The new year recently began, but Valentine’s Day is nearly here. While there’s still time to craft a special gift for the sweetheart in your life, try this easy-to-make drink as an alternative to chocolates or jewelry.

Skittles vodka

You’ll need:

• Five glass bottles – upcycle bottles you have on hand, making sure they have lids. Orangina bottles can make this gift look like a love potion – perfect for Valentine’s Day!

• Five plastic cups

• A funnel

• Coffee filters

• A two-pound bag of Skittles

• 1.75 liter bottle of vodka

1. Add Skittles by color to each glass bottle. The vodka is going to be pretty sweet when you’re done, so you might want to give this craft a taste test – carefully! – before deciding how many candies should go into the final product.

2. Add 10-12 ounces of vodka to each glass bottle. Seal and shake every few hours. The candy should dissolve completely in about 24 hours.

3. The candy will create foam that needs to be filtered out. Line the funnel with a coffee filter and slowly stream the candied vodka from the glass bottles into the extra cups, so you can scrape away the foam. Be careful as you pour. The foam will build up again if you pour too quickly and make it difficult to pass vodka into the temporary container. Once the foam is gone, funnel the vodka back into the upcycled bottles.

4. Chill bottles in the freezer. Keep in mind that the cold will cause the liquid to condense, so fill the bottles close to the top. Serve when you and your sweetie are ready for a treat!

In a long-distance relationship? Don’t worry. Modify the craft slightly by packaging different-colored Skittles in pieces of tissue paper tied with ribbon. Invite your sweetie to eat the ‘magic’ candy to ensure you’re back together again soon. Include a handmade card and photo of you in your Valentine’s Day finest, and use worldwide express shipping to make sure your gift arrives in time for the big day.

Kristine is a die-hard romantic whose fiancé is studying abroad in Japan. In addition to DIY crafts like these, she enjoys making Scrabble tile jewelry and outfits for her Scottish Terrier, Pete.

Valentine’s Day is almost here.  Yep.  It’s that time of year again where couples alike come together and celebrate their love for one another.  Wheter you are in a relationship or marriage, it is a time where couples set a side their differences and embrace being together.

However, just like any other holiday, many may be wondering what they should get their significant other.  Many of you may be thinking about a lovely bouquet of flowers or a yummy box of chocolates, but I personally like the idea of gifts cards.  When giving a gift card, there are really so many options to choose from.  In fact, I think Gift Cards Rock!

When choosing a card for your partner you can choose to dine in at their favorite restaurant or shop at their favorite store. Shopping for a gift can sometimes be troublesome..and who has the time for that.  This is why gift cards are such a great idea because they cover a broad range of gift ideas.

Gift Cards Rock! is an online community for people who love to give and receive gift cards and have offered a night out to one my readers.   Now that dinner is covered, all you have to do now is work on enjoying your Valentines Day that much better.     You can also get more gift cards for Valentine’s Day at your grocery store.

The Giveaway

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Welcome to Cocktails with Mom’s ….Thursday Giveaway Link Up Party!

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Share with us your Fabulous Giveaways and enter a few while you’re at it. Be sure to come back next Thursday, same time same place.

Please RT so that others would be able to join in on the Party!

Welcome to Cocktails with Mom’s ….Thursday Giveaway Link Up Party!

Do you have a Giveaway going on? Feel free to join in on the party!

Share with us your Fabulous Giveaways and enter a few while you’re at it. Be sure to come back next Thursday, same time same place.

Please RT so that others would be able to join in on the Party!

Welcome to Cocktails with Mom’s ….Thursday Giveaway Link Up Party!

Do you have a Giveaway going on? Feel free to join in on the party!

Share with us your Fabulous Giveaways and enter a few while you’re at it. Be sure to come back next Thursday, same time same place.

Please RT so that others would be able to join in on the Party!

Welcome to Cocktails with Mom’s ….Thursday Giveaway Link Up Party!

Do you have a Giveaway going on? Feel free to join in on the party!

Share with us your Fabulous Giveaways and enter a few while you’re at it. Be sure to come back next Thursday, same time same place.

Please RT so that others would be able to join in on the Party!

When you think dessert, images of brownies, cookies, and ice cream probably pop into your head. But what about tarts, strudel, and rice pudding? All over the world, different cultures crave different sweets, and the following Recipe Finder list features the best of the best. Get ready for this pictorial rundown of European desserts!

 Austria – Apple strudel

Apple strudel is basically the national dish of Austria (my kind of country!). Usually loaded with apple filing, cinnamon, and sugar, this delicious treat is especially good with vanilla ice cream.

Belgium – Waffles

 Americans usually eat Belgian waffles as dessert, topped with fruit and, of course, ice cream. In Belgium, though, they’re made for breakfast and come in many different varieties (only one of which common to the U.S.).

Bulgaria – Rice pudding                              

 The Bulgarians know how to take something simple like rice and make it into a delicious treat. Adding cinnamon for that extra delicious kick, their rice pudding will satisfy your sweet tooth.

