Pancake Mix Gift with Maple Syrup for Friends & Neighbors

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifp_mpchCyQiUNY9gjUXS9_vBo3MLTlIXeA8XjRIe3Z1zk4MTSh6YsyldbGp2nLjpLabSbtFLfFMjoEv7N6y4k91QO-o8-IooLyorw3mFZi51t0ake2jV7cwlveytbfDaWNa-N6JySMBR7/s1600/IMG_7314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifp_mpchCyQiUNY9gjUXS9_vBo3MLTlIXeA8XjRIe3Z1zk4MTSh6YsyldbGp2nLjpLabSbtFLfFMjoEv7N6y4k91QO-o8-IooLyorw3mFZi51t0ake2jV7cwlveytbfDaWNa-N6JySMBR7/s1600/IMG_7314.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge9meBpNHkM0eYjq4f73Lh06ynYzL8asdXABUpepc_yO3QPB3kwtls-lg8_qEsTc_R-ZCHcYKEQ2ofMMCuChsOhCJChBjiCWtx0uINKbr7TxyVxDPItrvO217BBGAURVPzT_5hXXsi4VNj/s1600/IMG_7303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge9meBpNHkM0eYjq4f73Lh06ynYzL8asdXABUpepc_yO3QPB3kwtls-lg8_qEsTc_R-ZCHcYKEQ2ofMMCuChsOhCJChBjiCWtx0uINKbr7TxyVxDPItrvO217BBGAURVPzT_5hXXsi4VNj/s1600/IMG_7303.jpg" width="420" /></span></a></div><span style="background-color: white;">Food "kits" are one of my favorite things to give, especially when they combine our favorite things to share.  We (mostly Emma and Mike) are really into pancakes this year, and with <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/11/annual-new-england-trip-concord-ma.html">our recent trip to Vermont</a>, this seemed like a great way to share our favorite things as gifts.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">The other great thing about this gift is that it is an "assembly only" gift - no baking, no cooking, no drizzling, no frosting.  The only thing you have to do is stir together the dry ingredients (you may not even have to go to the store) and put them into a Kraft Bag (10 for $12).  I printed an <a href="http://mad.ly/signups/127090/join">"Our Favorite Pancake Mix" label</a> on the front, then included instructions on another label on the back.  <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2DcVXUz7YF02x6ECohNbVOyvH26pVJW4EdYhEAHBmGiKeQltcXgfiTtVbFdexhWQamq9U9N8MTEfmhxMWFlfbi-ZpiqCIty-V0bIjMZWCRjVp2MwVMGrQzMbRrwBIEADrzhC6SvuBCge/s1600/IMG_7302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2DcVXUz7YF02x6ECohNbVOyvH26pVJW4EdYhEAHBmGiKeQltcXgfiTtVbFdexhWQamq9U9N8MTEfmhxMWFlfbi-ZpiqCIty-V0bIjMZWCRjVp2MwVMGrQzMbRrwBIEADrzhC6SvuBCge/s1600/IMG_7302.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">You can download the labels that can be printed on my <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/printable-labels">Printable labels (in kraft or cream)</a> - download them <a href="http://mad.ly/signups/127090/join">here</a>. </span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">Here is the recipe I used : </span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><div style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;">5 cups flour</span></div><div style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;">1/2 cup of sugar<br />2 1/2 tablespoons baking powder<br />1 tablespoon kosher salt</span></div><div style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Te5Ka7XK2Org0Bjxfq2FvHn2dgPWbnwSxMmr0NirnonnDepTSojCllfX3Ogpfq6vzkjlD5XBh3dLZkLhnwHxJsAGi8Ng1_cURHlT3OJ79CNZ5XFwmhGI6zV9MImXYgGThQXkxcGRlrQB/s1600/IMG_7321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Te5Ka7XK2Org0Bjxfq2FvHn2dgPWbnwSxMmr0NirnonnDepTSojCllfX3Ogpfq6vzkjlD5XBh3dLZkLhnwHxJsAGi8Ng1_cURHlT3OJ79CNZ5XFwmhGI6zV9MImXYgGThQXkxcGRlrQB/s1600/IMG_7321.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;">The directions for using the mix is on the back - all they have to do is add milk and eggs, then stir together.  </span></div><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9vz4Q0JkrNpTO76uG_ni2Xb9QyrZST4C58hTdHClwmT2unv2oGFf7LRi62RBT8uZ1eQ6l4wbbMiU2BJFnWOWfiWMsE-GdfzPZHuUNDqZZ2vJVXIp4PUW7MCnh26CyzLipU_2CZqJpi6P/s1600/IMG_7318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9vz4Q0JkrNpTO76uG_ni2Xb9QyrZST4C58hTdHClwmT2unv2oGFf7LRi62RBT8uZ1eQ6l4wbbMiU2BJFnWOWfiWMsE-GdfzPZHuUNDqZZ2vJVXIp4PUW7MCnh26CyzLipU_2CZqJpi6P/s1600/IMG_7318.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">The other special part of this present is the <a href="http://www.farmhousepottery.com/">Farmhouse Pottery</a> syrup pitcher and their little bottle of Vermont Maple Syrup.  This was a treasure we found on our trip!  I will post more about our visit to their pottery studio and how perfect, creative, beautiful, rustic, cozy, elegant, modern and perfect (did I say that?) everything was.  I have a couple of other things I had them ship back to me for gifts, too, and gifts for our new kitchen... that I'll be giving myself around Easter, it seems.  Let's just hope it is not Mother's Day!</span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">Of course, if you want to find any bottle of Maple Syrup, that would work, too!  I'm thinking of adding some homemade biscotti, as well.  </span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJ3TryXoNCWNcGbrGSNnm8T3SAHHuzsMRbCs8soMUbndF2sbKVqon7G8TxyYaUh0FMkOtYLvaeCnsriEaWe2js3KjbYbjVLRVSmdafTvmpejlpy-0ujy315M3rn7Vlk0o3xiG-U54WsQu/s1600/IMG_7312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJ3TryXoNCWNcGbrGSNnm8T3SAHHuzsMRbCs8soMUbndF2sbKVqon7G8TxyYaUh0FMkOtYLvaeCnsriEaWe2js3KjbYbjVLRVSmdafTvmpejlpy-0ujy315M3rn7Vlk0o3xiG-U54WsQu/s1600/IMG_7312.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div><br /><span style="background-color: white;">I haven't found the perfect basket/box/container yet for our gifts, but I will show how I ultimately end up packaging at some point.    </span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">Products Used :<br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/kraft-coffee-bags">Kraft "Coffee" Style Bags, $12 for 10</a></span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/printable-labels">Printable Labels, $5 (on sale!) for 50</a><br /><br />Enjoy $5 Shipping on all orders today and many markdowns on Christmas packaging, tags, ribbons and cello bags.  You can see all sale items, <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/sale">here</a>!  Happy Gifting!</span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">Jenny</span><br /><br />

Pancake Mix Gift with Maple Syrup for Friends & Neighbors

Food "kits" are one of my favorite things to give, especially when they combine our favorite things to share.  We (mostly Emma and...

