Gifting.. only a few months late.

As I was going through my old drafts.. I came across this post about how I was giving gifts this year.  As you can tell, I'm a few months late for this Christmas post.. however.. I wanted to share with ya'll a cute way to personalize some gift-giving that I stumbled upon on Etsy.

For the past few years, I have been making/baking my gifts for my loved ones for 2 reasons -- I love baking, and I'm pretty poor (and will be even more broke for the next four years.. can't. effing. wait.).  I usually try to find cute holiday-themed boxes, or even canning jars and fill them with goodies for my friends and fam.

This year, I added a fun little personalized touch -- these gift labels from Pretty in Paper Designs. 

The cookies above are my cinnamon freezer box cookies.. and once I find the recipe I'll post it!

Snail Mail.

I adore hand-written letters -- there's something so much more sincere in a card you receive than a simple email (although, email is so much easier sometimes)..

Just in time for Valentine's Day, here are some of my favorite cards to give to someone you love:

[ two guitars, fisk and fern, two guitars, sweet harvey, a.favorite design, squirrel in the attic]

Valentine's Day Shopping.

JP and I have decided this year not to exchange gifts and go out to a really nice dinner at one our favorite places in Durham.  BUT, we did agree that if we do happen to stumble over something that we think the other would love.. that'd be ok too.

Since I spend a good chunk of my workday on Etsy.. here's some great things I've found that would be perfect for any worthy man/woman in your life.

Looking for an excuse to snuggle?  Pair this with some great hot cocoa. [la vie en rose bakery]

For the scientist:  DIY Cheese Kits.  [urban cheese crafts]

For the cook:  Vday Heart-shaped Chocolates Flour Sack/Tea Towel set [girls can tell]

OR the anatomically correct sweetheart:

For your hipster boyfriend:  Vday Leather Cuff [hypothesis]

For someone with a sweet tooth:  Homemade Truffles [fancy lady gourmet]

For someone with a green thumb/someone who kills plants easily:  Succulents [monkey always looks]

..and I'm sure there's more to come.. especially since work will be slow for the remainder of the week..  love it.

Gift Giving!

I love this time of year -- I get to spend some time with my friends and family, drink hot toddies (egg nog just isn't my thing), and have an excuse to do mass amounts of baking.

This year, however, I'm going to be traveling (to Mexico!) with my Dad, Becky, and brother Andy right up until just before Christmas. Last year, I spent the week prior to Christmas baking, wrapping, and doing last minute shopping, but I won't have that luxury this time around.

One great buy/make way ahead of time, and still give a great gift?

Preserves/Jams/Jellies
[via Mirasol Farms]
If you have canning experience (which I do not), this would be the perfect way to put some leftover fruit to great use. Check the farmer's market or local grocers for some preserves made from locally grown fruit. Etsy is also carrying some delicious looking homemade treats as well. The prices are great, and I know I would be thrilled to find these in my stocking. These are made to keep well, and can be made well in advance of when you're giving your gifts.

Wanna try canning for yourself? (I know I do -- but I am a little nervous about it!) The blog Food in Jars is absolutely perfect for canning tips/tricks (make sure to seal it correctly so that your food isn't contaminated by botulism), and some great gift giving ideas as well.

Etsy is jam-packed (pun intended?) with all kinds of farmers and canners who are selling delicious, and inexpensive treats! I just got my first order in last week from one seller, and I almost don't want to give it away.. err..