Rose-Hip to My Heart

When my cousin, Audrey, and her long-term boyfriend, Tyler, got engaged a couple months ago, I was overcome with excitement and anticipation! I love both of them very much and am indescribably happy for the both of them. Although they haven't set a date yet or done any official planning, I couldn't help but create what I envision for their big day on Polyvore.

When putting this board together, I tried combining this country couple's favorite things: Coca-Cola (Tyler collects memorabilia), the color yellow (one of Audrey's favorites for as long as I can remember), dogs (they love their two "fur babies"), roses (in honor of Audrey's middle name), country music (I introduced the couple at karaoke bar), and playing cards (one of the couple's favorite past times). A vintage feel fell into place to pull it all together :)

Home Grown Goodness {Installment 3}

After a (very long) break from this blog, I have finally found the time to put up my final posting of this round of "Home Grown Goodness." I apologize to my readers as I have been so busy with school that I haven't had time for much else. Although most Iowans are done getting anything but pumpkins from their gardens at this point, it is still possible to get your hands on the ingredients for this recipe. This idea was given to me by a former coworker a couple years ago and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. Without further ado, I bring you... Chocolate Zucchini Bread <3

Chocolate Zucchini Bread
2 (1 oz) squares unsweetened chocolate
3 eggs
1 cups white sugar
1 cup vegetable or canola oil
2 cups grated zucchini
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
3/4 cup semi sweet chocolate chips

1) Preheat oven at 350 degrees and lightly grease two 9x5 loaf pans
2) Melt chocolate squares until smooth
3) In a large bowl, combine eggs, sugar, oil, zucchini, vanilla, & melted chocolate; beat well
4) Mix in flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
5) Fold in chocolate chips
6) Pour into greased pans, bake for 60-70 minutes.

Hint: This bread was delicious, however, the chocolate overpowered the zucchini more than what I would have liked it to. Next time I make it I plan on using only one square of chocolate so as to make it more equal to flavor of the zucchini.