Whether it’s a happy hour party with drinks and appetizers or a full sit-down dinner with main course, sides and desserts, get all the estimates and planning tips you’ll need to have an amazing party that has plenty of food and drink for everyone.

Party Planning Food Amounts

If you’re planning a party and have no idea how much food and drink to plan for you are going to love this post! There’s nothing worse than running out of food and drinks halfway through the party. It’s also painful to blow your budget because you planned for more than you need! So, I’m taking all of the guesswork out and sharing a handy-dandy guide for planning your next party.

I’ve got you covered in all departments – wine, beer, mixed drinks and even ice! In the food department I’m breaking it down for you whether you’re serving simple appetizers or a sit-down dinner or buffet including how to estimate main courses, side dishes, and, of course, desserts.

This guide will help you better estimate what you’ll need and you can adjust based on your guests. You know, because we all have the friend who loves the champagne a little more than the next person or the family member who takes more than their fair share of chicken wings. 

This party food guide is customizable and flexible – use it as a starting point and you’ll be confident you have the right amount of food and drinks to serve your guests.

How do you calculate drinks for a party?

Assume each guest will have a one alcoholic drink per hour, but you know your guests best so use it as a starting point. 

For non-drinkers estimate two drinks in the first hour with one drink an hour after that. 

Tip: Planning a summer party? Estimate more drinks if it’s hot outside!

This list covers the type of drinks per person if that’s the only kind of drink you’re serving. Use it as a starting point depending on your guests and the variety of drinks you want to offer.

Tip: The more drink choices you offer, the less you need of each choice. So, keep this in mind while you’re planning!

• Wine: 2 to 3 glasses or approximately one (750ml) bottle per two guests.
• Champagne: 2 to 3 glasses on average, estimate more if you have a bubbly-loving friend (don’t we all?!).
• Beer: 1 to 2 bottles per hour.
• Punch: 2 glasses. In my experience, people usually switch to wine, beer or cocktails after a couple glasses.
• Cocktails: 3 drinks per person. A 750ml bottle makes approximately 16 drinks if you are doing an average pour. Also, don’t forget the mixers! Plan for a quart of mixers per three guests depending on the kind of cocktails you are serving.
• Non-alcoholic drinks: 2 drinks in the first hour, 1 drink every hour after that.

It’s always a good idea to have extra beer and wine on hand in case you run low on other drinks you’re serving.

How much ice do I need for a party?

It will depend on the kind of drinks you are serving but a good rule of thumb is approximately 1 pound of ice per person. If it’s hot outside you may want to have more.

Great drinks for a party:

• Fruity Vodka Party Punch
• Lemonade Prosecco Punch
• Pineapple Party Punch
• Cranberry Champagne Punch
• Blue Hawaiian Punch

How to Calculate Food for a Party?

Whether it’s appetizers and snacks for a game-day party or a fancy sit-down dinner for a special occasion or holiday dinner one thing is for sure – you don’t want to run out of food! Use my guide for how much food to serve and I think you’ll feel a lot more confident in planning food for your party.

Depending on what you’d like to serve the amount of food will differ. Appetizers only? Buffet-style with main dishes and side dishes? Or a full meal with appetizers, main dishes, side dishes and desserts? I’ve laid it all out here for you so you don’t have to worry about running out before the party is over.

How many appetizers for a party?

Depending on the type of party you’re having you’ll want to estimate different amounts of appetizers to serve.

• Appetizers only: If you’re only planning to serve appetizers and snacks plan on 16 to 20 appetizers per person.
• Appetizers with a main dish: If you’re planning to serve appetizers before a main dish estimate approximately 8 to 12 appetizers servings per person.

Of course, take into account the type of appetizers you’re serving. If they’re light you might want to estimate a few more per person. If they’re on the heavier side you can estimate a little less. Also, like drinks, the more variety you have the less you need to serve of each.

Plan to serve bowls of chips, crackers, nuts or olives that people can snack on, too, in case someone gobbles up your best appetizer!

How much food per person?

If you’re planning a main dish with side dishes here are some estimates to start with as you’re planning your dishes:

• Plan for 6 to 8 ounces per person for your main dish protein.
• For side dishes, estimate 1 cup per person.
• For bread, it’s a good idea to estimate 1 to 2 slices or rolls per person.

How many desserts per person?

Want to offer a sweet treat? Here’s a guide if you want to serve desserts at your party, too!

• For small desserts like cookies estimate 3 to 4 pieces per guest. 
• For big desserts like cake estimate 1 slice per person.

What are good party foods? 

• Pepperoni Pinwheels
• Pizza Dip
• Peanut Butter Football Dip (can be made into a cheeseball!)
• Ham and Cheese Sliders
• BBQ Turkey Sliders
• Any Cake Roll
• A variety of cookie recipes!

No more guessing! This guide will take all the stress out of planning your party. Everyone will think it was catered and you can focus on having FUN at your party instead of worrying about running out of everything. I hope you’ve found it helpful!

The post How Much Food Do I Need For A Party? appeared first on Crazy for Crust.

So I have to start with MY cookbook – available for pre-sale now. It comes out in February but I’ll have a fun gifting promo going on in December so pre-order them as gifts and you’ll have something to give!

