With strawberry season in full swing, I wanted to put together a thoughtful, seasonal gift to say thank you to the incredible teachers who’ve poured into my kids all year long. There’s something extra special about a homemade gift, and I loved the idea of celebrating the sweetness of spring with a “berry sweet” theme!
This little bundle includes a few of my favorite things—simple, homemade touches and a few seasonal finds that pair beautifully together. Whether you’re making something similar for teachers, neighbors, or friends, this combo is sweet, personal, and easy to pull together!
What’s Inside:
Homemade Strawberry Jam – I’m sharing my go-to recipe below. It’s quick, delicious, and the perfect way to make the most of fresh strawberries.
Mini Sourdough Loaf – Made with love. There’s nothing better than fresh jam on warm bread, so I included a small loaf of my homemade sourdough. You can support a local bakery and buy scones or fresh baked bread.
Strawberry Soda – This adds a little fun and sparkle to the gift. I picked up mine from Target – Mini Olipop Cans
Mini Berry Colander – I tucked everything inside this adorable berry strainer that they can reuse all season long. It adds charm and makes the whole gift feel like a curated farmers market basket. I found these at TJ Maxx but have sourced similar options for you here.
The Presentation:
I used some pink kraft paper shreds in the bottom of the colander to nestle everything inside, then wrapped it up in a clear cellophane bag and tied it with pretty ribbon and a card. I’ve included a printable of the tags I designed which you can customize and add your name.
Print these on cardstock, punch a hole and tie the ribbon.
Homemade Strawberry Jam Recipe:
This is a small batch jam with no pectin—just a few ingredients and lots of flavor. Perfect for gifting!
You can double or triple the batch if you’re making these gifts for multiple teachers. I used 4 oz. jars, which are the perfect size for gifting.
For a smaller themed gift idea, you can pair a small jam jar with a mini Olipop Soda, tie it in a small clear bag and include a plant or giftcard.
Linked Favorites:
If you’d like to recreate this gift, I’ve rounded up a few similar or exact items for easy shopping:
Whether you’re wrapping up the school year or just want to share a little springtime joy, this is a sweet, simple way to show someone they’re appreciated and loved.
Have you ever made a seasonal-themed gift? I’d love to hear your ideas—and if you try this one, tag me so I can see your berry sweet creations!
We’re three weeks into January, and chances are, you’ve set a few personal or professional goals for yourself. I’ve noticed a lot of people diving into post-holiday organization, clearing out the clutter, and sharing their progress online. While I totally get the motivation, I also feel the overwhelming pressure to “do all the things.”
In full transparency, I’ve had to tune out the noise that constantly floods our social media feeds. Messages like: Do more. Buy this. Try that. Here’s the latest and greatest thing you absolutely need can quickly become too much.
It’s a lot.
Here’s where I’m at: I want practical solutions that work for our family. I approach organizing by first assessing what we already have at home. Then, I figure out how to make it work without overspending on trendy organizational products.
Two Pain Points in Our Home:
Too many water cups sitting out around the house.
Constantly digging through the pantry or fridge to find things—only to realize I have to move five items to get to the one I need.
If you’re tired of washing cups nonstop or filling the dishwasher’s top rack every day, let me introduce you to the simplest solution that’s been a game-changer in our home, magnetic cups! The best part? It’s affordable!
Want to know what happened when these small changes were made in our home? It gave our three boys responsibility they could control with their water cups. There was no longer a question about, “who’s cup is this?” Our 4-year-old listened to directions about how to use the cup one time and took ownership in getting his own water, dumping out what he didn’t drink, and putting the cup back on the fridge where he can reach it.
Kids want responsibility.
Now, let’s talk about the fridge and pantry. Do you have family members who open the fridge, take one look, and immediately ask you where something is? Let’s be honest—most of the time, they haven’t even tried to find it.
I came across these acrylic lazy Susans at our local TJ Maxx, and I instantly knew they could help. They’re perfect for organizing condiments, cooking essentials, and all those pantry staples we reach for regularly.
These two small, affordable purchases have made a huge difference. The counters are clearer, and it’s so much easier to find what we need in both the fridge and pantry. This two pack would be perfect, Lazy Susans
Cheap. Practical. Problem solved.
I’m reminded of a verse from Ecclesiastes 4:6: “Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind.” It’s such a grounding reminder that more isn’t always better. Sometimes, less is exactly what we need—less stuff, less striving, and less pressure to keep up.
Let’s lean into finding solutions that work for your family—starting with what you already have at home. You might be surprised by how simple changes can make a big impact.
I’m embracing the sweetness of the season, where nature’s simple beauty meets festive cheer. This year’s Christmas decor was all about organic elegance—dried oranges turned into garlands, ornaments, and little gifts for teachers.
