I love Easter!   Easter is one of the holidays that as I kid I looked forward to the most.  The excitement of waking up to find the wonderful basket filled with candy, treats, barbies, stuffed animals and so much more!

As a child, mama would have matching dresses made for us girls to match her dress.   Mama had five boys before she would have her first girl.  My sister Nancy is just 18 months older than I am.   Between the youngest of the five boys, and my sister, was a difference of nine years.  Mama would love for us girls to have matching dresses, hats, shoes, etc.  I don't think I went anywhere without a purse on my arm and a doll in my hand.   

When my kids were small I loved making the baskets.  I never wanted one of those typical all-in-one store bought baskets.  I would carefully select the basket, the pale, or even the box for both Lauren and David.  I would spend weeks compiling items to put in each of theirs.  I would sneak it up to their room so that when the would wake up they would have it. 

After the went to college, I kept getting the baskets for them.  My husband would say,  "Don't you think they are to old for that?"   I would reply NO!   My kids will always be my babies.  I still spend weeks compiling the baskets or boxes unique to each one of them.   

I had the pleasure today of being apart of  "The Vine" morning show on KTHV Channel 11.   I wanted to share various ways and ideas of making Easter "baskets" for your adult children, friends, co-worker's or other family members.   Remember, Easter is for everyone!

I want to thank each of the Sponsors for contributing to my baskets.   Each of these wonderful vendors have beautiful products that I am glad to #partner with.    Serveiteasy, AP Monograms, Mary Garrett Jewelry, AY Magazine, At Home Arkansas Magazine and Southern Stitched Designs.   Also my #Amazon #Partners:  Bizz NYC, Timeyard gifts, Goodpick baskets. You can find the majority of the items in my baskets featured today on my Amazon store:  https://www.amazon.com/shop/sweetyellowcornbread.   Please take a moment to also visit the links above for all the wonderful vendors.  They each have unique merchandise that is perfect for your Easter gifts.

TIPS to making the perfect EASTER Baskets or equivalent:

1.  Start off with the perfect basket - I love the Goodpick basket by Indressme They have a wide variety of beautiful baskets and home decor items that are perfect.
2.  Think outside of the box to a traditional basket.  For instance, for the kitchen lover you can use a colander for the base.   I love the green colander I am using for one of the non-traditional baskets.  
3.  Take your time and really think of the person you are giving to.   That's easy if it is your child, think of their interests.  What is unique to them? Favorite colors, gadgets, etc.   
4.  Hand make some of the items.   For instance, make cookies, granola, brownies, candy, etc.   Be sure and "sack" the items so that they are kept separate from any soaps, etc. that might be included in your basket.  For instance, I made cookies and put them in pretty decorative bags.  It is easy to dress up your basket with cute little bags, ribbon and cards.  All you need is a single hole punch, ribbon and cute bag.  You can add a card that you can have custom printed in bulk.
5.  Always wrap your bath products (soaps) so that they won't rub onto your other items.  You don't want your cookies or candy tasting like soap.   I always bag the candy separate from soap, perfumes, etc.

Don't stress!  It is easy to come up with some creative things for your adult children.  Remember, these adult or teens might think this isn't a big deal now.  However, when they get my age, they will have the wonderful memories that I had as a child. 

The "Colander" Basket:
The Base - Green colander found on my Amazon store - Category Easter Baskets 
Decorated Treat bags - contain my homemade chocolate chip cookies
Chocolates, Pot Watchers, Measuring Spoons, Note pads, Gold sponges, hand towel & oven mitt set
Wood spoon
The beautiful monogrammed linen coasters are from:  AP Mongorams

The "Spa" Basket:

The Base is a gorgeous 100% white cotton rope basket from Goodpick by Indressme.  The best quality you will find.  I am so happy to #partner with them.   You can find these baskets on my Amazon Store at .https://www.amazon.com/goodpick

This basket contains items such as:  Bath Salts, moisturizer, yoga towels, body sprays and lotions.  Anything for the "spa" lover or people like me who like to take long baths.  These wonderful baskets can be washed and dried and can easily tote back and forth to the pool or spa.   I added a cute leopard toothbrush as well.  I love anything leopard!

Remember to wrap the candy in a separate bag.  I also wrapped individual cucumber soaps from Whole Foods in little treat bags.  It helps protect the soap and the other items.