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"Homemade" Cinnamon Roll Gifts | Frozen Bread Dough... Easy & Soooo Good

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvnXm9PALgGPAsnBPlSHCEQ-J8EEMdz_ae2MKOVLKhyphenhyphenGHF-ydhP6Qczhb-1jBt9qm9pXUUKezQxz7nYwe6s_EJjGzjC9c-InHiO99A4aA6RjFwbqXkDSWKj5eQfJUD2MPJrjHzznWqq6yp/s1600/IMG_6955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvnXm9PALgGPAsnBPlSHCEQ-J8EEMdz_ae2MKOVLKhyphenhyphenGHF-ydhP6Qczhb-1jBt9qm9pXUUKezQxz7nYwe6s_EJjGzjC9c-InHiO99A4aA6RjFwbqXkDSWKj5eQfJUD2MPJrjHzznWqq6yp/s1600/IMG_6955.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;">"Homemade" Cinnamon Roll Gift</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a data-pin-color="red" data-pin-config="above" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-height="28" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2014%2F12%2Fhomemade-cinnamon-roll-gifts-frozen.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-X7uAlUCaEUM%2FVH9lg9EUOJI%2FAAAAAAAAaeU%2FULCUMMs9n8o%2Fs1600%2FIMG_6952.jpg&description=%26quot%3BHomemade%26quot%3B%20Cinnamon%20Rolls%20in%20Boxes%20made%20from%20store-bought%20frozen%20bread%20dough!%20%20Boxes%2C%20Ribbon%20%26%20Tag%20resources%2C%20here.%20%20"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_red_28.png" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>I've talked a lot about "Homemade" Cinnamon Rolls from frozen bread dough.  Basically, you get to skip the time consuming part and jump right to spreading cinnamon and sugar.  Before you know it, you have fresh baked, hot cinnamon rolls dripping in icing.   They are great for a hostess gift or surprise treat for teachers and neighbors.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Because they are so easy and such a treat, they are one of my favorite gifts to give.  Last year I baked Cinnamon Roll Bread in my <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/wooden-baking-baskets-set-of-6">Wooden Baking Baskets</a> (still a favorite - the medium is great for 2 rolls) so this year I packaged them in one of my <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/cookie-boxes-set-of-10">Cookie Boxes</a> for giving.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">To dress them up a little, I wrapped them in <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/cotton-ribbon">Thin Cotton Ribbon</a> and added a <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/stocking-tags">Stocking Tag</a>.  In very little time, we ended up with 4 boxes of Cinnamon Rolls for giving and 4 rolls for eating.  It is a great project for kids to help with because there is very little precision involved - just lots of sprinkling sugar and cinnamon and drizzling icing.  All things at which Emma excels : )</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Happy Holiday Baking!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Jenny</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5V0EkMRlXErv7IbfZanpIzOOap2gAtXmufq2gnf5ancqwkpDUg_0GsRnm_4RrA-uooLNwaQZuO-X4KFUEewsZfUEOlTis6q6R9Y186bSZMAwYVILOyhyQykuKAvxwdPS4TTSFt8bHgLtG/s1600/IMG_6932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5V0EkMRlXErv7IbfZanpIzOOap2gAtXmufq2gnf5ancqwkpDUg_0GsRnm_4RrA-uooLNwaQZuO-X4KFUEewsZfUEOlTis6q6R9Y186bSZMAwYVILOyhyQykuKAvxwdPS4TTSFt8bHgLtG/s1600/IMG_6932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5V0EkMRlXErv7IbfZanpIzOOap2gAtXmufq2gnf5ancqwkpDUg_0GsRnm_4RrA-uooLNwaQZuO-X4KFUEewsZfUEOlTis6q6R9Y186bSZMAwYVILOyhyQykuKAvxwdPS4TTSFt8bHgLtG/s1600/IMG_6932.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My "Homemade" Cinnamon Roll Recipe is <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/12/cinnamon-rolls-from-frozen-bread-dough.html">here</a>.  For this project of 24 rolls, I used all three loaves of frozen bread dough that comes in the package and baked them in a sheet pan lined with Parchment Paper.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFys4CXGEh2l9B3qq6o0DZ0nznjjYjmWbLxN6A8xtywFuq3Or67iFUQ6O4yCn8xdwpRLTluK3SJOpcEeUCKLhyphenhyphen5prZ7FlxTl4Tj6e5gJHn6qWwZs0xJVyTZY_8YEHOGNzFB4x3u4M7MaDa/s1600/IMG_6934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFys4CXGEh2l9B3qq6o0DZ0nznjjYjmWbLxN6A8xtywFuq3Or67iFUQ6O4yCn8xdwpRLTluK3SJOpcEeUCKLhyphenhyphen5prZ7FlxTl4Tj6e5gJHn6qWwZs0xJVyTZY_8YEHOGNzFB4x3u4M7MaDa/s1600/IMG_6934.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />We did the thawing, rising, rolling and cutting the night before, then let the unbaked rolls sit in the refrigerator overnight.  In the morning, I got them out, let them sit in a warm spot for 1 hour, then baked them at 350 for 15 minutes. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN427AiCYZrn5iKR8Dvk_OykYQNvylGA36iHh9y15aI7i8goq8kdfvWdVjgRJ8JGWHjSMf2WqNEy06RTfEXG61fFLDl1qcnK6LVcnXIkoH2nc1wrqtBxNeXUWg2JwAcHQfyBsSxxgaA2g9/s1600/IMG_6938.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN427AiCYZrn5iKR8Dvk_OykYQNvylGA36iHh9y15aI7i8goq8kdfvWdVjgRJ8JGWHjSMf2WqNEy06RTfEXG61fFLDl1qcnK6LVcnXIkoH2nc1wrqtBxNeXUWg2JwAcHQfyBsSxxgaA2g9/s1600/IMG_6938.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Four rolls fit nicely in the <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/cookie-boxes-set-of-10">Small Cookie Box</a>, (10 for $14.50) but it can depend on what size you make them.  I think 9 would fit in the <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/cookie-boxes-set-of-10">Large Cookie Box</a> (5 for $10.50) if you're making them for a big family or group (of teachers, for example).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXpniVJiKRV7nvqZwrzsBStGFFxq_YXqmA3w3Oxl9fGHif1ZSFWRkJ6zTZEGyz9R5uEtp_YSJbZs0OYclF2fbLZ1xbae1lwIWbxpqf4-GKo2s0_W72DA1dpNGkC05nlKnY3D_gdwmfxgP0/s1600/IMG_6948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXpniVJiKRV7nvqZwrzsBStGFFxq_YXqmA3w3Oxl9fGHif1ZSFWRkJ6zTZEGyz9R5uEtp_YSJbZs0OYclF2fbLZ1xbae1lwIWbxpqf4-GKo2s0_W72DA1dpNGkC05nlKnY3D_gdwmfxgP0/s1600/IMG_6948.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />We waited to drizzle the icing until I had them in the box so it would look extra yummy and drippy down the sides.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6vajSPU4voiZuWTplzVdCAP0XCNTlEHSzDFwa9urGbT8PlpFtWbc-b-RMVNgLYBvROV-qp0PkgoVM__hgGQKC2BxevFH00l8qBhUe7N83e-bgVmX-CX92zAPdScjd8zPbinn_0PVPl_fY/s1600/IMG_6952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6vajSPU4voiZuWTplzVdCAP0XCNTlEHSzDFwa9urGbT8PlpFtWbc-b-RMVNgLYBvROV-qp0PkgoVM__hgGQKC2BxevFH00l8qBhUe7N83e-bgVmX-CX92zAPdScjd8zPbinn_0PVPl_fY/s1600/IMG_6952.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>Products Used :<br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/cookie-boxes-set-of-10">Cookie Boxes</a> ($14.50 for 10)<br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/cotton-ribbon">Thin Cotton Ribbon</a> ($15 for 100 yards)<br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-wrap/products/stocking-tags">Stocking Tags</a> ($6 for 20)<br /><br />See some of my other Baking Essentials for the Holidays, <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies">here</a>.<br /><br /><a data-pin-color="red" data-pin-config="above" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-height="28" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2014%2F12%2Fhomemade-cinnamon-roll-gifts-frozen.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-X7uAlUCaEUM%2FVH9lg9EUOJI%2FAAAAAAAAaeU%2FULCUMMs9n8o%2Fs1600%2FIMG_6952.jpg&description=%26quot%3BHomemade%26quot%3B%20Cinnamon%20Rolls%20in%20Boxes%20made%20from%20store-bought%20frozen%20bread%20dough!%20%20Boxes%2C%20Ribbon%20%26%20Tag%20resources%2C%20here.%20%20"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_red_28.png" /></a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

