Hoppy Easter!

Get it? I know, I know. I’m so clever.

I know Easter seems kind of like a random holiday to some people, but I have a serious warm spot in my heart for it. It was always a pretty special day in my house (Hi Mom!) – yes, we are Catholic, but there’s something about the abundance of flowers, the springy dresses, and soft squishy bunny rabbits that make getting together with family at the dawn of Spring a very special thing indeed.

Oh and let’s not forget … Easter baskets! Duh.

This little guy was waiting for JC upon his return home from work yesterday. Just look at that glinty tinsel grass! Flashy.

I think I have arranged an Easter basket for JC every single year we’ve been together. One Easter, his basket was a Sponge Bob Square Pants bucket. I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to top that one.

Keeping with the SBSP theme, there’s a little Sponge Bob dude hanging out in that there.

Also in the basket: bubbles, gummy bears and …

Kissy Lindt bunnies. Could not resist.

Also included a fun little card …

 Because who doesn’t like a little chick friend climbing upon a mountain o’ colored eggs?

I think John enjoyed his Easter basket surprise, but I am pretty confident I enjoyed putting it together much much more. It’s very true what they say about how doing nice things for your loved one actually just makes your own heart warm

We will be spending Easter Sunday in the suburbs with John’s family (hi Susan!). As soon as the rumblings of the Easter dinner menu began, I knew it was high time I set off on an easter egg recipe hunt for the perfect addition to the table.

The blogosphere certainly did not provide me with a shortage of ideas. Some delicious inspiration I’ve stumbled upon this week include:

• Lightened up Coconut Cake from Katie
• Easter Rice Krispie Treats from Julie 
• Homemade Chocolate Bunnies from Katie @ Chocolate Covered Katie
• & some tasty Image Inspiration from Sara

Mmmm! Ultimately I think I will end up baking a tasty springtime bread, but I’m definitely saving the Easter dessert recipes I’ve found for future purposes

Who’s cookin’ up a storm this Easter? Anyone arranging baskets?