Easter Dinner Recipes

As family, friends, and neighbors gather around the Easter dinner table, what Easter dinner recipes will find their place on the menu?

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Jez Timms

Will you be serving tried and true traditional favorites, or do you delight in bringing a new dish to the holiday table?

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Easter-rabbit-plates-table-setting

Holiday weeks can be so hectic, and who doesn’t appreciate ideas, recipes, and tidbits that bring a touch of beautiful and delicious convenience to the table.

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Carolyne Roehm

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Click on the links for recipes. 

Easy Homemade Strawberry Lemonade

Easy Homemade Strawberry Lemonade Recipe

Refreshing sips of the season greet the day and the guests.

Copycat-Honey-Baked-Ham-recipe

Honey Baked Ham Recipe

These Easter dinner recipes are delicious, make a beautiful presentation, and are Easter dinner and dessert appropriate.

flour-dusted-baked-buttermilk-biscuits

Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe

I find it easier when planning the Easter dinner menu to figure out the main dish first and let the traditional side dish mates take it from there.

Ham and Cheese Scones

Ham and Cheese Scones Recipe

Ham and biscuits.

Ham and cheese.

Ham for the main it is.

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Buttery Peas and Mushrooms

Buttery Peas and Mushrooms Recipe

Pretty and delicious in pink.

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Pink Deviled Eggs Recipe

Deep-Dish Bacon and Cheddar Quiche

Deep-Dish Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe

Prosciutto-Asparagus-Puff-Pastry-Bundles-2 (1)

Prosciutto Asparagus Puff Pastry Bundles Recipe

This recipe for Glazed Carrots with Orange and Ginger puts a spring spin on a traditional Easter dinner side.

carrots-with-parsley-mint

Glazed Carrots With Orange & Ginger

Ingredients

1 lb. bag peeled baby carrots

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons orange marmalade

1 Tablespoon brown sugar

½ teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons ground ginger

1/3 cup orange juice

zest of one lemon

zest of one orange

1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Combine all ingredients except lemon juice and parsley in saucepan.  Bring to a boil, stirring to incorporate all ingredients together.

Reduce heat to medium low.   Add lemon juice and  cover.   Cook until carrots are tender.

Taste to determine if you want to adjust the seasonings.

I like to add the parsley and one additional squeeze of lemon to the pan to allow it to soften for approximately 1 minute.

herbed_potato_stacks_recipe

Herbed Potato Stacks Recipe

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lemon-lavender-shortbread-cookies

Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe

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Dorothy’s Homemade Coconut Cake Recipe from Alex Hitz

Ingredients

6 tablespoons cold salted butter, plus more for pans

2¼ cups sugar

1½ tablespoons vanilla extract

8 tablespoons (1 stick) salted butter, melted

5 egg yolks

3 whole eggs

2½ cups cake flour, plus more for pans

1 tablespoon salt

1 tablespoon baking powder

½ cup buttermilk

¾ cup heavy cream

For the Glaze:
½ cup coconut milk

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Butter and flour three 9-inch round cake pans, put a parchment round in the bottom of each pan, and butter and flour the rounds.

On medium speed, beat the cold butter in the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until it is very light, about 5 minutes. Continue beating while gradually adding the sugar, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary.

Add the vanilla and beat for 5 more minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl again. The mixture will be very coarse and grainy. Turn the mixer to the lowest speed, add the melted butter, egg yolks, and whole eggs, and then turn off the mixer.

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder.

In another bowl, mix the buttermilk and cream.

With the mixer on the lowest speed, add half the flour mixture, and then half the buttermilk mixture. Add the remainder of the flour and buttermilk mixtures, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary. Do not overmix or the cake will be tough.

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans, tapping each pan on a sturdy surface to release air bubbles if there are any, and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick or knife comes out clean.

Cool the cakes for 10 minutes, then run the dull edge of a knife around their perimeters and invert them onto a cold baking sheet or rack. (Note: These cakes may be frozen for up to 3 months.)

When you are ready to ice the cake, slice each layer in half horizontally so that you have 6 layers.

To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and coconut milk in a small bowl. Pierce each cake layer with a fork in several places and then spoon or brush the glaze over them before icing.

Make sure all the layers are completely cool before icing.

For the Coconut Icing:

Yield: Enough for one six-layer 9-inch cake

1½ cups fresh or dried coconut, shredded and toasted

18 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature

18 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature

3 tablespoons vanilla extract

7½ cups powdered sugar

2¼ teaspoons salt

6 tablespoons coconut milk

5⅓ cups sweetened flaked coconut

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Spread the fresh or dried coconut on a metal baking sheet and toast for about 5 to 7 minutes, until it is brown. Remove from the oven and reserve.

