{Recipes} Classic Snowballs with a Christmas Twist.

"Classic Snowballs" are definitely a favorite in our home. They are a go to recipe for us...a quick sweet treat that requires no baking. I have enjoyed making these treats for many years with my own Mom. They are so versatile and can be used for any occasion or just as a quick no bake everyday treat.

Myself and the kids decided to make these during the holidays. Instead of the classic white coconut, we gave them some Christmas Flair. We turned our snowballs into snowball pops! I have never tried it, but I am betting these would be delish dipped in chocolate! Another time we will have to do just that. If you have a craving for snowballs someday (like I do ALOT. LOL) I have included a super easy shortcut version...if you do not want to take the time to roll.

I have changed the recipe a bit over time, as anyone who has made snowballs will tell you...you have to get the boiling factor just right and the milk...or you could end up with snowballs that will not roll....and will end in failure...too hard or too mushy. :) The classic recipe requires 10 mins of time, but fails to tell you if it is 10 mins from boiling point or from the time it is set to the burner. This is the biggest question I am asked when sharing the recipe. So, I have taken the guess work out of the boiling factor and tweaked the ingredient measurements so they are just right.

Over the holidays we teamed up with Jillian of Catch my Party to create a FREE printable Christmas Collection. We used the party circles from our line for our snowball pops. You can find the entire "Jingle all the way" collection here.



Serendipity Soiree's Snowballs

You will need:

Measures, Medium saucepan, whisk, large spoon or silicone spatula, wax paper, medium Mixing Bowl, Small Bowls (mixing coconut), toothpicks, cookie sticks, food coloring (various colors-optional)

Ingredients:

1.
1/2 cup Butter - Salted (you could also use unsalted...the original recipe calls for hard margarine)
2 cups Granulated Sugar
1/2 cup Milk (we use evaporated tin milk. You could also use 2 percent)

2.
6 tbsp Cocoa Powder (we use fryer's brand...it has to be rich unsweetened cocoa powder)
3 cups Quick Rolled Oats (not instant)
1/2 cup Fine Unsweetened Coconut (you can also use medium)
a pinch of salt

1 tsp vanilla

3.
1 cup of Fine Unsweetened Coconut (for rolling...you can also use medium)

Instructions:

In a Medium mixing bowl, add dry ingredients plus vanilla. Stir well. Set aside

In a small bowl, add coconut for rolling. Set aside. (for colored coconut variation see below)

In a medium saucepan, add butter, sugar and milk. Heat on medium, stirring frequently, until the mixture comes to a boil. Remove saucepan.

Combine the milk mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir well. Cool mixture to a warm temperature that you can handle.

Roll into 1 inch balls or 1.5 inch whichever you prefer. We make our snowballs a little larger because I can't resist them. LOL. Roll your Chocolate balls into coconut and place on a wax paper sheet. Cool completely to set the mixture. You can also set on trays and refrigerate to speed up the process. When I just can't wait I take one and place it in the freezer for a few minutes so I can eat one right away....I love snowballs! :)

Variations:

Colored Coconut - Liquid colors work well....we use Wilton gel type colors to get richer colors. Dip a toothpick into your desired color and add to coconut. Add a teaspoon of water to the coconut and combine until your coconut is the desired color you want. We use our hands to combine the colors.

Snowball Pops - To make snowball pops as pictured. Take cookie sticks and place in the rolled snowballs immediately after rolling. When making pops we set on a tray and refrigerate to set the sticks in place.

Snow mounds - When we are feeling lazy and do not want to roll into balls. We make snow mounds. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto waxed paper. Sprinkle with coconut. Shake off excess coconut and place on a tray to cool completely. Again Refrigerating speeds up the process.

The quick version - Snow Mounds

ENJOY!

{Beauty} Gorgeous Nails for New Years Eve - The Half Moon Manicure

We have been seeing this edgy manicure everywhere...the half moon manicure. We love it! Get this Gorgeous look for your New Years Eve Party. Try it in different colors...instead of the navy pictured...try silver and black...gold and black...or a two tone gold and silver! Tutorial and links below.

  

photos credit: kristin ess + thebeautydepartment.com

TOOLS

Silver metallic or glitter polish

Navy polish

10 reinforcement stickers

Clear top coat

STEPS

1. Start with clean, bare nails that have been filed.

2. Apply 1 to 2 coats of the silver polish (depending on the coverage of the polish). Be sure to paint your whole nail. If the color ends up showing through the navy polish it will just add a little sparkle, but it is important to have a smooth first layer. Let the polish dry for at least 30 minutes. It is important your nails are dry before placing the reinforcement stickers on them or else the stickers will peel off the polish and you will have to start all over again.