On this Solstice day, December 21st, as we welcome the return of light, let’s celebrate the warmth, love, and hope this season brings. Wishing you all a season filled with light, joy, and moments of stillness.
If you’d like to fill your home with scents of the holidays, give a holiday party host a small gift, or freshen your home after the holiday cleanup, here are the steps to dry out oranges and apple slices:
Preheat oven to 200°.
Slice oranges 1/4 of an inch thick
Lay on paper towels and blot excess citrus juice
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange citrus and apple slices (not overlapping)
Bake to dehydrate for 2-3 hours flipping fruit every 45 minutes.
Citrus is done when the center is no longer sticky to the touch.
These dried citruses will keep for months if stored properly. They would also make for a great garnish on cocktails/mocktails.
For the simmer pot:
Include 3 orange slices, 2-3 dried apple slices, 1 tbsp of cloves, 3 cinnamon sticks, and 1/2 cup of cranberries. Rosemary or sage is optional.
Add to a pot with 2 cups of water and simmer on low adding water as needed.
If you’re gifting this simmer pot, add ingredients to a cute jar and attach the tag with instructions.
For a downloadable printable of the tags I made, click here.
If you’re looking for a little getaway right in the heart of Raleigh, the Heights House offers a charming and cozy retreat with a touch of elegance. Whether you’re a local seeking a short break or a visitor wanting to explore the city’s vibrant culture, this staycation plan offers the perfect balance of relaxation, good food, and local adventure.
We recently planned our Raleigh staycation to celebrate our 14th anniversary that focused on exploring more of our area. We made reservations at the stunning Heights House, a place that has been on my bucket list forever and dinner reservations at one of our favorite local restaurants—one we don’t visit often enough due to its distance from home. The combination of a dreamy stay and an indulgent meal made for a perfect way to mark this special milestone and one that I hope you will consider planning if you are local or visiting the area. (Or perhaps you need a gift idea for that someone that is hard to buy for but loves experiences over things. This is it!)
Raleigh Staycation @ Heights House
Our check-in lead to a tour of the beautiful home, a brief history lesson and fun facts shared about the curated collection of furnishings within Heights House and how it came to be what it is today. Be sure to get a tour and history of the property when you check in.
Here is a suggested itinerary that is loosely based off of our experience.
Evening Kick-off: Cocktail Hour at Heights House
Start your evening with a drink in the beautifully restored parlor of Heights House. The intimate setting, paired with expertly crafted cocktails, sets the perfect tone for a relaxing night out. The mixologists here know their craft, and whether you’re in the mood for a classic or something a little more daring, you’ll be well taken care of.
The drink menu is set within vintage books. The attention to detail throughout the property was curated by the owners. Be sure to get a tour and history of the property when you check in.
After your cocktail, it’s time to head over to Brewery Bhavana. This award-winning restaurant combines craft beer, dim sum, and an elegant atmosphere to create a dining experience that’s both unique and satisfying. The food is creative and full of flavor, with dim sum options that are perfect for sharing.
For those who are gluten sensitive, there are numerous items that are gluten free. Make sure to try their bao buns and dumplings paired with a cold beer from their in-house brewery, my husbands go-to. I tend to stick to the wine. It’s a standout dining option for any Raleigh staycation.
Morning After: Breakfast and Coffee at Heights House
Start your next day with a delicious breakfast at Heights House. The inn offers a range of breakfast options, from fresh pastries to hearty favorites, all thoughtfully prepared to kickstart your day, all included in your stay. Enjoy it while relaxing in the peaceful surroundings of this beautifully restored home.
A Morning Stroll into Downtown Raleigh
After breakfast, head out for a leisure walk into downtown Raleigh. It’s a beautiful way to see the city and enjoy the fresh air before diving into the local scene.
Coffee at A Place at the Table
Your first stop? A Place at the Table, a nonprofit coffee shop that does more than just serve excellent coffee. This café’s mission is to provide a “pay what you can” model for its meals and drinks, meaning you can grab a coffee to go, and even purchase a meal for someone else. It’s a feel-good stop that supports the local community while also giving you that caffeine boost.
Explore Downtown Raleigh
From there, take a casual stroll along Fayetteville Street, stopping in local shops, boutiques, and art galleries. Raleigh is known for its mix of modern flair and historical charm, and this walk offers the perfect opportunity to explore.
One of my favorite finds on our recent staycation was Copperline Plant Co.. I’m growing my plant collection at home so it was nice to explore different varieties and chat with the shop owner to learn more.
