This Easter’s Sweetest Treat? Lemon Mini-Pavlovas with Fresh Blueberries

Alexandra DeFurio, gibbs-smith.com

When hosting Easter dinner, I always like to finish the meal with a wow dessert. These lemon mini-pavlovas from “Meringue” by Linda K. Jackson and Jennifer Evans Gardner are that, and then some. While the authors dub their recipe as ideal for summer, I think it’s also just right for Easter, too. The mix of flavors are springtime fresh. And who wouldn’t want to indulge in one of these pretty little pavlovas while sipping tea in the shade as kids hunt for eggs on the lawn?

Wild for Spring

potterybarn.com

Winter may still rule with calendar types but designers have already gone wild for Spring. Anything but a “been there, done that” trend, this latest take on nature is delightfully diverse with looks that range from painterly and graphically mod to whimsical.

Hot Off the Press! Lilly Pulitzer Comes to Target

Target.com

In the nick of time, news has arrived to give us all a reason to trudge on through winter’s worst.  This April, Lilly Pulitzer is coming to Target in all her technicolor glory.  

Fine Dining? It’s for the Birds

BHG.com

While we all settle in for a long winter’s nap after our holiday feasting, birds are all but winging it when it comes to mealtime. According to a study by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife, winter can be a tough time for wild birds. Many species rely on bird feeders to supplement their diet because habitat changes, caused by urban sprawl makes survival more difficult. That’s why bird feeders are an important item for every yard.

If, like me, you’ve got birds on your brain (or at least on your mind!), here’s how to feed your fine-feathered friends in style and still have enough money left to purchase a bag of bird seed.

Hey, Cookie!

Anthropologie.com

Santa’s not the only one who’s into cookies. That’s why cookie jars are the perfect gift, especially this year. Why? Because designers have put a stylish spin on these snack keepers that’s witty, whimsical and downright fun.

Top 5 Holiday Hostess Savers

Williams-Sonoma.com

In a few mere weeks, I’ll open my door to lots of family from four states (Arizona! Kansas! Missouri! Texas!) ready for a big Thanksgiving celebration. From years of hosting gatherings like this, I’ve learned that having the right items on-hand is a must to make the day unfold both seamlessly and stylishly. Here are five handy helpers you can quickly order online. Trust me, they’ll save the day…and your sanity. 

Double-Duty Pumpkin Pleasers

 

NeimanMarcus.com

While friends around me are channeling their inner Munsters and focused on All Hallow’s Eve, I’m hunting for pumpkin decor that works for both Halloween and Thanksgiving. Why? Because double-duty decor saves time and makes smart money sense.