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If there’s one thing we know about interior design, it’s that trends are always evolving! As we step into 2025, we’re seeing a shift in home decor that embraces a more refined, timeless aesthetic. One of the biggest changes? Gold hardware and accents are on their way out, making room for the return of polished nickel!  But that’s not all—let’s dive into the must-know trends shaping interiors this year. Bye-Bye Gold, Hello Polished Nickel For years, gold hardware and accents have dominated kitchens, bathrooms, and furniture. While they added warmth and elegance, 2025 is all about a cooler, sleeker vibe.  Enter polished nickel , the perfect balance between classic and modern. Unlike chrome, polished nickel offers a softer shine with a slightly warmer undertone, making it a versatile choice that complements a variety of design styles. 🔹 Where to Incorporate: Kitchen cabinet hardware for a fresh, updated look Bathroom faucets and fixtures for a refined touch Lighting fixtures for a subtle but sophisticated upgrade Door handles and hinges to seamlessly tie a space together Warm Woods & Rich Neutrals While cool tones ruled for the past few years, we’re seeing a strong shift towards warmer woods and rich neutrals. Think walnut and oak finishes  over stark white cabinetry, and taupe, beige, and greige replacing crisp white walls. This trend leans into organic modern and quiet luxury aesthetics , offering spaces that feel cozy, grounded, and timeless. Statement Stone Takes Over Marble and stone are no longer just for countertops—they're taking center stage in unexpected ways. Dramatic veining, honed and leathered finishes, and bold stone furniture pieces  are making waves. Whether it’s a marble backsplash extending to the ceiling, a travertine coffee table, or a fluted limestone fireplace surround, statement stone is redefining luxury in 2025. Curved & Softened Edges Say goodbye to sharp, angular furniture— curves are taking over.  Softer edges in sofas, coffee tables, and even kitchen islands create a more inviting and comfortable aesthetic. The rounded furniture trend pairs beautifully with the warm, organic elements we’re seeing take center stage this year. Textural Layers for Depth Minimalism is evolving, and 2025 is bringing in layered textures  to add warmth and depth to spaces. Expect to see:✔ Limewash & plaster walls  for an old-world yet modern feel✔ Mohair and linen upholstery  for soft, tactile moments✔ Handwoven textiles and natural fiber rugs  for an organic touch Muted Metallics & Mixed Materials With gold accents phasing out, homeowners and designers are embracing a mix of metals and muted finishes.  Think brushed brass with polished nickel , blackened steel with warm bronze,  and even copper with aged pewter.  The key? Mixing metals thoughtfully  for a layered, curated look rather than an overly matchy-matchy aesthetic. What This Means for Your Home If you’re looking to refresh your space, 2025’s trends are all about creating warmth, sophistication, and timeless appeal.  Swapping out gold hardware for polished nickel, embracing warm wood tones, and incorporating statement stone are simple ways to make your home feel current yet classic. Are you loving these 2025 trends? Which one are you excited to incorporate into your home? Let’s chat in the comments! Ready to embrace the polished nickel trend in your home? I’ve rounded up some stunning hardware, lighting, and decor pieces to help you get the look. Click the image to shop

Let’s be real—after a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen trying to figure out what to make for dinner. That’s why I’ve put together this 5-Day Easy Dinner Meal Plan  filled with simple, delicious, and quick recipes that your whole family will love. These meals require minimal ingredients, come together in 30 minutes or less , and are budget-friendly—perfect for busy weeknights! Let’s get into it! 🍽️ 5-Day Easy Dinner Meal Plan Day 1: One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies This is a flavorful and easy one-pan meal that requires minimal cleanup! 🛒 Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, cut into cubes 1 zucchini, sliced 1 bell pepper, chopped 1 cup cherry tomatoes 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 tbsp butter 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp Italian seasoning Salt & pepper to taste 👩‍🍳 Directions: 1️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. 2️⃣ Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes  until golden brown. 3️⃣ Stir in garlic and butter, cooking for 1 more minute . 4️⃣ Add zucchini, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5 more minutes  until veggies are tender. 5️⃣ Serve warm and enjoy! Why you’ll love it:  ✅ Quick, ✅ Healthy, ✅ Easy cleanup Day 2: 20-Minute Shrimp Tacos with Slaw Taco night just got even better! These shrimp tacos are fresh, zesty, and super easy to make. 🛒 Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined 1 tsp chili powder 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp paprika 1 tbsp olive oil 8 small tortillas For the Slaw: 1 cup shredded cabbage 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or mayo Juice of 1 lime 1 tsp honey Salt & pepper to taste 👩‍🍳 Directions: 1️⃣ In a bowl, mix the slaw ingredients. Refrigerate while you cook the shrimp. 2️⃣ Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Season shrimp with chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side  until pink and cooked through. 