"Homemade" Cinnamon Roll Gifts | Frozen Bread Dough... Easy & Soooo Good

"Homemade" Cinnamon Roll Gift   I've talked a lot about "Homemade" Cinnamon Rolls from frozen bread dough.  Basicall...

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Easy Strawberry Gifts for Friends | Our Trip to the Strawberry Patch

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8YLrwafoyP9TmDenSRPDJ661K-uwJADZW5H3NgY_rAgHCHe9iM-okD3Hx48ruDO7wvl6NG1WOo86NWT1m1YQTcjGnUMYGJmdFZw2X3aDil1wafLEaRFJrBb6Ri0wOjBiFypm1BEiR-mN/s1600/strawberry-favors.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8YLrwafoyP9TmDenSRPDJ661K-uwJADZW5H3NgY_rAgHCHe9iM-okD3Hx48ruDO7wvl6NG1WOo86NWT1m1YQTcjGnUMYGJmdFZw2X3aDil1wafLEaRFJrBb6Ri0wOjBiFypm1BEiR-mN/s1600/strawberry-favors.png" width="374" /></a></div> Our entire family spent this weekend back at home in Lexington for my Mom's birthday.  On Saturday night we had a Shrimp Boil for her friends, and Sunday we got up for an early morning impromptu trip to the strawberry patch.<br /><br />There is nothing quite like 'real' fresh strawberries from the field.  I've gone on and on about 'real' strawberries in the past - see <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/06/a-day-in-strawberry-patch-with-emma.html">here</a> for some of my posts from previous years.  For now, I'll just say they are good.  So good - and fleeting - only good for a couple of short weeks (just after peonies and just before cherries...).  I love thinking about the calendar in fruit and flower seasons.  <br /><br />I have a list a mile long of what I'd like to do with these little gems (thanks to my Instagram friends!), but really, they are so, so good all by themselves.  I wanted to share this fabulously simple treat with some of our friends, so I packed some up this morning.  Simple and pretty packaging for simple and pretty berries. See below for packaging details. <br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2014%2F06%2Feasy-strawberry-gifts-for-friends-our.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-Xo9n6-voCqY%2FU43YJl1EB_I%2FAAAAAAAAW-I%2FKEkPzxFfHvM%2Fs1600%2Fstrawberry-favors.png&description=Strawberry%20Favors%20%26%20Gifts%20%7C%20Fresh%20Picked%20Easy%20Homemade%20Strawberry%20Gifts"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_gray_20.png" /></a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br />Now, for some details about or morning at the patch...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> <!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2wveOVqApCWijryhyMCBgJuYvXkERzVKumrjxvRi5jJyLlGs02xqeZyZKF2_NzDQbFaN4P6lLmmZBPNrixmGOfqu5_uKrK_hK5zUuOT1FHtxpD4mzRJcnyqg1LnONjlpNz_Um2GF1tpiK/s1600/IMG_1347.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2wveOVqApCWijryhyMCBgJuYvXkERzVKumrjxvRi5jJyLlGs02xqeZyZKF2_NzDQbFaN4P6lLmmZBPNrixmGOfqu5_uKrK_hK5zUuOT1FHtxpD4mzRJcnyqg1LnONjlpNz_Um2GF1tpiK/s1600/IMG_1347.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Fahrmeier Farms is conveniently just down the road from my parents' house in Lexington, Mo and even more conveniently owned by my cousins, the Fahrmeiers.  If you're local, they have another week or so of picking left.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDrTtCwYgjoZcT9Q3lX_dRCZLOLgUvY7_v1reI8TbMmjcMUwEhcad6gYo-ClgDLK3_NTBVvpWBCF7Y-UMdLc-lXa3yml5X-n0nXZI8Vn8uxQn131IIT2VQo000C56EWq7fiMGm4_Oyp5z8/s1600/IMG_1361.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDrTtCwYgjoZcT9Q3lX_dRCZLOLgUvY7_v1reI8TbMmjcMUwEhcad6gYo-ClgDLK3_NTBVvpWBCF7Y-UMdLc-lXa3yml5X-n0nXZI8Vn8uxQn131IIT2VQo000C56EWq7fiMGm4_Oyp5z8/s1600/IMG_1361.JPG" width="640" /></a>  <br />Pack a lunch and enjoy this stunning view while you snack on your harvest.  Here is a link to their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FahrmeiersMarket">facebook page</a> for more info.   Check the page before you go to make sure they still have berries for picking.  