I Want Homemade Goodies

There is just something special about giving a handmade gift for the holidays. It lets someone know that they are special; that they are thought of. But let's face it not all of us can knit a sweater, print our own cards, or whip up a batch of homemade peanut brittle. I for one have learned there are some things better left to the pros.

So this season I have vowed to celebrate a homemade Christmas without having to make a thing. And while, yes, I will be hand printing a few gifts here and there mostly I will be seeking out items made by others. This year Etsy is going to be my shinning beacon; guiding me to the handmade goodies. With so many talented and independent artisans and crafters to choose from the most difficult obstacle I fear I'll have to face is convincing myself to not buy everything! And today I'm diving deeper into my hunt with some homemade sweet treats that would make great hostess gifts or stocking stuffers for the holidays.

{clockwise from top left: chocolate covered pretzels, not your grandma's peanut brittle, chocolate and caramel covered apples, mint chocolate rice crispy squares, homemade maple marshmallows, pumpkin ginger sandwich cookies, peppermint bark, caramel popcorn}

I Want Candy

Ever wake up in the morning with a song in your head? Of course you do. We all do from time to time right? Although I do find it a bit odd since I spend most of my time not listening to music. I can't imagine how anything could find its way into my fresh out of R.E.M. subconsciousness. But, regardless of my frequent musical abstinence (which is due in part to a computer/itunes disaster that put me off reloading my music into my computer for a 3rd time rather than an aversion to stimulating sounds) I still wake up with a song in my head more days than not. Occasionally, I can even recall dreams where music was playing throughout the entire thing - anyhow, back to this morning.

Despite getting up an hour earlier, I feel rejuvenated and energetic and I believe its because I woke up singing this song. This song put such a smile on my face and is so rooted in my mind right now that I'm going to whip up a whole new I Want Wednesday post for later this afternoon because of it. Although, it could just be because I'm a sucker for sweets! Anyhow, enjoy your 80's flashback and the rest of your morning :) I'll see you later today with some yummy finds.