3️⃣ Warm tortillas, fill with shrimp and slaw, and serve! Why you’ll love it:  ✅ Light, ✅ Refreshing, ✅ Ready in 20 minutes Day 3: Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches Set it and forget it—your slow cooker does all the work for this delicious BBQ chicken! 🛒 Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts 1 cup BBQ sauce 1/2 cup chicken broth 1/2 onion, chopped 1 tsp garlic powder 4 hamburger buns 👩‍🍳 Directions: 1️⃣ Add chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, broth, onion, and garlic powder to a slow cooker. 2️⃣ Cook on low for 6 hours  or high for 3 hours  until chicken is tender. 3️⃣ Shred the chicken with two forks and mix it into the sauce. 4️⃣ Serve on buns with coleslaw if desired. Why you’ll love it:  ✅ Effortless, ✅ Family-friendly, ✅ Can be prepped ahead Day 4: 15-Minute Caprese Pasta This light yet flavorful pasta dish is a great way to mix things up on a busy night! 🛒 Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne or spaghetti) 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella, cubed 2 tbsp olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped Salt & pepper to taste 👩‍🍳 Directions: 1️⃣ Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain. 2️⃣ Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 1 minute . 3️⃣ Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes  until softened. 4️⃣ Toss in the pasta, mozzarella, and fresh basil. Mix well. 5️⃣ Serve warm with grated parmesan if desired. Why you’ll love it:  ✅ Simple, ✅ Fresh, ✅ Ready in 15 minutes Day 5: Sheet Pan Sausage & Veggies A no-fuss, all-in-one meal with minimal cleanup! 🛒 Ingredients: 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced 1 bell pepper, chopped 1 zucchini, sliced 1/2 red onion, sliced 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp paprika Salt & pepper to taste 👩‍🍳 Directions: 1️⃣ Preheat oven to 400°F . 2️⃣ Toss all ingredients together on a sheet pan, making sure everything is evenly coated in olive oil and seasonings. 3️⃣ Bake for 20 minutes , stirring halfway through. 4️⃣ Serve over rice or with crusty bread. Why you’ll love it:  ✅ One-pan meal, ✅ Hearty, ✅ Perfect for meal prep Why This Meal Plan Works for Busy Nights ✨ Minimal Ingredients  – No long grocery lists!✨ Quick Prep & Cook Time  – 30 minutes or less!

Looking for quick, healthy-ish dinners that don’t skimp on flavor? 🚀 This 5-day meal plan has you covered with easy, delicious recipes that take around 30-minutes to prepare. ⏳ Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. 🌌 Day 1: Lemon Herb Chicken with Roasted Veggies Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Olive oil Lemon juice Garlic Oregano Thyme Baby potatoes Carrots Green beans Salt & pepper Instructions: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss baby potatoes, carrots, and green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange the veggies on a baking sheet. Season the chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Serve with a fresh squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavor. Day 2: Turkey Taco Bowls Ingredients: Ground turkey Olive oil Taco seasoning (cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika) Brown rice or cauliflower rice Black beans Corn Diced tomatoes Avocado Lime Fresh cilantro Instructions: Cook the brown rice or cauliflower rice according to package instructions. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the ground turkey until browned. Add taco seasoning with a splash of water, stirring to coat evenly. Assemble bowls with rice, turkey, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, avocado, and fresh cilantro. Finish with a squeeze of lime for a zesty kick. Day 3: Shrimp Stir-Fry with Ginger Garlic Sauce Ingredients: Shrimp (peeled and deveined) Bell peppers Broccoli Snap peas Carrots Olive oil Garlic Ginger Soy sauce (or coconut aminos) Honey Sesame seeds Instructions: Heat olive oil in a large pan. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook until pink (2-3 minutes per side). Remove from the pan. Add the chopped veggies to the same pan and stir-fry until tender-crisp. Return the shrimp to the pan, add soy sauce and honey, and stir to combine. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving. Optional: Serve over quinoa or jasmine rice. Day 4: Greek Chicken Pitas with Tzatziki Ingredients: Chicken breast or thighs, cut into strips Olive oil Lemon juice Garlic Oregano Paprika Whole wheat pitas Cucumber Tomatoes Red onion Feta cheese Lettuce Tzatziki sauce Instructions: Marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper for 10 minutes. Sauté the chicken in a hot pan until cooked through. Warm the pitas, then layer with chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, lettuce, feta, and a dollop of tzatziki. Fold and enjoy this Mediterranean delight. Day 5: Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Cherry Tomatoes Ingredients: Potato gnocchi Olive oil Garlic Cherry tomatoes Fresh spinach Store-bought pesto Light cream or coconut milk Parmesan cheese (optional) Instructions: Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions; drain and set aside. In the same pan, heat olive oil, add garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to burst. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted. Return the gnocchi to the pan, add pesto and a splash of cream, stirring until creamy and heated through. Top with grated Parmesan if desired. Final Thoughts These quick, healthy-ish meals are perfect for busy weeknights. They're packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and will keep your dinner routine fresh and exciting. Let me know which one is your favorite, or share your go-to 30-minute dinners in the comments!