This is the same farm that specializes in heirloom tomatoes - I'll be sharing plenty of those with you in another month or so.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6INVqNpytKRQTXU05zTVzv0aiJ3OjQ3KG3CTvAQXLqiMjkSGDM1TJGIkoYd9UiX8vaGHbke9QqF0iKtD8OMVqA6MsEq3kbH7rX1xb51GxFiDU_Z9a3YHme5Me4iDRodZaEAdkt_QKLNJp/s1600/IMG_1348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6INVqNpytKRQTXU05zTVzv0aiJ3OjQ3KG3CTvAQXLqiMjkSGDM1TJGIkoYd9UiX8vaGHbke9QqF0iKtD8OMVqA6MsEq3kbH7rX1xb51GxFiDU_Z9a3YHme5Me4iDRodZaEAdkt_QKLNJp/s1600/IMG_1348.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Best buds ready for picking.  And yes, Emma is wearing a princess dress.  As I said, we were at her Moo-Moo's house for the weekend, and the first thing she does when we arrive is run up and put a dress on from Moo-Moo's trunk.  There's no fighting it... apparently the apple doesn't fall far from the tree (as I'm often reminded). <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLrlLmLcWU6aRbaX7vS9YjtltVbA3xKOJecLRk2oGzANwB7i5Uv7N7QKc9eSfnycA9UfLZNev_eWWW3Y4EEaPOOF3wcKm-gOq3c_a-Y-bssEL3-T_Tz7MwyYVH1Yry_UClrqB3eB8triME/s1600/IMG_1352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLrlLmLcWU6aRbaX7vS9YjtltVbA3xKOJecLRk2oGzANwB7i5Uv7N7QKc9eSfnycA9UfLZNev_eWWW3Y4EEaPOOF3wcKm-gOq3c_a-Y-bssEL3-T_Tz7MwyYVH1Yry_UClrqB3eB8triME/s1600/IMG_1352.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQpHzX3RFHf7mQ18FeTpJGkCnpFLDimQE6Z6vYKPGMPjy60WU08FAujatCaycophBFH86z5xm_m1HM_4KaoHIwuIFQh3O3xHxZIE8MV4nj8ITcE1A_o-T7fjCFSA1OUE7MnSkICCbxPtt9/s1600/IMG_1355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQpHzX3RFHf7mQ18FeTpJGkCnpFLDimQE6Z6vYKPGMPjy60WU08FAujatCaycophBFH86z5xm_m1HM_4KaoHIwuIFQh3O3xHxZIE8MV4nj8ITcE1A_o-T7fjCFSA1OUE7MnSkICCbxPtt9/s1600/IMG_1355.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs3qHKRIBp1Pw7ETjfNfEQmerwmJxyH-1LbadtvakZF6bC_fgpU_kiQbjnfKedFPCm3A9d5oOb1hR3035P8rw18wMwrEUhHhv9sNBrQYcMDYjaxtZdQsr5iFZxV4SpJ90Sfa3Tsj-2svlx/s1600/IMG_1356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs3qHKRIBp1Pw7ETjfNfEQmerwmJxyH-1LbadtvakZF6bC_fgpU_kiQbjnfKedFPCm3A9d5oOb1hR3035P8rw18wMwrEUhHhv9sNBrQYcMDYjaxtZdQsr5iFZxV4SpJ90Sfa3Tsj-2svlx/s1600/IMG_1356.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Family affair.  And no, Mike and my Dad are not playing football. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAzB4Nioech_RB3Pnh96MFUQdbCP5DKDy0dNXo5037RJl7jlXC-DXV0dyJGY2d0s4qMPxeLpjm2Af_3GUGAWEEUC0hIYKBXKs9jOpDI8hjfcxaG0NXiBZ_c_VeOTLg4pDD24UBpYuvSUiF/s1600/IMG_1359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAzB4Nioech_RB3Pnh96MFUQdbCP5DKDy0dNXo5037RJl7jlXC-DXV0dyJGY2d0s4qMPxeLpjm2Af_3GUGAWEEUC0hIYKBXKs9jOpDI8hjfcxaG0NXiBZ_c_VeOTLg4pDD24UBpYuvSUiF/s1600/IMG_1359.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Princesses love strawberries... and dirt.<br /><br />We're headed to Sam's house in a little while to spend the weekend and I'm planning a scavenger hunt for the girls... any ideas?  I haven't done one of these in about 25 years : )<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6DFHOKYV-xGeJYr7tK5-QTgYKXzfX7gDUS5Al9Jo4MymPDckqeTBDiRB_hgwtmj-osJXMWuZg9_d-nRbDItP03-_MonU_xh4n3oHU_q0dKt0GeBhmrj72K-wRXRls0J0KMRkOlxDXbn4/s1600/IMG_1433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6DFHOKYV-xGeJYr7tK5-QTgYKXzfX7gDUS5Al9Jo4MymPDckqeTBDiRB_hgwtmj-osJXMWuZg9_d-nRbDItP03-_MonU_xh4n3oHU_q0dKt0GeBhmrj72K-wRXRls0J0KMRkOlxDXbn4/s1600/IMG_1433.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKCyRvg8t2j3yziKxH6nbN58QjEO1ijB_eZe5Hy5s4UOoIYf4WP8hC79Y2i9zdlUvUSrQwGURWGNXysFbObAPOGoEIp3KSYSICahyphenhyphen5RRK6sylLy4jOTL7_GXuEAZr1J_GGpFqPzP9uh_0/s1600/IMG_1430.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKCyRvg8t2j3yziKxH6nbN58QjEO1ijB_eZe5Hy5s4UOoIYf4WP8hC79Y2i9zdlUvUSrQwGURWGNXysFbObAPOGoEIp3KSYSICahyphenhyphen5RRK6sylLy4jOTL7_GXuEAZr1J_GGpFqPzP9uh_0/s1600/IMG_1430.