In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract, and beat the mixture on medium speed for about 5 minutes, until it is light and fluffy.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar and salt, and add it to the cream cheese mixture, 1 cup at a time, beating it until it is smooth after each addition. Turn the mixer to the lowest speed, add the coconut milk, and stir in the sweetened flaked coconut.

Arrange the cooled layers, one by one, on a cake stand, icing each layer as you assemble, using approximately 1 cup of icing per layer, and then top with the toasted coconut.

-House Beautiful

No-Bake Lemon Tart

No-Bake Lemon Tart Recipe

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Show & Tell

Spring Home Decor Finds

Spring home decor finds in the colors, patterns, and textures that define the essence of fresh, colorful, and delicious grace this spring scene post.

yellow-rose-bush-angel-garden-statues

Seek sites and sources and ye shall find spring home decor finds befitting a bunny here and a carrot there.

Resin-Bunny-With-Bronze-Finish

Resin Bunny With Bronze Finish

linden-street-mariposa-garden-4-pc-stoneware-salad-plate (1)

Linden Street Mariposa Garden 4-pc. Stoneware Salad Plate

brass-carrot-object

Cast Iron Carrot

Spring awakens the appeal of decorating the places and the spaces in the home with finds and flavors reflecting the best aspects of a seasonal refresh. finds-graphic

dark-green-cabbage-pitcher

Dark Green Cabbage Pitcher

spring-home-decor-ideasEmbossed Stoneware Cabbage Planter with Reactive Glaze

LAURA ASHLEY 5×7 Peony Tabletop Picture Frame

Northlight 6″ Praying Cherub Angel Outdoor Patio Garden Statue

Machine Washable Indoor/ Outdoor Moroccan Boho Chantille Rug

The Pioneer Woman Painted Meadow Ceramic Serving Bowl

St. John’s Bay Womens Crew Neck Short Sleeve Graphic T-Shirt

Livabliss Stella Diminuta Cottage Accent Table Lamp

Father Daughter Printable

The-Pioneer-Woman-Agatha-Green-12-Piece-Stoneware-Dinnerware-Set-1

The Pioneer Woman Agatha Green 12-Piece Stoneware Dinnerware Set

fresh-peaches-in-wooden-baskets

Eric Prouzet

Sweet spring into summer peaches star in this Basil Peach Ricotta Cake recipe from Two Cups Flour.

basil-peach-ricotta-cake

Basil Peach Ricotta Cake

meyer-lemon-tree

Citrus ‘Meyer’ Lemon Tree

Bright and fresh, the lemon inspires a zest for befitting colors, fragrant aromas, delicious tastes, and spring home decor finds.

Stoneware-Lemon-Squeezer

Lemon Stoneware

lemon-dinner-plate-set

Royal Norfolk Lemon Dinner Plates

no-bake-lemon-bar-cheesecake-recipe

No Bake Lemon Bar Cheesecake

Ingredients

For the Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs

10 Tbsp. (1¼ sticks) unsalted butter, melted

Pinch kosher salt

For the Filling:
2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese, at room temperature

1½ cups confectioners’ sugar

1 Tbsp. finely grated lemon zest plus 1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

1 (12.7-ounce) jar lemon curd, divided

1½ cups heavy cream

For the Whipped Cream:
½ cup heavy cream

1 Tbsp. confectioners’ sugar

½ tsp. pure vanilla extract

Lemon slices, for garnish

Directions

Stir together graham cracker crumbs, butter, sugar, and salt in a bowl.  Press mixture firmly into bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan.

Beat cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth, 1 to 2 minutes.  Beat in confectioners’ sugar, lemon zest and lemon juice, vanilla, and ½ cup lemon curd.  Whisk heavy cream with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form, 2 to 3 minutes.

Fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.  Spread filling in prepared crust.  Chill for 4 to 6 hours or up to overnight.

Before serving, spread remaining lemon curd over the top of the cheesecake.  Whisk together heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form, 2 to 3 minutes.

Pipe whipped cream around the top of the cheesecake and garnish with lemon slices.  Store covered in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days.

-Country Living Magazine

decor-plate-cake-plate-vintage-plate

Vintage Cake Plate with Roses Design

white-and-yellow-daisy-flowers

Photo by Ranurte on Unsplash

Super cute purchase for no reason at all other than it’s a super cute cup to use for a spring coffee break.

sping-yellow-daisy-hot-beverage-cups-with-lids

Daisy and Check Hot Drink Disposable Paper Cups, 14.5 fl oz, 8 Count

Speaking of daisies…

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Vintage Lefton 5859 Rustic Daisy Daisies Lidded Jar 

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Straw Large Floral Print Tote Handbag – A New Day™

sugar-finesse-thong-sandals

Finesse Thong Sandals

Cute and affordable are the hallmarks of spring into summer fashion jewelry.floral-motif-earrings-summer

