Recent Insta-shots + Giveaway Winner

Today makes up for all the relentless rain recently because it's gorgeous and warm out. My friend Jo and I took advantage by going on a walk and then sipping coffee outside Costa. With the sun on my back and an iced latte in my hand I almost felt like I was back in California. (Not quite Florida, because it would've been humid.) Yesterday I also managed to take a walk when it wasn't raining. With today as an exception, it's still been mostly cold here, but my Instagram shots show that Spring's sneaking its way in anyway.

And now it's time to announce the giveaway winner of The Hiding Place. Since not many entered, I put everyone's names on slips of paper and Kurt did the honors of pulling one from a bowl. So congrats Malisa, you're our winner! :-) Do comment below with your e-mail address so I can contact you.

I hope you all are having a great Monday!
Michaela Rae

Wedding Excitement & Inspiration

For six rare days we enjoyed sun and warmth and I allowed it to sink deep into my bones. Spring's always been my favorite season and it's finally arrived in London. 

I feel every year Spring brings more to celebrate and enjoy. This time last year I'd nailed down all the big details for my May wedding and was beginning to enjoy the calm of the little details, the ones you don't really need but that make the day more special (if that's possible) or go more smoothly. I was gathering childhood photos, fixing mason jars to hang on ceremony chairs and finding comfy cream lace flats to wear. The things that are especially fun to plan and still allow you time to relax and reflect. 

Now I'm beginning to prep for my dear friend Kaitlyn's wedding. She sent me a package last week with a card asking me to be her bridesmaid, paint swatches to help me feel her wedding, a tin of lip salve and a handheld mirror. It was the sweetest thing! And it definitely helped me envision her dream wedding. I know it's going to be so soft, romantic and intentional. Just like she and Harbor are.

All week I've been popping into shops and browsing online for the perfect dress. I have plenty of time but I'm just so excited. I ordered this one from ASOS and I'm really hoping it works.

Kaitlyn and us bridesmaids have been sharing inspiration through Pinterest, these are some of my favorite photos.

I can't find where these flat are from, but aren't they amazing? via

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Aren't weddings sweet? I love everything about them. I had my moments of wanting to scrap it all and elope when planning my own; but truth is, having your most dear family and friends present to witness and hold you accountable to your commitment and then to celebrate with, is worth it all. I'm so excited to be that for my dear friend. 

Michaela Rae

Crunchy Cornflake Nests | an Easter treat

I discovered a yummy and super easy Easter treat! They remind me of Muddy Buddies but with a colorful twist. I think you guys will love these.

What you'll need 
2 TBSP golden syrup or honey
3 TBSP butter or margarine (not low fat spread)
100grams/3.5oz chocolate bar of your choice
2 cups Cornflakes
Mini M&Ms or Smarties to sprinkle on top
Cupcake liners

Instructions
In a saucepan on low (don't allow to boil), melt and stir together butter, chocolate and syrup. Remove from heat and add cornflakes, stir until well coated. Spoon into liners. Refrigerator until fully cooled and then sprinkle with mini M&Ms or any other candies you want to decorate them with.

It's such a great crunchy chocolatey snack. I can totally see myself making these with future kiddos. I'm sure they'd love having their own little "nest."

I made mine with milk chocolate and used small silicone cupcake liners. I also managed to spill my container of mini chocolate beans (thankfully after I'd sprinkled the nests) all over the kitchen and it reminded me of this commercial. 

Now I'm off to enjoy the perfect spring weather that London's experiencing (a shocker really)!

Michaela Rae

Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Jam Filling

The rain let up making for a sunny Monday here in London-town. I'm pretending it's not 35 degrees out because I woke up with lemon on the brain and wanted to make something light and fresh. Something just like Lemon Cupcakes with Jam Filling! Gotta love Ming Makes Cupcakes.

What you'll need
2 cups flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 cup sugar
1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, room temp.
4 eggs
3/4 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup lemon juice
Lemon zest to taste
Raspberry jam
Whipped cream and berries

Mix flour, powder, and salt in small bowl. In medium bowl cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Stir in flour mixture and buttermilk alternately. Mix in lemon juice and zest.

Bake at 350°F/175°C for 20 minutes. Makes ~18 cupcakes.

After cupcakes have cooled. Use a small knife to cut a cone-shaped segment from the top of the cupcake. Trim off the bottom of the cone, fill the hole with jam, and cover with the remaining cupcake top. Top with whipped cream and berries.

You could totally use different types of jams and berries with this recipe. And the cupcakes are delicious without any filling or topping too. Question to the more experienced bakers though: what ingredients could be altered/added to make these fluffier? I felt they were a bit dense.

No matter where you are, I hope this brings you a little Spring cheer!

Michaela Rae

P.S. I made a Facebook page. It seems odd to have one, but I decided it was better to share blog links there than on my personal wall. So, now you can "Like" Michaela Rae to get updates via Facebook. :-)