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to whip up some festive and delicious treats, whether you’re hosting a party, making a snack board for a cozy night in, or surprising your loved ones with something sweet. These easy Valentine’s Day snacks are simple to make, look adorable, and taste absolutely delicious! 1. Strawberry Yogurt Bark A refreshing, healthier option that’s still festive and fun! Ingredients: 2 cups Greek yogurt (vanilla or strawberry flavored) 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup 1/2 cup sliced strawberries 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips 2 tbsp heart-shaped sprinkles Instructions: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix the Greek yogurt and honey together. Spread the yogurt mixture evenly on the baking sheet. Top with strawberries, chocolate chips, and sprinkles. Freeze for 2-3 hours, then break into pieces and enjoy! 2. Cupid’s Popcorn Sweet, salty, and crunchy—this festive popcorn is addictively good! Ingredients: 5 cups popped popcorn 1 cup white chocolate chips 1/2 cup Valentine’s M&M’s 2 tbsp pink and red sprinkles Instructions: Spread popcorn on a lined baking sheet. Melt white chocolate in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between. Drizzle melted chocolate over popcorn and toss gently. Sprinkle M&M’s and sprinkles on top. Let the chocolate harden before breaking apart and serving. 3. Heart-Shaped Caprese Skewers A cute and savory snack that’s perfect for balance! Ingredients: 1 pint cherry tomatoes 1 cup mini mozzarella balls Fresh basil leaves Balsamic glaze Heart-shaped toothpicks or skewers Instructions: Slice cherry tomatoes in half and place them on skewers in a heart shape. Add a basil leaf and a mozzarella ball. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving. 4. Valentine’s Day Pretzel Bites These are sweet, salty, and so easy to make! Ingredients: Mini pretzels Hershey’s Hugs or Kisses Valentine’s M&M’s Instructions: Preheat oven to 200°F. Place pretzels on a lined baking sheet and top each with a Hershey’s Hug or Kiss. Bake for about 4 minutes until softened. Press an M&M gently onto the melted chocolate. Let cool before enjoying. 5. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries A Valentine’s Day classic that’s always a hit! Ingredients: 1 pint fresh strawberries 1 cup semi-sweet or white chocolate chips 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional for smooth melting) Valentine’s sprinkles (optional) Instructions: Melt chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Dip strawberries in melted chocolate and place on parchment paper. Add sprinkles if desired. Let them set in the fridge before serving. 6. Love Bug Oreos These adorable Oreos are perfect for kids and adults alike! Ingredients: 1 package Oreos 1 cup melted red candy melts Candy eyes Black icing for antennae Heart sprinkles Instructions: Dip half of each Oreo into melted candy melts and place on parchment paper. Attach candy eyes and heart sprinkles to look like a ladybug. Use black icing to draw antennae. Let set before serving. 7. Mini Heart Pizzas A savory treat to mix up the sweetness! Ingredients: Store-bought pizza dough Pizza sauce Mozzarella cheese Pepperoni slices Instructions: Preheat oven to 400°F. Roll out pizza dough and use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out mini pizzas. Add pizza sauce, cheese, and a pepperoni slice on each heart. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly. 8. Pink Hot Chocolate A cozy and creamy Valentine’s treat! Ingredients: 2 cups milk 1/2 cup white chocolate chips 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1 drop pink food coloring Whipped cream and heart sprinkles for topping Instructions: Heat milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Add white chocolate chips and stir until melted. Stir in vanilla extract and pink food coloring. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and sprinkles. Final Thoughts These easy Valentine’s Day snacks are perfect for celebrating with your loved ones, whether you want something sweet, salty, or savory. Which one are you excited to try? Let me know in the comments!