Goldtone Floral Motif Earrings

Goldtone and Cream Flower 3D Wire Earrings

red-lady-bug-pink-petals

Photo by Dustin Humes on Unsplash

Pretty for Easter and beyond, the design features of the Eden Deviled Egg Platter take a cue from spring into summer blooms, buds, and buzz.

eden-deviled-egg-platter

Eden Deviled Egg Platter

Flower garden blooms and buds mixed with dusty miller, bridal wreath, fern fronds, and fresh seeded eucalyptus bring spring beauty to your dining table or sideboard.

multi-color-tulips-spring

Does anyone else see the resemblance between this Foster Stoneware Dessert Plate and the classic Desert Rose pattern?

Springs to mind!

foster-stoneware-dessert-plate

Foster Stoneware Dessert Plate

Indulge my sharing this spring salad season idea with you all for the umpteenth time, but ladies and gentlemen, that’s evidence of how this suggestion is tried and true.

spring-salad-fixings

Grab your favorite creamer or small pitcher from cupboard or cart and proceed to fill it with your favorite salad dressing or vinaigrette to sit along side a serving bowl brimming with spring salad.

The-Pioneer-Woman-Painted-Meadow-Ceramic-Serving-Bow

The Pioneer Woman Painted Meadow Ceramic Serving Bowl

When a new season rolls into town it’s only natural to want to edit out the former for the current.

Introducing one or three spring home decor finds brings the best of the season to the spring mix and mingle.

Darleen-signature-love

Show & Tell

From the Vegetable Garden Paint Colors

Vegetable garden paint colors plant the seed of in-season color inspiration.

Vegetable Garden Paint Colors

Vertumnus by Guiseppe Arcimboldo Print

From the garden paint colors harvest a potager palette ripe, rich, bright, crisp, and visually fresh.

bunch-of-vegetables

Photo by Nadine Primeau 

“In a garden, we witness the beauty of creation.”

oriental-eggplant-behr-premium-plus-paint-colors (1)

Oriental Eggplant Satin Enamel Low Odor Interior Paint & Primer

Eggplant, otherwise known as aubergine, takes its place on the color wheel in visually impressive fashion.

eggplant-vegetables

Photo by Bruna Branco

Aubergine commands full focal point attention as demonstrated by this particular shade of purple,  proving it is no shrinking violet.

purple-mudroom-bench

Whittney Parkinson Design

Robust.

Confident.

eggplant-sofa-alex-papachristidis-home

Elle Decor – Photography by Richard Powers

Vibrant.

Palette potency.

glossy-purple-lacquered-walls

Hallie Henley Design

Unmistakably distinctive, eggplant or aubergine is on-trend for 2025.

corn-fresh-cob

Quickly becoming the new neutral, buttery yellow is having a moment, and it’s delicious.

buttery-yellow-kitchen

Pierce & Ward

yellow-paint-color-sw6681-butter-up

SW 6681 Butter Up

island-pendants-fabric-green-yellow-wallpaper

Apartment Therapy – Photography by William Myers

glidden-corn-moon-corn-silk-paint-colors

Glidden Corn Silk

green-white-striped-sofa

Elle Decor – Photography by Simon Upton

pattern-graphic

Pattern makes a compelling argument for the beauty that lies within in the it’s all in the detail details.

Invariably there comes a point in the color selection process when the space and the style is better suited for color to make its statement through decor accents, texture, and pattern.

yellow-curtain-panelKelley Interior Design  via Pinterest

Buttery yellow and luxurious creamy dreamy not quite white-simply garden inspired gorgeous!

yellow-and-green-dining-space

Trellis Home

green-yellow-fabrics

texture-graphic

Better Homes and Gardens

Decor elements showcasing color and pattern as a featured focal point make texture a tactile experience.

color-graphic

fresh-tomatoes-various-colors

Red draws the eye, envelopes a space in depth, and frames a focal point.

Benjamin-Moore-tomato-red (2)

Tomato Red by Benjamin Moore

red-green-ripe-tomatoes-on-vine

Photo by Daria Mushtaieva

BEHR-PREMIUM-PLUS-1-gal-S-G-440-Green-Acres-Flat-Exterior-Paint-Primer

S-G-440 Green Acres Flat Exterior Paint & Primer

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CSP-1145 Tomato Tango – Benjamin Moore

Accents steeped in various shades resembling those that grow in nature’s vegetable garden introduce bursts of depth and dimension to the space.

kitchen-islands-14

Veranda Magazine – Photography by Bjorn Wallander

Variants, hues, and tones blend and balance core color trends.

benjamin-moore-tomato-cream-sauce-paint-color

Tomato Cream Sauce 2089-40

I’m reminded of the rich and distinctive shade created when a splash of cream blends into the robust red of tomato soup.

