St. Patrick’s Day is a fun holiday to celebrate with kids. Themed crafts, green treats, and adventures with the family can get everyone in the St. Patrick’s Day spirit! The cultural holiday is celebrated by the Irish and others in part by feasting on traditional food. It’s a celebration of Irish heritage, as well as an opportunity to have fun cooking and sporting shamrocks! But to get the kids a bit more involved, there’s a few more things you can do to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with Family

Many people have traditions with their families and friends for St. Patrick’s Day. Some communities will often hold St. Patrick’s Day parades to celebrate. And it’s certainly always a good time to dress in your best green gear. But this year, you may be looking for a few things to do at home with your family. Whether you are swapping out old traditions or adding to your plans, try these ways to celebrate at home with family.

• Get crafty: Put a spin on your kids’ favorite art activity with St. Patrick’s Day themes. Cut shamrocks out of construction paper, paint a pot of gold under a rainbow, or build a leprechaun with colored clay or blocks.
• Stage a treasure hunt: Let the kids loose in the backyard in search of clovers, something silver, and maybe even a hidden treat or two. Or, hide clues that lead to a nice big pot of gold.
• Sneak in some education: Learn and teach about Irish culture and the island of Ireland. If you celebrate more of the holiday, teach your kids about Saint Patrick and the history of St. Patrick’s Day.
• Cooking with kids: Cooking and eating together is a favorite St. Patrick’s Day activity for many families.

Cooking with Kids

Any day is a good day to start cooking with kids. Of course, it’s always a great opportunity for bonding and spending quality time together. But cooking with kids on St. Patrick’s Day can be extra special for a few reasons. You can introduce the family to new kinds of foods like Irish corned beef, cabbage, and apple tarts or other desserts. Tacoma Boys’ favorite way to make a quick and easy apple dessert is as simple as adding fresh green apples and butter to Concord Foods Apple Crisp Mix. Have some fun with green colored foods. Any chance to sneak some extra greens into your kids diet is definitely a win!

Start the day with Tacoma Boys’ McCann’s Irish Oatmeal topped with Northwest Delights Pepitas and Tacoma Boys’ Kiwi Slices. Or, blend up a smoothie with Tacoma Boys’ Frozen Berries, and Fresh Baby Spinach, and Almond Breeze Unsweetened Almond Milk for some green goodness.

Cooking with kids allows for great teaching moments: Make a math game out of measuring ingredients and practice counting. Or if your kids are a little older, allow them to learn by doing most of the cooking. Use art and science when baking and decorating cookies. It definitely won’t feel like learning! Chances are they’ll want to go green with frosting, sprinkles, and more.

Kid Friendly St. Patrick’s Day Recipes

Elevate your St. Patrick’s Day recipes with an array of green-colored foods to get your kids involved. It’s a great way to get them to eat some healthy food! And a fun time when they come up with their own ideas, too. These St. Patrick’s Day recipes are just a couple ways to have fun with cooking to celebrate. For dozens more kid-friendly St. Patrick’s Day recipe ideas, check out this list from Taste of Home.

• Clover shaped anything! With a clover-shaped cookie cutter or some smooth knife skills, you can cut your kids’ sandwich, cookies, sliced fruit, and more into the shamrock shape. Tacoma Boys’ has a wide selection of gluten-free bread, too, so no one will be left out of the fun-shaped sandwiches.
• Boil some of Mrs Miller’s Homemade Spinach Noodles and toss with Santini Pesto Genovese for an extra green kick. Serve with Tacoma Boys’ Panko-Breaded Chicken Cordon Bleu for a complete and satisfying meal.

• Throw together a green-themed charcuterie board with Tacoma Boys’ fresh sliced Deli Meats, Creminelli Italian Salami, Boars Head Havarti with Dill, Divina Green Olives, and crackers like Tacoma Boys’ French Baguette Chips. For a comprehensive guide on building the perfect charcuterie board, check out Tacoma Boys’ blog on charcuterie boards here.

Get Ready To Celebrate

Here at Tacoma Boys, we are excited to help you plan and execute your perfect St. Patrick’s Day with recipes that your kids can get involved in. Swing on by any location to gain even more inspiration for a fun holiday that the kids and family will love. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you’re looking for that one special ingredient! 

To stay up-to-date on the latest insider deals and specials, including seasonal produce, sign up for Tacoma Boys text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

This year, Valentine’s dinner celebrations may look a little different. Many couples and families who traditionally go out to eat or do other activities must look forward to another way to observe the holiday. And if the quickest way to one’s heart is through their stomach, cooking your significant other something special is one of the best ways to express your love. Create a delicious Valentine’s dinner for two with a few steps to set the mood, prepare a homemade meal, and enjoy quality time together. Read on for some tips on how to craft the perfect Valentine’s Day dinner for two.

Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is practically destined for home cooking. It’s a special day to show the one you love how much they mean to you. After all, cooking for a significant other conveys love and caring. It’s one of the best times to enjoy a hearty, homemade meal and bond over the stove. It doesn’t have to be a stressful experience because all you need is simple, fresh ingredients and a plan to build the Valentine’s Day dinner of your loved one’s dream! To top it off, you’re sure to warm their heart with a DIY gift like one of these inventive ideas by House Beautiful.

Set the Mood for Valentines Day at Home

Help set the stage for a romantic Valentine’s Day at home with elements that you know your partner will appreciate. To help set the mood, consider:

• Serving up the color of love via red wine like Megan Anne 2018 Black Love, a unique pinot noir from Oregon’s Willamette Valley 
• Setting the dinner table with a classic display of special votive candles and fine china
• Gifting a stunning assorted Bouquet Of Fresh Cut Flowers (to keep the flowers fresh for longer, check out Tacoma Boys guide to keeping plants and flowers fresh and longer-lasting here).

There’s nothing wrong with going the traditional route when planning for an intimate Valentine’s Day at home. And going the extra mile with little details will help show how much you care! For a few more ideas on decorating for a lovely Valentine’s Day at home, go here.

Romantic Dinner for Two Menu

This Valentine’s dinner menu will help you craft a romantic and delicious dinner for two, using just a few high quality ingredients. We also love Bruschetta Topped Chicken and Spaghetti as an alternative to this menu. 

Appetizer 

Creamy and rich, classic cheese fondue is one of the most popular Valentine’s Day appetizers- and for good reason. It’s fun to eat and simple to prepare with speciality cheeses, like Emmi Le Gruyére, plus fresh Fuji Apples and crusty sourdough bread for dipping.

Salad 

Choose your favorite tasty dressing from Tacoma Boys’ large wall of salad dressings for the ultimate flavor boost. Start with Mixed Greens, Yellow Cherry Tomatoes, Fresh Basil, Bel Gioioso Shaved Parmesan, and Fresh Gourmet Organic Seasoned Croutons. Finish with a drizzle of your go-to Tacoma Boys dressing and you’re set!

Dinner

Tacoma Boys makes it easy to enjoy a gourmet meal with less prep time thanks to stuffed chicken breasts! These pre-made stuffed chicken breasts come in many variations with different ingredients. One of our favorites are Chicken Breast Stuffed With Mushrooms and Cheese and Wrapped in Bacon. Pair your juicy stuffed chicken breast with a large serving of vegetables, like steamed Broccoli, Carrots, or Asparagus. Round out the satisfying meal with scoops of creamy mashed Gold or Red Potatoes mixed with roasted Garlic.

Dessert

Finish the meal with a refreshing pre-made Raspberry Tart and a couple glasses of the Chocolate Shop Chocolate Lovers Wine, which blends red wine with rich chocolate for a unique treat. Or, bake whatever your partner’s favorite dessert may be from a wide array of boxed Cake or Brownie Mix.

Drop By!

If you already have a menu for your homemade Valentine’s Day dinner for two, Tacoma Boys always has a well stocked selection of quality ingredients for you to choose from. Stop on by to see what’s new or for inspiration for your Valentine’s Day at home.

Stay up to date on insider deals and specials when you sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list! 

Have you been wondering what the holiday season will be like this year? Everyone has, which is why Tacoma Boys has created this guide to host the ultimate holiday bake off with family and friends – virtually, of course! Since you may not be able to connect in-person with some of your loved ones this year, Tacoma Boys thought a holiday bake off would be a great way to get into the holiday spirit while staying safe and healthy. Whether you choose to host your holiday bakeoff with just your small family at home or extend the invitation for others to join virtually, it’s sure to be a great time complete with delicious holiday treats!

How to Prepare for Your Virtual Holiday Bake Off

If you were to host a holiday bake off during non-pandemic times, you would typically have the people involved come to your home to participate. Since it’s our duty to stay home, creating a virtual version is the best (and kind of fun!) way to host a bake off. 

1. Send Out Online Invitations

Creating invitations online doesn’t have to be a difficult task. Simply decide on a date and time that works best for yourself and others involved and click send to get the info out! 

2. Decide What to Bake

Deciding on recipes for the holiday bake off may be the most difficult part of throwing this bake off together – there are so many good choices out there! Tacoma Boys suggests picking three different recipes for your participants to follow. This way everyone is making the exact same recipe and can enjoy them together at the end. If you’re not keen on baking, you can opt to host a charcuterie board competition or a virtual brunch-off! 

3. Set a Timer

Setting a timer may not be necessary, but it adds to the “bake off” aspect of the day! Just ensure it’s enough time to actually finish the recipes.

4. Pick a Winner, Together

Instead of having a taste test – because that’s not possible virtually – have everyone present their final products with a little background story! This can be a true story or completely made up, and adds a fun, unique component to the bake off.