Pre-Order my Cookbook on Amazon HERE!

Here are some of my other favorites this year:

1. Dessert Boards by Kellie Hemmerly
2. Well Plated by Erin Clarke
3. The Big Book of Jo’s Quick & Easy Meals by Joanna Cismaru
4. Spectacular Spreads by Maegen Brown
5. Once Upon a Chef by Jennifer Segal
6. The Stay at Home Chef Slow Cooker Cookbook by Rachel Farnsworth
7. The Ultimate Bread Machine Cookbook by Tiffany Dahle
8. Meat to the Side by Liren Baker
9. Melissa Griffiths has LOTS of books for sale on her website, including Family Dinner Made Easy
10. Big Boards for Families by Sandy Coughlin
11. Meal Prep In An Instant by Becca Ludlum
12. Dinner Hero by Mama Loves Food and Dinner Hero
13. 8 Weeks of Family Dinners by Yellow Bliss Road

What are your favorite cookbooks?

Check out my Favorite Things Gift Guide, Favorite Things – Kitchen Edition, and Disney Lovers Gift Guide!

The post 2021 Favorite Cookbooks Gift Guide appeared first on Crazy for Crust.

If you love Disney home and accessories then you’ll love this list!

This post contains affiliate links.

There are so many things at Shop Disney, but these are some of my favorites. If you don’t love the characters I chose – don’t worry, search around and I’m sure there is a bag or wallet, or some jewelry with your favorite!

Disney Home Gifts

1. HOME Pillow – I have this and it’s so soft. It makes me think of Disney whenever I look at it.
2. Alice in Wonderland Serving Tray – I have some bowls in this same set and they’re so pretty, you don’t even need to like Alice to want to use them.
3. Sugar Canister and Flour Canister – These are on my Christmas list!
4. Door Mat – Currently in my cart.
5. Disney Waffle Iron – make those Plaza Inn waffles at home!
6. Disney Mickey Wreath – couldn’t get it home in my suitcase so ordered it to my house!
7. Holiday Baking Set – fun for a Disney loving baker (like me!)

Disney Favorite Things Accessories

1. Ear Headband Necklace – I own this and love it – I get compliments whenever I wear it.
2. Mickey Earrings – I own these and wear them all the time, they’re understated and work well when I’m decked out in head to toe Disney!
3. Alex and Ani Bracelets – I’m obsessed, the end.
4. Ear Headbands – Required! They change often online so check a lot to see which ones they have in stock.
5. Wallets – While I am obsessed with the Dooney and Burke version, it’s quite pricey. The Loungefly wallets are fun too – and less expensive. They have lots of options.
6. Loungefly Backpack – I just picked one theme – they have several. Like the headbands they change often so check back a lot.
7. Card Wallet – I have several of these! They’re perfect for clutches or in backpacks!

Disney Gifts from Other Sources

Disney is expensive! Here are some other places to find good quality Disney merchandise:

• Box Lunch (clothing and accessories) – they have TONS of loungefly!
• Etsy (everything – but mostly t-shirts!)
• Jane.com (t-shirts)
• Hot Topic (shirts and Loungefly)
• Kohls and Target often have shirts and pajamas

Check out my Favorite Things and my Favorite Things: Kitchen edition and Favorite COOKBOOKS Guide!

The post 2021 Disney Lovers Gift Guide appeared first on Crazy for Crust.

No matter who you’re buying for, some of these gifts are perfect for everyone on your list. Mom, daughter, wife, husband – you name it there is something for everyone.

I started looking through my purchases for the past year and realized that some of them have truly become my favorite products, so I wanted to share. I feel like word-of-mouth is the best when you’re thinking of buying something new, so these are my tried-and-true favorites from 2021!

Favorite Gifts I Love in 2021

1. Casetify Phone Cases – there is something for everyone and they are amazing at keeping your tech safe.
2. Sugarfix by Bauble Bar (for Target) – I am obsessed with EVERYTHING in this line. The statement earrings are so fun!
3. Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II ⅞ – These are my go-to workout leggings! They are breathable, comfortable, stay up, have pockets and are cheaper (and better IMO) than Lululemon.
4. Rainbow Peep-Toe Pumps from Unique Vintage – I get so many complements on these. PLUS – they have other colors with this style. They are actually REALLY comfortable – I’ve walked a mile in them, no problem.
5. Target Throw Blanket – We have about 5 of these and love them. They’re stylish, not too big, and really comfy.
6. Stitch Fix – I’ve been getting new clothes lately (a perk of weight loss) and am loving getting fixes, and shopping their curated collections.

1. Neck Fan – it’s actually called a sport fan, but let’s be honest, if you’re over 40 it’s a hot flash fan and it’s amazing. Stops the hot flashes before they start.
2. Apple Watch – a splurge but I love mine. I’ve had it for years and started wearing it religiously this year. I love feeling competition with myself to close my rings!
3. Milanese Band for Apple Watch – it’s stylish and comfortable. I wear it working out and all day too.
4. UGG Slippers – I use these as shoes, seriously. They’re my go-to slip on flats all winter. Fun colors too!
5. Desk Fan – see #1 lol – if you’re over 40 you need this. I was gifted it and I use it religiously all year long.

