Spring colors & traditions

 Happy belated Easter and Spring. We finally warmed up here on  the east coast and spring renewal has begun! I finally have gotten off my chair next to the wood stove and have put away all  the fleece blankets.

I think there is a permanent imprint of my arse on the chair!! (always sounds more classy when you add a British spin on less desirable words) ;-) I went from sitting around trying not freeze to a complete 180 spring cleaning, baking, gardening and designing new patterns.

 Below shows just a peek of what I am talking about...

Spring bulbs popping up ...not where I planted them but somehow on other areas of my property. I don't get it but I'll take it!!

 Easter baking, traditional Italian favorites or should I say American Italian favorites. Recipes from my grandmother who came from Naples, My Sicilian grandmother wasn't much of a baker, more of a cook.I have changed the pie crust and use a Pate Brisee recipe from Martha. I have mastered this and I have even cut the butter amount to a stick and a half and it works out just fine. 

 Then we saw that our mess turned into a little Nonpareil art in the sink and I had to photograph it ...it was so cool. Easter was quiet and small in number. Two of my five are away at school and the two oldest are home with the little guy. We were joined by my goddaughter and her cousin to make it a bit more fun for the little guy (who is not so little these days! He is growing like a weed!) My oldest son always hides the eggs and makes my goddaughter really work for them now that she is 13. This year he made her climb the wisteria tree about 7 feet up!! Our youngest just loves holidays and his enthusiasm is just so fun to witness.. I feel so blessed that I get to experience it all again...not so blessed about experiencing all the school work again though!!

The Baby Moccasin is an original design. I have written up the pattern and checking it twice to share with you. It is quick and easy, great for a last minute shower gift. I have used Rowan's Pure Life Revive on E crochet hook. I am hoping to have it to you by this weekend. But for today I am trying to convince my husband who took the day off to drive up to NYC for the day...what do you think my chances are ??? I'll let  you know!! 

Be well, 

Ming