He's Not Johnny Depp

Like lots of kids, I loved reading stories about pirates and their adventures on the high seas.

Unfortunately, there is a modern version of the pirate that is less romantic and more like what pirates of old were really like.  Pirates were outlaws who robbed, plundered and stole. 

Today we are faced with a new version of the pirate, aptly named, Porch Pirate.  These “pirates” scope out homes and rob, plunder or steal packages that are left on doorsteps.

As we kick off the busiest season for shopping on line, be aware that you could be a victim of a Porch Pirate. 

Whether you are purchasing items that you want delivered to your home or to be delivered as a gift to someone else, there are a few things that you can do to minimize becoming a victim of a Porch Pirate.

1.        Have your package delivered to a secure location.  Instruct the delivery service to leave the package in a place not visible from the street such as behind a bush or in a garage.

2.       Have your package delivered to an alternative address like your office or a neighbor who is always home.

3.       If you are going away and having your mail held, ask to have your package delivered to the Post Office where it will be held along with your other mail.

4.       Install a lock box on your property.

5.       Install a security camera.  Even if it doesn’t deter the theft, it will give police evidence for prosecution.

6.       Track the package.  Most delivery services provide tracking information.  If you know a package is going to be delivered on a certain day and time, ask someone (a neighbor) to “keep an eye out” and take the package in until you get home.

7.       If you are having a package delivered directly to a friend or family member, track it so you know exactly when it will arrive and follow up.

If you become a victim of a Porch Pirate.

1.       Immediately contact the seller. Many provide replacements or refunds.

2.       If the seller does not respond or resolve the issue, file a claim with the delivery service.  

             

3.       Call your credit card company.  Most provide some kind of protection.

It is sad that the Grinch does exist but by being aware and being proactive, we can all enjoy a Happy Holiday Season.

Marie          

Sunshine On My Shoulder

Such a beautiful day!  Finally, after months of snow, freezing temperatures, rain and more rain, the sun is shining and there is a warm breeze.

I'm going to take advantage of the gift of this sunny day by getting my rock garden ready for Spring plantings.  I'm sure many others are also going to find reasons to spend time outdoors as well.

But not everyone will be as fortunate.  I'm thinking of my friend John who has spent the last several months in and out of the hospital and will not be able to spend time outside of a hospital room for some time to come.

I'm sure you know someone who is in a similar situation.  A friend or family member who is ill or infirmed.  Someone who is in the hospital, nursing home or even confined to bed at home.

If they can't go out to enjoy the sunshine, why not bring a little to them inside?

At Laurel Mountain Basket Co we are experts at sending sunshine and good cheer.  We can help you design a gift basket full of warm wishes that will bring a smile and shed a little sunshine too.

Check out our site where you can see some examples of our work then call or email us.  We design unique gift basket to fit every taste and budget.

Laurel Mountain Basket Co where gift giving won't make you a basket case.

Happy Spring!

Marie

A Hug In A Box

When I was growing up my Dad’s parents lived across the street.  We played in their yard so saw them every day. My grandmother always had a fresh baked treat for us.

My Mom’s parents and most of my aunts, uncles and cousins were a short car ride away.   We were always visiting one or another and family gatherings happened often.

Today my closest family lives hours away and I have family in every corner of the country. A cousin lives in Washington State another lives in Kentucky.  And one nephew lives in Texas so we rarely get to visit.  We stay in touch via email and phone but it’s not the same.

There are times when I wish I could be with a family member or friend to give them a big hug.  It could be an anniversary, celebrating the birth of a baby, a house warming, a birthday, wedding or getting a new job. Or they are recovering from an illness or dealing with the loss of a loved one.

When a hug is not possible, a gift basket can let them know that they are loved and thought of.

A “care package” to a student away at school or someone serving in the military is also ways to show love and support.

The next time you wish you could give someone a hug, remember that you can always send a custom designed gift basket.  It’s like a hug in a box.

Call today and let us help you custom design a gift basket for someone you love.  (413) 527-1243 laurelmtbasket.com

Marie

The Bruchetta Challenge

Bruchetta Basket

All of our gift baskets are original designs are individually prepared at the time they are ordered.  We talk with our clients to get a sense of who will be receiving the gift basket so that we can include items that they will enjoy.

We even had clients who have provided all of the items and asked us to come up with the design.  The Bruchetta Basket is one. 

Bruchetta is an antipasto consisting of grilled bread, rubbed with garlic and topped with olive oil. Many recipes add tomato, veggies, beans, cured meats or cheeses.

The client provided all of the ingredients, including jars of crushed garlic and peppers, flavored olive oils as well as cook books with various bruchetta recipes.  The challenge was to place all of these items on the bread board they also provided.

The board was boat shaped with a very narrow base.  The items had to be placed so that the gift was balanced enough to stand on its own.  We were satisfied with the results and the client was thrilled, which is always our goal.

We are always up for a challenge.  The next time you need something really special, give us a call and let us help you create a gift that is truly one of a kind.

Marie