Favorite Products I always Use

This is my go-to list for makeup. I use the under eye, powder and mascara every single day and feel naked without it!

• IT Cosmetics: I use the Bye Bye Under Eye every day
• THRIVE Lash Extensions Mascara – my go-to
• Wander Beauty Powder Foundation – another go-to
• DryBarDry Shampoo (I also love Jumpstart and Hot Toddy)
• Shape Tape – my foundation when I’m filming
• Benefit Cosmetics Brow Liner – my favorite!
• POREfessional Primer – like an IG filter for your face IRL
• MAC Cosmetics Ruby Woo – the BEST red lipstick ever! Get a lip liner too.
• Rinna Beauty Lip Kits – I’m obsessed with Birthday Suit.

Favorite Macro-Friendly Snacks

• Built Bars – I eat one EVERY DAY, taste like candy bars. Favorites are Coconut, Brownie Coconut and Cookie Dough. Don’t love the Mint or PB Brownie ones. Use CRAZYFORCRUST for 10% off.
• Catalina Crunch Snack Mix – I cannot get enough!! Favorite is Spicy!
• Magic Spoon Cereal or Wonderworks Cereal – great for snacking or a quick protein breakfast
• Premiere Protein Shakes – Chocolate is my fav

Favorite Websites for Shopping All Year

The Little Market is a gorgeous online store that sells all sorts of fun things, from house wares to candles to bath and body. I am in love with their wooden platters and candles – they have so many fun scents! Each purchase supports women around the world – different causes for different products.

Bark Box : Abby LOVES her Bark Box and looks forward to it every month. Some of her favorite toys have come out of that box – like the Chinese dumpling container above. I’m actually getting her a new one for Christmas because her old one is destroyed.

CHATBOOKS!! I have a subscription to Chatbooks and get a new one in the mail every time I post 40 photos to Facebook. You connect FB or Instagram to the app and it pulls in your photos. You can omit and add as you wish – this is the best way to get your photos off your computer since no one prints them anymore. I’ve gone back and had it print ALL the photos I’ve put on FB since I first got an account – finally I have baby books for Jordan.

Farm Girl Flowers: Always fresh, always on time and always gorgeous.

SugarWish: This is so fun to give, and you only need an email address. They have candy, popcorn, cookies, coffee, even dog treats!

See my favorite kitchen items – they’re great gifts too! And the Disney Lovers Gift Guide and my Favorite Cookbooks Guide!

The post 2021 Favorite Things Gift Guide appeared first on Crazy for Crust.

I curated these kitchen gifts with things I actually have purchased and used so you know you’re getting the best items! From my favorite cooking appliances to cookie tools, this list has something for everyone.

Whether you want to buy a small kitchen appliance for someone or just need an easy hostess gift, this list has something for everyone on your list!

Small Appliances

These are my most used small kitchen appliances that would make great gifts!

1. AIR FRYER – This is my most used appliance – we use it daily. I upgraded to the Corsori this year. It’s a GAME CHANGER – does a whole chicken that tastes better than rotisserie!
2. NESPRESSO Vertuo – Did you know that the official Nespresso pods are recyclable? I just gather them up and mail them bag in the free bags they send you.
3. Cuisinart GRIDDLER
4. INSTANT POT
5. KitchenAid Stand Mixer
6. Cuisinart Food Processor – I recommend a big one!
7. Hand Mixer – I love my Cuisinart!

Tools and Gadgets

I own every one of these items and use them daily!

1. This is the kitchen scale I use – an OXO 11lb one with pull out front. I’ve tried several and go back to this one every time.
2. Thermapen Instant Read Thermometer – I use this ALL THE TIME. You can’t get them on amazon and I used to recommend the cheap version but no more, not now that I’ve used the original. Plus: no batteries corroding when washing!
3. Cookie Scoops are always on my list and make a great stocking stuffer – they come in all sorts of sizes!
4. I use my Silpats every time I bake – they are fantastic for people who love cookies.
5. I love the Dash Mini Waffle Makers – and they have griddles too. These are great single serve – it was great when I was losing weight – and would be fantastic for a college student in a dorm.

Hostess or Fun Anyone Gifts

These are all fun things to give as a hostess gift or to someone who you’re just not sure what to buy them. Some of these might actually be on MY list…

1. Wilton Navy & Gold Collection: There is always a reason to have more measuring tools and tips, especially when they’re pretty.
2. Fun Bar Tools: I love the gold collection – would pop in any room.
3. Coffee Accessories, like the mug+heater – perfect for the coffee lovers!
4. For the pet lover: these molds would be great if they want to make my blueberry dog treats!
5. Brown Sugar Saver: These come in handy and will keep brown sugar moist.
6. Mud Pie Dip Set: I’m a sucker for anything Mud Pie – this set is cute!

For more great gift ideas, be sure to check out my (non food) Favorite Things list!

The post 2021 Favorite Things: Kitchen Gifts appeared first on Crazy for Crust.

This is my guide to Amazon Prime Day 2020. I’m going to share all the best kitchen deals and deals for my favorite things. Be sure to check back on this post often because I’ll be updating it as I get notifications of new items that pop onto the list.

What is Amazon Prime Day?

