When I was younger, the tradition was to go to my grandmother's, and my brothers and I would be presented with our own Easter basket. I loved Easter because the first signs of spring were showing with baby animals, flower blossoms, and chirping birds. I always wanted asked for a chocolate lamb for my Easter basket; chocolate rabbits are common in the states and I don't think I ever saw a chocolate egg until I came to Britain. Little marshmallow sugar-coated 'Peeps' (from the company 'Just Born') were also always present in my Easter basket. I think you either love them or loathe them. I'm actually not fond of the taste, but I think they look adorable.
http://www.needlesandapen.com/tablecloths-and-my-favorite-mugs/
They only came in two shapes then, and were only sold at Easter at first. I think they became more popular in the later 1990s and started more ranges of their products at different times of the year. Now, you can buy them for the major holidays and they come in a wide range of shapes, flavours (such as fruit punch, cotton candy, and lemonade), and colours. But, when I was growing up, I remember a couple of colours - bright pink and bright yellow, but then they brought out bright blue and green later on. They had the rabbit-shaped ones and my favourite chick-shaped ones for Easter.
http://www.homeandgardendesignideas.com/ideas/peg-51638
Today, they have at handful of shops in the USA that just sell Peeps and Peep-related merchandise, and I really want to visit one the next time I am in the states. I assume that they are copying the success of M&Ms business model.
http://www.howsweeteats.com/2015/04/chocolate-peanut-butter-peeps-skillet-smores/
http://www.honeyandlime.co/2014/04/crafting-fun-diy-easter-peeps-wreath-peepsonality.html
The Peep has cult status of people performing experiments on it, such as putting them in the microwave. Yes, they do taste a little stale a couple of days after you open the packet, so microwaving them makes them soften up again. They also host their own annual diorama contest, and some of the past entries looked very good. (You can read more about the diorama contests here: https://www.marshmallowpeeps.com/promotions/art-contests)
A host of wonderful recipes can also be followed to create your special 'Peep' treats, which look beautiful and creative. I want to try some of these out.
Images and recipes from: http://www.lovefromtheoven.com/2012/03/24/easter-peeps-bites-from-other-blogs/
A quick look at Pinterest reveals even more creative Peeps-related recipes and even a Peeps-scented candle: https://uk.pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=peeps
On Etsy, a variety of handmade goods can also be purchased. I purchased miniature chick Peep earrings last year.
A gallery of Peeps in different artistic representations can be seen on this website: http://www.peepsshow.com
The official website of the Peep: https://www.marshmallowpeeps.com
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