Don't forget to add in some homemade cookies, granola, etc. Be sure and separate them in individual treat bags as well.   If you are giving this as a gift to a friend or co-worker and don't know if they have food allergies, be sure and label if the item(s) contain nuts, peanut butter, etc.   I am allergic to strawberries so I try to stay away from "pink" or "red" food items until I ask.

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The "Dude" Box

I call this the "dude" box.   It is designed more for the guys.  It does contain some items that will help them with their laundry.   This is great to give a guy who might be graduating from college.  They still need to do their laundry, etc.   This great storage container is perfect to use for storage.  It makes a great home decor item as well.​

Perfect for the college guy or graduate as well.   This wonderful basket has dryer balls, a grooming kit for men, socks, toiletries, etc.   An awesome grey Bizz benton lunch box.  These lunch boxes are the best.  You can heat, freeze, microwave or dish-wash these lunch boxes.  Be sure and check them out on my Amazon Store:  https://www.amazon.com/shop/sweetyellowcornrbead

Lots of homemade goodies wrapped in individual treat bags.

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The "Vintage Box"

This might just be my favorite.  If I were to design an Easter basket for myself, this definitely would be it.  I started with a wonderful vintage wooden box.   This is perfect for the "farmhouse" decor style.  It also works with "shabby chic."   It contains wonderful magazines, pillow covers, a great pink BIZZ Bento lunch box, linen spray, my favorite Mary Garrett Jewelry, beautiful linen napkins, candies, chocolates, and just all things a girl of all ages love.   We have some wonderful magazines that are published right here in Little Rock that are filled with beautiful Home Decor ideas, stories, and so much. I love adding local items to my boxes.   Thanks again to AY Magazine and At Home Arkansas for the beautiful magazines.  I am also honored to be an on-line contributor at AY Magazine.

I hope this gives you several ideas about making the perfect Easter basket or basket equivalent for your children, friends, co-worker's and family.   Be sure and have some fun.   Don't forget to include some homemade items, and be and sure to keep the food separate from the soap!

Thanks again for stopping by!  
​Pat, Sweet Yellow Cornbread


LINK TO KTHV 11 THE VINE STORY -VIDEO
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tWhy is one of the most difficult daily task I can come up with is "what's for supper"?  In the many conversations that I find myself having with others, they are facing them same struggles.

When you work a full day, the last thing you want to do when you get home, is stand on your feet for another hour or more cooking.   I like to find quick and easy meals that are not only good 'ole southern meals, but that don't require us waiting another hour just to eat.

Tonight's dinner was delicious, quick to make, and it fit right in with our "southern" style. Start out with a good #petitjean hamsteak, hashbrown potatoes from #simplypotatoes and #sweetyellowcornbake.   This cornbake was a little different.   I made it with sweet yellow whole kernel corn in lieu of the cream styled corn.   The whole meal was done by the time the cornbake was ready, less than 30 minutes.

If you haven't tried the Simply Potatoes, you need to give them a try.  They will not disappoint.  I use these plain, loaded, or even in casseroles.   They are delicious!   Both Greg and I really love them.   My little dog Farrah might even sneak a bite or two.   She loves potatoes.

For the Cornbake:

1 box Jiffy Cornbread mix
3 Tablespoons of Light Sour Cream
1 Can of Sweet Yellow Corn (drain most - I left a little juice)
1/3 cup milk
1/2 cup Kraft Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Pre-heat oven to 400 Degrees

Spray pan (I use a 9 x 9) 
Mix all Ingredients above in large mixing bowl until it looks creamy
Pour in your coated pan - Bake at 400 degrees for approx. 25 minutes - until cornbread looks golden brown (use pick test)

For the potatoes:

1/2 pkg of Simply Potatoes 
2 Teaspoons of Lowry's Garlic Pepper
1/2 stick of margarine
Salt/Pepper

Spray griddle or pan - Simmer until golden brown.  I put in part of the butter at beginning and add the other halfway through and stir throughout.   We prefer them a little crunchy so they are cooked until hash browns are golden and crunchy.

Ham Steak

2 Petit Jean Ham Steaks
I spray grille or pan and cook until warm - I flip occasionally to get both sides grilled.

A delicious southern meal of ham, potatoes, corn & cornbread (cornbake) 

The investment in the #serveiteasy utensils is the best thing that will happen to you.  These utensils are heat resistant and can be used while you are cooking/grilling/serving.  