Amazon Prime Day is a 48 hour sale across all categories of Amazon. Prime Day 2020 delivers in a big way with more deals than any Prime Day event before. Additionally, members can shop featured lightning deals, which offer jaw-dropping prices on top-tier brands and products.

You do have to be an Amazon Prime member to get the deals. The service is totally worth it: not only do you get fast free shipping all year long, but you also get access to all the Prime Video content. It’s only $12.99/month or $119 for the year if you pay it annually. Get a 30 day free trial just in time for Prime Day!

When is Amazon Prime Day?

Amazon Prime Day 2020 is October 13-14, a full 48 hours of deals!

QUICK SALE LINKS

KITCHEN PRIME DAY HUB

• Ring Doorbell + Echo Show for $149.99
• Echo Dot for $18.99
• Instant Pot Sale
• Le Crust Griddle $89
• CORSORI Air Fryer XL $99
• Pyrex Deals (I love the 3-set bowls, measuring cups and pie plates!)
• Crockpot Deals

Small Business Prime Day Sales

• Save up to 20% on handcrafted gifts and décor from Amazon Handmade

• Save 20% on pumpkin bakery soy candles from Lorenzen Candle Co
• Save 20% on rose embossing rolling pins from Algis Crafts
• Save 20% on blue simulated turquoise hoop earrings from MJLuLu

Best Prime Day Sales for Kitchen/Baking

This list will be updated as the deals go live – so be sure to check back!

• Save over 40% on select KitchenAid Items
• Save up to 50% on some Instant Pot models
• Save up to 30% on some Cuisinart items and cookware
• Save up to 37% on some Ninja Kitchen items
• Save up to 40% on kitchen essentials from some of my favorite brands: Le Cruset, Pyrex, and more

Favorite Things Prime Day Sales

This list will be updated as the deals go live – so be sure to check back!

• My favorite home assistant, the Echo Dot (3rd Gen) is 60% off at only $18.99
• Watch recipe videos and more with the Echo Show! Get the Echo Show 5 for $44.99, Echo Show 8 for $64.99, and Echo Show (2nd Gen) for $149.99
• Save 30% on Ring Video Doorbell devices and get Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) for $69.99 – I love our Ring Doorbell SO much.
• Get your smart home started with Ring Video Doorbell 3 and Echo Show 5, just $149.99 – this is such a great deal and you can see who is at your door even without your phone.
• Save up to 33% on iRobot Roomba vacuums: If you have a dog, or hate vacuuming, get your own iRobot! I may get a new one, our Maude gave out after years of use.

Amazon Services I Love

Kindle Unlimited – this is how I read lots of Kindle books practically for free. For only $9.99 a month you can read as many books as you like that come free under the Kindle Unlimited umbrella. You can try it free for 30 days too!

Audible – listen to audio books anywhere and anytime. I love these in the car! Now if you try Audible FREE for 30 days you get 2 FREE books.

Amazon Music Unlimited: For just $0.99, Prime members who haven’t yet tried Amazon Music Unlimited can get four months of the premium streaming tier with unlimited access to more than 60 million songs ad-free, and now a wide selection of popular podcasts.

Prime Video: Enjoy a selection of titles to rent or buy at up to 50% off and for a limited time, customers will be able to subscribe to select channels for $0.99 per month for up to two months if they are not already subscribed. Only pay for the channels you want and cancel anytime. A full list of Prime Video deals, including the offer window for each, can be found at amazon.com/primememberdeals.

Amazon Gift Cards: On October 13 and 14, Prime members will receive a $10 promotional credit when they purchase an Amazon Gift Card of $40 or more (including newly-launched Amazon Video eGift Cards, available on mobile) or reload their own gift card balance with $40 or more. This limited-time offer is available while supplies last and has a limit of one per Amazon customer account. The promotional credit will expire on November 29, 2020. Other restrictions apply.

Amazon Gift Guides

Not sure what to buy for gifts? Amazon Gift Guides have launched in time for Prime Day!

The post Amazon Prime Day 2020: Best Kitchen Deals + Favorite Things appeared first on Crazy for Crust.

This post is sponsored by HelloFresh, a meal kit service that I subscribe to. All opinions are my own.

While I cook and bake for a living, I have never cooked at home as much as I have over the past few months.

Maybe it’s because I cook for work, but when it comes to making dinner I am really boring. Rarely do I make anything as good as I show on this site. In fact, my normal dinner routine is to scramble at 4:30 because I forgot to thaw chicken, or I’ll stir fry some ground turkey with taco seasoning and serve it on a bed of lettuce.

Basically, I’m boring. I’ll admit it: I’m a boring cook. And after months and months of eating at home I’m not only boring, I’m BORED. That’s why, when I had the chance to try HelloFresh, I was super excited, and (spoiler alert!) I’ve decided to keep my subscription going because I am enjoying not having to decide what to eat!

What is HelloFresh?

HelloFresh is a meal kit service where they send you a full kit with everything you need to make a delicious meal. You can choose to serve 2 or 4 people and get from 2-4+ meals per week.

When they say they send everything you need, they really do. You don’t need to grocery shop for the nights you cook with HelloFresh: they think of every detail down to the seasonings and sauces you need to complement any dish.