pink-bedroom-design-with-canopy-bed-curtains

Collins Interiors

There’s something so spring into summer about the variety of colors associated with fresh from the garden tomatoes.

bunk-beds-with-staircase

Kelly Caron Design

white-and-green-klismos-chairs

Marika Meyer Interiors

From garden to table to perfect decorative home accessory, garden home decor colors inspire.

salad-theme-paint-colors

2010-10 Tomato Red – Benjamin Moore
OC-85 Mayonnaise – Benjamin Moore
410D- 4 Asparagus – Behr 
428 Cucumber – Benjamin Moore

green-home-office-with-green-cabinetry

Peter Dunham Design

garden-cucumber-behr-premium-plus-paint-colors

M400-7 Garden Cucumber Flat Exterior Paint & Primer

Love the pop of garden bold colors paired with open windows on a sunny day!

peas-in-shells-in-bowl

Karolina Kołodziejczak on Unsplash

BEHR-ULTRA-1-qt-T15-18-Snap-Pea-Green-Extra-Durable-Eggshell-Enamel-Interior-Paint-Primer

Snap Pea Green Extra Durable Eggshell Enamel Interior Paint & Primer

Benjamin-Moore-split-pea

Benjamin Moore Split Pea

pea salad recipe

Country Living – Photography by Ed Anderson

green-plates-drapes-kitchen

James Farmer

Asparagus-Extra-Durable-Flat-Interior-Paint-Primer

Asparagus Extra Durable Flat Interior Paint & Primer

Kitchen_Green_Cabinets_DE10 House & Home

sculptural-antique-asparagus-platter-majolica

Chez Pluie

Seasonal home decor updates in from the garden home decor colors are naturally influenced by the deep, rich, bright and vibrant shades represented at the farmers market.

cucumbers-cherry-tomato

Photo by Vasi on Unsplash

Thebualt-Kitchen-Green-Cabinets

New England Home

Garden color combinations “produce” an anything but garden variety statement.

green-marble-countertop

Creative Tonic

just-a-note-graphic

Sitting at my keyboard going over the final parts to this post I am lulled by the hum of a lone lawn mower off in the distance keeping time with the wind chime choir on the patio.  Quiet moments when God slows the busy offer an opportunity to still, reflect, and mediate.

I hope the noise that gets in your way at times is softened by spring’s beauty and gentle sounds, a sunshine for the soul moment.

Darleen-signature-love

 

 

 

 

Show & Tell

Decorating With Green

Decorating with green associates a natural beauty with a tangible balance that easily flows from space to space, shade to shade while complementing core elements of design and decor.

green-upholstery-dining-chairs

One Kings Lane – Photography by Emily J. Followill

Green is a classic color that evokes the splendor of the outdoors, four-leaf clovers, and St. Patrick’s Day.

Powerscourt_Waterfall_IrelandPowerscourt Waterfall ~ Wicklow, Ireland

Often described as the color of renewal, the color green evokes a sense of peaceful  tranquility.

Carbury-County-Kildare-Robert-Byrne

House & Garden – Photography Robert O’Byrne

“Green is the prime color of the world,
and that from which its loveliness arises.”

– Pedro Calderon de la Barca

green-living-room-ideas-Benjamin-dhong

House Beautiful – Lisa Romerein

Shades will vary, however, the beauty delivered from decorating with green never wavers.

brass-washstand-with-marble-sink-tiled-bathroom-ceiling-green-penny-tiles

Studio Mrs

Inspiration is everywhere!

green-peacock

Commons Wikimedia

schumacher-emerald-bay-peacock-wallpaper

Emerald Bay Peacock Wallpaper by Schumacher

Color awakens a space, and decorating with green associates the beauty of nature.

green-door-casings

1st Dibs- Introspective Magazine – Photography by Tim Lenz

brown-spindle-twin-bed-on-caster-legs

Andrew Howard Interior Design

Palette balance lends flow which in turn complements the core elements of design and decor.

green-kitchen-pantry-cabinets

 Lindsey Black Interiors

Decorating with the color green is a proven in-house formula for amplifying the beauty and patina of the woods and finishes detailed in antique pieces.

green-primary-bedroom-in-pattern

One Kings Lane – Photography by Robert Peterson

Biedermeier-chair-green-living-room

Frederic Magazine – Photography by Melanie Acevedo

distinctive details graphic

floral-embroidered-sequins-silk

Floral Embroidered Sequins Silk Velvet Fabric

green-ceiling-medallions

Green Ceiling Medallions

green-staircase-wallpaper

Architectural Digest – Photography by Ethan Herrington

Decorating with green colors a whimsy world.

laundry-room-green-plank-trim

Maddie Hughes Design

Talk about curb appeal.

gold-and-green-velvet-bench

Laura U Interior Design

green-and-gray-home-exterior

Dunbar Road Design

army-fatigue-green-glidden-paint

salmon-pink-stucco-home-green-doors

Creative Tonic

May what beautifully fills your eye beautifully fill your heart and home.

