Simple Gifts: Jelly Bean Treat Bags

Welcome to the second post in our Simple Gifts series where we share easy homemade gift ideas that can be made in thirty minutes or less. You may remember last month I had the idea of making home-roasted nuts, perfect for last-minute gift-giving. This month I've chosen to make these simple Jelly Bean Treat Bags. This is absolutely the perfect little gift for Valentine’s day, and you can easily adapt it for any kind of gift-giving occasion. Start at a candy store (or in the candy aisle of your … [read more...]

Valentine Favors

Valentine's Day is the one holiday devoted to celebrating the love and affection we feel for that special someone in our lives. As adults, we seem to only celebrate this day with our significant others. But I remember when I was in grade school, handing out Valentine's to everyone in my class. In the spirit of our grade-school selves, let this year's February 14th be more than just a day for romance. Make it a day where you let everyone in your life know that they are loved and appreciated. These … [read more...]

Heart Shortbread Cookies

These shortbread cookies are one of the easiest cookies to mix up. You can serve them as they are, a beautiful creamy golden color, with a sandy and crumbly taste like good Scottish shortbread ought to be. Or you can decorate them too. Package them individually in small tins, or put several into cellophane bags or small boxes- a perfect homemade gift to give for Valentine's Day! Ingredients: • 1/2 pound salted butter, softened • 1/2 cup powdered sugar • 2 cups flour • dash … [read more...]

Heart-Shaped Brownies

When I was a kid, one of my favorite holidays was Valentine's Day. I used to spend hours working on Valentine's cards for my classmates at school, paying extra attention to those meant for my closest friends. And while Valentine's Day has become something more of a romantic holiday with age, I still like to keep true to the spirit of my childhood. That's why, this year, I'm preparing to indulge my friends and family with something extra fun: heart-shaped brownies. Heart-shaped brownies are great … [read more...]