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>Products from my store that I used to pack up the little baskets for friends : <br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/wooden-baking-baskets-set-of-6">Wooden Baking Baskets</a> (small size)<br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/packaging/products/cello-bags-mini-small-medium-large">Large Cello Bags</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/packaging">Everyday Tags & Cards (in Papaya Pashmina & Concord Green... Emma's Pink would look so cute, too!)</a><br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/packaging/products/cotton-ribbon">Cotton Ribbon (thin)</a><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFOxcr5Mj3rZ0bssXnm4V0Qwbuc_z9FGvctD__fMQOnJF-EgjzB-VzZruwHhaWWRtMLtt2l9yb8fkKZQB5J9nafjG6z5gUwMGvUDl_Y9dettSsL5TzFXr1vDc_V9l9t7xWi206REg2b-2v/s1600/IMG_1442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFOxcr5Mj3rZ0bssXnm4V0Qwbuc_z9FGvctD__fMQOnJF-EgjzB-VzZruwHhaWWRtMLtt2l9yb8fkKZQB5J9nafjG6z5gUwMGvUDl_Y9dettSsL5TzFXr1vDc_V9l9t7xWi206REg2b-2v/s1600/IMG_1442.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love having all of this supplies for making gifts at a moment's notice... it is always the kind of thing we always mean to do, but never get around to actually doing ;) </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMxuSvFrgsrNQjHK_SRxSIl_k97qERQUKrXIkw1W4zc1Vs8rLEYpPt-eV66vujL-CJbaGiDMPHjeZPvRK9u1dcyrSV7ftj5rmmT6BEOoFL2YpDmlFjj1deKCpBmQBb7ph-rX4-WyrX7SoY/s1600/IMG_1479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMxuSvFrgsrNQjHK_SRxSIl_k97qERQUKrXIkw1W4zc1Vs8rLEYpPt-eV66vujL-CJbaGiDMPHjeZPvRK9u1dcyrSV7ftj5rmmT6BEOoFL2YpDmlFjj1deKCpBmQBb7ph-rX4-WyrX7SoY/s1600/IMG_1479.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSujpZV1geAQKEIDl7yfqHptO0w6baEFYXES9fIHhavX4bNzroVzKwSoGM0D6w5ww_0KngULLJIEWueOv7C0B1TX90YcLd_HDYZbj97Zjroys5Tj1kfTj42EuwURKBUpvSWnuDpWSk0Rd/s1600/IMG_1481.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSujpZV1geAQKEIDl7yfqHptO0w6baEFYXES9fIHhavX4bNzroVzKwSoGM0D6w5ww_0KngULLJIEWueOv7C0B1TX90YcLd_HDYZbj97Zjroys5Tj1kfTj42EuwURKBUpvSWnuDpWSk0Rd/s1600/IMG_1481.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />You could also include some sugared scones with the berries for a make-your-own Strawberry Shortcake kit - that would be darling.  <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQBzHoGxaj4P6afp-nqsSqHcWuZU5O_k82FbOB1Y6qcFZLH-6ZKQv0topDdqzrEAcjBhV9Y7CjXAqJOmzLtECNtdamX5foS3sDUgp273Dk8jY-Eci72QeiqyQMTbP5uQQFofyZ6Rrvjpv/s1600/IMG_1493.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQBzHoGxaj4P6afp-nqsSqHcWuZU5O_k82FbOB1Y6qcFZLH-6ZKQv0topDdqzrEAcjBhV9Y7CjXAqJOmzLtECNtdamX5foS3sDUgp273Dk8jY-Eci72QeiqyQMTbP5uQQFofyZ6Rrvjpv/s1600/IMG_1493.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br />So nice to be able to start the week by making something beautiful for someone else - in literally less than 10 minutes. <br /><br /><br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2014%2F06%2Feasy-strawberry-gifts-for-friends-our.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-Xo9n6-voCqY%2FU43YJl1EB_I%2FAAAAAAAAW-I%2FKEkPzxFfHvM%2Fs1600%2Fstrawberry-favors.png&description=Strawberry%20Favors%20%26%20Gifts%20%7C%20Fresh%20Picked%20Easy%20Homemade%20Strawberry%20Gifts"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_gray_20.png" /></a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1dNHAHbQl_qsyWxe8VrwHLzTo7UXrw1bKzNYLk33_6kogWGKSl-d_jX9HWwStFMn7TZyeFDqrqET9Ouj9MkQBuxwlQoAMCnlA6dE_VQVg219wsMyrvaKRlHs0lFDrLUMdI7H68OBmfRrn/s1600/IMG_1453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1dNHAHbQl_qsyWxe8VrwHLzTo7UXrw1bKzNYLk33_6kogWGKSl-d_jX9HWwStFMn7TZyeFDqrqET9Ouj9MkQBuxwlQoAMCnlA6dE_VQVg219wsMyrvaKRlHs0lFDrLUMdI7H68OBmfRrn/s1600/IMG_1453.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Meanwhile, this is happening in my kitchen right now... Emma better hurry home from school!