So, as a food blogger, why would I use a meal kit service? So. Many. Reasons.

Get out of the Recipe Rut

The #1 reason I decided to start using HelloFresh recipes was to get out of my recipe rut. My daughter is tired of grilled chicken and vegetables every night and I’m tired of thinking of what to make.

Not only do they offer so many recipes to choose from – and they have more 5-star recipes than any other meal kit service – but they are really detailed dishes. Your family will be excited they have more than just a protein-carb-vegetable on their plate for dinner, believe me.

I have 3 favorite HelloFresh recipes:

1. Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry – tastes like you ordered Chinese!
2. Black Bean & Poblano Burritos – better than that popular burrito chain!
3. Juicy Lucy Burgers – as good as (or better than) a restaurant burger!

All three of them were HUGE hits with my family, seriously. It was like having takeout I made myself!

Not only has Hello Fresh gotten me out of my boring cooking routine, but I’m looking forward to that box every week and excited about cooking again. It feels like the old days when I would research a recipe, gather my ingredients and actually COOK instead of just assembling dinner.

Plus – by getting that box delivered I am spending less time grocery shopping, less time meal planning, and I’m saving money too!

Leftovers Aren’t Boring

The kits from HelloFresh are large. I get the 4 person serving, and we have three people in our family. There is usually enough food left over for a few lunches or another full “leftover” dinner.

Remember when your mom would say you were having leftovers for dinner and you’d groan? Me too, even today, I hate leftover dinner. But I look forward to my HelloFresh leftovers because I feel like I’m eating takeout leftovers, and those are always the best.

Teaching Teenagers to Cook

Oh, this is a big one! Parents: anyone else out there who cannot teach their own kids anything? That’s me! Jordan is now 15 and needs to know how to cook, so I’m putting her to work with every HelloFresh box. The step-by-step instructions with photos are easy to read and follow, and they’re perfect for teaching those teenagers how to cook.

I’m looking forward to the day she says “Hey mom, dinner is ready!”

HelloFresh is Sustainable

I’m not going to lie: thinking about all the packaging that goes with meal kits makes me a little uncomfortable because of waste. Living in California, we are really aware of that sort of thing, but don’t worry: HelloFresh actually helps you eat more sustainably.

• Their prep means less wasted food, because there’s no guess work (never buy a whole bunch of cilantro and throw most of it away again).
• The packaging is almost entirely made of recyclable and/or already recycled content.
• Their carbon footprint is 25% lower than meals made from store-bought groceries (according to a comparative impact study from the University of Michigan).

Overall, HelloFresh recipes are not only nutritious and delicious and there is something for everyone: low-calorie, vegetarian, family friendly. I’m using the service as an at-home takeout that’s healthier – which is why my favorites are the takeout inspired recipes!

Click here to get $80 off, including free shipping on the first box! Additional restrictions apply.

Hello Fresh Cashew Chicken Stir Fry Video

The post 3 HelloFresh Recipes I Love appeared first on Crazy for Crust.

I honestly don’t even know where to begin this post, so I’ll just dive right in. If you’re taking the time to read this, you probably have been around for awhile. Maybe you’ve been following me since the beginning, or maybe you’re new-ish. Maybe you’re another blogger or maybe you’re a mom or a grandma reading this from your couch with your coffee on a Sunday morning.

Whoever you are, wherever you are, thank you. Without YOU, the die-hard fan, the one who reads my words and the recipe, are the reason I’m sitting here writing this love letter.

You probably already know how this blog started, how I didn’t know what blogging was but wanted to do something for myself, how I created a site and posted recipes on a whim, and learned how to blog and do all the blogging things as I went along.

I’ve spent the last few months looking back at old posts, old designs, and taking stock of who blogging has helped me become and really, when I look at 2010 Dorothy I don’t even recognize her.

2010 Dorothy was a stay-at-home mom to a 5-year-old, unhappy in her SAHM-ness, itching for something else, something bigger, something that didn’t involve crayons or Barbie or carpool.

She was a woman with anxiety but didn’t know she had anxiety, someone without the confidence to make a decision or speak her mind or make close friends. She was shy, and timid and nervous, and let people railroad over her whenever they chose.

I’ve often said that deciding to start a blog was the one and only time in my life that I have had a spiritual moment. Maybe it was God, maybe it was the psychic part of my brain, I don’t know, but something or someone whispered in my ear that I needed to start a blog, so I did.

To say that doing that was out of character for my 2010 self is an understatement. That girl didn’t take chances, or do anything not known or planned. That girl would never have started something that would have become…THIS…but she did.

Moral of the story: listen to your gut.

Would I have become the person I am today without blogging? Maybe. But I don’t think so.

While I am not perfect, and I still suffer from anxiety, and depression, and I still struggle with confidence and self-esteem, I know who I am now. I know what I want, I know what is important, and I really owe that all to that moment I decided to push publish on my first blog post.

Every Accomplishment starts with the decision to try.

Unknown

That is one of my favorite quotes because it’s SO true! Before blogging I was afraid to try, afraid to be me, afraid to do what wasn’t expected of me.

Over the last 10 years I have tried and succeeded, tried and failed, and tried again. I feel like on a daily basis I make decisions for my business that make me question myself – but in a good way. Trying and sometimes succeeding has given me the confidence I always longed for earlier in my life.

