Cookie Jar Collectibles continue to be a popular choice among collectors of all ages. I am the proud owner of a Little Red Riding Cookie Jar that belonged to my grandma. It is one of my most prized possessions.

If I had more room, I would definitely add to my collection of one. There are SO many adorable cookie jars out there, just waiting for a new home.

If you are interested in cookie jar collectibles, I suggest that you invest in a copy of The Ultimate Collector’s Encyclopedia of Cookie Jars. Written by Fred and Joyce Roerig, this frequently updated guide will teach you everything you need to know about collecting cookie jars.

What I think is so helpful, about a guide such as this one, is that it features over 1,200 photographs that will help you easily identify valuable finds. Cookie jar manufacturers include Hull, Disney, Metlox, McCoy, Shawnee and many more.

The book would make a wonderful gift, for anyone who is already into cookie jar collectibles, as well.

Please be sure to take an extra minute to read my previous post about these handbag cookie jars. I can almost guarantee that you’ll want to buy them both.

I’ve been feeling a bit nostalgic this week. I’ve also had quite a craving for popcorn… ‘old-fashioned’ non microwaved popcorn.

I’m happy to report that my problems are almost over. I just ordered a Stir Crazy Popcorn Popper.

This one is a slightly revamped version of the popcorn maker my Mom used, when I was growing up. Talk about yummy memories!

Let’s face it; the Stir Crazy Popcorn Popper makes popping just plain fun. It is capable of making both theater style popcorn and kettle corn. The motorized stirring rod is the key to popcorn perfection.

Preparing it this way is SO much easier than making it on the stovetop. The best part is there are almost NO un-popped kernels. In fact, the Stir Crazy Popper successfully pops approximately 25 percent more popcorn than other machines using the same amount of kernels.

I always loved the built in butter well and the fact that you just flip the popped corn into the cover that magically turns into a bowl… well, maybe not magically…

It has a heat resistant base and handles. The power cord is removable, for easy storage, as well.

Popcorn, minus the butter, is a very healthy treat. One cup of air popped popcorn contains only 31 calories. All I can say is GET POPPIN’!

I scream, you scream, we all scream for home cotton candy machines… well maybe.

When I was little I used to love attending neighborhood ice cream socials, because of the ice cream AND the cotton candy.

Times have changed and with the help of one of several different home cotton candy machines, you can easily let the kids whip it up in your own kitchen. (I know it isn’t the healthiest of snacks, but everything in moderation, right?)

The unit pictured here is manufactured by Nostalgia Electrics. I have showcased a couple of their other products in the past, including: an old fashioned hot dog roller and a popcorn machine. (In case you haven’t heard me mention it, I love retro looking appliances.)

Honestly, making cotton candy at home with a machine like this one is a breeze. All you do is pour the required sugar mixture into the top, turn it on and watch it materialize. Really, how much easier could it be?

You can purchase cotton candy floss sugar or floss concentrate separately. The sugar, which is ready to use out of the bag, comes in flavors such as cherry, grape, orange and strawberry. However, the concentrate must be mixed with granulated sugar. Happy cotton candy’ing!

Currently, my kitchen is tan in color. But, after seeing this nifty retro Buick red bread bin, I may be heading to Home Depot to buy new paint.

I’ve mentioned before (yes I know… more than once) how much I love retro. My entire house would probably be decorated this way, if I thought my husband could stand it. Unfortunately, he’s more into calmer colors. Bad Jerry!

This bread bin is right out of the 50s. It’s constructed of enameled steel and oh so glossy. It features polished stainless steel trim and a handy bottom hinged door. Included is a wire rack which will help to keep your bread flat.

Because it opens from the front, your baked goods will be all the easier to access. (The doors top magnet catch helps to ensure a tight fitting lid, while it’s still easy enough to open with one hand.)

The bin is very roomy, measuring in at 10 x 17 x 9. For this reason you might want to make sure you have enough available counter space before ordering it. (Unless of course, you are willing to send it to me.)

This product would make a great wedding gift, for the retro-loving bride to be. Especially, if you tuck some non-edible ‘bread’ inside.

Aprons are back and they are making quite a fashion statement. They aren’t just for grandmas anymore! (Aren’t the ones in the picture adorable?)

My grandma had her favorite apron that she wore whenever she cooked a meal. When she put it on, you knew that good food was just around the corner.

Aprons actually make great gifts, for almost any occasion. After all; just about everyone cooks… even if it’s only on occasion.

They are suitable for both men and women. What barbequing man wouldn’t love to have his own apron, complete with utensil holder pockets?

Aprons were born out of pure necessity. Since large wardrobes were pretty much unheard of, in the early 1900s, aprons were worn to protect the dresses underneath. That way women did not have to struggle with unnecessary laundry… forever at the mercy of their wash board.

Aprons of this early era were long and shapeless and without much color. It wasn’t until the 1940s, that they became more stylish. Many had a cinched waistline and were made out of more colorful material with contrasting accents.

Feed sack aprons were also very popular. The material that was used to make the sacks was quite heavy and ideal for making aprons and quilts.