Darleen-signature-love

 

Show & Tell

Spring Gardening

Spring gardening days are here, my friends.

planting-garden-plants

Jonathan Kemper

Little seeds we sow in spring
growing while the robins sing,
give us carrots, peas and beans,
tomatoes, pumpkins, squash and greens.

And we pick them,
one and all,
through the summer,
through the fall,

Winter comes, then spring, and then
little seeds we sow again.

-Little Seeds by Else Holmelund Minarik

Katie-Daisy-seed-packets

The Wheatfield by Katie Daisy

When the calendar says spring my mind says spring, my heart says spring, and the blooms and buds throughout the neighborhood say spring.

flowers-growing-in-garden

Jean Carlo Emer

On my fresh from home farmers market radar is a kitchen vegetable garden flush with vegetables, herbs, and color rich flowers.

French-kitchen-garden-illustration

Illustration by Helen Smythe

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Better Homes and Gardens has a free kitchen garden plan to download which includes planting instructions and plants list for various designs of kitchen veggie gardens.

Click on this link:  An Eye-Catching Kitchen Garden Plan.

Biodegradable Plantable Round Fiber Pots

Biodegradable Plantable Round Fiber Pots

Tiny Garden Habit makes it easy to be in the garden know for what seeds to start in March.

seeds-to-plant-in-March

Tiny Garden Habit

Regardless the type of garden or gardens you plant, color blooms a beautiful return.

garden-paint-colors-benjamin-moore

“Springtime is the land awakening.
The March winds are the morning yawn.”

—Lewis Grizzard

Lady-of-Shalott-roses

Lady of Shalott Roses

Optimum timing for fertilizing established roses is early to mid-spring when and only the chance of a late season frost is ruled out.

Miracle-Gro Powder Rose Plant Food

Miracle-Gro Powder Rose Plant Food

Newly planted roses require a waiting period of  six weeks before fertilizing in order for the plant(s) to become established with new growth. It’s best to only use half the recommended amount of a diluted liquid fertilizer as not to over-fertilize running the risk of burning the roots of the plant(s).

the-poet-s-wife-container-roses-yellow

The Poet’s Wife

For container roses fertilize every four to six weeks.

Outdoor-Patio-Park-Garden-Bench-Courtyard-Leisure-Rose-Cast-Aluminum-Outdoor-Loveset-Antique-Green

Patio Park Garden Bench

Repeat-blooming roses every 2-3 weeks until late summer.

vine-tomatoes-green-red

Huma Kabakci 

Anticipation is growing (get it?) for the arrival of the spring and summer salad season.

tomato-salad

Photography by Nadine Primeau

One of the best parts of the vegetable and flower garden process is the garden to table recipes and dishes reaped from the harvest.

radishes-in-garden

10 Best Vegetables for Beginner Gardeners to Grow

stoneware-cabbage-salad-plate

Stoneware Cabbage Salad Plate

Antique Royal Bayreuth Bavaria Pumpkin Tomato Creamer

Antique Royal Bayreuth Bavaria Pumpkin Tomato Creamer

Pass the black pepper and the buttermilk dressing.

vegetable-pitcher

Ceramic Vegetable Pitcher With Carrot Handle

fresh-corn-summer-spring

Corn Salt & Pepper Shaker

vintage-corn-husks-covered-serving-bowl

Vintage Ceramic Corn Husks Casserole Dish

corn-serving-bowl-pig

Vintage Carraro Kitchen Decor Dish With Lid Corn With Pig On Top

Edible flowers add a burst of seasonal color to any garden and the dishes and drinks they adorn.

spring-salad-edible-flowers

Victoria Magazine

Although not edible, I love this sweet painting found on Etsy.

vintage-pansy-painting-signed-unframed

Vintage Pansy Painting Signed, Unframed, 5 x 7

pansies-in-garden

Pansies offer loads of color, plant and prosper rather easily, and make a fantastic visual and flavorful splash when added to salads and spring desserts.

floral compound butter

Common edible flowers to consider planting in your spring garden areas and containers:

Marigolds.

Chrysanthemums

Nasturtiums

Pansies

Sunflowers

Tulips

Crunchy-Tangy-Refrigerator-Pickled-Vegetables

Click on the link for the fabulous recipe for Crunchy Tangy Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables from Mia Recipes.

garden-goodies-graphic

under-the-staircase-garden-alcove

Peter Dunham Design

Spring into Easter gets the spring gardening ball rolling.

