{Delight.Love}: { Isn't She Lovely. }

Today, my friend Danielle and I hosted a bridal shower for our dear friend, Joelle. Before I begin, let me enlighten you about our history.

You see, Joelle's fiancé, Peter and my husband, Calvin are friends with Danielle. Calvin and Peter have been friends ever since they were young lads and while enduring adolescents, the boys became friends with Danielle. Throughout the years, the dynamic trio has shared hysterical laughs, harmless-good ol' trouble, and true loyalty towards each other.

About three years ago, we all somehow {almost the same time}, found our special someone. Cal and I married in June, 2009. Danielle and her husband, Josh, married in September, 2009. And, now Peter and Joelle are getting married this May!

When we get together it's like on the show Friends, at Central Perk. Instead of the small business coffee shop, we prefer beer and greasy eats -- Old Chicago. Our gang has multiple conversations {at once}, same table {almost} every time {same waiter, too!}, causal bullshitting, and wise-cracks from the guys. Most importantly, we annoy whoever is sitting around us; we swear and talk about bumping uglies -- we're extremely loud. Yes, we are that group! Don't you love us? It's usually late at night, so no worries, and no kiddos around.

{Back to the bridal shower.}

{My neighbors were probably thinking why is Amanda hanging her panties in the bay window?}

After the homemade breakfast bread pudding, bacon, garlic and herb tomatoes, parmesan and thyme crackers and angel food cake.

We played a game and read Joelle a panty poem, and then it was time for gifts!

The Parmesan and Thyme Crackers in the making at 1:30A.M.

Ina Garten's Recipie:

1/4 pound {1 stick} unsalted butter {room temp}

3 ounces grated Parmesan

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons of water

Place the butter in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment and mix until creamy. Add the Parmesan, flour, salt, thyme and pepper and combine.

Dump the dough on a lightly floured board and roll into a 13-inch long log. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and place in the freezer for 30 minutes to harden.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Cut the log crosswise into 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick slices. Place the slices on a sheet pan and bake for 22 minutes.

Cute tea light lanterns, our party favors!