 Czech Republic – Medovnik

You’ve had chocolate, vanilla, and Funfetti cakes, but how about honey? This delicious honey cake is layered with tasty cream and garnished with walnuts. I need to track this stuff down!

 Estonia – Rhubarb pie

 If you saw rhubarb lying on the side of the road, you probably wouldn’t think it tastes tart. But this sunburned-carrot-looking veggie makes quite the pie ingredient.

Finland – Pulla

There are different versions of this mildly sweet bread, from braided to scone-like.  It gets much of its flavor from cardamom, but it can also incorporate raisins and almonds. Mmmmm.

 France – Crème brûlée

It might take 45 minutes to type out crème brûlée, but it’ll only take a few seconds to scarf it down. That might not be proper, but it’s so good, it’ll be hard to resist.

Germany – Black forest cake

Also called schwarzwälder kirschtorte, this cake necessitates Kirschwasser, a type of fruit brandy. Including real fruit is actually less important than including the brandy!

Greece – Baklava

Baklava’s actually common dessert in many countries and originated in Turkey, but the Greek type is very popular. It features walnuts and either honey or syrup.

Ireland – Rhubarb Fool

Here’s another dessert with a rhubarb foundation that’s equally delicious. You’d be a fool not to try it. (Sorry. I had to go there.)

Italy – Tiramisu

Besides gelato, this has to be the most famous Italian dessert, and for good reason. Full of mascarpone, coffee, and cocoa flavors, you can’t go wrong sampling the superstar of desserts.

Lithuania – Tortes

“Torte” is such a harsh-sounding word for such an amazingly tasty and beautiful dessert. These multi-layered cakes can have all kinds of fillings, from chocolate to jam to buttercream.

 Luxembourg – Plum tart

 Plums might not always make it into your dessert menu, but once you try them, they’ll definitely leave a lasting impression. Just don’t forget to take the stones out!

 Poland – Faworki

Also called angel wings (adorable), these fried, ribbon-like strips of pastry taste heavenly. Sprinkle on some powdered sugar, and you’ve got the perfect treat.

Romania – Apple cake

Apples work wonderfully in pies, so why would it be any different in cakes? It wouldn’t. So check out this tasty cake, and throw in cinnamon and nuts for good measure.

Slovenia – Potica

This dessert’s usually made for festive reasons, and it does an amazing job of adding to the joy of the occasion. Each of its many types (from poppy seed to cottage cheese) will delight your taste buds.

Spain – Flan

Who isn’t a fan of flan? Not many, because this is also one of the most popular desserts in the world. It looks like custard and caramel are two key ingredients for the most satisfying treats.

Sweden – Apple pie

Americans aren’t the only ones loving the apple pie. The Swedish rock at making amazing pies of all kinds, including rhubarb pie, but I think I’ve touched on that ingredient enough, right?

United Kingdom – Bread and Butter Pudding

Bread and butter pudding started as a way to keep from wasting leftover bread. Now it’s a delicious way to satisfy your appetite. It’s come a long way, and you don’t get that kind of credit if you don’t taste great!

Conclusion

There are so many different but delicious desserts out there for you to try! Don’t settle on only ordering brownie sundaes and chocolate cake (even though they’re delicious, too). Expand your eating horizons. Trust me — you won’t regret it!

 This guest post was written by Christina Jones.

Personalized creations for your loved ones are more important than you might think. I like to see something personal engraved on a Christmas gift I get someone. It adds a little something special to the creation and gives it a special memory.

When I was given the chance to check out PersonalCreations.com, I could not believe the quality of their gifts. There is everything you need for holidays or birthdays. Last January I had my son and this will be his first Christmas season. I looked everywhere for something that would show my excitement for his first major Holiday. He’ll be a year old so it’s not like I wanted to get him just anything. As I scanned their website, I was tickled pink at all of the selections available.

Imagine my surprise when I came across the gorgeous Baby’s First Christmas stocking. I ordered it and it came to me really quickly. I didn’t waste any time opening the stocking from the package of course. I was simply amazed at the stocking when I pulled it out. I chose the Baby’s First Christmas Patchwork Stocking for our son. The detail of the patchwork is beautiful and I was also pleased with the way my son’s name came out on the stocking. Simply Beautiful! You can see for yourself how fabulous the detail is on this stocking.

The stocking is also not small by any means and it looks perfect on our mantel. Here is a close-up picture of our newest stocking addition:

A Personal Creations Exclusive! Soft colors, a pretty patchwork design and charming button detail make this the perfect keepsake stocking for your little one’s first Christmas. We embroider any name, up to 12 characters. Choose from pastel pink or blue. Made of polyester fleece. Measures 21”L.

The Baby’s First Christmas Patchwork Stocking also looked perfect on our mantel with our other stockings. 

Lucky for me, I also got the pleasure of picking out an engraved ornament for myself. The ornament I chose has special meaning because my husband and I will be celebrating five years together in 2012. The year of 2011 marks a special year of having two children together and still being in love. I’m glad we have the  Cozy Wedding Couple Ornament to make our Christmas just a little more special. You have to see for yourself how detailed and breathtaking this little ornament is. It is the perfect decoration for our Christmas tree this holiday season.