Dinner Options for a Raleigh Date Night
If you’re looking for more date night ideas beyond a stay at Heights House, here are a few options that offer delicious food and drinks in different parts of the city:
Option 1: Drinks at Jolie, Dinner at Crawford and Sons
Start your evening with a drink at Jolie, a stylish spot offering craft cocktails in a chic atmosphere. Their rooftop is the perfect setting to catch a sunset. Be sure to make reservations. Once you’ve sipped your way through their menu, head to Crawford and Sons for dinner. Again, make reservations ahead of time. This upscale restaurant features modern American cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, but you can expect dishes that are both inventive and beautifully plated but most of all, delicious. I promise, you’ll talk about your meal for weeks to come.
Option 2: Whiskey Kitchen, City Market Sushi & Dessert at Bitter Sweet
For a more casual yet equally delightful evening, begin with drinks and apps at Whiskey Kitchen. This lively bar offers a fantastic selection of whiskey and craft cocktails, perfect for sipping before dinner. They also offer a creative menu that combines Southern-inspired dishes if you want to linger longer before dinner.
Then, make your way to City Market Sushi in Moore Square for fresh sushi and tasty rolls. To cap off your evening, walk over to Bitter Sweet for dessert. This local favorite serves decadent treats, from cakes to ice cream, all with a creative twist.
Whether you’re planning a full staycation or just looking for a fun date night, Raleigh offers a wealth of experiences that combine good food, great drinks, and plenty of local flavor. A night at Heights House or any of these recommended date-night spots will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to explore even more of what this vibrant city has to offer.
I hope you will feel inspired to plan a local staycation for your next special occasion. Too often we can feel pressured to travel far to have a magical experience but sometimes we just need to stay close to home and explore the wonderful options that are just outside our doorstep, or a short drive away.
As the air turns crisp and the world shifts to shades of amber and gold, there’s something undeniably special about autumn. It’s a season where our senses seem to heighten — the smell of spiced lattes, the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot, and, of course, the warm, comforting flavors that bring us together. This time of year, there’s nothing better than a dash of pumpkin in our favorite treats.
Today, I’m sharing some of my go-to pumpkin recipes that are perfect for savoring the best of fall. From a creamy pumpkin cold foam to sip on, to sweet pumpkin muffins and doughnuts, and even a hearty pumpkin chili to cozy up with, these recipes are a little bit of autumn bliss for every tastebud. Whether you’re a seasoned pumpkin lover or just diving into these flavors, I hope these recipes make it into your home and become a repeat tradition.
Click on the recipe doc to download and print.
These recipes are easy to make at the same time as they all require some of the canned pumpkin puree.
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than by creating a memorable mess in the kitchen with your little ones, by baking delicious themed treats that are sweeter because they helped.
These two kid-friendly treats are both interactive, delicious, and semi-healthy? Can a cookie be healthy? One of these cookies is topped with fresh fruit of your choice so let’s call it, healthy-ish.
First up we have mini fruit pizzas.
My memories of fruit pizzas go WAY back. I vividly remember my aunt and uncle bringing ingredients and the activity for fruit pizzas to one of our family gatherings at my grandparents home.
All you have to do is make a classic sugar cookie, following any recipe of your choosing, and use heart shaped cookie cutters to make them Valentine themed.
Wash and prep fresh fruit for toppings and make this simple cream cheese frosting that you will use as the glue that holds the fruit on the cookie.
After the cookies have cooled, fill a jar with icing and provide a small spatula or butter knife for the kids to spread the icing on their cookies. You may have to assist with this part.
On a platter, arrange the fruit options that will serve as the toppings for their individual cookie pizzas and let them create.
The next Valentine themed cookie is a play on a classic thumbprint cookie. This recipe is vegan and gluten free too.
Instead of pressing a thumb into the center of the dough balls as you normally would for the classic version, you will help your little one use the side of thumb to press into the dough ball twice to form a heart.
No two hearts are equal but that is the beauty of these personalized heart prints.
You can fill the hearts with a jam flavor of your choice. We usually have the organic strawberry preserves from Costco on hand. It has basic ingredients and is free from high fructose corn syrup.
Baking with kids can be an opportunity to bond and laugh with your little one. It isn’t just about the final product; it’s about the shared moments, the laughter, and the love that goes into making the special treats.
So, gather your ingredients, embrace the joyous mess, and enjoy creating sweet memories that will last far beyond the heart shaped bites.
Keep it simple. Think protein, veggies, fresh fruits and raw nuts.
Are you considering trying out Whole 30 for the first time? If so, I am here to put you to ease as it’s really not that difficult. Chances are you can make simple modifications to recipes you already know and love but make them Whole 30 Compliant.
I highly encourage you to do Whole 30 at least once. It’s eye opening to how much is in our food that is “approved by the FDA” as safe. I can promise you when you’re forced to read labels to avoid certain things in your diet, whether by choice or allergy related, you’ll quickly see that things you thought were already healthy choices, are not in fact, healthy.
