THANKSGIVING & MACY'S THEATER OF LIGHTS

 This year for Thanksgiving, we stayed local and cooked dinner ourselves! We have done this in the past, but I have usually opted for cooking a turkey breast, as a full turkey somewhat intimidated me. This year, I decided to bite the bullet, and boy was it worth it! Besides waking up to an overnight leak in my brining bag, and a big mess in the fridge, the meal and day went off without any hiccups. After tasting my deliciously brined and cooked turkey, I vowed to ALWAYS do it this way! We enjoyed a lovely dinner and time with just the two of us! We ventured out later for Old Sacramento's Macy's Theater of Lights, which is a show held on the balconies of historic buildings in old town. We were entertained with historical facts, a reading of "T'was the Night Before Christmas", a light show, holiday music, and snow! It was really fun and a great way to get us in the holiday spirit!

CHOCOLATE PECAN PIE BARS & A TABLE FOR TWO

 Derek and I have had our fair shares of Thanksgivings with family and friends, surrounded by delicious food and loud laughter. We have also had a fair share just the two of us, in our little home, feasting on our favorites like cornbread stuffing and rolls. (We clearly are a pro-carb family here, folks). This year, we are dining just the two of us. Although we miss our families, and the camaraderie of the day, we do enjoy years when we can spend an entire day together. This, my friends, is a rarity unto itself. Using simple items from around the house, our table for two this year will also consist of turkey, cornbread stuffing (this year I used sage sausage instead of bacon!), mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, rolls, green beans & gravy. For dessert, Derek requested his favorite chocolate cream pie, while I prefer a twist on the classic, pecan pie. These chocolate drizzled pecan bars are ooey and gooey, and going to make anyone you serve them to a very full, and happy camper. Happy Thanksgiving to all!

APPLE HILL

 Scattered through El Dorado County, outside of Placerville, is a smattering of apple orchards known as Apple Hill. Derek and I ventured East early on Saturday morning, and enjoyed the beautiful drive through the hills, arriving at High Hill Ranch before the crowds. We were first in line for hot apple fritters and cider, both the best we have ever tasted. We strolled the ranch, and shops, before heading to our second destination, Rainbow Orchards, for famously known apple cider donuts. After venturing to the different orchards, we stopped in Placerville, and walked the historic downtown. It was absolutely picture perfect. I kept telling Derek I felt like I was back in Rexburg or a real life Stars Hallow (Gilmore Girls). With sarsaparilla and root beer in hand, it was the perfect way to spend our afternoon. Apple Hill may be one of my new favorite places in the area. It's pretty easy to win me over with donuts, cider, and beautiful scenery.

MICKEY'S HALLOWEEN PARTY

Before moving up north, my friend Amy mentioned the idea of attending Mickey's Halloween Party at Disneyland, and I was all for it! The tickets were purchased during the summer, and then we had to nail down our costumes for the night! We settled on the original Mousketeers, including ruffle bobbi-socks and pleated skirts. We had a super fun night going from ride to ride (waiting in no lines!) and of course enjoying the wonderful atmosphere of all things Disney! The weekend was made even better with a ladies night out at the mall, and breakfast with my favorite girls and their Mom, Mandy. It's always so comforting to come back and find that people make time for you when you come around for a visit! Now, when can I go back? Meeska, Mouska, Mickey Mouse!