If I had never had the courage to publish that first post, and to keep going when no one was reading, I wouldn’t be here today. I remember so many times being upset about my lack of following, or a lack of shares on a social post, or being frustrated because no one understood my job or thought I actually worked, when I was working 14 hour days. But never once did I think about quitting – I knew that THIS was what I was meant to do.

What’s the best part about blogging?

That’s a question I get asked a lot and it’s funny because I don’t have just one answer. I mean of course, I love being my own boss. I love making my own hours. And at the core of my job, the work is pretty fun: I make dessert and take pictures. When it’s safe, I get to travel and work with brands I love. It’s a pretty cool gig.

There is a lot I don’t like about blogging (social media, never really getting a day off, mean commenters, the drama that sometimes happens) but the things I do love are the things that have made the biggest impact on my life.

Internet friends are real friends

Unkown

I first saw that on a meme around 2012 and it really resonated with me. Back then it was weird to have “internet friends” and believe me, my friends in real life gave me quite the looks when I’d talk about all the people I met online.

One of the best parts about blogging are the friendships I’ve made.

As an adult I struggled with friendships. We moved a few times, and I am shy, and it’s really hard for me to open up to people. Blogging allowed me to talk about myself and be who I really was, something I struggled with in real life.

In real life I was a mom without an in-person job, so all my interactions were because of my kid. If you’ve done the mom-group or school-friend thing, you know what I mean. It takes time and effort and a lot of patience to find a group of people who you can really open up to – and even then you’re lucky if you can weed through the sea of them to find even one person who can be the friend we all need.

One of the best things about blogging was that all I had was time. We weren’t working around playdates – we could text and message each other whenever and that was normal.

Over the last 10 years I have met several women that I consider family. Sisters, even. As an only child, I replace siblings with friends, and I’ve found some really good ones. We are friends outside of blogging; we travel together and celebrate milestones with each other.

Through blogging I truly found my people, my circle, the people that love me for me. And that is probably the best thing that’s happened to me, because through them I’ve managed to find myself, and that is priceless.

I’m not going to name names, but I’m pretty sure they all know who they are, and if you’re reading this then know I’m sending you hugs and kisses.

Never underestimate the influence you have on others.

Laurie Buchanan

It would be remiss if I didn’t mention all of YOU reading this too. Knowing that I’ve reached people of all ages, all over the world – there’s something amazing about that.

I’ve written posts about anxiety and about fertility, and those are the ones that have resonated with so many people. Knowing I can open up about how I feel and have it help someone – that is empowering and inspiring.

When I get DMs or emails from people with snapshots of my recipes they’ve made, and comments about how their dad/mom/child loved it – those make my day. I love knowing that my cakes and pies and brownies have held candles for birthdays, been given as gifts, and put smiles on so many faces.

10 Years of Learning

Kind of like that kindergarten poem, I’m going to end this with Everything I’ve learned about life, I’ve learned through blogging:

Listen to your gut – it’s rarely wrong.

Don’t be afraid to fail; failing is just part of trying. If you’re not failing, you haven’t tried.

You don’t have to be perfect at something to start. Just start – then work on working up to perfect. (Also: nothing is ever perfect!!)

Be yourself. Be authentic, always.

If someone doesn’t like you because you’re being yourself then let them go. They aren’t worth your time or energy.

Celebrate the milestones and the accomplishments – big and small. They’re worth it, and so are you.

Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey – readers, bloggers, friends, family…I couldn’t have done any of this without you.

xo,
Dorothy

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I have 8 ways to keep busy right now, new things to learn, try and do that will keep your mind occupied (and off the news app). These ideas are the perfect distraction!

During the first few weeks of this weird time, I became a pro at:

• Eating
• Drinking
• Scrolling Facebook
• Watching Netflix

Now that this is our new normal for awhile, I’ve started focusing on working out at home, planning my next trip, and finding something for my kid to do that isn’t making a TikTok.

I have a feeling you’re in the same boat, so today I’m sharing some new fun things I’ve recently found to pass the time (and I’m learning something too!)

Each of these resources is completely FREE. They’re email courses I’ve been taking over the last week, and they’ve been super helpful.

1. Cookie Baking Hacks to bake better cookies!

This is my free email course that I know you’ll love, because who doesn’t love cookies?

In this course you’ll learn:

• My EASY Hacks for baking better cookies
• Some of my favorite easy cookie recipes

2. For Disney Lovers: Crafts, games, and activities!

These stay-at-home activities all have a Disney theme! You’ll get crafts, Disney-themed games, and screen-free activities to engage your child’s imagination.

You might not be able to GO to Disney right now, but you can still enjoy Disney fun!

3. Learn Culinary School Secrets to Transform your Cooking

Once you master a few basics it’s a lot easier to whip up dinner with whatever you have in your pantry. Right now, that’s really important!

This course will teach you about cooking chicken perfectly, grilling the best steak, how to make the perfect rice PLUS the secret formula for roasting vegetables!

4. 14 day Kids Activities Challenge

If your kids are bored then THIS is the guide for them!! Are you looking for activities that are easy to set up, easy to do, and might actually teach them something?

