighted to announce that this year my husband and I will be adding a whole new collection to our home library... ( ;


We're having a baby!


I'm finally out of the first trimester (goodbye morning sickness!), and our little one is due to join the family this August. Baby Francesca is so excited to meet her new cousin and BFF!


Of course, my mom is thrilled to be a grandma again. I prepared a sweet little surprise for her when I came back for Christmas.


We should know the sex in a couple of weeks, so stay tuned for the big reveal...

~ Nel