Easy Strawberry Gifts for Friends | Our Trip to the Strawberry Patch

 Our entire family spent this weekend back at home in Lexington for my Mom's birthday.  On Saturday night we had a Shrimp Boil for her f...

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May Day Gift Bag | Cherry Blossoms

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuLCed1sBomL3McyiBdOP1Nd5YsS268SaPO8Q8btf4InLDwUN10m_uMcR2j1aUWaQ38wOKbdh2Pn4aHyuGoVh8TTxocN2D2F611zHXs7-FPQc_CLZGi8ZVdp9q-M6_3Klbkwu0gPm4gv4/s1600/mayday.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuLCed1sBomL3McyiBdOP1Nd5YsS268SaPO8Q8btf4InLDwUN10m_uMcR2j1aUWaQ38wOKbdh2Pn4aHyuGoVh8TTxocN2D2F611zHXs7-FPQc_CLZGi8ZVdp9q-M6_3Klbkwu0gPm4gv4/s640/mayday.jpg" width="416" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F04%2Fmay-day-gift-bag-cherry-blossoms.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-f93O2PrZl2E%2FUXAz63INkAI%2FAAAAAAAASAI%2F3_-sk5E26iI%2Fs1600%2Fmay-day-bag.jpg&description=May%20Day%20Gift%20Bag%20%7C%20Cherry%20Blossoms%20%26%20Cherry%20Almond%20Cake"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Kn7OdVzi_QWHTu02KEYSbhAm49WMkk85UwZ-MMbca0JICtvm50xTN6GhmhVrUZbjbROSA1YGhSqD9EGv4cUBWB_AXA73sD29fZJnWyQi54qMnq5LRSUfaKniyvkE8BaJf9kZN__6q5c/s1600/IMG_0575.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Kn7OdVzi_QWHTu02KEYSbhAm49WMkk85UwZ-MMbca0JICtvm50xTN6GhmhVrUZbjbROSA1YGhSqD9EGv4cUBWB_AXA73sD29fZJnWyQi54qMnq5LRSUfaKniyvkE8BaJf9kZN__6q5c/s320/IMG_0575.jpg" width="240" /></a> </div><br />May Day is such a whimsical holiday - secretly sharing spring blooms on friends' and neighbors' doorsteps.  It is one of those things I say I'm going to do but never remember to do on the first of May.  I do, on occasion, leave special treats outside my friends' doors throughout the year - cookies on valentine's days, homemade candy during the holidays or farm fresh sweet corn in the summer.  <br /><br />When Mike and I got engaged, I left these "Will you be my bridesmaid?" peony bundles on my bridesmaids-to-be doors.  Hello old camera and old front door!   <br /><br />I do realize it is not May Day today, as I write this.  However, Mike and I owe our neighbor a big "Thank You."  So, as I was documenting this Cherry Blossom inspired Thank You gift, I thought it would be great inspiration for May Day, as well.<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnibF2GnJ0cDvGRoQaHQLQ4-gvO9gYEO1M2x08pi6Iba8iBdQNC0j0o5PZBJ_1a9MPJUvf86f23UICqDCb86H4NyyBl_LDbJ5wn-aBQ25pjprLzkVrfR1RrrMP5VwqE6CdwcuyMds-BJM/s1600/IMG_9623.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnibF2GnJ0cDvGRoQaHQLQ4-gvO9gYEO1M2x08pi6Iba8iBdQNC0j0o5PZBJ_1a9MPJUvf86f23UICqDCb86H4NyyBl_LDbJ5wn-aBQ25pjprLzkVrfR1RrrMP5VwqE6CdwcuyMds-BJM/s640/IMG_9623.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><br />My gift bag included a loaf of <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/04/cherry-almond-pound-cake-may-day-gift.html">Cherry Almond Pound Cake</a> and a bundle of Blooming Cherry Branches, along with a thank you note.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPbbVQMXjqo_4GSUYLMsElViPGFd5AUefQkpuo6ZDGHWy_Fjz7sHAPcgAVznTGR9wxs_ekI4zkXAzMipMPG9O2bPCi6DVI2XtVma3ngMWvGPtQg7Qiz16ohClF7w3XpDk6szCGOwP6wmE/s1600/cheer-cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPbbVQMXjqo_4GSUYLMsElViPGFd5AUefQkpuo6ZDGHWy_Fjz7sHAPcgAVznTGR9wxs_ekI4zkXAzMipMPG9O2bPCi6DVI2XtVma3ngMWvGPtQg7Qiz16ohClF7w3XpDk6szCGOwP6wmE/s640/cheer-cake.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>  <br />The recipe for the Cherry Almond Pound Cake will be posted tomorrow (update : <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/04/cherry-almond-pound-cake-may-day-gift.html">here is recipe the link!</a>).  I hope everyone is not bored of <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/03/lemon-butter-cake-with-simple-lemon.html">pound cake posts</a> yet - they are just so great, the perfect little sized cake for me to whip up during the week... and I always have all of the ingredients on hand.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtU3YP9NK3f60hjjoG4KUa6yiOgbgPtX_lnxBdIECqcf1bCwFVLAg-0nC3kk6Lj4ucsRn-b2BDrUk9ZfvinRJLZ6BCRUVNvmw_2CUU8U92uoIR1VsecQj5QSiFGjBwrRfQDzVpfF3m7mY/s1600/IMG_9585.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtU3YP9NK3f60hjjoG4KUa6yiOgbgPtX_lnxBdIECqcf1bCwFVLAg-0nC3kk6Lj4ucsRn-b2BDrUk9ZfvinRJLZ6BCRUVNvmw_2CUU8U92uoIR1VsecQj5QSiFGjBwrRfQDzVpfF3m7mY/s640/IMG_9585.