Serendipity

Remember when I said I won a giveaway from Espresso and Cream for $25 to Williams Sonoma?  I have finally chosen and received my order.

My goal in choosing items were things I normally wouldn't spend my money on.  It was a gift after all, and I wanted to buy something I never would have gotten other wise. 

SO...I didn't choose the slip mat, pastry blender, flour sifter, or even the apple peeler corer... I decided on FOOD items.  (Shocker... the prego decides of food)  I realized I would buy all of the above on my own at any time, so I decided to treat myself to some food/baking items. 

The first item I chose was Nielsen-Massey Vanilla Bean Paste.  I had actually seen this recipe earlier in the week and knew I wanted to make it for my niece's 1st b-day party cupcakes.  I also have been wanting to make homemade vanilla bean ice cream and since vanilla beans are so expensive, this substitute would be perfect.  This is definitely something I will be ordering again.  The taste was wonderful and the little bean specks were just what the cupcakes needed!

My second item I chose was merely something I would NEVER spend money on, but looked oh so delicious!

Insert: Serendipity Frozen Hot Chocolate Mix.  Nuff said.

This stuff is SO good.  It is definitely all it is cracked up to be.  Abel and I even think we may be ordering this stuff again when it runs out-- it is very yummy.\



I had made the whipped cream the day before so it was a little runny, but still oh so good on top!



Thank you again Madison for the awesome giveaway! I have been thrilled with my purchases. It was so fun to pick out and try some things  I normally wouldn't and of course indulge in some frozen hot chocolate ;)