Alice + Olivia Blazer, Old Navy Hoodie, Madewell Tee, AGOLDE Denim, Gucci Mules, Chanel Handbag
I feel like I’ve only just recovered from my cabbage roll coma, a direct result of an amazing Thanksgiving long weekend. This week has been more recovery than hustle, and while that used to stress me out, I’ve learned to embrace the uncontrollable waves that this season has brought with it. Sick children means my week has been wiped, although it has forced me to start working on their Halloween costumes, which if we’re being honest I wouldn’t have started until the week of Halloween. This outfit has been my go-to as of late, and there are so many variations to mix it up. I’ve worn it with my white Reebok instead of the mules, I’ve swapped out the blazer for my leather jacket, and I’ve thrown on a loose, boyfriend style of denim. Having staples such as denim that makes you feel fab, a hoodie, and a fresh white tee are such great building blocks to create numerous outfits without the headache of pondering what goes together. I’m curious, how many of you have the basics ready to go in your closet?
Photos by Kiera Schussler
Canadian Thanksgiving is this weekend and I love that it’s unofficially the kickoff holiday for the festive season. I have vivid memories of Thanksgiving dinners at my Grandparent’s growing up, the house filled with family and friends, the table filled with turkey, cabbage rolls, potatoes and gravy, and delicious homemade pumpkin pie. I remember going to the park with my fellow cousins and jumping in the leaves that my Grandpa had raked up. It’s safe to say that I’m ridiculously excited to stuffing my face spending time with loved ones this coming weekend. While typically Thanksgiving is only complete once that pumpkin pie has made it’s way into your belly, I wanted to share some less traditional Thanksgiving options that are equally delicious, but perhaps a touch less intimidating than rolling out that pastry.
This Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Pecan Crust is what dreams are made of. You’ll have to prepare the night before as the cheesecake needs the night in the refrigerator to set, but the extra wait time is offset by how simple it is to make. I think we could all agree, a dessert that we can bake a day or two ahead is ideal when preparing for the big day.
I know that traditionally gingerbread is more Christmas than Thanksgiving, but the spiciness of these Gingerbread Cupcakes with Candied Ginger are a nice end to a feast, and who doesn’t love gingerbread any time of year?! I know there are a few souls out there to whom pumpkin doesn’t speak to them, gasp, I know, and the deliciousness and holiday feel of these cupcakes makes it less of a letdown when there’s no pumpkin pie served at the table.
I’ve made this Spiced Pumpkin Layer Cake multiple times, and every time I ask myself why I don’t make it more often. It’s from the Epicurious Cookbook, and I found the recipe online here, although it should be noted I eliminated the coconut, orange peel and raisins. What can I say, I don’t like distracting from the pumpkin. It’s topped with cream cheese frosting with a dash of cinnamon and it’s a wonderful departure from the traditional pumpkin pie.
Now that there’s little ones running around in the family, it’s nice to bring something to the table that’s a touch more exciting for them than pie. These Caramel Pumpkin Cupcakes do just the trick, they’re topped off with a tangy cream cheese frosting and drizzled with caramel. I have yet to meet a little one who doesn’t like cupcakes, or at least the idea of cupcakes.
I made these Turkey Cake Pops one year, with inspiration from the Cake Pop Queen, Bakerella, and let’s just say they were almost too perfect to eat, almost. I’m a sucker for a good take home, and that’s honestly what I love most about laboring over a batch of cake pops. Well that and the fact you can create something very much on theme for the event, and there’s always a wow factor, even from the over 18 crowd.
Aritzia Dress, Loeffler Randall Boots, Chanel Handbag
I don’t think I’ve met a leopard print I didn’t like, and this dress was no exception. I love how versatile a dress like this can be, and I appreciate how easy it is to mix and match leopard print with the other neutrals in my closet. While it wasn’t crisp enough while taking these photos, in cooler temps I would throw a leather jacket on top of this look. I also enjoy wearing this dress donning my white sneakers for a slightly more casual vibe. Throw a chunky turtleneck over top in the winter months with tights underneath and it’s a completely different ensemble. Or layer an oversized white tee with the hem tied in a side knot, add flats or sneakers, boom, another look. If a piece of clothing only works in a single way, it’s no longer welcome in my closet. So let’s just say, this dress received an exuberant reception upon arrival.
It’s officially October and that means I’m publicly allowed to share all things pumpkin. I’ve indulged in the occasional pumpkin spice latte too early to report to you, so for now we’ll just pretend this is my first foray into the gloriousness of all things pumpkin this season. I’ve never been a huge Nanaimo Bar fan over the years, and I couldn’t pinpoint the exact reason why for you either. Yet when I saw these Pumpkin Chocolate Cheesecake Bars in the Butter Celebrates! cookbook, I knew I had to test them out. Oh. My. Goodness. These little bars of deliciousness are almost indescribably good. Oreo cookie crumb crust with a creamy, pumpkin cheesecake middle, topped with a thing layer of dark chocolate. I used 70% Cacao chocolate, and it complimented the cheesecake and Oreo wonderfully. It’s literally perfection in every bite. Excuse me while I have another bar or three, just to make sure they’re on point for you guys.
Equipment Blouse, Paige Denim, DVF Cardigan, Rebecca Minkoff Belt, Valentino Handbag
Friday is coming in hot with a snowfall worthy of North of the Wall. So while others may be upset about the extra precipitation, I’m holding out hope that post snowfall we’ll still get another taste of fall. I have plans for all the cozy stay-in activities for the weekend, which will probably include pulling out the winter gear for a round of fun in the snow. While snow is on the agenda, I’m also excited to start donning outfits such as this, which could easily take one from a mid day meeting to drinks with friends after work. One of my favourite looks from the past couple of years has been a tucked in blouse with a fabulous belt to top it off. I’m finally able to wear my jeans sans the elastic band holding them together (a classic maternity trick, that I carried well into postpartum life), which means all of the tucking in and all of the belts. Be prepared to see this look reworked all fall long my friends.
Photos by Kiera Schussler
