Hi everyone!

Back again with another Monthly Mashup! I feel like last month went by so quickly especially with the holiday season squeezed in.

In search of Christmas spirit (and the inspiration for my Christmas map), Katie and I went to quite a few places around the city the first day of the month.

To start out, we took a little tour of different holiday spots in Wrigleyville like Tuco & Blondie’s Christmas Tree Farm for a quick photo sesh!

…And Christmas Club (aka Country Club) for some treats afterward! We tried their eggnog that tasted like ice cream — yum — as well as Christmas tree onion rings, ham & cheese sliders, and spicy honey chicken bites. All SO good! Hoping to visit again soon without all the decor and see how it is.

We also ventured out to the globes at The Godfrey’s rooftop next and the Christkindlemarket for a raclette sandwich plus one of their infamous mugs…did you even go if you didn’t pick one up?? I’ve only been collecting them for a few years now but honestly, this one is probably my favorite! I love the little illustration on it!

Next up, went to a little XO Marshmallow marshmallow making class thanks to Maelle! We made yummy little cranberry mules and decorated marshmallows with frosting and sprinkles! I really liked how strong the vanilla was in the marshmallows so I honestly didn’t put much extra stuff on mine.

Moving right along, I participated in my first T-Box with some friends! For those who don’t know T-Box (aka Toy Box) is a “12 bars of Christmas” crawl where the proceeds go to charity. It’s like St. Patrick’s Day 2.0 – super crazy but really fun! Definitely do it at least once!

While in Wrigley, I also visited Hotel Zachary – right across from the field. Their drinks were really creative and fun. I got the red one with the blackberry: gin, hot cider, etc. It’s seasonal so I’m not sure how long it’s on the menu for but I would definitely snap it up before it’s gone for good! As for the food, we got all different appetizers and all were great, from the pretzel to the cheese plate! The space is gorgeous to boot so definitely check it out!

Speaking of food, I also found a really yummy and equally stunning brunch place thanks to my friend, Claire. We split a banana caramel French toast slice and some biscuits and gravy topped with a perfectly poached egg. The Kennison is a DREAM, you guys! 100% going back asap.

Last food one: a new spot in River North and I loved their seasonal drink. It’s filled with housemade peanut butter vodka (need the recipe), coffee liqueur, walnut bitters and pretzel bark. Yum!

On to Christmas! We always host, so this year I took over the signature cocktail and made cranberry Moscow mules. Super easy and not very expensive either! Just add ginger beer (I prefer the regular kind not the sugar-free kind, but to each their own), ice, a shot or two of vodka, and a wedge or more of lime to taste. Mix it up and top with cranberries for garnish! You can also add in a little cranberry juice if you want a little fruitiness to yours. As for mugs, if you don’t have the copper mugs the cocktail is known for, go with a mason jar: it looks good and holds about the same amount!

We also always travel for the holiday too to see family in St. Louis. Since most of us are older now (where does the time go??), we visited the Budweiser Biergarten and Brewlights. Like Zoolights but with beer! The lights were gorgeous and you get a free beer upon entering so win-win!!

And last but not least, Happy New Year everybody!! Cheers to chasing dreams and entering 2019 better than you came into it.

Local Spots I Checked Out: Tuco & Blondie, Christmas Club/Country Club, The Godfrey Igloos, Christkindlmarket, Hotel Zachary, The Kennison, Arbella

Events I’m Looking Forward To Next Month: Bachelor Nights at Ranalli’s, High Tea at The Allis, Galentine’s Event with Diptique, more city events to come!

See you in the next post!