Time to get Toasty

Home is where the Heart is and what better way than adding a Fabulous Fireplace

With temperatures dropping and Winter around the corner, now might be a great time for a fireplace.
It’s probably safe to say we have all dreamed of a night in front of a crackling fire.
Today’s technologies make getting your fire fix possible, no matter where you live, what your budget, or
however you may think that space precludes the possibility.
There is still time to be able to enjoy a fireplace this year!

From a Classic crisp white fireplace

A Sleek marble Mantel

To something more rustic

Perhaps a Traditional Fireplace to sit round as a family, play games and drink Hot Chocolate!

There are endless choices to suit your style

A dining room with a crackling fire adds an intimacy to mealtimes
Dinner parties seem extra-magical!

Imagine lying in the bath, soft flames flickering,
what could be more relaxing….

Cold Outside, Cosy Inside;

Nothing is quite as cosy as sitting beside a burning fireplace while winds rage outside.
The ultimate luxury a bedroom with the soft flickering flames.

With the long, chilly nights of winter here, turn to the comfort of a fire for a little soul-reviving warmth.

With Durban’s mild winters, we are lucky to spend more time outdoors
What an inviting space to relax with a glass of wine!

An outdoor patio fireplace, creates an inviting spot for alfresco entertaining.

A little something to help you settle in front of the fire!

Lavender & Vanilla Milk Hot Chocolate

www.thekitchenmccabe.com

Serves: 2 servings
INGREDIANTS

1 cup Heavy Cream
1 cup Whole milk
2 Tablespoons + Maple Syrup
1/2 Vanilla Bean, split lengthwise
1/4 Teaspoon Sea Salt
1/2 Teaspoon Dried Lavender Buds r 1 drop Lavender Essential Oil
4 ounces quality Milk Chocolate
Whipped Cream, to top (sweeten with maple syrup)
Dried Lavender Buds, to garnish (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

Place the cream, milk, maple syrup, vanilla bean and salt in a saucepan and bring just to a boil. Remove from heat and whisk the dried lavender buds into the mixture, if using. If using essential oil, skip this step. Let steep for 10 minutes.
Strain the hot chocolate through a fine mesh sieve and discard solids.
Pour the hot chocolate back in to the same saucepan.
Bring just to a simmer, then remove from heat.
Add the chocolate to the saucepan and let sit for 1 minute.
Whisk mixture until chocolate is melted and smooth.
Add 1 drop of lavender essential oil, if not using dried lavender and whisk well.
Taste hot chocolate and add more maple syrup if a sweeter drink is desired.
Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and sprinkling of lavender buds.

Did you know?

Deep in Southern Africa, The Wonderwerk Cave – “Miracle Cave” in Afrikaans – contains evidence of the controlled fire’s humble beginnings.
An earth pit containing traces of ash, sediment % charcoal would have allowed for the Homo Erectus/Sapien BBQ of the age, giving warmth and protection through the night.
Paving the way not just for fireplaces but for human evolution.

The Wonderwerk Cave, South Africa, 1,000,000 BC