Holiday Baking Essentials

Holiday baking has always been a great way to bring families together during the holidays, so don’t let hosting a bake off be stressful. Choose recipes that everyone will love and are moderately easy – after all, the bake off is supposed to be fun! Tacoma Boys has a large selection of baking essentials that will set you up for a successful bake off experience. 

Flour

When you head over to the baking section at Tacoma Boys, you’ll find the biggest selection of flours! From gluten free varieties to organic unbleached all-purpose, you are sure to find everything you’ll need for this bake off. The widest selection comes from the popular brand, Bob’s Red Mills, providing you with high quality ingredients no matter the recipe.

Sugar

Sugar is a crucial component of baking which means it’s smart to have a variety on hand! A couple favorite brands at Tacoma Boys are Wholesome and Woodstock – both are high quality sugars and offer brown sugar, white sugar, powdered sugar, coconut sugar, and more! If you’re looking to host a bake off on the lighter side, opt for Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener as a sugar-free alternative.

Chocolate

Every bake off needs chocolate chips. Afterall, it wouldn’t be right to host a bake off without chocolate! Choose from a wide range of chocolate chips to finish off all of your baking needs. Whether you’re looking for white, dark, or milk chocolate, Tacoma Boys carries classic brands such as Ghirardelli and Enjoy Life, as well as quality sugar-free options like Lily’s! 

Choose Your Christmas Treats

After you send out invitations, it’s time to decide what Christmas treats to make for the bake off! It’s important to plan this step ahead of time so you’re able to send out an ingredient list to all of the contestants. From cookies to Christmas candy, there are many great options that will make this bake off one-of-a-kind!

Recipe Options

• Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies from Baker By Nature

This recipe is a great way to take classic chocolate chip cookies up a notch. Head over to the baking section at Tacoma Boys and pick out your flour, sugar, and chocolate chips. After you have the baking essentials, pick up a container of Northwest Delights pecans to ensure a satisfying crunch to this cookie.

• Cranberry Orange Swirl Cookies from Beyond the Kitchen Coop

A cookie recipe with holiday’s favorite side: cranberry sauce – yes, please! Stock up on some Green Valley Lactose Free Butter, Vital Farms Eggs, tree ripened organic grown oranges, and Ocean Spray Organic Cranberries to make this recipe top notch.

• Peanut Butter Mallow Bars from Melissa’s Southern Style Kitchen 

Everyone loves a great peanut butter option, and this recipe will satisfy any sweet tooth. Choose your favorite peanut butter from Tacoma Boy’s nut butter section and grab a bag of Dandies Marshmallows for the ultimate peanut butter bars! 

Don’t Forget to Have Fun!

Always remember these types of events are supposed to be fun! Swing by your local Tacoma Boys to grab all of  the ingredients on your baking list for a fun-filled baking day! If you’re feeling extra jolly, you can pick up your Christmas tree the same day. SHOP EARLY THIS SEASON – TREES ARE SELLING FAST! You can check out Tacoma Boys’ Christmas Trees here! 

It’s that time again! Thanksgiving is right around the corner and it’s time to plan out the most important part of the menu: Thanksgiving pie. Although the rest of the menu matters as well, your Thanksgiving pie decision is the grand finale when hosting! Whether you plan to whip up the pie crust and pie filling from scratch, or purchase a pre-made pie, this Tacoma Boys guide has everything you’ll need to get geared up for this year’s Thanksgiving pie.

Choosing the Right Crust for Thanksgiving Pie

Pie crust may be one of the most daunting aspects of baking a pie, especially if it’s your Thanksgiving pie. Depending on the recipe it can be incredibly easy to make, or sparingly difficult. Tacoma Boys loves to find recipes that require minimal ingredients and explains each step throughout the process. This easy pie crust recipe from Natasha’s Kitchen is a great example! Using a high quality all purpose flour like Bob’s Red Mills will help with creating an outstanding final product for the ultimate Thanksgiving pie. You can find Bob’s Red Mills and other flour options in Tacoma Boys’ wide assortment of baking essentials.

If you’re wanting to make a Thanksgiving pie this year but are looking to avoid the pie crust process, have no fear! Tacoma Boys has a variety of premade pie crusts and pie crust mixes to make your pie baking experience a lot easier.

Frozen Pie Crusts

• Wholly Wholesome Organic Traditional 9” Pie Shells
• Wholly Wholesome Gluten Free 9” Pie Shells

Gluten Free Pie Crust Mixes

• Kinnikinnick Graham Cracker Style Crumbs (for graham cracker crust)
• Glutino Perfect Pie Crust 

Thanksgiving Baking with Your Favorite Pie Fillings

Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin pie may be among the most popular pies when it comes to Thanksgiving baking. What is it about pumpkin pie that embodies all of fall’s favorite flavors? This classic pumpkin pie recipe by Jo Cooks is a great recipe that is simple to follow and allows you to use a premade pie crust if desired! Most pumpkin pie recipes call for canned pumpkin, but if you’re looking to be a little more adventurous, you can make your own pumpkin puree using sugar pumpkins. You can find these pumpkins at your local Tacoma Boys. They’re smaller, less fibrous, and sweeter, making them perfect for baking. Follow the Pioneer Woman’s recipe for homemade pumpkin puree. It’s a lot easier than you’d think! 

