Q: I’m having house guests this summer and they’re driving from out of state. When they leave, I’d like to present them with a gift basket of food that they can enjoy on their two-day trip home. I want to put it together myself but I don’t want to have to buy large amounts and repackage it just for the two of them. That would spoil the look of the basket. I’ve looked for travel-size food items, but haven’t really seen anything at my grocery store outside of condiments. Do you have any idea where I might find a variety of small packages of food items for a picnic basket? I don’t drive much, so I’d really like to find most of what I need in one place if that’s possible. Thank you. — M. Stockton, Atlanta
A: What a thoughtful idea. I have the perfect place where you’ll find a wide array of miniature food items that range from tiny bottles of hot sauce and mini summer sausages to crackers, cookies and many types of cheeses in ideal travel sizes. You’ll also find mustard, pate, nuts and plenty of other fun items to stock that travel basket. None need refrigeration. Check out Cost Plus World Market, 3330 Piedmont Road, Atlanta, 404-814-0801, and you’ll find a whole section of mini food products. Cost Plus also stocks assorted baskets and colorful disposable napkins.
Q: Our granddaughter discovered and fell in love with lemon-flavored Pschitt when we were in Paris a few years ago. We have not been able to find it in Atlanta, or a way to buy it online. I would like to surprise her on her birthday in July with some Pschitt. Any ideas how I could find it? Thanks for your help. — John Kelly, Atlanta
A: John, your granddaughter fell for some pretty elusive soda. None of my U.S. contacts who import French products carry Pschitt, but I found a French import company that offers the citrus-flavored drink and it can ship within one to three days from the order date, so you should get it in time for her birthday. A 1.5-liter bottle costs $5.17. Check out www.france-export-fv.com and enter Pschitt Citron in the search field.
Q: I enjoy reading your column every Sunday, now I need your help. Where can I find the old-fashioned Rit dye? Thank you. — Mary Taylor, Senoia
A: You can find two types of Rit dye at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft, 1074 Bullsboro Drive, Newnan, 678-423-5161. Liquid Rit dye costs $3.99 for an 8-ounce bottle. It also comes in a powder form for $2.29. I’m not sure what color you’re seeking, but the store stocks a variety.
Q: I have some very special and delicate family china that I only wash by hand. Someone recommended a dishwashing liquid by Murchison-Hume that is supposed to be very gentle but effective. No one I’ve asked about it seems to be familiar with this product. Do you think it might be available in Atlanta? I really would appreciate it if you could look into this for me. Estelle Wilson, Atlanta
A: Murchison-Hume Heirloom Dishwashing Liquid, in the original fig fragrance, is formulated without any sulfates or other harsh ingredients. Made in the U.S., the gentle liquid is non-toxic and won’t harm children or pets. You’ll find the handsome, 32-ounce amber pump bottle of Murchison-Hume liquid for $14.99 at The Container Store, 3637 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, 404-963-9602.
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