The fork is my favorite.   It works great flipping the ham steak.  I also use it in place of my spatula to easily serve the potatoes.   The long bendable handle makes it easy to reach across the burners.    They are reasonably priced for less than $20.00.   Check them out on https://www.serveiteasy.com   

I have #partnered with serveiteasy to help promote this wonderful utensils.  I truly do use these in my every day meal prep and serving.

I love jewelry and accessories.  Beautiful jewelry pieces don't have to be pricey to be elegant.  I love simple, elegant jewelry that fits my budget.    

I was looking for an inexpensive name necklace when I stumbled across a beautiful one in the Instagram feed.   It was from the Company, Sincerelysilverco  The next thing, I know we were collaborating.    

I received a beautiful gold name necklace from them.   It is really stunning.  I love gold.  Although, I might wear some silver, I do prefer gold.   I think gold stands out more with my blonde hair.

Sincerelysilver.co is a  small women's lifestyle brand that started just a few years ago. They have refocused their brand to focus on women empowerment and encouraging all women by sharing the stories of strong women everywhere.   

Sincerelysilver.co has a multitude of beautiful jewelry with price ranges to fit all budgets.  That is what attracted me to them.    I am so excited that they are #sponsoring this post and allowing all my family, friends, and followers to receive 15% off their order with the code:  SINCERELY15 at checkout.   This is an awesome savings!

This deal is available to share with your friends, family & followers as well!    Truly a great deal!   Take the time and checkout the website at:  https://www.sincerelysilver.co/   They have some stunning initial, name, and lots of other pieces available to use this code for purchase.    Here's the link to the name necklace  https://www.sincerelysilver.co/products/custom-gold-name-necklace

#jewelry #sincerelysilver #sincerelysilverco #accessories #empower #encourage #beautifuljewelry

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If you have been following my Instagram and Pinterest lately, you have seen me share photos & videos using these excellent utensils from https://www.serveiteasy.com.   

I was contacted by Leslie & Whitney, who have teamed up with James, this great engineer to help promote this wonderful invention of the best serving utensils I have seen!  

These utensils are so handy, and they clip to the side of your serving bowl, dish or pan.  That alone is amazing!   It is so easy to take them to a potluck or a dinner party without losing them.   Your guest takes them off, choose the food they want, clip them back on.   The fork makes it easy to grab just certain items from a salad, cheese board, etc.   The spoon with its ergonomic design allows you to easily spoon in for a big helping of potatoes, mac-n-cheese, or any food item without it sticking.

We all have been to potlucks and try to grab a helping of mash potatoes and spend more time trying to get them off the spoon.  Am I right?   These @serveiteasy utensils have fixed that problem for us all!

It all started something like this:

James was at a family gathering at the dinner table when they were passing around the mashed potatoes, salads, carved turkey and stuffing.   Everyone at the table was struggling to the mash potatoes and sticky salads of the serving spoons.  The same thing with the turkey, they all could fork it but struggled to get it onto their plate, without having to touch the meat.

James thought there should be a more natural way to serve food. The initial Serve It Easy concept was initiated on that day.  His goal was simple … create a line of serving utensils that would provide a QUICK, CLEAN AND EASY way to serve food!   Accomplishment was done!    

Whitney and Leslie (the dynamic duo driving US business development for Serve It Easy) were introduced to the idea to by James, and they loved it.  "We all have been 5th in line at the buffet and struggled to get that perfect serving, or felt the embarrassment of the crusty spoon after working so hard to put out a beautiful spread for friends and family," says the duo. 

Both Whitney and Leslie had been working together for ten years in corporate America (and being huge fans of Shark Tank),  so they jumped at the opportunity to help bring these innovative products to every table.   James is a from Canada, and the utensils are selling like crazy!   Whitney and Leslie are not resting to all of us in the U.S. get to use these great products for themselves.

I am so honored and pleased that they reached out to me to help promote this great invention.  After a long chat on the phone, I was hooked!   I honestly do love these utensils as much as I have been posting about them.

These utensils are reasonably priced at $19.95.   If you order two sets or more, free shipping is available!  #winwin   You can pick from either a light or dark gray.   You will want to grab a couple of sets for yourself and a friend!    https://serveiteasy.com/product/spoon-and-fork-set/serveiteasy.com/product/spoon-and-fork-set/

Scoutbags🎈GIVEAWAY 🎈 I am so excited to have teamed up with @scoutbags to give away my favorite bag for spring break! It’s absolutely perfect for a trip to the beach or even an everyday bag. You and your friends can take these bags everywhere you go. It’s easy to win. You get to pick your own color. 🤪🤪 To enter: .