Pecan Pie

Another Thanksgiving classic is pecan pie. It’s sweet, salty, and has a rich filling with a caramel-like flavor, and finished with pecans for added crunch. Pecan pie can be a hit or miss, but it is definitely worth the try when you can make it with quality ingredients. The Tacoma Boys’ baking section has a wide variety of ingredients to choose from depending on the recipe you use. However, for pecan pie we suggest using Northwest Delights pecans – they’re some of the best!

Apple Pie

Of course, apple pie is in the top three for Thanksgiving pies! It’s quite simple to make the filling and put together when using a premade pie crust. This recipe by Food Network is great for a classic apple pie. Tacoma Boys suggests using Granny Smith apples because their tart flavor profile balances out the sweetness of the filling, but you can find a wide assortment of fall’s favorite fruit throughout your local Tacoma Boys! If you’re short on time, check out the freezer section to spot the two-pound bag of Remlinger Farms Hand-Picked Granny Smith Apples that are pre-sliced – we’d say that’s a win!

Premade Pies

If you’re hosting for Thanksgiving, but baking a pie from scratch just isn’t your jam, Tacoma Boys has you covered. Simply take a stroll through the freezer section and select a premade pie that suits your holiday pie needs!

• Remlinger Farms Cosmic Crisp Apple Pie
• Cyrus O’leary’s
  • Pumpkin Pie
  • Lemon Meringue Pie
  • Pecan Pie
  • Apple Pie
  • Custard Pie

Favorite Thanksgiving Pie Toppings

Although the pie itself is the most important part, you can’t forget about a little whipped cream topping! Finishing your favorite Thanksgiving pie with a dollop of whipped cream is the ultimate cherry on top. You can find premade whipped cream in the dairy section at Tacoma Boys and choose an option such as Dairy Star whipped topping! If you want to take your pie topping to the next level, pick up Smith Brothers heavy cream and make your homemade whipped cream at home. We love making our homemade whipped cream with pure maple syrup for the ultimate fall flavor boost.

Homemade Maple Whipped Cream

Ingredients

• 1 pint heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and whip using a hand mixer until stiff peaks form. About 3-5 minutes.
2. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days. 

All of Your Pie Needs Covered! 

Whether you’re looking for a quick Thanksgiving pie fix or a full-blown pie baking session, pop into your local Tacoma boys to find everything you’ll need. If pie isn’t your thing, there’s a wide selection of fall treats that are perfect for the holidays. If you have any questions, ask one of the Tacoma Boys’ helpers for advice and they’ll be sure to steer you in the right direction.

Are you team Thanksgiving sides or team turkey? Many would argue that the turkey is the star of the show when it comes to the holiday’s famous menu, but Thanksgiving sides are most definitely in the running. If you’re planning on hosting this year for a small group or immediate family, getting your Thanksgiving sides lined up beforehand is of the utmost importance! Luckily, your local Tacoma Boys has everything you need to get yourself set up to make the ultimate Thanksgiving sides this year.

Classic Thanksgiving Sides

Over the years, Thanksgiving sides have evolved immensely. Each year people get more creative and go above and beyond to impress guests. This year Tacoma Boys is focusing on the classic Thanksgiving sides that please no matter what! From potatoes to cranberry sauce, you’re sure to be stuffed.

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are arguably the most important side for Thanksgiving. They are a soft buttery vessel for rich and creamy turkey gravy and pair perfectly with a bite of stuffing. Tacoma Boys has every potato you can think of to make your perfect Thanksgiving mashed potatoes!

Yukon Gold Buttery Rich Potatoes

Yukon Gold potatoes have a slight yellow flesh and yellow-white skin. When cooked, they are slightly sweet and incredibly creamy; making them an amazing candidate for mashed potatoes.

• The Best Homemade Mashed Potatoes by Belly Full

Russet Potatoes

Russet potatoes are the most common potato found in kitchens all around. They’re incredibly versatile due to their mild flavor profile and commonly have a white interior with brown skin.

• Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes by The Salty Marshmallow

Red Potatoes

Red potatoes are typically small or medium in size and have red skin and white flesh. When cooked, red potatoes have a smooth and creamy texture which is perfect for mashed potatoes.

• Red Skin Mashed Potatoes by Cooking for My Soul

If making homemade potatoes is not on your agenda, check out Edward & Sons Organic Mashed Potatoes at your local Tacoma Boys. They come in a box, are ready to eat within five minutes, and are available in homestyle or roasted garlic flavor!