3. Once nails are completely dry, place a reinforcement sticker on each nail with the outside of the sticker mimicking the shape of the moon of your nail. Cutting a slit in each sticker will allow the stickers lay more evenly on each nail. You can decide what size you would like the moons to be, but it is important that the size stay consistent across all your nails for it to look right. Once they are all placed where you would like them, apply pressure to each making sure they are secure to your nail.

4. Now paint the top half or your nail with 2 coats of navy blue polish. Let this coat dry for at least 10 mins.

5. Once that’s dry, carefully pull the reinforcement stickers off of each nail.

6. Finish with a clear top coat.

Get all of the details via The beauty department here!



{Christmas} Snowman LOVE.

Snowman Love or Snow Couple I should say! via Bakerella

Confession: I have a serious crush on Snowmen. LOL. I fell in Love when I was little, the first time I watched the iconic film "Frosty the snowman". I adored making anything related to Snowmen. Building them, crafting them and Drawing them. I still HAVE to watch Frosty every Christmas...and now my kids are hooked. :)

There are so many adorable snow people creation ideas. Here are some of our favorites!

These are my absolute favorite version of snowman cakepops via Tumbler.

Adore this Snoman cake in the 2009 issue of "family circle." Get the recipe here!

These Chocolate snowman bowls are ADORABLE! Find the tutorial here at the Brilliant

 One Charming Party Blog!

These Sugar Cookies are adorable...find them here: Lorisplace

What a cute gift idea at SimplyPosh by Mel

How adorable is this infant hat set for Christmas Photoshoots?! Available at BeeBeeKins

Adorable Ice Cream snowman from the Dec 2000 edition of Martha Stewart...

I still have this issue! Get the tutorial here.

Love little Muslin bags. They are perfect for holding little treats and trinkets. 

Get them here.

Easy Chocolate dipped Marshmallow Snowmen. Get the tutorial here.

Big Bento fans here! Check out this adorable Snowman lunch via Lisa Storms

Fondant Cupcake Perfection - See here

Taking Milk in a jug to a whole new level! From BHG

My two a few years ago standing proud with their frosty friend. :)

{Halloween} Candy Apple Phantom Cuties + Tutorial

Instead of the traditional candy apple this year, we decided to make something simple that still had the sweet factor. We had been seeing a new caramel "wrap" everywhere in stores and thought why not try fondant "wraps". It is surprising how yummy marshmallow fondant is wrapped around a Macintosh apple. The bitter mixed with the sweet is quite tasty. Not to mention how cute the apple is costumed as a ghost. :) What I loved  as a Mom...they were simple for the kids to make and no worrying about them getting hurt around hot caramel sauce. Read on for this simple tutorial.

Our cute little apple phantom.

What you will need:

• Apples (We used macintosh)
• Marshmallow or rolled fondant - Recipe from Wilton or store bought.
• Marshmallows (large)
• Edible Food writer - black (wilton)
• Branches - cut to desired length 8-10 inch (for Candy sticks)
• Fondant mat or non-stick sheet
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter

I like to create a smooth round ball with my fondant before rolling. I also prefer to use a non-stick pizza pie sheet as opposed to those fondant mats when doing small fondant jobs, as it eliminates the need for using sugar or oil so the fondant does not stick. Many people who are new to fondant get frustrated with fondant sticking :) If you prefer the mat go for it. Roll your fondant out into a thin circle shape with your pin.

I decided to use a small salad plate as a guide for the circle. Most times I cut with a pizza cutter, but today I used a sharp knife...both work great.

To make the shape for the ghost head, I placed a large marshmallow on top of the apple.

I then took my fondant circle and evenly draped the apple.

I shaped the fondant around the apple to resemble a ghost costume.

I cut off the excess fondant.

I pushed a branch through the top of the ghost for a handle. I then used a edible food writer to give our friend eyes ( to see who was about to eat him. lol ) :)

We think he looks pretty cute and tasty too! ;)

Ghostly twins. :) Yummy...waiting for their demise..then again they are already ghosts! ;)

{Halloween} Get the Look - Fabulous Kid size Halloween Costumes!

Oh my word! Talk about Fabulous Costumes! You too can DIY these adorable kid size looks! Read on for the deets on how to re-create these darling Halloween get-ups with sources and diy tips or get budget friendly ready-made versions!

Superhero Girl

 To re-create: Superhero costume (dress, cape, armbands, and socks) (customizable, starting at $160); fairytalejubilee.etsy.com), go-go boots ($28; chasing-fireflies.com)

To get the look on a budget:  Wonder Woman costume ($25; partycity.com)

Bank Robber

To re-create: Sweater ($38) and jumper pants ($30; americanapparel.com), Vans slip-ons($30; shoes.com), wool beret ($10; villagehatshop.com), money bag ($22; halloweenexpress.com), fingerless gloves ($12; americanapparel.com)

To get the look on a budget: Wear dark clothing and a mask ($7; powercapes.com). Draw a dollar sign on a pillowcase and use it as your trick-or-treat bag.