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />As I said in my <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/04/banana-cream-pie-great-place-to-start.html?showComment=1366141284548">Banana Cream Pie post</a>, I really need a nice wide window sill in my new kitchen... <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgkifBs-mwJiU6sDe33BFw3FOj6WP9B7S0PqEEN5HNlwx81iLpYQZfsx4jdMcnhTNc90moB-RbcYdDEeJRNN4RUOHdExAcvmc5vg7oLUkJcDxmqojea2VYFCOu5K96Z7fEAMfCqlJTiEM/s1600/IMG_9608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgkifBs-mwJiU6sDe33BFw3FOj6WP9B7S0PqEEN5HNlwx81iLpYQZfsx4jdMcnhTNc90moB-RbcYdDEeJRNN4RUOHdExAcvmc5vg7oLUkJcDxmqojea2VYFCOu5K96Z7fEAMfCqlJTiEM/s640/IMG_9608.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>  <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMdum6j6_DcPDLqBHSxvWKOIt7co4qrQaHVvHbybjXCTpt3yS2b3kvtzpw0XMhWL4IEVD9lJ6TGJqwUPRjlz1v9lI4hOMjdYKMJYULhzb6joQQjj4-FmmytL-OrB3uG7bGTYXY_tO7i_E/s1600/IMG_5872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMdum6j6_DcPDLqBHSxvWKOIt7co4qrQaHVvHbybjXCTpt3yS2b3kvtzpw0XMhWL4IEVD9lJ6TGJqwUPRjlz1v9lI4hOMjdYKMJYULhzb6joQQjj4-FmmytL-OrB3uG7bGTYXY_tO7i_E/s320/IMG_5872.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I wrapped the cake in parchment and put one of my kitchen labels on it -<a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/05/packaging-baked-goods-in-your-kitchen.html"> remember this post about what I like to keep in my kitchen to help me easily package goodies</a>?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKapp3J1pxstuSgsWJ2vyDXBTojagv9DpnzvQdovBsvs54ZiUJEhPMLsUGF1lN1_YkutAfT0lE4UlVHDx0GCMA-iaLpIWUEnfT146y5kCK5abpqEkMy6IJNQwJCuFaKU0b0TIrjwXveqI/s1600/IMG_9625.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKapp3J1pxstuSgsWJ2vyDXBTojagv9DpnzvQdovBsvs54ZiUJEhPMLsUGF1lN1_YkutAfT0lE4UlVHDx0GCMA-iaLpIWUEnfT146y5kCK5abpqEkMy6IJNQwJCuFaKU0b0TIrjwXveqI/s640/IMG_9625.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />No printer or computer needed to create this Thank You Card.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFti1CQOcowJTAqgTuPXnKIf9FQZvfXG31PWFOorVtAQwssD7dDgSB-kVoCLFJmaTC0_hyphenhyphenb99a5gNVaVF7o7R-eHTxpvAd59mdeTUjvuai0iorQ90_kfe0Yml9s6T-w6KZOWctyAJR5DM/s1600/IMG_9664.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFti1CQOcowJTAqgTuPXnKIf9FQZvfXG31PWFOorVtAQwssD7dDgSB-kVoCLFJmaTC0_hyphenhyphenb99a5gNVaVF7o7R-eHTxpvAd59mdeTUjvuai0iorQ90_kfe0Yml9s6T-w6KZOWctyAJR5DM/s640/IMG_9664.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I used a stamp from <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-5427492-10947318">Paper-Source </a>with a chalk inkpad.  I love that with this stamp I can turn anything into a Thank You gift.  The scalloped edge paper is also from  <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-5427492-10947318">Paper-Source</a>.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1u6rC9M7tY6G057S3SyGuVVfHPCo46L6bLHZsrbjU8aBYNqIylsqPvn4XFa9dC9u9GPvNCB3M5Kaa1RM5eV9e6k0MU1ASpYAbWVdKhEtbrbk6JMocWsk1cJi_Cxh4G5kUdUFHCVS3Rp0/s1600/IMG_9639.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1u6rC9M7tY6G057S3SyGuVVfHPCo46L6bLHZsrbjU8aBYNqIylsqPvn4XFa9dC9u9GPvNCB3M5Kaa1RM5eV9e6k0MU1ASpYAbWVdKhEtbrbk6JMocWsk1cJi_Cxh4G5kUdUFHCVS3Rp0/s640/IMG_9639.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />I wrapped the branches in clear cellophane - it is one of the things I always keep in the house.  I use it as filler in bags and baskets, too.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBM2DXXZhd0SQGz728bHPwC2-kNUgK_S_Gihamt8wflMq7PmMSmO2HpNLrjkXUmF_QzQ7DTmQlfCgtCUMsTqzUNcCK7PxI3WShs7qa5vaAiEpKQEdTfufmnmVJZ8Q-xEhbQnWaKg4ELo/s1600/IMG_9653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBM2DXXZhd0SQGz728bHPwC2-kNUgK_S_Gihamt8wflMq7PmMSmO2HpNLrjkXUmF_QzQ7DTmQlfCgtCUMsTqzUNcCK7PxI3WShs7qa5vaAiEpKQEdTfufmnmVJZ8Q-xEhbQnWaKg4ELo/s640/IMG_9653.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ready for delivery!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9HsDb_io8EMwgOun1yqc3Wo85IfDfE0N0q46sbJW4u16E8YOLJ7ZMglXCW25IH78DAMPhdJILYia3LdtzmCSKenSCYpVbPdXyf9H9b1tV80ycDjMX7Jvf6t0kNWLQ-Mu6rH5UOtS9UJc/s1600/may-day-bag.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9HsDb_io8EMwgOun1yqc3Wo85IfDfE0N0q46sbJW4u16E8YOLJ7ZMglXCW25IH78DAMPhdJILYia3LdtzmCSKenSCYpVbPdXyf9H9b1tV80ycDjMX7Jvf6t0kNWLQ-Mu6rH5UOtS9UJc/s1600/may-day-bag.jpg" /></a>Here is the easy-to-pin strip!</div><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F04%2Fmay-day-gift-bag-cherry-blossoms.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-f93O2PrZl2E%2FUXAz63INkAI%2FAAAAAAAASAI%2F3_-sk5E26iI%2Fs1600%2Fmay-day-bag.jpg&description=May%20Day%20Gift%20Bag%20%7C%20Cherry%20Blossoms%20%26%20Cherry%20Almond%20Cake"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

May Day Gift Bag | Cherry Blossoms

May Day is such a whimsical holiday - secretly sharing spring blooms on friends' and neighbors' doorsteps.  It is one of those thin...