Stuffing

Stuffing – you either love it or you don’t. Regardless, it seems to be a side that is always on the table at Thanksgiving no matter what. There are countless recipes for homemade stuffing, but grabbing a premade box is just as good! You can find boxed stuffing in Tacoma Boys’ bread section.

Favorites for this year are:

• Olivia’s Cornbread Dressing
• Aleia’s Plain Gluten Free Stuffing
• Aleia’s Savory Gluten Free Stuffing

If you’re making yours homemade, grab a loaf of Boulart Baguettes to take your recipe up a notch!

Stuffing Options

• Cranberry Stuffing by Will Cook for Smiles
• Easy Stuffing Recipe by Spend With Pennies

Green Bean Casserole

What is it about casserole that is so warm and comforting?! Green bean casserole is no exception which is why this classic is a Thanksgiving favorite! At Tacoma Boys, you can find Pacific Foods Organic Cream of Mushroom Condensed Soup and Health Valley Cream of Mushroom Soup to use as the base of the casserole. Using canned green beans works well, however, using fresh green beans will take your casserole up a notch or two!

• Homemade Green Bean Casserole by Modern Honey
• The Best Green Bean Casserole with Bacon & Cheese by Fantabulosity
• Vegan & Gluten Free Green Bean Casserole by The Foodie Eats

Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce adds just the right amount of sweetness to your Thanksgiving plate without it being too overpowering. Making cranberry sauce from scratch may seem daunting, but it can be a fairly simple process. Opting for homemade versus canned will impress any guests at your table this year! Grab a bag of Ocean Spray’s Organic Cranberries in the freezer section of Tacoma Boys to whip up your own.

• Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce by Cooking Classy
• 3 Ingredient Cranberry Sauce by The Pinning Mama
• Homemade Cranberry Orange Sauce by Modern Honey

Prepping for Thanksgiving

When you’re hosting for a big holiday like Thanksgiving, the prepping aspect can be a bit overwhelming. Where should you start when it comes to Thanksgiving sides, turkey, or even the pies?! Fortunately, there are a multitude of ways you can prep beforehand to make the day-of process easier on yourself. When prepping for Thanksgiving sides, it’s important to delegate tasks or even ask others to bring certain dishes. Afterall, you want to be able to enjoy the day, too! You can read Tacoma Boys Thanksgiving Preparation and Success for more ideas on how you can maximize the success of your own Thanksgiving day.

Thanksgiving Food with Tacoma Boys

Although Thanksgiving sides play a crucial role in this holiday, choosing the turkey, dessert, and beverages play a role in planning all of the Thanksgiving food. If you can’t decide on a pie or what beverage to serve, you can check out Tacoma Boys’ Guide to Thanksgiving Pies and What Creates an Amazing Thanksgiving for added tips and tricks!

Hop on into your local Tacoma Boys to gather all of your ingredients for your favorite Thanksgiving sides. A quick tip from the pros: don’t wait until the last minute to stock up on all your Thanksgiving food essentials! If you’re in need of any assistance, the Tacoma Boys’ team is available to guide you through your Thanksgiving shopping!

Independence Day is upon us! If you’re looking for appetizers to wow a crowd, desserts to celebrate summer, and drinks to keep the whole crew cool, look no further. Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have everything you need to make this a fantastic 4th of July!

The weather has warmed up, Washington is in full bloom, and our favorite summer holiday is on the way! Maybe you’ll be barbecuing in your backyard with your closest friends and family. Or perhaps you’ll spend the day out on the water with a drink in your hand and the sun on your skin. And you’ll likely end the day snuggled up somewhere under a night sky full of fireworks. However you choose to celebrate the birth of our nation, we’re willing to bet food will be a big part of it! So, whether you want to get your party started with red, white, and blue shish kebabs or end your evening with a slice of coconut cream pie, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have just the thing. 

Tacoma Boys Guide to a Fantastic 4th of July

Struggling for ideas on what to bring? No worries! We’ve come up with a list of perfect Independence Day appetizers, drinks and desserts to make your 4th fantastic. 

How Appetizing!

Having a light snack on hand between the moment guests arrive and when the main course is ready is a great way to help them feel at ease and give them something to do with their hands. And appetizers don’t have to be elaborate to be fun and impressive! These simple, easy to prepare appetizers will be sure to set a patriotic tone for your 4th of July celebration. 

Patriotic Chips and Dip

While it’s not exactly brimming with originality, all this tried and true classic needs is a slight twist to make it delightfully fresh. For a patriotic vibe, start with Tacoma Boys Blue Corn Tortilla Chips. Then, add one ramekin of cream cheese and another of Tacoma Boys Salsa. Viola! You have a red, white, and blue appetizer that’ll keep your guests coming back for more. If salsa isn’t really your thing, you’ve got to try Tacoma Boys Corn Relish! Delicious on our blue corn chips, our regular tortilla chips, or all by itself, our corn relish is bursting with summer flavors perfect for kicking off your backyard barbecue. 