This email course includes 14 days of FREE kids activities, from science to engineering and art and so many more. Keep your kids busy for the next two weeks!

5. Stress Free Travel Planning

I know, we can’t travel right now, but we will be able to again. This email series is perfect for you to do NOW so that when we can book travel again you can go for it right away.

Learn how to save money, how to get started, and so much more! If you’re ever thinking of planning a trip you don’t want to miss these ideas.

6. Learn to use that Instant Pot!

Is your instant pot still in the box? Well, use this time to get it up and running. These 5 easy recipes will for sure get you going and give new Instant Pot cooks the confidence to use your pressure cooker!

7. 2 weeks of FREE Home Workouts

We can’t go to the gym so we’re ALL stuck working out from home right now. If you’re like me that can get boring or confusing FAST. Don’t give up your workouts – this series not only shares free workouts but also tips for making home workouts easier AND sample meal plans!

8. Keep your kids reading – without the library!

Public and school libraries are great resources for kids and a great place to get new reading material if you’re like me and don’t buy books. But what do you do if your library is closed? This 5-day course, No Library? No Problem: 5 Secrets for Reading During Quarantine is going to help you keep your kids interest in reading even now!

The post 8 Ways to Keep Busy Right Now appeared first on Crazy for Crust.

Beaches Resorts is the family-friendly branch of the Sandals Resorts brand. Families of all sizes are welcomed with open arms at Beaches; I like to say it’s truly ALL inclusive because the resorts are Autism friendly (the resorts have passed IBCCES training) and they’ll truly work with anyone with food allergies to make sure they are safe during their stay.

With 22 restaurants to choose from the resort is an all-inclusive with so many choices. That’s why I’m writing this post: I’m going to tell you my favorite places to eat Beaches Resorts Turks and Caicos.

What does all-inclusive mean?

I’ve only recently discovered the wonderful thing that is the all-inclusive resort. Our normal trips to the beach in Hawaii are to a traditional resort, where you pay for your room and then pay for restaurants separately. Traveling all-inclusive is a game changer and one of my favorite ways to travel now.

An all-inclusive resort is one that, when you book your room, it comes with all your meals and drinks (or some, depending on the resort). The price of the food is built into the overall cost, so you’re paying one lump sum for your entire stay instead of paying each time you eat.

There are many different kinds of all-inclusive resorts that range in size, offerings and quality. If you’re going to go to a resort like this I highly recommend doing your research and seeing exactly what is covered and what’s not. Be sure to also read reviews about food and drinks – if you’re at an all inclusive you’ve going to want to eat there the entire trip so as not to spend extra.

Beaches Resorts are truly all-inclusive: they include all your food, every meal, no matter how many of them you eat. All of your alcohol is included, even top shelf. You can choose anything available at the bar when you order your drink. They only charge extra for some wines outside of the ones they offer (they have a partnership with Robert Mondavi).

I haven’t eaten at every restaurant at the resort but we managed to try several, so the following are what we love about them.

Important things to note about the food at Beaches Resorts:

• There is no room service at the resort. However, you’re allowed to bring food to your room and there is a microwave and a refrigerator.
• Be sure to note restaurant open and close times. Sometimes there is a dead period in the day where only one or two are available.
• There isn’t any formal pool service. Some of the pools have a drink server, but there is no food menu. You can, however, get to-go meals at any restaurant and take them to the pool.
• Know the dress code! Most are resort casual – but that doesn’t always means bathing suits are ok. Only a few require more dressy attire (slacks and collared shirts for men).
• Only one restaurant requires reservations: Kimonos. Be sure to reserve this when you arrive by calling the culinary desk. You won’t want to miss it.

Our favorite places to eat at Beaches Turks and Caicos:

Bayside Restaurant

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Resort Casual
Key West

This restaurant is buffet for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast and lunch are buffet; dinner is ala carte.

The food here is fine, it’s buffet food, but the view is why we love it.  We come for breakfast every morning just to see the beach and the water. It’s an open-air restaurant, wear your bathing suit with a coverup and head to the beach after you eat.

Favorites include: spicy pepper steak and the fruit bar. They also have cereal, oatmeal and all your traditional breakfast items. They’ll make an omelette or specially cooked eggs to order.

Marios

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Resort Casual
Italian Village

The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We highly recommend going for dinner! (Except on the weekends: then it’s just buffet.)

Food-wise, Marios is our favorite at the resort. There is an antipasti buffet for everyone to indulge in before they order, which includes an array of salad fixings, cheeses and charcuterie, and breads.

Their menu includes sections for risotto/pasta, mains, and dessert. The portions are small enough you can order a main with a few risottos or pastas to share. Our favorites are: the cheese ravioli and mushroom risotto, the lamb, and the shrimp main courses. Everything is fabulous

Leave room for dessert at Marios! It’s some of the best at the resort: the chocolate tart is SO GOOD. They’ll package it for you to go if you ask.

Barefoot By The Sea

Lunch and Dinner
Resort Casual
Italian Village

This is the first restaurant I ate at at Beaches Resort Turks and Caicos and we really enjoy it. Located practically on the beach at the Italian Village, Barefoot By The Sea is a sandy restaurant – literally. Ditch your shoes on arrival and eat overlooking the ocean.