Lighting plays a major role in creating a cozy and inviting home, and table lamps are one of the easiest ways to add warmth and style to any space. While most people think of them for bedside tables or living room side tables, there are a few unexpected places where a table lamp can truly transform the ambiance. Here are three areas in your home where a table lamp is an absolute must! 1️⃣ The Entryway Your entryway sets the tone for your entire home, so why not make it feel warm and welcoming? Walking into a dark space doesn’t feel inviting, but a well-placed table lamp on a console table instantly changes that. It provides a soft, ambient glow that makes coming home feel cozy, while also offering practical lighting when you’re searching for keys or checking the mirror one last time before heading out the door. 2️⃣ Matching Table Lamps on Your Nightstands In the bedroom, symmetry creates a sense of balance and calm, and one of the easiest ways to achieve that is with matching table lamps on each nightstand. But here’s the key: go for larger lamps —at least 24 inches tall! A bigger lamp not only fills the space better but also adds that high-end designer look. Plus, the right lighting makes nighttime reading, winding down, or scrolling your phone (we all do it!) much more comfortable. 3️⃣ The Kitchen (Yes, Really!) Okay, this one might be a little controversial, but hear me out—a table lamp in the kitchen is a game-changer. Kitchens are filled with hard surfaces like countertops, cabinets, and appliances, which can sometimes make the space feel cold and sterile. A small table lamp tucked into a corner or on a countertop instantly softens the space, adding warmth and a lived-in feel. Whether it’s a charming accent in a breakfast nook or a stylish glow near your coffee station, it brings a whole new cozy vibe to the heart of your home. Final Thoughts Table lamps are more than just functional—they're an easy and affordable way to elevate your home’s aesthetic. Whether you’re adding one to your entryway, upgrading your bedroom lighting with larger lamps, or embracing the cozy kitchen trend, these simple swaps can make a big difference. Are you team “lamps in the kitchen,” or do you have another unexpected spot where you love using a table lamp? Let me know in the comments! ✨ #CozyHome #LightingMatters #HomeDecorTips

Your kitchen isn’t just a place to cook—it’s the heart ❤️ of your home, a gathering space where memories are made and delicious meals are shared. If you want to give it a fresh, stylish look without a full renovation, these three simple tips will make a huge impact. They're budget-friendly 💸, easy to implement, and will instantly elevate your space. Plus, they’ll help you create a kitchen that feels warm, welcoming, and uniquely yours. 1️⃣ Ditch the Clutter: Hide Branded Bottles 🧴🚫 Via Pinterest Branded cleaning bottles and mismatched containers can make even the most beautiful kitchen feel chaotic 😵. The solution? Store those branded items under the sink 🚪 and invest in decorative soap dispensers 🫧. Opt for sleek glass bottles, amber tones, or ceramic dispensers to create a cohesive, high- end look. Not only does this reduce visual clutter, but it also adds a polished touch to your countertops, making them feel more intentional and styled. Consider using uniform labels for any containers you leave out, like for olive oil, vinegar, or dish soap. This small detail can make a big difference in the overall aesthetic. Clear or frosted glass bottles with minimalist labels add a chic, organized vibe. 💡 Pro Tip:  Choose dispensers with pump tops for convenience and refill them with your favorite dish soap 🍽️ and hand soap 🖐️. Add a matching sponge holder 🧽 or tray to complete the look. Even adding a small dish to corral your sponges or scrub brushes can help keep things tidy and visually appealing. Via Pinterest 2️⃣ Add Warmth with a Small Lamp 🛋️✨ A small lamp in the kitchen? Yes, really! It’s a game-changer 🎯. Adding a cozy glow to your counters instantly makes the space feel warm and inviting 🌟. Whether you place it near the coffee station ☕, on an open shelf 📚, or tucked in a corner, a soft light transforms the ambiance—perfect for early mornings 🌅 or late-night snack runs 🌙. The soft, ambient light helps create a layered lighting effect, reducing the harshness of overhead lights and adding depth to your space. It’s especially effective in kitchens with open layouts where you want to maintain a cozy, cohesive vibe. 🎨 Style Tip:  Look for a lamp with a neutral base and a simple shade to complement your kitchen's decor. Bonus points if it’s on a timer ⏲️ for effortless mood lighting. Experiment with warm-toned bulbs to enhance the cozy feel, and consider lamps with interesting textures like rattan, ceramic, or wood for added character. 