Red, White and Blue Skewers

The concept is simple. It’s just raspberries, blueberries, and cheese on a stick. But you’ll be shocked at how perfectly the flavors complement one another, and your guests will love the colorful nod to the holiday! The key to this fun appetizer is quality ingredients. So, swing by our produce department to find the freshest blueberries and raspberries in town. Then, head over to our cheese section for some Tillamook White Cheddar Cheese. When adding your ingredients to the skewers, be sure to alternate your raspberries, chunks of white cheese, and blueberries for a patriotic vibe. For some variety, substitute squares of watermelon for raspberries or a milder cheese like Red Apple CheeseⓇ Apple Smoked Gouda in lieu of cheddar. Sure to please adults and children alike, these red, white, and blue appetizers will be a great addition to your fantastic 4th of July!

Drink up!

Are your 4th of July memories full of melting popsicles and cannonballs into the pool to keep cool? Ours too! Because, what’s Independence Day without the sweltering heat of a hot July sun? With any luck, the weather will be fine, and you’ll have a chance to serve some of these cool and refreshing drinks!

Summer Berry Sangria

There’s something about a white sangria that just screams “summer celebration.” Even better, this recipe for Mixed Berry Sangria from Taste of Home is–you guessed it–red, white and blue! It calls for a white sparkling wine, so check out our extensive wine selection and take your pick. We recommend 14 Hands “Brut” Sparkling Wine (made right here in Washington State). Be sure to serve this light, bubbly sangria with a spoon, so your guests can enjoy the yummy berries when the drink is gone!

Washington Hard Apple Cider

Hard apple cider is great for barbecues, boats, and backyards. And nobody does it quite like Washington! At Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, you’ll find an incredible variety of ciders to suit your taste. We recommend One Tree Cider’s “Staycation.” Bursting with mango and pineapple, it’s a vacation in a can! Or, try Whitewood Cider Co.’s Strawberry Rhubarb Shrub Cider Cooler. Made with Washington apples, this cider is an ideal balance of sweet and sour. Both One Tree and Whitewood are here in Washington, so you’ll be supporting local businesses while enjoying some of the best ciders in the PNW.

Sweeten the Deal!

Hopefully by now, you and your friends will be stuffed to the brim with sliders, brats, melons, and potato salad. But if there’s one thing childhood taught us, it’s that there’s always room for dessert! And there’s no better way to end a fantastic 4th of July than with something sweet. 

Independence Day Ice Cream

It wouldn’t be a proper 4th of July without ice cream! Give your sundaes a holiday twist by keeping your toppings on theme. Start with vanilla ice cream (we recommend Umpqua, a local favorite). Add FavoritⓇ Sour Cherry Preserves Red Cherries from our jam section. Then, top with blueberries and whipped cream! For additional toppings, consider white chocolate chips, blackberries, or strawberries. Nothing goes better with a firework show than a good old fashioned ice cream sundae! 

Coconut Cream Pie

Do you love the idea of pie on the 4th of July, but aren’t in the mood to bake over a hot oven for hours? Have no fear, we have you covered. Simply swing by our freezer section and grab a Cyrus O’Leary’s Coconut Cream Pie. Tired of red, white, and blue? Neither are we! So, serve with Tacoma Boys Blueberry Preserves and drizzle with strawberry sauce for the perfect Independence Day dessert. 

Have a Fantastic Fourth of July with Tacoma Boys!

Whether you’re hosting a celebration and need a little support, or you’re looking for a quick something to bring to the party, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce are your one-stop shop for all your Independance Day needs. Swing by one of our locations today for the quality ingredients you need to make this 4th of July truly fantastic!

Whether you’re looking for fresh cut flowers to grace your mom’s table top, flowering potted plants for a gift that keeps giving, or hanging baskets to remind her that her front porch will always feel like home to you, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have the Mother’s Day flowers you need to tell your mother how much she means to you this year.

Mother’s Day is just a few short days away. What do you get for the woman who gave you life? While there’s nothing you can ever buy to repay her for what she’s done for you–the sacrifices she’s made or the love she’s given–flowers are a classic for a reason. Flowers represent life and love and gratitude–the perfect combination of sentiments for Mother’s Day. They’re the ideal gift for the woman who has everything or is just content with what she has. You can never have too much of a beautiful thing! 