As you can see, the engraving is beautiful and adds the most perfect touch to our ornament! The ornament also fits perfectly with our other decorations. I’ve already ordered both of the kids ornaments for the holidays and I can’t wait to get them. I would say that any product you receive from Personal Creations is and ideal gift for anyone in your family. Personal Creations literally has it all!

If you would like to find out more about PersonalCreations.com, then make sure to visit their website.

You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter!

Have fun picking out the most PERSONALIZED perfect gift for this holiday season!

How about a $5o gift code to get you started?  PersonalCreations.com is providing one Cocktails with Mom reader a $50 gift code to do some shopping of their own.  To enter, just following the instruction on the Rafflecopter for your chance to win!

Disclosure:  Product was received in order to do this review.

 When it comes to carrying your baby you want to make sure that you have a comfortable fit for both baby and mom. Carrying your growing baby is a simple and easy way to get around but at times it can put a strain on your shoulders and back as well.  Choosing the best possible carrier is critical!  For some, a baby carrier is much more convenient especially during those times when you need to be “hands free”.

If you do your search, you will find out that there are countless carriers out on the market , but all are not created equal so you need to be sure to do your homework. One in particular I like is the Britax Baby Carrier. What’s great about this carrier is that it offers moms the versatility of how you choose to carry your infant. You can carry your baby in two comfortable positions. One way is to face your baby inward towards you which is very comforting for your little one.  As they get a bit older you can then face them forward as he or she becomes more alert and curious. They can now see the world as you do!

As a mom, comfort means everything! While carrying your child around for hours at a time, the last thing you want to endure is pain. The Britax Carrier minimizes that! In addition to style and versatility you also get comfortablilty for everyday use. 

“The BRITAX BABY CARRIER has been designed to provide the highest level of long-wearing comfort for both you and your growing baby. The BRITAX BABY CARRIER features the CarryLong System, which reduces the risk of back and shoulder strain during extended wear by distributing weight across the shoulders, back and hips.

Not only does the BRITAX BABY CARRIER offer superior levels of comfort, but it is versatile as well. The ergonomic carrier allows you to face your baby inward towards you or outward to face the world, and accommodates infants from eight pounds to toddlers up to 32 pounds. To learn more about the carrying positions offered by the BRITAX BABY CARRIER, visit our Baby Carrying Positions page.”

Britax knows the importance of having a comfortable and secure carrier for moms and their bundles of joy. That’s why in addition to comfort and versatility you get something that is simple for everyday use.  It’s also pretty attractive and sleek, and comes in black, navy, and tan (organic).  

 In helping to spread some holiday cheer , Britax has generously offered to sponsor a giveaway for one lucky Cocktails with Mom reader.   Like Britax on Facebook and follow them on Twitter to learn about exciting promotions and other special offers.

With the holidays just around the corner , there will be lots of shopping, holiday cards, family dinners and parties to prepare for and what mom doesn’t enjoy a delicious gingerbread martini or spiked coffee nog every now and then, especially during their “ME” time!  So wheter you’re putting together a holiday soiree or having a quiet night at home, here is a list of holiday  recipes to get you in the holiday mood. Enjoy!

 Spiked Coffee Nog:

 · 1-1/2 cups Hot brewed coffee

· 1/3 cup Coffee-mate Eggnog Latte

· 2 oz. Spiced rum

· Whipped cream

· Ground nutmeg

-Divide coffee, Coffee-mate and rum between two mugs. Top each with whipped cream and sprinkle of nutmeg.

 Gingerbread Martini:

 · 1-1/2 oz. DiVine Vodka

· 1/2 oz. Brandy

· 2 oz. Coffee-mate Gingerbread Latte

· Cinnamon to garnish

-Shake all ingredients together with ice in a shaker and strain into chilled martini glass. Garnish with cinnamon.

 Hot Buttered White Chocolate Caramel Espresso

· 1 tsp. Brown sugar

· 1 tsp. Slightly softened butter

· 2 oz. Espresso

· 2 Tbsp. Coffee-mate White Chocolate Caramel Latte, heated

· 1 oz. rum

-Blend sugar and butter together in coffee mug; add hot espresso, Coffee-mate and rum and stir until sugar is dissolved.

 Cinnamon Bun-derful:

• Vanilla Frosting
• 8 ounces hot coffee
• 1 ounces cinnamon syrup (homemade or store-bought)
• 2-3 Tablespoons Coffee-mate French Vanilla
• Cinnamon schnapps

-Rim 10 oz. coffee mug or heat-proof glass with vanilla frosting. Add hot coffee and remaining ingredients; stir. Serve.

(Homemade Cinnamon Syrup Recipe: In a saucepan over low-medium heat, combine equal parts water and brown sugar. Add either a tablespoon of ground cinnamon, or 2-3 cinnamon sticks, and heat until almost boiling, stirring occasionally.)

For more great holiday recipes visit www.coffee-mate.com or www.divinevodka.com.