Go to my Instagram Post:  https://www.instagram.com/p/Bu_TN2YHz5v/

• 1. Like the post and follow @scoutbags
  2. Tag 3 of your friends on this post 
  3. Check in with us on 3/18 at 7 PM CST to see if you are the lucky winner. .
  .
  #scoutbags #scouttravelpro #travel#springbreak #springbreakbag #beachbag#lakebag #entertowin #giveaway#tagyourfriends

These bags are amazing and you get to pick your own color!  #winwin  -- check out https:///www.scoutbags.com to take a look at all the wonderful bags they have.    I have several of their bags in a wide variety of sizes and colors.   They are weatherpoof and are perfect for the beach, lake, bot or just an everyday bag.   You can't go wrong with any of the bags.

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I had the upmost pleasure of meeting this charming young woman at her office/shop a few days ago.  It was to my surprise that she was located on the same street as our office.  Mary’s actual shop resides in the beautiful At Home Arkansas office.   Mary and her husband Trey create beautiful art with exquisite gems and metals.
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I have been seeing these beautiful bracelets, necklaces, and earrings on my Instagram feed.  Stunning and glamorous, I knew I had to meet the creator of this fine line.    Mary’s creations are being sold in several Arkansas stores.  The popular Hillcrest Box Turtle has several of her pieces, where Mary began working part-time during her younger school years.  Box Turtle with its excellent source for gifts to include art, clothing and unique jewelry, inspired Mary to begin creating her own unique designs.   Mary’s designs led to an immediate success.  From there, she used her networking and study skills to showcase her beautiful pieces to the Arkansas Art Center.   The visitors of the Arkansas Art Center can purchase one of a kind, unique pieces, handcrafted by Mary.

Today, Mary’s artesian line of jewelry are being sold throughout the South through various wholesalers.  She has attended various shows to include The Tuscon Gem show, as well as, The Fashion Industry Gallery in Dallas.

Mary Garrett is a Native Arkansas, born and raised in Little Rock.  Mary attended Mount St. Mary’s and would go on to graduate from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville with a BS in Journalism.    Mary and her older brother, Wyn would spend their childhood painting and drawing in their beautiful home on Beechwood.   They share a deep bond of artesian designs and still create unique pieces for local art shows together, including Harvestfest and Handmade in the Heights.

Mary and her husband, Trey Garrett are expecting their second child.  The reside in a beautiful home in Hillcrest, which they have remodeled together.  Trey is a gifted landscaper and has a landscaping business that keeps him busy, along with helping Mary with her designs. 

A special #thankyou to Mary for #accessorizing me for my big day with the leading ladies of #chicagomusical.  The collection of beautiful jewelry was perfect for the day.  These pieces will go with my entire wardrobe.

​I can’t say enough about how cute this couple is.  These two are beautiful inside and out.  Her jewelry line is a symbol of her loving and caring personality.  This exquisite handmade artesian jewelry will be around for a very long time.   You can purchase one of her exquisite pieces at:  https://mary-garrett-jewelry.myshopify.com/    Connect with her on Instagram at:  https://www.instagram.com/marygarrettjewelry/  and on Facebook at:  https://www.facebook.com/marygarrettjewelry/
 

 One of my favorite musicals has always been "Chicago."  It has great dancing, singing and is truly a great comedy.  I have been waiting for this to come to Little Rock for a while.  As soon as I heard it was coming, I jumped onto the Arkansas Rep's site and purchased tickets. 

This was my Valentine's present to myself.  I had no idea that this production would bring the best joy I have experienced in a while.  A much-needed break from the stress that has been overwhelming me.

As we took our seats, I managed to snap a photo of the stage.  Like all of us bloggers, I tagged the Arkansas Rep in the photo, as well as Chicago Musical's Instagram account.  We sat back and began to be awed by the performers.  Velma (the leading) burst out in my favorite song, "All That Jazz."  Velma, played by Daisy Hobbs, is absolutely brilliant in the role.  Her huge grin and crowd contact makes you comfortable and engaged. Daisy's vocal range is outstanding,  I haven't stopped singing the song since I have seen the show.   I go up and down the halls at the office, through the house, and sing at the top of my lungs in the car.   