When it comes to flowers, you have options. Your choices range from very low maintenance fresh-cut flowers (just pick them out and put them in water) to flowering potted plants, which require a little more care, but keep on keeping on. Whatever you think is the right option for your mom, we have the highest quality Mother’s Day flowers around and a great selection from which to choose. Here, we’ve devised a simple guide to get you started:

4 Steps to Choosing the Perfect Mother’s Day Flowers

1. Choose Your Type

You know your mom best, so this part is up to you. Take a moment to consider your mother’s lifestyle and preferences. Is she a vase-on-the-table kind of girl or does she love being out in her garden? Does her porch or patio have a perfect spot for a hanging basket? Here are some options to consider:

Fresh-Cut Flowers

It doesn’t get simpler than fresh-cut flowers! These are a great option if your mother has a notoriously black thumb or simply doesn’t have an interest in caring for plants (she cared for you all those years, she deserves a break!) but still appreciates the thoughtfulness and temporary beauty of a bouquet. Here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we have a great selection of fresh cut flowers. Choose from bright, colorful tulip buds for a sweet spring look. Or you can’t go wrong with classic roses. If you don’t know your mom’s favorite flower, grab one of our beautifully arranged mixed bouquets for a gift that’s sure to make her smile. 

Hanging Baskets

Hanging baskets are a great option if your mother has an outdoor space she loves! Whether it’s a porch, patio or pergola, hanging baskets will greet your mother with color and cheer every time she steps outside. Hanging baskets are a great alternative to potted plants if space on the ground is limited, as in a small patio or porch, or if she loves garden flowers but has no garden. Hanging baskets often include vining plants or flowers that creep over the edge and give the whole space a lovely fragrance. 

Vegetable Starters

It’s a little non-traditional, but maybe vegetable starters are right up your mom’s alley! If pumpkin sprouts and sugar snap peas will make her heart happy, who’s to say they’re not the perfect alternative to Mother’s Day flowers? Check out our variety of tomato starts, butternut squash plants, and cucumbers. Or contribute to her herb garden with our cilantro, parsley, and chive starters. For the more practical mom who likes to eat what she grows, our quality vegetable starters will be just the thing for her this Mother’s Day.

Iceland Poppies

Flowering Potted Plants

Flowering plants can be kept indoors or out. They’re a great choice for assisted living or apartment living where gardening is not an option. Maybe your mother loves the idea of growing flowers, but doesn’t want the responsibility of a full garden. Just a few potted plants are a great place to start! Right now, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have an especially beautiful assortment of colorful African Violets and Non-Stop Begonias, both excellent indoor plants. If you’re looking for an outdoor plant, our Canna Lillies and Iceland Poppies offer a beautiful pop of color.

2. Get Specific

Now that you’ve decided the general type of Mother’s Day flowers to buy, there are a few more considerations to make. Nailing down the specifics will help you get her something you know she’ll love and can care for without too much inconvenience. 

Variety

Do you know what kind of flower your mom loves? If you’re not big into surprises, ask her! For fresh-cut, this isn’t a huge deal due to the temporary nature of them. But it might be worth knowing for sure if she has strong preferences, since she’ll likely be the one caring for live plants. 

Color

Pick a color you know your mom loves! Take cues from her space and her clothes if you don’t know offhand. If buying outdoor flowers, make sure you buy flowers in a color that compliments the exterior of her house. 

Climate

If you’re choosing a live plant, knowing a little about your plant’s new home is vital. When buying your plant, keep in mind if it’s meant to be an outdoor plant or an indoor plant. Some plants, like our African Violets, thrive in indoor environments. Others, like our beautiful Salvia Blues, are primarily outdoor plants. In the same way, some hanging baskets–like our gorgeous Fuschia baskets–like a semi-sunny area, while others–like our “Madison Avenue” variety hanging basket–do best with lots of sun!

Care

Fresh-cut flowers will only need water and a vase. But living flowers will need a little extra love. Consider what level of care your plant is likely to receive. If you walk in with an idea of how often your mother is able to water her flowers, it might guide you to a higher or lower maintenance plant. Bonus gift: consider offering “plant care services” along with your Mother’s Day Flowers! It’ll give you an excuse to visit more often and take the responsibility off her plate. 

3. Read Up

Once you’ve chosen the perfect flowers for the mother in your life, be sure to read the care instructions. Degree of complication varies, but knowing proper care will ensure to set your mom up for success with flowers (or vegetables) that will stay healthy all year long!

4. Don’t Forget the Pot!

For a finishing touch, check out our huge assortment of quality ceramic pots! This is essential if you’ve chosen a potted flowering plant for your mother. We have a wide variety of sizes and colors from which to choose. Some pots and potted plants are easy pairs!  Literally just drop the potted plant into the ceramic pot, and they pair perfectly with no messy topsoil to deal with!  We know you’ll find what you need here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. Swing by for a great deal on ceramic pots today!

Make Your Mother Smile with Mother’s Day Flowers

Whether you’re buying flowers for your mom, a woman in your life who is like a mother to you, the mother of your children, or another special mom in your life, you can’t go wrong with beautiful, quality flowers from Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce! Our plants are sourced locally, so you can feel great about shopping local for your Mother’s Day flowers this year. 