3️⃣ Create a Curated Corner 🏡 Via Pinterest One of the easiest ways to add personality to your kitchen is by styling a curated corner. Think of it as a mini vignette that showcases your style 🌿. Start with an elegant oil and vinegar set 🫒, add a few of your favorite cookbooks 📖, and maybe even a small plant 🌱 or a wooden cutting board 🍞 for texture. This corner can become both functional and decorative, reflecting your taste while serving a practical purpose. Consider incorporating seasonal elements, like fresh herbs in a cute pot during spring or a small bowl of citrus fruits 🍋 for a pop of color. Rotating these items throughout the year keeps the space feeling fresh and updated. 🎯 Design Tip:  Group items in odd numbers (like three or five) to create visual interest 👀. Vary the heights and materials to keep things dynamic yet cohesive. Adding a small framed art piece or a decorative jar with wooden utensils can add an extra layer of charm to your curated corner. 💭 Final Thoughts Decorating your kitchen doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive 💡. By removing visual clutter 🚫, adding cozy lighting 🕯️, and styling a curated corner 🎨, you can create a space that feels both functional and beautiful 🌟. These small changes can have a big impact, transforming your kitchen into a stylish, organized, and welcoming environment. Try these tips and watch your kitchen transform into the heart of your home—with style to spare! ❤️ Whether you're hosting friends, cooking for family, or simply enjoying your morning coffee, these decor ideas will help you love your kitchen even more. Thanks for reading! I linked some simple decorative pieces from amazon! Click HERE to shop!

Summer is HERE! As for me, Im loving and living outdoors. I love my patio furniture that i got on a major budget. As a budget friendly interior designer, i understand investing in outdoor furnace can be a huge expense so here’s a list of outdoor furniture sets around $200! Click here to shop: https://liketk.it/4cTx5

Illuminate Your Outdoor Oasis: Three Ways to Upgrade Your Back Patio with Lighting As the days grow longer and the evenings warmer, your back patio becomes the perfect place to relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors. The right lighting can transform this space, creating an inviting atmosphere that extends your living area and enhances the beauty of your garden. Here are three creative ways to use string lights, up lights, and garden lights to upgrade your back patio. 1. Enchanting String Lights: Create a Magical Ambiance String lights are a versatile and charming way to add a touch of magic to your patio. Whether you prefer a classic, bohemian, or modern look, string lights can be adapted to suit any style. Hanging Overhead: Drape string lights above your patio to create a canopy of twinkling stars. You can attach them to trees, pergolas, or even install poles specifically for this purpose. The gentle glow overhead not only illuminates the space but also adds a cozy, intimate feel perfect for evening gatherings. Wrapping Around Structures: Wrap string lights around railings, columns, or beams. This technique highlights architectural features and adds a soft, ambient glow to the surroundings. Opt for warm white lights for a classic look, or go for colorful bulbs to create a festive atmosphere. Lanterns and Mason Jars: For a rustic touch, place string lights inside lanterns or Mason jars. These can be hung from trees, placed on tables, or lined along pathways. The contained light creates a beautiful, diffused glow that enhances the charm of your patio. 2. Dramatic Up Lights: Highlighting Features and Adding Depth Up lighting is a fantastic way to accentuate specific features of your patio and garden, adding depth and drama to the overall design. Highlighting Trees and Plants: Place up lights at the base of trees, shrubs, or tall plants to showcase their form and texture. This technique not only highlights the beauty of your greenery but also creates intriguing shadows and layers of light and dark, adding visual interest. Accent Walls and Structures: Use up lights to accentuate architectural elements like walls, sculptures, or water features. This creates focal points in your patio design and enhances the overall ambiance. For example, placing up lights at the base of a stone wall can emphasize its texture and make it a standout feature at night. Pathways and Steps: Illuminate pathways and steps with up lights for both safety and aesthetic appeal. This ensures that your patio is not only beautiful but also functional, guiding guests safely through your outdoor space. 