The announcer states that "Roxi" would be played by Madeleine Corliss.   Madeleine brings Roxi alive!  Her vocals were exquisite during the whole performance.   She played the part of the ventriloquist doll with absolute brilliance.   I can't imagine anyone else in that role.  She was absolutely delightful and entertaining.

The ensemble of this show is truly gifted people.  My goodness, these young people can dance and sing!  An outstanding cast and crew that makes this production simply brilliant.  All of them stand out and make this show the best.

Greg and I arrived home and I began to catch up on my social media accounts for my blog.  I noticed that Rachel Perlman, who played in the ensemble as Mona, started following my Instagram account.   I was so excited I couldn't stand it.   I sent her a direct message on how much I enjoyed the show.  After a couple of messages, I asked her if she had some free time I would love to come and meet her and the cast.  I noticed on her Instagram that she had  • "cookie aficionado" listed.  Of course, I offered to bring my cookies to her and the others.

Rachel is a sweetheart.  She gave me the email to Karen Rudolph, APR, Director of Marketing & Audience Engagement and said to contact her for a possible meet.   Next thing you know, I am baking lots of cookies, along with a big batch of my homemade granola and off I go to meet and visit with these lovely ladies.    

I brought along my friend, Vanessa Rhodes, from Starbucks.  Vanessa and I share the love for Theater.  I knew that she would be thrilled to go with me.

We arrive and Karen greeted us to go upstairs.  I knew that Rachel would be there, but I had no idea that we would be greeted by Daisy, Madeline, and young Sydney as well.  Vanessa and I were thrilled.

I began to chat with them.  I explained to them about the blog on how it got started and that I never dreamed it would lead me to be able to meet and talk with so many people.   The one thing that all these ladies shared in common is the love for the Theater.  The Theater makes them happy and alive.  All of them are highly trained in their field.  All of them told me they had been in numerous performances and appreciated the work they get.  These ladies were very grateful and humbled.  They truly love their fans and the support that they receive.

Rachel has been in many productions to include:  Chicago, Mary Poppins, Prince of Egypt, Singing in the Rain, and many more.   She is such a gifted dancer.  I managed to visit her website and watched her Reels.   The website is breathtaking and entertaining.  Be sure and check out: Rachelperlman.com Rachel, with this huge grin on her face, tells me that she is engaged to Erik who also plays in the Ensemble.  This guy has moves!  Find Rachel on Instagram @rachelmperlman

Daisy has been in many productions to include:  Chicago, Memphis, Disney's Aladdin and many more.  Daisy said her husband flew in to watch her play the leading role of Velma Kelly.   Daisy can sing, dance, and she is witty!   Be sure and read all about this charming lady at DaisyHobbs.com.  You can find her on Instagram at @daisyHobbsComedy.

Madeleine is a delight.   Madeline played a featured role in Spamalot at the Rep as "Hay Girl."  This petite blonde has such a gift.  A graduate of Musical Theatre from Syracuse University, she is very versatile in both singing, dancing and acting.  She has played in shows to include Bonnie & Clyde, White Christmas, and many others.  Madeleine's mother flew in from New York to watch her perform "Roxie."  You could see from the sparkle in her eyes, how proud that made her.  Madeleine also has a stunning website at Madeleinecorliss.com and on Instagram as @Madeleine-Corliss.

Native Arkansan, Sydney Ippolito is a living doll.  Sydney is a Little Rock native, currently living in New York City.  She has been in such productions as The Little Mermaid, Spamalot, Oliver and many more.  This charming little pistol is a delight.  She sings, dances and plays the guitar, among other talents.  Visit her website at Sydneyippolito.com and you can find her on Instagram @saippolito.

I want to thank each of these ladies for making my bucket list come true.   It is important for all to support the Arts.  These ladies are thankful for the productions they get to be a part of.  They all are making their dreams come true.   The train very hard, and rehearse numerous hours to be able to make their audiences be captivated.   These casts miss out on other auditions while performing their current roles.  When these performances end, it is on to try and gain the next.

These productions take a numerous amount of people to bring these characters alive.  The cast, crew, lighting, sound, orchestra, marketing are just a small part of what it takes.   The Arkansas Rep, along with many others around the Country, are in need of donors, sponsors, volunteers to be able to succeed.

Trust me, buy a ticket!  You won't be disappointed!   For tickets - click here 

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Scroll Down to catch a Youtube Preview of this great show.   They surely "RAZZLE DAZZLED" me!
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