Clark Kent

To re-create: Mod suit ($132; appaman.com), French Toast oxford shirt ($15; jcp.com), superhero pajama shirt (part of set, $36; hannaandersson.com), Jefferson shoes ($46; striderite.com)

Get the look on a budget: Child Clark Kent costume ($20; spookshop.com), Clark Kent glasses ($5; partycity.com)

FAIRY TALE - Swan lake

To re-create: Swan Princess costume (customizable, starting at $160) and headpiece ($50; fairytalejubilee.etsy.com), wings ($20; fashionwings.com), Jefferies tights ($10; kidssocks.com), Me Too shoes ($16; 6pm.com)

DIY: Hot-glue white feathers onto a white tutu and mix it with a white leotard with ballerina slippers. Cut wings out of a poster board or foam board and glue on white feathers. Place the wings to child. Where the shoulders are, punch two holes about 6” apart from each other vertically. String elastic through for the arms to go through. Securely knot the elastic in the back of the board.

To get the look on a budget: Swan Lake Princess costume ($28; amazon.com)

FAIRY TALE - Little Red Riding Hood

To re-create: Hat ($22; thecheshireshat.etsy.com), Mini Boden tank ($13; nordstrom.com), Sofie skirt ($45; petitcouture.com), Gingham skirt ($26; americanapparel.com), Jefferies socks ($5; kidssocks.com), Stella shoes ($50; pediped.com)

DIY: Match a white shirt with a checkered skirt, red argyle socks and a red scarf.
Get this look ready made: Red Riding Hood costume ($18; halloweencostumes4u.com)

Big Bad Wolf

To re-create: Wolf coat ($165; littlegoodall.etsy.com), Harem pants ($82; babyladyinc.com), boots ($40; Marshalls stores)

DIY: Cut out eyes, nose, and ears out of felt and hot-glue to the hood of a gray jacket. For added decoration, hot-glue a button on top of the felt for the eyes. Hot-glue 3 claws cut out of felt and hot glue onto the jacket’s cuffs. For the tail, hot-glue or sew a 1’ brown boa onto the bottom back of the jacket. Add pants, shirt and shoes from your closet.

To get the look on a budget: Wolf costume ($59; potterybarnkids.com)

Frog Prince

To re-create: Mini-crown ($20; ftogfr.etsy.com), frog costume ($30; buycostumes.com)
To get this look on a budget: Wear green pajamas and Party King crown ($10; partycity.com)



CIRCUS - Tight-rope Walker

To re-create: Circus dress (customizable, starting at $160) and top hat ($45; fairytalejubilee.etsy.com), tights ($8; welovecolors.com), Tara shoes ($52; pediped.com)

To get the look on a budget:  Leo's satin leotard ($15) and Natalie rainbow tutu ($11; discountdance.com), Colorful Fun mini-top hat ($15; mmiller55.etsy.com)

DIY: Pair a stripe tank with two bold-colored layered tutus over bright tights. For an extra touch, hot-glue feathers onto a cloth headband.



CIRCUS - Lion Tamer

To re-create: La Miniatura jacket ($150; ronrobinson.com), swimsuit ($30; petit-bateau.us), hat ($34; uniquevintage.com), Sofie tutu ($45; petitcouture.com), Jefferies tights ($10; kidssocks.com), Tonya boots ($69; pediped.com)

Get the look on a budget: Pumpkin Patch jacket ($37; nordstrom.com), Ballet dress ($20; oldnavy.com), top hat ($6; amazon.com)

DIY: Borrow a suit jacket from brother or find one at a thrift store and coordinate it with a skirt and boots. Wrap a hoola hoop with ribbon and secure every 5” with hot glue. Add Grandpa’s top hat for the finishing touch.

Lion

To re-create: Lion hat ($65; sweetpeatoad.bigcartel.com), unitard ($50; welovecolors.com), slippers ($10; fivesisterz.etsy.com)

Get the look on a budget: Lil' Lion Elite Collection ($36; amazon.com)

DIY: Draw claws with a sharpie on mittens that coordinate with a solid colored pajama set. For the mane, cut ribbon in 4” strips and hot glue ends (to make loops) to a brown beanie. Cover the beanie completely with ribbon loops.