Personalised Luxury copper garden tools

Personalized Luxury Copper Garden Tools

Green-Metal-Traditional-Garden-Arbor-93-x-54-x-10

DecMode 93″ Indoor Outdoor Scrollwork with Sculpted Branches

small-gray-cottage

Tatum Brown Custom Homes

Home-Complete-4-Tier-Mini-Indoor-Outdoor-Portable-Greenhouse

Home-Complete 4 Tier Mini Greenhouse with Locking Wheels and PVC Cover

river-rock-water-fountain

Garden Studio Design

garden-obelisk-trellis-with-self-drainage-system-for-climbing-plants

Garden Obelisk Trellis with Self-Drainage System for Climbing Plants

bronze-garden-water-catcher

Rain Catcher Iron Stake

6-pack-solar-led-garden-lights-outdoor-waterproof

6-Pack Solar LED Garden Lights Outdoor Waterproof

Olympia-Tools-300-Pound-Capacity-Heavy-Duty-Utility-Rolling-Cart-Blue-Gray

Hyper Tough 300 Pound Capacity Heavy Duty Utility Rolling Cart, Blue/Gray

concrete-and-plastic-resin-bird-bath

Silver Metal Complete Birdbath

Easy blooms!

zinnia-giant-flowered-mixed-colors

Zinnia, Giant Flowered Mixed Colors

Golden Lilac Metal Purple Watering Can

Golden Lilac Metal Purple Watering Can

Buff Concrete Planter-1

Brown Concrete Outdoor Planter with Drainage Holes

liora-manne-front-porch-mum-indoor-outdoor-rug

Liora Manne Front Porch Mum Indoor Outdoor Rug

WonderLand-12-in-L-x-12-in-W-x-1-in-H-Rectangle-Beige-Natural-Stone-Stepping-Stone

Rectangle Beige Natural Stepping Stone

Duck Canvas Scribble Floral Rose Picker Gloves One Size Green - Threshold™

Duck Canvas Scribble Floral Rose Picker Gloves One Size Green – Threshold™

garden-harvest-shopping-basket

Harvesting Vegetables Guide from Burpee

Verve-Culture-Moroccan-Shopping-Basket---Large-Leather-Strap (1)

Moroccan Shopping Basket – Large Leather Strap

HydroTech 50ft Expandable Burst Proof Hose - Green

HydroTech 50ft Expandable Burst Proof Hose – Green

Pure-Garden-Gorilla-Garden-Hands-Pair

Pure Garden Leaf Scoops Hand Rakes – Grabber Tool for Yard Work

LSU_AG-nursery-show

LSU AgCenter Garden Show

It’s all nursery festivals, spring forward garden centers and Mary, Mary how does your garden grow everywhere you look.

hummingbird-arrival-forecast

Here’s a spring gardening video from Garden Answer blooming with inspiration and advice on planning for a new garden space.

garden-advice

Cottage Whimsy

Early March is a prime time to plan and plant your spring gardening ideas. These tips, guides, tools, and sources offer valuable information for getting your garden growing.

Darleen-signature-love

Show & Tell

Mardi Gras Party Good Time

Louisiana’s shape on the map is the reason it is referred to as “the boot,” and what an appropriate observation seeing how we love to tap our toes and kick up our heels passing a Mardi Gras party good time!

Mardi Gras Mambo - An Original Silkscreen by George Rodrigue

Mardi Gras Mambo – An Original Silkscreen by George Rodrigue

Louisiana loves to throw a party, and what makes a good party is great food, drink, and conversations about great Mardi Gras food and drink.

Plutocrat Second LinePlutocrat Second Line

Mardi Gras party good time traditions slice and serve a Carnival staple, the infamous king cake, and people do have their favorites.

Dong-Phuong-Bakery-king-cake-sliced

Dong Phuong Bakery

Delicious and in high demand, cinnamon king cake from Dong Phuong Bakery is king cake love at first bite.

dong phuong king cake

As the window for shipment has closed, it is nothing for the king cake devoted to make the drive to New Orleans to pick up a cake or three (limit 3 per person).

king-cake-colors

If a king cake run to NOLA is not on your Mardi Gras radar, let me share with you this brioche & butter cream recipe for Soft and Moist Mardi Gras King Cake from Murmurs of Ricotta. Click on the link for the recipe.

brioche-butter-cream-soft-fluffy-king-cake-recipe

From parish to parish, Louisiana is truly a melting pot of unique customs, traditions, and cultures. Courir de Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday Run) celebrates rural traditions rooted in medieval France known as fête de la quémande, or feast of begging.

Cajun music and dancing sets the soundtrack to this festive fête of raucous revelry.

courir-de-mardi-gras-fiddles

Courir de Mardi Gras Fiddles

Costume clad participants gather together in the early morning hours of Mardi Gras Day in many rural Louisiana towns intent on keeping tradition alive (as well as the chickens and animals encountered along the bayous and fields).

