Fulfilling a Hockey (puck) Dream!

I haven't posted in a while...Hockey is in full swing...Ive been at a rink 7 days a week, and preparing for our end of the year festivities. On top of all that, at work we are entering our busy season, my son's birthday is coming up, and...I started playing HOCKEY with a learn to play women's group called Chicks with Sticks (ha ha). We started the group a few weeks ago and had 25 women show the first session! How amazing is that?!

 

Ive always been a hockey nut, in fact I think my hubby wouldn't be with me if I didn't like hockey! He's played since he was a kid, played in college, and now plays in 3 different men's leagues, coaches our sons team, and now is helping out with my group! Whew! you have to be a nut to do that. Ive never understood his extreme passion until now. Its different playing the game with people on the same level. There's a sort of rush that fills inside me and I feel empowered. I love it! My ultimate goal is to become good enough to start playing games against other local area women's teams a few times a year...but we are still trying to work on our skating skills...hockey is NOT an easy sport people! It is seriously the best workout I have ever gotten..after last nights practice I had sweat literally pouring down my face and I'm not what you call a person who sweats easy! Gross I know, but so worth it, and exciting to be fulfilling one of my dreams!

Last night we had our first "meet and greet" to get to know the team. The first half of the alphabet (me) was to bring a snack. I decided to keep in spirit of hockey and brought "hockey pucks".

 

They are brownies with white lettering on them. So easy to make! Just purchase your favorite brownie mix, (I cheated I know!) make as directed on the box, but instead of using a brownie pan, pour into a cupcake pan instead. It will eliminate the "cutting out" circles for the puck shape. They don't take as long to cook, about 20 minutes, so check often so they dont overcook! Let them cool, and ice with frosting. I came up with this design for our Chicks with sticks group (CWS--Chicks with Sticks).

They are so cute! Enjoy :)

Valentine's Day Treats

Valentines Day is only a few weeks away! For me, its not a major holiday because for one, we are at a hockey rink 5 days a week (this week we are going for 9 straight days!) Two, its a Hallmark holiday that was invented just so you will spend money. Will I take a dozen roses, a box of chocolate, or even a romantic night out? Absolutely! But honestly, I only enjoy this holiday because I like coming up with crafty things for my son to enjoy! 

Here are a few simple Valentines Day treats that I have made for my son's school parties:

Red Velvet Cupcakes! Yum, you can Never go wrong with red velvet, cream cheese frosting, and sprinkles!

Hello! Chocolate covered strawberries! These were a huge hit last year (and somewhat healthy).

This year I'm pulling out an old time favorite treat...Rice Krispies treats with a little twist!  

 Aren't  these adorable?! Made the same way as regular Rice Krispies, but added just a little red dye, and cut into heart shapes! And because there are so many treats passed out during holiday parties, these are already conveniently wrapped and ready to take home if need be.  

Hope these few ideas have inspired your Valentines Day, even if you make them for yourself!