OOPSIE DOOPSIE

First off, I have a problem with glassware. I cannot pass an antique store, a Target, my mom’s pantry, without peaking inside to see if there is a wonderful gem that catches my eye and will become the newest addition to my very much growing collection. A hobby that my husband would love to see diminish, collecting glassware fuels my soul. For one thing, these pieces aren’t just glass containers/vases/cups/jars – they are vessels with the ability to transport you to another place in time. Many of my pieces have come to me from my parents or grandparents. Full of beauty and memorable stories.

One specific story I like to recall comes from my husband. It’s a tale that I like to replay to him if he’s doubting the need for another piece to add to this collection.  

{Secret is officially out… shoot 😉 } 

Born and bred in Minnesota, he grew up with farming in his heart, dirt in his nails, starlight in his eyes, and tenderness in his soul. He notices details and beauty. One detail goes just like this…

His grandma would drink her morning coffee from a mason jar. On those evenings when he would spend the night, he would wake up in the morning and see his grandma sitting in front of her picture window, staring at that .25 mile driveway, drinking coffee out of her mason jar. Perfection. He told me this account when I brought home 4 mason jars for the very first time. At that moment I knew – he would appreciate this too.

With that said… 

I am now paying homage to this wonderful woman who sparked an inkling of glass-love in my soulmate’s heart: a lunch transported in a mason jar. It not only travels oh-so beautifully and makes preparations a snap, but it definitely adds a touch of whimsy and, for some of us, it takes us home.

Here are my top four recipes – Enjoy!

{chickpeas, onions, mozzarella, tomato, and arugula}

{fresh mozzarella, tomato, pasta and spinach}

{garden salad}

{chopped chicken salad}

Do you have a favorite recipe? I would love to know [and collect] tons more. Share, please!