Courier de Mardi Gras, Church Point, Louisiana, chicken chase,

Louisiana Cajun Mardi Gras Art Print

Masked and adorned revelers travel on horseback from house to house throughout the rural communities putting on quite the show playing traditional Cajun music, dancing, and frolicking in exchange for ingredients and spices for the community gumbo feast at run’s end.

beads-doubloons

Parade route positions are prime real estate, staked out and claimed for optimum viewing and catching coveted Mardi Gras throws, beads, and doubloons.

beignets at Cafe du Monde

Beignets at Café du Monde

It’s hard not to find yourself in a Mardi Gras party good time state of mind when you have a cup of café au lait in hand.

cafe au lait

Louisiana gumbo serves main dish goodness, and new to the menu is King Cake Monkey Bread from Southern Living with a twist on the traditional taste of home.

king-cake-monkey-bread

King Cake Monkey Bread

Ingredients

3 (17.5-oz.) cans Pillsbury cinnamon rolls grands

1 (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened

2/3 cup granulate sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 cup evaporated milk

For Garnish: purple, yellow, green sanding sugar

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F.  Spray a tube pan with cooking spray.

Separate cinnamon rolls, saving icing to use later. Cut each cinnamon roll into four pieces. Place cinnamon roll pieces in tube pan.

Beat together cream cheese and sugar. Add eggs, vanilla, and milk. Mix until combined. Pour cream cheese mixture over cinnamon rolls.

Bake for 45 to 50 minutes. After baking, let pan cool 10 minutes.

Turn baked monkey bread out on plate and ice with cinnamon roll icing. Decorate with purple, yellow, and green sanding sugar.

-Southern Living Magazine

Mardi-gras-parade-purple-green-gold (1)

Louisiana is kicking up its heels in Mardi Gras party good time style. Mardi Gras parades are rolling, the party atmosphere is intoxicating, and time-honored traditions and customs well represented.

Laissez les bons temps rouler!

Darleen-signature-love

 

Show & Tell

Metal Influenced Paint Colors

Metal influenced paint colors prove powerful palette motivators regarding interior design and home decor selections.

transitional home office Webber Coleman WoodworksWebber Coleman Woodworks

Mostly Metal PPG1036-7 Eggshell Interior Latex Paint

Mostly Metal PPG1036-7 Eggshell Interior Latex Paint

Color trend 2025 embraces leaning into warm palette choices.

cobalt-color-walls

Veranda Magazine

Glidden cobalt stone paint color

Cobalt Stone Eggshell Interior Paint

Rich in tone and hue, metal influenced paint colors heighten the aspects of contrast and complement.

glass-and-metal-pivot-door

Light and Dwell

PPG1092-4 Craftsman Gold Satin Interior Paint with Primer

PPG1092-4 Craftsman Gold Satin Interior Paint with Primer

Gunmetal Gray Satin Interior Latex Paint

PPG1033-6  Gunmetal Gray Interior Latex Paint

Steel Me Ultra-Flat Interior Paint with Primer

Steel Me Ultra-Flat Interior Paint with Primer

Metals lay the foundation for warm neutrals to not become an irrelevant color choice.

Connection is a key component of flow, balance, and continuity.

gold-baroque-mirror

Jenn Feldman Designs

Gothic Gold Flat Interior Latex Paint

Gothic Gold Flat Interior Latex Paint

white-reeded-dresser

Elizabeth Garrett Interiors

Glorious Gold Eggshell Interior Latex Paint

Glorious Gold Eggshell Interior Latex Paint

Music genres and interior design styles mirror each other in concept and blog post ideas.

Heavy metal can produce quiet the powerful tune along with powerful inspiration for this using metal colors in interior design and home decor post.

Whittney Parkinson DesignWhittney Parkinson Design

metallic-mist-ppg-paint

Metallic Mist by Glidden

Contemporary and modern design styles seem to influence the decision to incorporate accents in one or a blended mix of what I call the metal golds (brass, bronze, copper) into the space, however, the argument can be made  that going for the golds in spaces primarily designed in traditional and new traditional design styles with metal neutral walls connects the dots to contrast as well as complement.

white-foo-dog

 Andrew Howard Interior Design

Silver Feather PPG1002-1 Semi-Gloss Interior Latex Paint

Silver Feather PPG1002-1 Interior Latex Paint

coastal-style-dining-room-blue-dining-chairs

Waterside Oasis by MDI Luxury Design – Photography: Julia Lynn

gold-trunk-the-Brick-HouseThe Brick House

Metallic Crosshatch Wallpaper - Threshold™

Metallic Crosshatch Wallpaper – Threshold™

 kristen panitch interiors Kristen Panitch Interiors

Never one to miss the opportunity to pop a punch of pink into the decorating scheme of things, this example shows how well metals mix with what may not be a color traditionally on your color palette radar.