3. Charming Garden Lights: Enhancing Pathways and Garden Beds Garden lights are essential for creating a well-lit and enchanting outdoor space. They add both functionality and beauty to your patio and garden. Path Lighting:Line your garden paths with low garden lights to create a welcoming glow. This not only makes the paths safer to navigate but also highlights the garden’s layout and guides guests through your outdoor space. Garden Beds and Borders: Place garden lights strategically within flower beds and along garden borders. This draws attention to the colors and textures of your plants, making your garden come alive at night. Solar-powered garden lights are a great eco-friendly option that requires minimal maintenance. Decorative Features: Use garden lights to accentuate decorative elements such as statues, bird baths, or fountains. This adds a layer of interest and makes these features stand out, creating a focal point in your garden design. Conclusion With the right lighting, your back patio can become a magical extension of your home, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. By incorporating string lights, up lights, and garden lights, you can create a beautifully illuminated space that enhances the natural beauty of your garden and adds warmth and ambiance to your evenings outdoors. So, get creative and let your patio shine! Transform your back patio today with these lighting ideas and enjoy the enchanting outdoor space you’ve always dreamed of. Happy decorating! Shop Below for affordable lighting options to add to your home! Click HERE to shop! #PatioLighting #OutdoorLighting #StringLights #UpLights #GardenLights #PatioDecor #BackyardDesign #OutdoorLiving #GardenDesign #HomeImprovement #PatioIdeas #OutdoorDecor #LightingIdeas #BackyardOasis #CozyPatio

Sunday Night Chili 🌶️ ❤️✨ I added more veggies because I love a chunky chili!✨🤪so yummy and easy and makes the perfect leftovers!! INGREDIENTS: 6 slices thick-cut applewood smoked bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped 2 medium onions, finely chopped 1 red bell pepper, chopped 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped 3 tablespoons chili powder 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder 2 teaspoons dried oregano 1 tablespoon smoked paprika Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 pound 85 percent lean ground beef 1 pound ground pork 1 cup beer (recommended: Budweiser) One 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed One 15-ounce can kidney beans, drained and rinsed One 24-ounce can crushed tomatoes One 24-ounce can diced tomatoes, with juice Lime wedges, for garnish Sour cream, for garnish Shredded Cheddar, for garnish Sliced scallions, for garnish Directions: In large heavy-bottomed Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until lightly crisp, stirring occasionally. Once the bacon is browned, add the garlic, onions, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, chipotle chili powder, oregano, and smoked paprika and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Cook until the vegetables are tender and seasonings are aromatic. Add the beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Once beef is broken up and beginning to brown, add the pork. Break up with wooden spoon like the beef, and brown, until no longer pink, roughly 4 minutes. Stir in the beer and beans. Toss together, then add the crushed and diced tomatoes. Turn the heat down to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours. Taste for seasoning and add salt and pepper, if necessary. Transfer the chili to serving bowls and garnish with lime wedges, sour cream, shredded cheese, and sliced scallions.

Hosting like a pro this holiday season? Don’t forget the signature cocktail! 🍸✨ 2024 was definitely the year of the espresso martini, so why not give it a festive twist? 🎄☕️ Think hints of peppermint, a touch of chocolate, and all the holiday vibes. Who’s ready to sip in style? Ingredients: 1 ounce Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha 2 ounces vodka 1 ounce freshly brewed espresso splash cream optional Ice Crushed peppermint candy cane and honey or chocolate to garnish Directions: Begin by rimming your martini glass in honey/chocolate. Let any excess drip off. Then, dip into the crushed peppermint pieces. Set aside. In a cocktail shaker with ice, add the Kahlúa, vodka, espresso, and cream. Shake vigorously until combined and cold. Pour the cocktail into the prepared martini glass and enjoy!

