Oh, the birthday cake! Rejoice and let the party continue! Happy Friday friends.
In This Post
This year I made the strategic move for my Smudge’s birthday to change up her annual request for Birthday Cake Pie to this Admittedly Modern Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Icing of which I made into a cake (divide the batter into 3 9-inch pans then bake for 20 min.) It’s a favorite and you need to try it.
Tomorrow I’m sharing the main dish we grilled up and served at her family birthday party last weekend as part of my Weekend Eats series, in hopes to inspire your weekend menu. Everyone loved it, so I’m thinking you will too.
The party is continuing this weekend (who doesn’t love birthday week?!?!) where there will be birthday cake pie and tween camping dreams coming true under the moonlit stars with lots of relaxing aka no work on my part.
I can’t wait.
Earlier this week, it was my sweet mama’s turn to host book club so I headed to her house to act as her chef so she could concentrate on her guests, instead of plating dishes and dressing the salad. It’s the only way to entertain.
I tested out a recipe I’ll be sharing next week on those sweet book reviewers. They knew they were my guinea pigs for taste testing, but did they know I was photographing their lunch before it was served—on the floor? Don’t worry mom, it was on a clean piece of wood :). Well, sort of clean. Food blogger problems…
But enough about me, let’s get into this week’s Friday Faves.
If you’re looking for one source on Twitter of recipes to create now, this is a great one to follow. #itsgoodtoshare
How to make a perfectly grilled hot dog. Who knew?
This is the only dip you’ll need (or want) this summer.
Who can say no to this classic recipe. Always soooo good.
I’m always craving the flavors of this exotic main meal.
Okay, I may never make a taco recipe again, because I will never be able to compete with this beauty.
Wait, who am I kidding? I’m sharing the recipe to this one tomorrow! Come back and get the goods.
What’s the diff? Baking soda vs. baking powder.
Eek! I got served! I had such a GREAT time meeting up with this design gal and being part of this feature on her blog. I’m totally nervous to see how mine turned out. Stay tuned!
but first…
I asked design gal if she had any favorites of the week, and since she’s been traveling a ton she said that this eye cream has been a LIFE SAVER. Or at least made her look like she didn’t want to fall asleep in her chair even if she did. Ordered!
The best over the counter retinol creams. Because I’m old but don’t want to look like it.
I also bought this book for myself that I’ll be relaxing with in our hammock this weekend. Apparently I can’t get away from food.
and since it’s summer and my girl is all about projects…
I bought this fun book full of totally fun projects to do / create / make for Smudge. It’s like a summer camp in between two covers.
These 20 adult truths are hilariously spot on. #4 and #8 got me.
Yes! Orange Is the New Black season 3 is here! #bingewatch
10 life changing trips. I’ve only been to #9 so it looks like I better get busy packing.
Because I love podcasts, and I so admire him, this podcast was stuck in my earbuds this week.
And this Father’s Day gift guide. Because it’s just a few days away! (I want that beach blanket for myself!)
Blog Biz Tips
3 SEO Predictions You Need to Know for 2016
If you’re looking for a free invoicing system, this might be the one for you.
Pinned for the Win
It’s hot. You should be hydrated. But not with boring water, let’s add some color to your sips. Here are a few I dug this week.
Detox Ice Cubes
Who needs needs juices? Make cubes instead.
The Acalpulco Cup
The perfect reason to eat your drink.
Homemade Mocha Frappuccino
Because coffee and chocolate go hand in…oh forget it. They just taste awesome together.
Have a great weekend everybody, get out and cook something good.
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Susan
I love that you acted as chef for your mom. That is such a sweet, thoughtful thing to do so she could relax and enjoy the book club discussion. You are lucky to have your mom to spoil and she is lucky to have you as well.
Anna @ Crunchy Creamy Sweet
So many gems, as always, Heidi! I love love the detox ice cubes! Thank you so much for including my frappuccino! Have a wonderful weekend!
Laura (Tutti Dolci)
Those detox cubes are just the prettiest, must make! And those 20 adult truths are spot on!
Emily @ Life on Food
I cannot wait for Orange is the New Black. Hello TV!
Teresa Tschida
Love your work! I look forward to Fridays to read the weekly faves.
Phi @ The Sweetphi Blog
Ok, I couldn’t wait until the afternoon to read your Friday faves, and it was well worth it, now I will start my day with beautiful inspiration for what I need to make this weekend and a shopping cart full in amazon, I just last night finished a book, so I was looking for my next one, thank you for the recommendation! Can’t wait to see what you made for Smudges birthday last weekend, I’ll be back tomorrow :)