gold-faux-bois-tree-trunk-accent-table

Edyta and Co Interior Design

Madagascar Pink Ultra Flat Interior Paint

Madagascar Pink Ultra Flat Interior Paint

Inspiration is everywhere, my friends.

taylor borsari industrial style kitchen cabinets Taylor Borsari

chocolate-lab__ppg1000-7

Chocolate Lab Flat Interior Latex Paint

empire-crystal-chandelier-metal-detail

Linda McDougald Designs

pewter-mug__ppg1004-5

Pewter Mug Satin Interior Latex Paint

metal-influenced-colors-kitchen (1)

Weeth Home

Mixing metals impacts the prominent design style by way of enhancing the finished look in a supporting character role.

kelley flynn interior design

Kelley Flynn Interior Design

onyx__ppg1011-7

Onyx Semi-Gloss Interior Latex Paint

Patina and versatility fuel the distinctive presence of copper in a space.

white-bathroom-brass-fixtures-marble-washstand

 Tamara Magel 

Ancient Copper Flat Interior Latex Paint

Ancient Copper Flat Interior Latex Paint

Copper influenced hues and shades reign supreme as heavy metal palette preferences.

crown-accent-Tara-Shaw-antiques

Tara Shaw – Photography by Max Kim-Bee

Using metal influenced paint colors in interior design and home decor adds depth, warmth, and sophistication to the feel of the space.

Darleen-signature-love

Show & Tell

Color Love: Decorating With The Color Red

Decorating with the color red puts a visually commanding spin on the pop of color wheel.

study-red-walls (1)

Archer & Buchanan Architecture – Photography by Tom Crane

foyer-bryant-keller-interiors-rikki-snyder

Bryant Keller Interiors – Photography by Rikki Snyder

Red draws the eye, envelopes a space in depth, and frames a focal point.

chinoiserie-wallpaper-bathroom-red-shelf

Mallory Mathison Inc.

Mikado-wallpaper

Pierre Frey Mikado Wallpaper

Chinoiserie Decorated Painted Finish Secretary Desk

Chinoiserie Decorated Painted Finish Secretary Desk

Often regarded as the traditional color of Valentine’s Day, red plays color matchmaker to the visual aesthetic integral to interior design, interior decorating, home decor, and home furnishings.

red-paint-colors-palette

Red is a warm and visually powerful color; a color as alluring as it is dramatic making it the perfect Valentine’s Day color connection.

painted-ceiling-red

Elle Decor – Photography by Stephen Kent Johnson

Design firm Studio Peregalli lets us in on the secret to captivating design features- continuity and a camouflage door.

marble-countertop-bathroom-wallpaper-door

Elle Decor

There is red velvet…

red-velvet-cake-truffles-recipe

Red Velvet Cake Truffles

and then there is red velvet.

red-velvet-fabrics

Rich.

Dramatic.

Intense.

red-velvet-theatre-seats

Alessia C_Jpg

Rather immersed in or merely kissed by, decorating with the color red fetchingly emphasizes the elements of elegance, sophistication, and eye- catching drama.

green-and-ruby-red-bedroom

Elle Decor – Photography by Douglas Friedman

In many instances of design and decorating the prominent color first to capture the eye is the one least used within the space.

pops-of-red-white-cupboard

Frederic Magazine – Photography by Nick Burchell

Natural light and the very right of the white kitchen play well with a hint of red present and beautifully accounted for.

red-party-tent (1)

Style Me Pretty – Mi Belle Photography

Entertain introducing the color red into your patio, garden, and curb appeal plans.

red-gloss-front-door-brass-hardware (1)

Paul Tobin Estate Agents

Red is a color associated with energy and enthusiasm.

kids-room-vintage-desk-as-nightstand

Andrew Howard Interior Design

It’s a powerful combination factoring into the color choices best suited for the palette purpose of the space.

red-throw-quilt-bedroom

Architectural Digest – Photography by Noe DeWitt

Be still my !

Antique-French-chair-sitting-room-sage

Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles – Photography by Zeke Ruelas

How gorgeous is a traditional and not so traditional space so elegantly well-appointed in shades of red.

Salon-Salon-red-Bar-Metier

Salon Salon

red-mudroom-lockers

Zoe Feldman Design

How do I love thee color, texture, and pattern?

claw-foot-pedestal-dining-chair

Amanda Lindroth Design

Let me count the ways with chic accents and spot accessories.

blue-and-gold-pillows

Palmer Weiss

An appropriate color of the day for the day at hand, decorating with the color red is in the spotlight.

Darleen-signature-love

Show & Tell