CORNBREAD STUFFING

 Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. I think the fact that it revolves around some of my most favorite foods and people is one of the biggest reasons. It's a time to get together with those we love and literally feast. I wait all year for creamy mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, and this cornbread stuffing. The smoky bacon, crunchy apple, and aromatic herbs make this stuffing the centerpiece of any table. Move over turkey, there's a new favorite in town.

THANKSGIVING TABLE SETTING

In the years we have been married, Derek and I have had our own Thanksgiving for two years, been with family for two, and last year, Derek was delivering babies while I flew solo with my family. Every year is a new chance for my tried and true recipes like my cornbread, bacon and apple stuffing (recipe to come!) and new table settings for your guests to enjoy. Dress up your table this year with fresh sprigs of rosemary, dainty gold pumpkins, and simple decor like butcher paper and lace doilies for a casual, yet somehow elegant feel.

KNOTTS BERRY FARM

This past weekend, we ventured to Knotts Berry Farm for the first time since living in San Diego. Derek had never been, but had driven by as a child on his way to Disneyland and remembers thinking, "That place looks awesome!". I grew up with a pass, but hadn't been in over 8 years, so it was fun to see the changes, as well as the classics still in operation. We rode roller coasters, took it easy on the restored 1900's steam engine & log ride, and shared a piece of their famous boysenberry pie. We had a great time and ended up getting passes for 2015 to add to our large collection... I think we might have a problem!

PUMPKIN PIE

For all the time I spend in the kitchen cooking, I am a very timid baker. With cooking, I am free to add ingredients as I choose to taste, and the restriction of strict measuring has always made me shy away from baking. This year, I wanted to step out of my comfort zone this holiday season and whip up some pies for Thanksgiving. With the help of my friend Amy, (a seasoned baker and pie connoisseur) we spent a Wednesday night baking, eating, and binge movie watching "The Hunger Games" and "Catching Fire". To say we are thrilled for "Mockingjay" is the understatement of the year. We topped the pie with fresh whipped cream, and even though it melted a little on the hot pie, it sunk down through the pumpkin for a velvety richness all the way to the crust. With pie in hand and movies on the screen, the night couldn't have been more perfect. Well, if Peeta had baked the pie himself, that would be a totally different story.

PUMPKIN PAINTING

Is there any better way to celebrate the welcome of Fall and cooler weather (finally in San Diego) then eating yummy treats, painting pumpkins, and girl talk? I think not.