Macarons

Ya'll.

Look at what I did.

Well, with plenty of certified help.

My Christmas present from Nic and Mr. J was to attend a macaron class January 17th, given by the lovely macaron guru, Helen of Tartelette. And boy howdy it was awesome.  Macarons are something I seen making waves around the foodie blogs, and I think they're beautiful.  But I've never A. made them or B. even eaten them.  So this class was going to be all new to me.

And let me tell you, it was quite the learning experience, wrapped up with snacks, champagne, plenty of other Atlanta bloggers of all varieties (even one from Raleigh!) and soaking up any tips, tricks and blog hints I could.  This was all part of the Sugar Coma weekend, as put on by The Broke Socialite, Atlanta's guide to fabulous. Being in the company of such talented women made me think about the serious duty I have to this blog.  I also got the scoop on what it's like to be a famous blogger (and many of you are, though you deny it), creep and mean fans, and the best commentary I've heard on Hoarders to date.

The star of the day were our hosts, Atl's Running with Tweezers Tami, Tartelette's Helen, and Anatomy of a Dinner Party's Patti.  I also met so many wonderful Atlanta bloggers, the Blissful Glutton, Bakerella, Hopeless Foodie, the Frugal Hostess, ATL_Events, Ultra Foodie who all taught me so much. I don't have many pictures from that day, as my pictures didn't turn out so well. My little point and shoot had some serious camera envy when everyone else whipped out their amazing machines.

My first macaron experience, with traditional almond flavored shells and chocolate ganache filling was...incredible.  Light, crunchy cookies with meringue-y insides and truffle like centers. Oh baby. Macarons have kind of a bad rap for being temperamental and difficult, but after Helen's directions, tips and tricks I know I can make these again easily.  And when I do, then I will definitely share it with you.

Here's one for the road.