New Years Eve!

Well, planning what to do in order to close out 2011 was a bit of a challenge!  A lot of our friends were at a wedding, and others had traditional family get togethers and we just were at a loss!  I ended up joining my parents and sister for some good ol' NYE snacks and a movie. 

The snacks were almost all inspired by what Chris likes to refer to as my "crack" now-a-days...pinterest!  Mom is hooked and so are a few other key people in my life, so any excuse to try out a new recipe is a welcomed occasion!

We made the traditional pigs in a blanket (hot dogs cut up and rolled in crescent rolls...follow instructions on crescent rolls for baking). 

Mom's recipe was potato rounds, which were a much easier version of loaded french fries!  Pick a few potatoes (depending on how many you're cooking for) and wash them.  Then slice them into about 1/4 inch rounds and place on a baking sheet.  Either brush on or spray on butter on both sides and lightly salt.  Bake at 375* for 35 minutes, turning once.  Once you take them out of the oven, sprinkle on some shredded cheddar, some bacon bits and chives--delicious snack!  Dipping in sour cream never hurt either :)

We tried to make Butterbeer Cupcakes for Trisha when she came home from Ecuador, but never got the chance.  Since we had decided to watch HP 7.2, we figured a good Harry Potter inspired snack was in order--and it was our sweet treat.  Thanks to Pastry Affair for the recipe!  We had to improvise in a few places, so they probably weren't the best they could be, but given the right ingredients and the experience we now have, they would be fantastic!! 

Our drink of choice to celebrate 2011 and bring in 2012 was a Raspberry Lemon Drop

Here is the link to the recipe!  If you're going for a more casual drink, I would recommend more than a "splash" of 7up!  :)

It was a great night, great people and a great kick off to 2012! 

(I do have to mention, I left my parents house just in time to come home to my hubby and get my Midnight Kiss!) :)