Freckled Past

Unique gift ideas and thoughtful reflections on how to enjoy what you have and find what you need without sacrificing what you want.

Be Corny December 12, 2008

When it comes to a hostess, new home, or bridal gift, why not be a little corny. Cornbread, that is. Everyone loves cornbread, an American classic and delicious partner for favorites like chili. Partner Crate & Barrel’s Cast Iron Cornbread Pan, $13.95, with a non-stick safe spatula and box of Jiffy Cornbread Mix and you have a thoughtful gift! You can even go one step further and include your favorite recipe for chili.

Corn Bread Pan, Mix, Spatula, and Chili Recipe

Gift Idea: Corn Bread Pan, Mix, Spatula, and Chili Recipe

 

Stockings to Hang by the Chimney With Care December 12, 2008

If your family has expanded since last Christmas or if you are expecting special guests for the holidays, it may be time to look at acquiring additional stockings. I know I could receive a package of microwave popcorn for Christmas and still feel like the most treasured person in the house if the hostess has hung a stocking for me. If the guest is a long-term member of the family, be sure to give it to him or her – or keep it for next year!

Here is a list of various stockings that have caught my eye this year and in cases where many items from the same store have captured my attention, it is a general link to the stocking section of the store’s website…

Felt stockings by Hable Construction ($65-165)

Noelle, Snowflake, and Jolly stockings from Crate & Barrel ($16.95)

Velvet and velvet-trimmed stockings from Pottery Barn ($6-19)

Upcycled sweater stockings by ThePresentPantry ($12)

Handmade fleece stockings by TweetBabyDesigns ($18-25)

Handmade vintage fabric stockings by XOelle ($24-32)

Little red snowflake and quilted stockings by Ballee ($6-8.50)

Christmas Stockings from XOelle, Hable Construction, Crate & Barrel, and Pottery Barn

Christmas Stockings from XOelle, Hable Construction, Crate & Barrel, and Pottery Barn