Panache Offblast

Hello everyone! I greatly apologize for disappearing for over a week. My computer crashed, and I was left without one, while I tried to figure out alternatives, and still make a list of ideas I have to post for you. I thankfully have one now – so if you’ve stuck around, keep doing so for new updates!

As it is Tuesday and the week of Thanksgiving, I have a Thanksgiving Tasty Tuesday Treat for you (that was fun to say). I hope you like Pumpkin – if not, I assure you if/when you try these recipes I have for you, you’re in for an amazing delight. I’ve also put together a few outfits to wear for your Thanksgiving lunch/dinner, whether you’re going for a casual look, or all-out dressy! Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays (mainly because of the food… can you blame me?), but also because the essence brings everyone closer to the Holiday season, the weather is breezy and nice (although, I’m confused about this 70 degree weather…), and everyone seems to be getting in a slightly better mood, which is always a great thing!

I love bundling up and layering my clothes, and this is the perfect time to get yourself prepped up for windy days, rainy days, and even snowy days if you’re (un)lucky, by experimenting with layers, colors, patterns, and different textures in your wardrobe. This Thanksgiving, although most of you, I’m assuming, will be staying inside, you can still create stylish outfits to represent this Fall season and its colors. Of course, Thanksgiving is all about the comfort food. It’s also, of course, about spending time with your family, friends, and loved ones; but let’s be realistic – what you’re going to wear at the table is probably the last thing on people’s minds. However, that should never stop you from looking your best on Turkey Day!

You want to be as comfortable and functional as possible. Like actress/singer/fashionista Leighton Meester recently said about what to wear for the holiday, “We eat. When I’m with my family, it’s all about drawstring or elastic.” Yet she is always looking exceptionally in style, and it all seems so effortless (which is great). I’ve put together two different outfits you can try this Thanksgiving: one casual, where if you eat just a bit too much, and need to curl up on the couch in a food coma before time for dessert, and one dressy, for your more traditional or special occasion gatherings. Pick one depending on where you are having lunch/dinner, with who, or simply based on your mood and personal style!

Just because you’re opting for a comfortable and casual outfit, it doesn’t mean you have to slip on your sweatpants, or even a plain t-shirt and jeans. Being comfortable should always be key in every outfit, and knowing how to “dress up” in a casual style is very easy! Whether you’re the type of person who is most comfortable in leggings, or you don’t mind slipping into your tight skinny jeans, the two options below both work perfectly this Thanksgiving, especially if you’re the one running around making the yummy food for everyone!

First, we have a pair of “jeggings”, which are very trendy this season due to their versatility and functionality (which is what we’re aiming for here!), paired with a striped, cashmere sweater – cashmere is extremely comfortable and already makes your outfit look super chic.

In the second outfit, I paired simple black leggings with a long boyfriend Military cardigan, both super comfortable and chic. Keep your make-up to a minimum, especially if you’ll be having a Thanksgiving lunch rather than dinner. Accessories are optional (as it does get messy on Thanksgiving!), but always a nice addition to any ensemble. 

Dressing up for a special or traditional family dinner, or for your significant others’ family can be quite tricky – but never fear! Just like the casual outfits, remember that comfort and functionality are key. Tight fitting dresses, pants, or skirts can become terribly uncomfortable as your tummy starts filling up! Stick with sweater dresses, loose skirts, and anything flowy that you’re able to move around in a lot. Dress your outfit even more by adding shiny accessories, metallics, sequins, and other embellishments like the ones below that will adorn your look beautifully for the holiday.

Dressing up for the holidays should be fun – embellishments aren’t only for decorations and festivities, but for your outfits, too! Now that you have your outfits coordinated and ready, prep your kitchen (and tummy!) for a tasty dessert you can include at your Thanksgiving lunch/dinner.

1. 4 cups all-purpose or whole-wheat flour
2. 2 cups sugar (grab brown for a healthier treat!)
3. 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
4. 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
5. 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
6. 2 teaspoons baking soda
7. 1 teaspoon salt
8. 1 (16 oz) can solid pack pumpkin
9. 3/4 cup vegetable oil
10. 2 eggs
11. 2 tablespoons milk
12. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
13. 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (more or else depending on your flavor craving – pumpkin, chocolate, or both!)
14. 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Directions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, baking soda and salt. 
2. Add pumpkin, oil, eggs, milk and vanilla; beat on medium speed until well mixed. Stir in chocolate chips and nuts. 
3. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto cookie sheet/non-stick cookie tray. Bake at 375 degrees F for 9-12 minutes or until edges just begin to brown.
4. Cool for 2 minutes; remove to a wire rack to cool completely. 
5. Enjoy!

1. 3 cups hot milk
2. 4 teaspoons white sugar
3. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
4. 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
5. 6 ounces double strength brewed coffee (or increase the amount of coffee if your coffee maker does not have a “double brew” option or you cannot find double strength coffee.
6. 3 tablespoons sweetened whipped cream
7. 3 pinches pumpkin pie spice

 Directions:

1. Combine the hot milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice in a blender; blend until frothy (Another alternative is to microwave the milk until frothy, then mix the rest of the ingredients in).
2. Pour the mixture into 3 coffee mugs to about 2/3 full. Pour 2 ounces coffee into each mug. 
3. Garnish each mug with whipped topping and pumpkin pie spice. 
4. Smell, drink, and enjoy!

Don’t these sound absolutely delicious?! Go ahead and try them yourself to taste how incredible they are.