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LIttle Girl Valentine's Day Gift Idea | Strawberry Whoopie Pies, Pink PJ's & Pink Mini Boden Bunny Tee's

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqMnWJLhXqX8DWkWC0OpYzwhuvKq8SVv1lNc1yRCOf1K8Nr9wOUqnS-ozOASmkVE9yQabspJDxmSVJulfTHj5xE1gtwxcNwIRUlqw0n_AYsV19VUg4ZACRtoiHKWgvmlmzp2GjuiKNMRU/s1600/IMG_0555.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqMnWJLhXqX8DWkWC0OpYzwhuvKq8SVv1lNc1yRCOf1K8Nr9wOUqnS-ozOASmkVE9yQabspJDxmSVJulfTHj5xE1gtwxcNwIRUlqw0n_AYsV19VUg4ZACRtoiHKWgvmlmzp2GjuiKNMRU/s640/IMG_0555.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />For Valentine's Day, we sent Emma's cousins a care package filled with girly goodies for both of the little ladies :<br /><br />Mini Strawberry Whoopie Pies with Cream Cheese Icing (recipe coming tomorrow!)<br /><a href="http://www.bodenusa.com/en-US/Baby-0-3yrs-Tops-T-shirts/71264/Baby-0-3yrs-Pretty-Appliqu%C3%A9-T-shirt.html">Mini Boden Bunny T-Shirts</a><br /><a href="http://www.hannaandersson.com/style.asp?from=SC%7C3%7C2%7C156%7C309%7C10%7C%7C&simg=33084_36N">Hanna Andersson Pink Striped PJ's</a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiexekjwbeG9-t6AYznIVK4oEMDzey7TbUtqj50wuIsEBiUgU-kJbit6KdDyMAq8trrgdvJrzImPWXYWoWRZrmxCCRpNGlRE-Gx5tI07k6NicQWC0Gmb8cFDvpediuwFZhtWM1c1KIe8fo/s1600/IMG_0544.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiexekjwbeG9-t6AYznIVK4oEMDzey7TbUtqj50wuIsEBiUgU-kJbit6KdDyMAq8trrgdvJrzImPWXYWoWRZrmxCCRpNGlRE-Gx5tI07k6NicQWC0Gmb8cFDvpediuwFZhtWM1c1KIe8fo/s640/IMG_0544.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />Emma got one of these shirts for Valentine's Day, too.  The little bunny is actually a dark chambray material - so cute.  This is the 3-6 months size shirt for baby Kate. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiILSyV7dGVC57RP5vmy3RxbLi3VvHpVUNeOYLKVMKb-LPjdHAvZn2_Ljip92cXtkx5um7CW5zRrhW6BcYisR-cO2oLYrti_ySWqI5pzh5EdhR406QrBVOeeni9O4YvpwKlbK1ppQ7ce_w/s1600/IMG_0539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiILSyV7dGVC57RP5vmy3RxbLi3VvHpVUNeOYLKVMKb-LPjdHAvZn2_Ljip92cXtkx5um7CW5zRrhW6BcYisR-cO2oLYrti_ySWqI5pzh5EdhR406QrBVOeeni9O4YvpwKlbK1ppQ7ce_w/s640/IMG_0539.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I included some Pecan and Salted Caramel Turtle Puddles for my sister, Jill.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk6-MGClplfQXpIrYbdTaQXjDfmx6CCse8L1_PM-2jGnBq9zgynUntKXEn0y6fdNLXCloALNoQrY9NY-WVhyTbhz_VRzFxNLoVQyLcn_H1Sm0G_UUl9Xetu-ONbpA4RMHNsQQIE4b5Gdc/s1600/IMG_0541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk6-MGClplfQXpIrYbdTaQXjDfmx6CCse8L1_PM-2jGnBq9zgynUntKXEn0y6fdNLXCloALNoQrY9NY-WVhyTbhz_VRzFxNLoVQyLcn_H1Sm0G_UUl9Xetu-ONbpA4RMHNsQQIE4b5Gdc/s640/IMG_0541.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />...and bags of mini and tiny Strawberry Whoopie Pies for Samantha. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnBErLfukU0b3e64UnClsnjxafZWEhI13xJDyk81uYnL4W2eze8_rq2vqzFFbPoLThsDBTlpNBehMJfSArwPDtnLDdy5VO2Xg8hsFkDmUs1l0hy7gcy_f76biqRlcdEjEJyMhKiCKgIG0/s1600/IMG_0548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnBErLfukU0b3e64UnClsnjxafZWEhI13xJDyk81uYnL4W2eze8_rq2vqzFFbPoLThsDBTlpNBehMJfSArwPDtnLDdy5VO2Xg8hsFkDmUs1l0hy7gcy_f76biqRlcdEjEJyMhKiCKgIG0/s640/IMG_0548.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I also included a pair of pink and white striped Hanna Anderrson PJ's for all three.  Of course, Emma also has a pair of these, too...  They are the best pajamas.  Very comfy!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1ZKC6Q9jBz9zLfq-eE1ieVh2L4KScZ7rvhVbGu2ca2A1rZNH9Hq2EU0SGQTMTZjHWrWMFfEk-gMziztbQKGpm-WcupyezkVsmArfOHYIv34vVR65b-n1G_CsyGsimzL8QibCsgEIr7I/s1600/IMG_0550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1ZKC6Q9jBz9zLfq-eE1ieVh2L4KScZ7rvhVbGu2ca2A1rZNH9Hq2EU0SGQTMTZjHWrWMFfEk-gMziztbQKGpm-WcupyezkVsmArfOHYIv34vVR65b-n1G_CsyGsimzL8QibCsgEIr7I/s640/IMG_0550.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">All packed up headed for their house for Valentine's Day!</div>

LIttle Girl Valentine's Day Gift Idea | Strawberry Whoopie Pies, Pink PJ's & Pink Mini Boden Bunny Tee's

For Valentine's Day, we sent Emma's cousins a care package filled with girly goodies for both of the little ladies : Mini Strawberr...

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