If you’re looking for a soup that combines creamy textures with bright, citrusy flavors, Avgolemono is the perfect choice. This traditional Greek lemon chicken soup is both comforting and refreshing, making it an ideal recipe for both chilly nights and cozy gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe will make you feel like you’re serving up a taste of the Mediterranean right at home. What Is Avgolemono Soup? Avgolemono, pronounced "ahv-go-LEH-mo-no," is a classic Greek soup that combines the richness of chicken with the zesty brightness of lemon and a touch of rice for a hearty texture. The magic ingredient here is the avgolemono  (meaning "egg-lemon") mixture. This combination of eggs and lemon juice creates a beautifully creamy base, thickening the broth without using any dairy, giving it that signature silkiness. Ingredients You’ll Need For a soul-soothing bowl of avgolemono, gather the following ingredients: Chicken Breasts or Thighs:  Use bone-in chicken for deeper flavor, but boneless works too. You can also you rotisserie chicken! Orzo:  Any short-grain noodle will do; it gives a bit of body to the soup. Eggs:  These create the luxurious creamy texture that avgolemono is known for. Lemon Juice:  Fresh lemon juice is essential for a bright and tangy flavor. Carrots & Celery & Onion:  Adds a bit of sweetness and crunch to the soup. Chicken Stock:  For the most flavorful broth, use homemade or high-quality store-bought stock. Seasonings:  Salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley for garnish. Step-by-Step Instructions 1. Cook the Chicken Start by simmering the chicken in a large pot with chicken stock. Add carrots, celery, salt, and pepper, bringing everything to a gentle boil. Allow the chicken to cook through, which usually takes about 20 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with a fork. 2. Cook the Orzo Add the orzo to the same pot and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes. This gives the orzo time to soak up all those savory flavors from the broth. 3. Prepare the Avgolemono Mixture In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and lemon juice until well combined. Now comes the trickiest part – tempering  the egg mixture. Slowly ladle a bit of hot broth into the egg-lemon mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling. This step warms the eggs gently, preventing them from scrambling when added to the hot soup. 4. Combine and Finish the Soup Pour the avgolemono mixture into the pot, stirring constantly. Add the shredded chicken back into the soup. Warm everything over low heat but avoid bringing it to a boil – this can cause the soup to separate. Season with additional salt, pepper, and any fresh herbs you like for garnish. Tips for the Perfect Avgolemono Soup Adjusting Thickness : If you prefer a thicker consistency, increase the amount of rice or simmer for a few extra minutes. For a thinner soup, add a splash more broth. Extra Lemon Zest : For a stronger lemon flavor, add a pinch of lemon zest just before serving. Garnish with Herbs : Chopped fresh parsley or dill brings a fresh, earthy touch that pairs beautifully with the lemon. Why You’ll Love This Avgolemono Soup Recipe Naturally Creamy : No need for heavy cream – eggs create a creamy, velvety texture. Bright and Fresh : The lemon gives a zesty kick that’s unique and refreshing. Comfort in a Bowl : Perfect for chilly nights when you want something cozy and satisfying. A Twist on Tradition: Variations to Try Add Spinach : Stir in a handful of fresh spinach for a pop of color and extra nutrients. Make it Vegetarian : Use vegetable broth and add chickpeas instead of chicken for a plant-based version. Serve and Enjoy! Avgolemono is best enjoyed immediately while it’s warm and creamy. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread, a Greek salad, or a side of roasted veggies for a wholesome meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a new go-to comfort soup or simply want to bring a taste of Greece to your kitchen, Avgolemono soup will surely become a favorite! FULL RECIPE: Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium onion, diced 1 medium carrot, diced 2-3 celery stalks, diced 2-3 garlic cloves, finely chopped 2 bay leaves 2 chicken breasts (about 12 oz / 350 g total) 6 cups (1.5 liter) chicken stock ¾ cup (175 g) orzo Juice of 1 lemon 2 egg yolks A handful fresh dill Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Instructions: Heat the olive oil in a large stock pot or Dutch oven and cook the onion, carrot and celery for 8-10 minutes over medium heat until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, then add the bay leaves , chicken and chicken stock . Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to medium-low, cover with a lid and simmer for 15 minutes. Take out the chicken breasts and bay leaves . Add the orzo to the pot and continue to cook for 10 minutes. Shred the chicken with two forks and add it back to the pot. While the orzo is cooking, whisk the egg yolks and lemon juice in a bowl. Take out 1-2 ladles of soup and pour it over the egg-lemon mixture to temper it. Add this mix to the pot and continue to cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the fresh dill , adjust the seasoning and serve immediately, with some extra fresh dill on top if you like.

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