Don’t stress about what you’re going to eat and meals you’re going to cook. You don’t have to do a complete overhaul but read the labels. You’ll be shocked to see how many products, including meats, have added sugars, nitrates, carrageenan, just to name a few (all things you need to avoid while on Whole 30), but there is always a substitution.
So what does Whole 30 compliant mean. Essentially, you are eliminating foods that are free from added sugars, grains, dairy, legumes, soy and you also avoid alcohol and processed foods. By doing so, you are choosing compliant options. All of the things you’re asked to avoid during Whole 30 are know inflammatories which can affect how you feel, your quality of sleep, joint and muscle pain, acid reflux, gut issues, and more.
Sugar is the number one inflammatory and is found as an additive in so many foods that it should not be in. I was SHOCKED when we first read labels. Even a label of “nitrate free” doesn’t mean it is sugar free.
As someone who suffers from carpel tunnel, the first time we followed this elimination diet, I saw instant relief within the first week. Four years later, I know what triggers my carpel tunnel the most from a food perspective and try to avoid it throughout the year. We maintain a 80/20 lifestyle eating this way, with a few exceptions during holidays of course but let me tell you, I pay for it later. Joint pain, check. Inflammation, check. Carpel tunnel affecting my sleep, check.
Recommitting to eliminating the inflammatories after the holidays is a great way to kickstart a new year for my husband and I. It’s something we actually enjoy.
When I meal plan for the week, I try to think about how one protein can be used in other meals later in the week. For example, if I cook a rotisserie chicken in the crockpot one night, I know I can use left over chicken for fajita bowls/salad, chicken salad (using Primal Kitchen mayo), or tossing chicken in our kitchenmaid mixer with the whisk attachment, pouring in either BBQ or Frank’s Hot Sauce to shred/mix it then put it over a baked sweet potato, light drizzle of Primal kitchen ranch (or DIY your ranch). Trust me on this last one. Buffalo Chicken over a sweet potato is the perfect balance of heat and sweet.
Simple Meal Ideas for 2+ weeks:
Snack Ideas: Hardboiled eggs sprinkled with everything but the bagel seasoning & franks hot sauce or wrap the egg with prosciutto.
Chomps sticks
Small sweet peppers sliced in 1/2 and filled with tuna, I like to drizzle Frank’s on mine but you could also pre-make a compliant tuna salad to fill the pepper boats.
Apple slices with almond butter.
Fresh fruit & raw nuts just no peanuts as they are considered a legume and should be avoided during Whole 30.
Breakfast Ideas:
Crustless egg and veggie quiche. Easy to meal prep in advance. I use mostly egg whites, add in spinach, leftover veggies, peppers & onions, mushrooms and bake at 350 degrees until firm, approximately 25 minutes. You can sprinkle on Nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Sweet Potato Hash – Prep in advance on Sunday and portion out to reheat each morning
Egg Muffins filled with veggies and/or cutup sausage links or bacon. These are an easy grab and go option, paired with fresh fruit.
Dinner Ideas: I’m included this before lunch ideas because we often have dinner leftovers that we try to eat for lunches.
Whole Chicken in Crockpot with roasted sheet pan veggies.
– If you follow my Whole Chicken in the crockpot recipe, you can save the stock and use it in this recipe. I make this recipe in the crockpot as well.
-Debone remaining chicken after dinner and portion out for lunches over salad, cauliflower rice bowls with roasted veggies, fresh veggies, avocado slices, ect.
Spaghetti sauce over either zucchini noodles or roasted spaghetti squash (make noodles for kids if needed)
Baked Lemon Pepper chicken thighs with steamed broccoli or sautéed asparagus, and cubbed roasted potatoes
Pork chops with a sautéed veggie hash.
Grilled Salmon with sautéed asparagus and beets.
See this post for our family’s top meals that we keep in rotation.
Lunch Ideas:
Salads with left over proteins and raw or cooked veggies
Continue the theme each day. Breakfast on repeat, lunch can be protein leftover from the night prior over salad, and select a dinner option.
Our top recommended ingredients to buy:
Coconut Aminos, Rice Vinegar, Sesame Oil, Frank’s Hot Sauce, Ghee, Nutritional Yeast, olive oil, Tapioca Starch or Arrowroot flour
These are substitutes for soy sauce, inflammatory oils and butter and flour (when needed for thickening agent. We keep all of the above as staples in the home for cooking at all times.
If you’ve made it this far, I want to thank you. My goal for this post was to be brief and provide a very simple guide to being successful on Whole 30. It turns out, there’s a lot to say about this meal guide as it can really become a lifestyle, if you choose.
My hope is that you’ve found tips and tricks for success that can apply today and every day.
forhavenssake.family.blog 