Loaded Potato Casserole & Cookie Party Peek

Three more days!! We're almost there. It's a good thing, too, because I don't think my husband can take much more of the Michael Buble Christmas album blaring through the french doors of our office. Little does he know, that album's here to stay. There are still Silent Nights in July, you know.

I apologize for the crapiness of these pictures; they were taken in a rush with our old camera over Thanksgiving (yes, this post has been hiding, afraid to be shown for that long).Whatever you do, don't let the bad pictures deter you from whipping a yummy loaded potato casserole up over the holidays. It is so easy and so good. If you're looking for a last minute addition to your Christmas menu, this would be perfect! Found this recipe here on Plain Chicken.


Ingredients:
2 (16 oz.) containers sour cream
3 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
2 (3 oz.) bags real bacon bits
2 pkg. ranch dip mix
1 large (28-30 oz.) bag frozen shredded hash browns

Directions:
Combine first 4 ingredients, mix in hashbrowns (still frozen). Spread in a 9x7 in. pan. Bake at 400 for 45-60 minutes.
*I used two smaller pans (maybe 7x7??), one for Zach's family and one for mine

As you can see, it didn't last long at Thanksgiving.

And now for the fun stuff....I'm planning a cookie decorating/swap party! I ran around like a mad woman today singing Jingle Bells and popping Advil, trying to gather up all kinds of goodies. The best part? These tags my very talented husband made tonight (inspiration found here). The spatulas will be favors for all the lovely ladies who attend.

 I found these free printables here on Joy Ever After....aren't they the cutest?

We probably won't be back with a post until after the New Year, so we wish you all a very merry Christmas and all the joys of the holiday season. :)