For many reasons, this Easter is unlike any that have come before. Perhaps your gathering will be smaller than usual. Maybe you’re spending the holiday in Washington when you normally would travel. Or perhaps it’s not possible to get together with the friends you usually have over for Easter. With these many changes, we’re all faced with the question: for better or for worse? In so many ways, the answer may be beyond our control. So what do we do with the things we can control? 

In this time of uncertainty and unpredictability, there are a few things that are true and unchanging. Spring is here. Easter is on its way. While ordinary may not be a choice we have this year, there is so much we can do to make this Easter special.

Here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we have everything you need to make this holiday unforgettable for you and your family. We’re your one stop shop for appetizers, main courses, decorations and Easter gifts. Let us help you create an atmosphere, a meal, and a memory you and your loved ones will cherish forever.

6 Ways Tacoma Boys Can Help You Have an Extraordinary Easter

1. Appetizers

Having appetizers as a part of your Easter celebration is a great way to signal to yourself and your family the significance of the meal as a special occasion. It may feel awkward or silly if your gathering is especially small, but give it a try and see if something as simple as sharing an appetizer doesn’t give your meal a holiday vibe. Swing by our frozen food section and peruse our premade appetizer options for a quick and easy appetizer spread, or gather the ingredients to make your own. Before the main meal begins is a great time to break out a classic like these Deviled Eggs from The Food Network. Or pick up a selection of fruits and berries from our produce section for a fruit salad!

2. The Main Meal

One of the best ways to make your Easter extraordinary is by going all out with the main course. Perhaps you’re craving a sense of normalcy this year, and a traditional ham would be a great option for you. In that case, we love this simple and delicious three ingredient recipe for Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham. The best part? You can throw it in the Crockpot early in the day and forget about it until go time. Or maybe this is your year to try your hand at something a bit more involved, like this Crown Roast of Lamb from Alton Brown. Alternatively, order your foolproof, mouth watering Standing Rib Roast from one of our locations today! Whether you choose ham or lamb or chicken or roast, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have expert butchers who can point you in the direction of the choicest meats in Tacoma. 

3. Sides

When it comes to making this Easter Extraordinary, sides make the meal! Nothing says “Easter” like a table brimming with mouth watering dishes. Try setting out a variety of sweet and savory sides for a meal that feels balanced and complete. The sky’s the limit here, but we have some suggestions to point you in the right direction. For a sweet take on a classic veggie, these Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans are a mouthwatering addition to your feast. Or perhaps for you, Easter is incomplete if it doesn’t include scalloped potatoes. In that case, The Girl Who Ate Everything has you covered with this classic recipe you can make ahead of time. From broccoli casserole to ambrosia fruit salad, H&L Produce and Tacoma Boys’ produce sections have what you need to make it delicious. 

4. Desserts 

What would Easter be if we didn’t don our stretchy pants for the final stomach stuffing round we all know and love–dessert? If your Easter includes children, it’s probably all about the candy for them, so we love this take on cupcakes with a hidden candy surprise from Betty Crocker. If you’re aiming to impress a more mature audience this year, display this stunning Easter Cake from Preppy Kitchen as your table centerpiece. The hardest part will be waiting until after the meal to cut into it! Whatever sweet treat you crave this holiday, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce can help you stock your baking cupboard with everything you need for a truly extraordinary Easter.

5. Easter Baskets

Easter baskets are one of our favorite time-honored holiday traditions. Something about sleepy-eyed, bed-headed kids (and adults) waking up to a basket filled with their favorite things, delivered by the Easter Bunny right to their front door brings back the magic of childhood. This Easter, make sure the magic comes to your doorstep by stocking baskets full of goodies you can find here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. For the kids, we have local fruit and candies, and for the grown-ups–wine, cheese, jelly and more! Come choose your own goodies, or call and have us curate your gift baskets for you!

6. Flowers

Finally, no Easter would be complete without flowers–our reminder that even the longest winters come to an end, and the world will be renewed again. Stop by and pick up a bouquet of fresh cut flowers to brighten your Easter table as a centerpiece or brighten a loved one’s day as a gift. Or if you’re interested in something a bit longer lasting, check out our gorgeous assortment of potted flowering plants. Leave a potted plant on a neighbor’s doorstep as a porch present, or buy some for your own home. Our live flowers will make your Easter extraordinary, indoors and out.

Treasuring the Time

Easter is a sign of change–the darkness of winter will dissipate, days will grow brighter and warmer, and whatever gloom has come before will not reign forever.  Now, more than ever, we need this reminder. In a string of days spent at home, it would be easy to let the holiday come and go without marking the occasion as a special one for yourself and your family. On the other hand, it could be a day full of thoughtful touches and intentionality that sets it apart not just from the days immediately preceding it, but from every Easter you’ve experienced before. This year, Easter is what you make it. Why not make it extraordinary?