Strongman

To re-create: Brute singlet ($34; amazon.com), tights ($9; welovecolors.com), Bogs shoes ($45; zappos.com), 4-inch belt ($17; bodybuilding.com), fingerless gloves ($12; americanapparel.com), mustache (12-pack, $4; amazon.com), Barbell made with 12-inch balls ($21 each; innovation.com)

Get the look on a budget: Strongman costume ($30; buycostumes.com), barbell ($8; halloweenexpress.com)

DIY: Borrow a dance unitard or find one at a thrift store. Pair it with striped tights. Draw on a mustache with eyeliner. Wrap dad’s black belt around the waist. Buy an inexpensive black pair of black gloves at Target or Walmart and cut off the fingers.
Barbell:

1. Use acrylic paint to draw a red star on two 12-inch Styrofoam balls ($21 each; shapeinnovation.com). Paint the rest of the balls silver and let dry. With finger, smear glue over the star and generously sprinkle red glitter on it. Once dry, shake the excess glitter off.
2. Wrap a 30 inch long and 1 inch in diameter pvc pipe (from hardware store) with black ribbon. Hot glue ribbon to pipe every 2 inches.
3. Stick one end of the pipe into each of the balls and generously hot glue the pipe in place.

Clown

To re-create: Clown top (customizable, starting at $65; fairytalejubilee.etsy.com), Glitter pants ($59; babyladyinc.com), wig ($30; halloweenexpress.com), shoes ($17; partycity.com)

Get the look on a budget: Polka-dot skirt (as shirt) ($5; kvwilson1029.etsy.com), two-color tights ($11; americanapparel.com), clown shoes ($13; costumecraze.com)

DIY: Place a tutu around the neck so it hangs over the shoulders. Pair it with leggings and clown wig, red nose and funky shoes.

~ adapted from parenting

{DIY} Make your own Moonsand!

Everyone has probably heard of "moonsand" if you have little ones. While it is not a wallet breaker...why buy it when you can make it easily at home and cheaper!

There are alot of recipes out there...this recipe uses oil instead of water to prevent drying out.

What you will need:

3 cups play sand (available at your local hardware store)

1 1/2 cups corn starch

3/4 cups oil to prevent drying out / alternatively you can use water

airtight container/ziploc bags

To really make it fun make several batches in different colors. You can buy playsand in many colors of the rainbow.

1. Mix the oil and cornstarch together thoroughly, till nice and smooth.
    
2. Gradually mix in the sand, one cup at a time. Really work it together with your fingers.
    
3. Just add kids! Let the fun begin! Sand box and beach toys make perfect moulds!

When you are all done...store in an airtight container/ ziploc bags

If using water, you'll need to revive it with 2-3 tablespoons of water. Just sprinkle the water over it and work it in.

{Freebie} DIY Father's day ideas + Printables round up!

With father's day just around the corner, we thought we would share some wonderful  printables, ideas, diy and freebies! Hope you enjoy the roundup!

1. Number one on our list is the ever so talented TomKat Studios. We are loving these adorable little Father's day cards. Your only worry will be which one to choose!

2. Tie-riffic Father's day printables from Shindig parties to go. The set includes a cute tie-shaped "Happy Father's Day" banner, some great tie-shaped centerpiece signs, and cupcake topper sized ties, too. These are just to much! Adorable.

3. Check out these fun Father's day printables from Love Party Printables. This collection has everything you could ever want at your Father’s Day celebration:  party tags, invitations, flags, tented cards, large tented cards, large labels, water bottle labels, napkin rings, favor tags, and the cutest “Happy Father’s Day” banner. Click here to download.

4. How about some fun retro personalized pistachios -- or pickles or hot sauce? Turn any of Dad's favorites into a custom gift for Father's day! Click here for download. Martha Stewart.



5. Father's day HO HO's + Recipe and Printables! Click here for tutorial and download @ Living Locurto

6. How about a breakfast in bed for the favorite Men in our life! Also from Living Locurto. Free party circles, flags and free notecards. Click here for download.

7. Not a freebie...but inspiration for a neck tie/ bow tie inspired party or luncheon.

Mix it up just a little bit by passing out chocolate mustaches as favors. They make for a fun photo-op, too! -- Bliss Bloom Blog

This brand new die-cut invitation by Stevie Streck is perfectly "suited" for the occasion -- available at FineStationery.com

This shirt and necktie cake could serve as the centerpiece for your luncheon. Be sure to use Dad's favorite flavors for the filling and icing! -- Tiepedia

Embellish sandwiches of any kind with small pennant flags in stripes, checks or polka dots -- Joyful Weddings and Events

Dress up simple floral containers with ribbon tied to look like a bow-tie -- Joyful Weddings and Events

Wrap presents with a fancy bow-tie for fun -- Martha Stewart

If you insist on buying Dad a brand new tie, make it a monogrammed tie to be personal -- Martha Stewart

~fine stationary

8.  For those at a loss for words we have some of our favorite quotes about Dad's. Use them to personalize cards, photobooks or scrapbooking pages.

Any man can be a father. It takes someone special to be a dad.

Fatherhood is pretending the present you love most is soap-on-a-rope.  ~Bill Cosby

I don't care how poor a man is; if he has family, he's rich.  ~M*A*S*H, Colonel Potter

"My father didn't tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it." -- Clarence Budington Kelland