Summary

The website provides creative ideas for assembling fairytale-inspired care packages to brighten loved ones' days during times when in-person visits are not possible.

Abstract

The article suggests thoughtful and thematic care package ideas based on popular fairytales. For a "Little Red Riding Hood" inspired basket, it recommends including homemade or high-quality jam, fresh bread or soft rolls, artisanal butter, a selection of teas, and additional items like playing cards or puzzle books. The "Gingerbread Man" theme offers the option of baking gingerbread or including store-bought cookies, clotted cream, and candied ginger. For "Goldilocks and the Three Bears," the article suggests single-serve oatmeal, instant oatmeal packets, and other hot cereals, accompanied by honey in a bear-shaped jar, catering to convenience and health-conscious preferences.

Opinions

The author believes that a care package can be a meaningful way to connect with loved ones when face-to-face visits aren't possible.
Homemade items are idealized, but the author acknowledges that high-quality store-bought alternatives are also acceptable.
Personalization is key; the author encourages adding items that cater to the recipient's tastes and interests, such as a favorite tea or a mini-bar bottle of a preferred beverage.
The author implies that the act of giving, even something as simple as a care package, can have a significant impact on the recipient's mood.
There is an emphasis on the ease of preparation for some of the suggested items, making the care package both thoughtful and practical.
The author suggests that including a variety of items can add an element of surprise and delight to the care package experience.

What Have You Got In That Basket?

Put together a care package inspired by fairytale favorites

19th-century children’s book illustration (public domain)

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We may not be able to visit our loved ones face-to-face, but a basket of goodies on their doorstep will be sure to brighten their day. Here are a few ideas of what to pack, inspired by your favorite fairytales.

Little Red Riding Hood

Children’s book illustration, artist unknown (public domain)

These days, the Big Bad Wolf is the least of our worries.

A trip to grandma’s house isn’t likely to involve any lengthy discussion of eyes, ears, and teeth size, either.

Just pack up some goodies, ring the bell, set them down on the doorstep, and go.

(You should probably text the recipient first and let them know it’s coming.)

A jar of jam or jelly (homemade is an ideal choice, but an upscale brand like Wilkin and Sons will do.) To go all out, cut a square of calico with pinking shears and secure it over the top with ribbon or raffia.
A baguette (again, homemade is best but not essential as long as it’s fresh). If your basket’s recipient has dental issues, consider soft rolls instead. If you can’t pull off baking Parker House rolls, pick up some King’s Hawaiian. The deli section at most groceries sells mini-packs.
Butter softened and spread in a small crock or bouillon bowl is a nice touch and well worth the higher price tag. I’m a big fan of Kerrygold Irish Butter.
Include a box, tin or packet of teabags. The Republic of Tea has a good selection. If the giftee’s tastes run to the traditional, go with something like Taylor’s of Harrowgate’s Yorkshire Gold.
Add a little something extra you know the person would enjoy. Some suggestions include a deck of cards, a Sudoko or crossword puzzle book, a mystery or romance novel, or a copy of a current newspaper or magazine.
Does your loved one like a little kick in their teacup? A mini-bar bottle of their favorite potent potable would not go unappreciated. If they’re not at all interested in tea, you might want to include a selection. These are available in the checkout area at most liquor stores.

The basic goody basket can be adapted to suit the tastes and interests of the receiver. Other fairy tales can provide some inspiration.

The Gingerbread Man

*Illustration by Robert Gaston Herbert, 1910 (public domain)*

It’s a bit on the nose, I’ll admit, but a pan of fresh, delicious gingerbread is always a welcome treat.

You can whip one up in a jiffy, and even the kids can help.

If you’re not much for baking, a package of Pepperidge Farm Gingerman cookies is a great substitute.

Add a jar of clotted cream for dobbing or dipping, and a bottle of milk from a local dairy.

If the recipient has a sweet tooth, a packet of candied ginger is an excellent addition.

Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Convenience foods are especially welcome these days when many people are obliged to cook for themselves.

Single-serve oatmeal options like Quaker Instant Oatmeal Express Cups Variety Pack are as easy as it gets.

If your loved one is health-conscious, instant oatmeal packets by thinkThin are a great choice. They’re only 190 calories each and loaded with protein, so one feels full longer.

Oatmeal isn’t the only porridge out there. Uncle Ben now has to-go versions of their hot cereals. They even provide spoons. Yummy flavors like Cinnabon and Maple Brown Sugar Walnut are sure to please. Their mixed berry Cream of Rice is gluten-free.

To continue with the Goldilocks theme, remember to add a bear-shaped jar of honey along with the cereal. If you want to go all out, Kirkland even has a three-bear option.

Whether or not the porridge is too hot or too cold will not be your problem. Bonus: no “breaking and entering” required!

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