It’s open for lunch and dinner but I highly recommend the dinner menu: that’s when they offer the coconut shrimp. Everyone talks about how good it is; this past weekend we ordered 11 orders of it with 12 people in our party.

Their menu is seafood centered but the kids menu is full of things kids actually like. This is also the place to try conch – the conch fritters are delish.

Kimonos

Dinner only
Resort Casual
Near French Village; across from Red Lane Spa
Reservations required!

This is the restaurant you need to reserve when you get to the resort. (During busy times I can see that it would sell out.)

Kimonos is a hibachi restaurant, where everyone sits around the grill and the chef cooks while you watch. It’s a preset menu and you get a little bit of everything. Come hungry: it’s a lot of food. You’ll get shrimp, fish, chicken, steak, vegetables, soup, fried rice and dessert. (My advice: skip the dessert.) The soup was delicious, and I normally don’t love soups at hibachi. I also loved the steak and shrimp the most.

Most of the appeal of the meal is the service: the chefs are amazing. Your dinner will be fun – be sure to show the chef how excited you are at the beginning for an even better experience. Our chef serenaded us the entire meal while we sang along. With a large group especially, this is a fabulous experience.

Cafe de Paris

All day dining
Resort Casual
French Village

This restaurant is open for breakfast and all day for coffee and pastries. Breakfast is ok, nothing special, they’re best for coffee, but you NEED to come here for dessert. They’re open late, so after a meal stop in and get one or two or eight of the small desserts to try. They’ll fill a to-go box for you and you can take them back to your room or eat wherever you want around the resort.

I enjoyed everything I tried from Cafe de Paris. My favorites were the Banana Cake, Carrot Cake, and Chocolate Tart. But honestly, you can’t go wrong here. They also have crepes in the morning and fondue and cookies at night.

Dinos / Bella Napoli

Lunch through the afternoon (11am-5pm)
Resort Casual
Italian Village or Caribbean Village

Both of these are pizza places, located in different areas. I am pretty sure they use the same recipe and are just branded differently, ha! If you’re in the Italian area, go to Dinos. In Caribbean, you’ll be wanting to try Bella Napoli.

We hit up Dinos probably five times in four days. The pizzas are made hot to order and are really good. The thin crust is crunchy and chewy and the toppings are fresh.

My favorite is the three meat but you can’t go wrong with any of their pizzas.

**They open at 11 and close at 5 so plan accordingly.**

Order a few for your room in case you need a morning carb sesh (easy to need at an all-inclusive where drinks are free flowing). Be sure to get there before 5pm!

If you want to get pizza before returning to the airport, take note of your departure time. They don’t open until 11 and the line is CRAZY because everyone has the same idea. Buy them the evening before – cold pizza is just as good and better than anything at the airport.

Mr. Mac and Cheese

Open 11am-5pm
Food truck near the kids play area

This truck is a true gem! Near the kid pool, this bright yellow food truck is the perfect midday lunch or (hangover) snack. Don’t think you like macaroni and cheese? You haven’t tried Mr. Mac and Cheese!

With more than eight gourmet mac ‘n cheese options, you’re going to have trouble finding one you want to order. (So go ahead, order them all!) I’ve tried all of them and my favorites are the Mac ‘n Cheese Balls, Taco Mac, and Philly Cheesesteak. The taco mac is by far my favorite!

They also close early, so be sure to grab one during the day.

Bobby Dee’s

Open all night! 11am-6am
Casual
By Kid Zone and the water park

While Bobby Dee’s is in the kid area, it’s not just for kids! The burgers and fries and chicken sandwiches are AMAZING. They don’t open until 11 but they’re open late for an early midnight snack. They also have popcorn and ice cream, cookies, and even slices of pizza available until they close.

Arizona’s

Lunch (Buffet) and Dinner (ala carte)
Resort Casual
By the sea behind Caribbean Village

We came here for a quick lunch and it was actually really good. There’s indoor and outdoor seating and lunch is a buffet. I wouldn’t really call this southwestern food but more southwest inspired Caribbean food. They did have tacos but also gyro fixings, fries and so many other eclectic items.

I loved the gyro meat and the jerk pork was fabulous. The curly fries are a hot commodity so grab yours while you can. Margaritas were good to!

Cricketer’s Pub

Open late: 12pm-2am
Resort Casual
Italian Village

This is a great place to grab a meal when you’re hangry. English inspired pub food is great hangover food too. Mel liked the bangers and mash and the wedge salad was really good. Great beers on tap as well.

If you love karaoke, this is where it’s held. Check the resort schedule for times!

Curls ‘n Swirls

Food Truck near kids area
Open during the day, 11am-5pm

This is a fun ice cream truck that makes milkshakes. They’ll do basic flavors but the signature flavors are fantastic. The Key Lime is my favorite! This is a great place to grab something sweet while the kids play.

Beaches Resorts Turks and Caicos has so many restaurants to choose from – come hungry!

No counting calories at Beaches! Plus I love that they serve top shelf alcohol – you just have to ask. They’ll give you anything you like if you ask!

Have you been to Beaches? What’s your favorite restaurant?

The post Where to eat at Beaches Resorts Turks and Caicos appeared first on Crazy for Crust.