VALENTINE'S DAY ON THE 15TH

Because of my crazy, fun and busy life I didn't realize that yesterday was V-day, that is why today I have a guest post from Barbara over at Momographica.

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Valentine has been a thorn in my side in ages. I am quite aware this is not the best introduction for a Happy Valentine post, still I prefer to be honest with you. I don't have a significant other at the moment neither particular happy memories tied to this festivity. But there is something that even I appreciate on February 14th and that thing is the tradition of gifting loved ones with chocolate.

In the last couple of years local bakeries and patisseries turned creative in this little town of mine and shop windows became filled with beautifully Valentine themed crafted boxes . As a graphic designer, I can't help but appreciating a good job on packaging and this time of the year seems to get people to be very innovative. Now that cup cakes and cake décor businesses are doing great in this part of Italy, I can barely wait to see what's going on this time.

I have one single good memory from Valentine and it was a gift I got from a Japanese friend, who sent me a delightful chocolate box from a famous shop in Tokyo. She knew about my interest for good design and she picked up wonderful crafted chocolate,shaped like tiny peonies. That was many years ago so the chocolate is long gone, but you can find tons of such examples if you google for it.

This monthly post main point was to share with you some good reference where you can find ideas for your Valentine gift. I think men always appreciate good food and there is nothing more valuable than a handmade gift, isn't it?

30 Valentine Recipes from Martha Stewart

Suggestions from the Wedding Bee Board

Victorian Tastes with Camille Styles

Old post but effective and scenic recipes by CakeSpy

The Hummingbird Bakery Home Sweet Home: 100 new recipes for baking brilliance