Spring into April: A Monthly Recap of Life, Food, and Fresh Beginnings

It’s truly hard to believe that we’ve already stepped into April. The arrival of spring always brings a sense of renewal, vibrant colors, and the promise of warmer days, and I am absolutely thrilled that it’s finally here! While the season does come with its unique challenges – like the seemingly endless amount of mud our dogs track into the house – I’m choosing to focus on the brighter side of things. It just feels like yesterday we were bundling up for winter, and now, the year is already flying by at an astonishing pace. I suppose the last two years felt a bit slower, filled with lockdowns and the quiet, self-imposed pace of life with a newborn. What a difference a year makes!

Reflecting on this time last year, our little boy was still a tiny bundle, a ‘smoosh’ who hadn’t quite mastered sitting up on his own. Fast forward to today, and he’s a spirited toddler with a mended leg and an attitude that suggests he’s ready to conquer the world, perhaps even drive a car! This past month has been a whirlwind, bringing with it a few pesky colds, the onset of seasonal allergies, countless hours of cooking up new recipes, and a fair share of exhaustion. My husband recently embarked on a new job journey, adding another layer of adjustment to our daily lives. On a more personal note, I’ve also been grappling with the evolving landscape of social media, questioning if the effort truly yields the desired connection and impact (it’s certainly become a point of frustration, as you might have gathered!).

So, let’s take a delightful detour from our usual food-centric discussions and delve into a variety of random thoughts and topics that have been occupying my mind lately. From inspiring reads to fun new finds and essential kitchen tools, this monthly slice offers a glimpse into the diverse facets of life, sprinkled with a good dose of spring enthusiasm. I hope you find something here that resonates with you, sparks your interest, or simply offers a moment of joyful distraction as we embrace everything April has to offer.

Come Listen to Our Latest Chat!

I had the pleasure of joining my wonderful friend Jacqueline on her podcast, The Art of, this week. We kicked off a brand new season by diving deep into the delightful world of seasonal eating and the practical art of menu planning for spring. If you’re looking for fresh ideas to incorporate seasonal produce into your meals or seeking strategies to simplify your weekly meal prep, this episode is packed with useful insights and engaging discussion. It was such a joy to share my thoughts and experiences on how to make the most of spring’s bounty in the kitchen. Make sure to click here to listen and join our conversation!

Song of the Week: A Nostalgic Tune

My “Song of the Week” is a delightful flashback to Juggernaut by Dustin Kensrue. For the latter half of this past month, I’ve found myself really gravitating towards the music I was listening to about five years ago. There’s something about the sunshine and the warmer weather that always pulls me back to my comfort tracks and timeless favorites from previous springs. It’s a fantastic, energetic song that captures a certain mood, perfect for those moments of driving with the windows down or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon. If you’re looking for a dose of musical nostalgia or just something fresh to add to your playlist, give this one a listen!

Foodie Favorites and Spring Recipes

Spring always brings a renewed excitement for fresh flavors and lighter fare in the kitchen. I’ve been eyeing some truly incredible recipes lately that I can’t wait to share with you:

• These Strawberry Cupcakes are an absolute must for anyone’s spring baking list. They perfectly capture the essence of the season with their bright, fruity flavor and delightful sweetness.
• I adore that these Double Chocolate Banana Muffins are healthy, gluten-free, and vegan! This means I can indulge in two (or maybe even three!) for breakfast without a hint of guilt. They’re a delicious and wholesome start to any day.
• Banh Mi Hot Dogs? Now that’s culinary genius! This creative fusion combines classic comfort with exciting Vietnamese flavors, promising a uniquely delicious meal.
• These Thin & Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookies have been living rent-free in my mind ever since I saw them. I’m seriously contemplating making a batch this weekend – the thought of warm, melty chocolate is just too tempting!
• I’m eagerly anticipating happy hour for this refreshing Campari Gin Sour! It sounds like the perfect balance of bitter and sweet, ideal for sipping on a warm spring evening.
• Adobo Chicken Enchiladas are absolutely going on next week’s meal plan. The rich, savory flavors of adobo chicken wrapped in tortillas sound incredibly satisfying and comforting.
• If this Lemon Cheesecake doesn’t scream “spring,” I don’t know what does! Its bright, zesty notes and creamy texture make it the ultimate seasonal dessert.
• Finally, this One-Pot Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is another strong contender for next week’s menu. Easy to make and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight.

Inspirational Insights for Personal Growth

In the midst of life’s hustle and bustle, taking time for personal reflection and growth is incredibly important. This month, I found myself drawn to a few pieces that offered valuable perspectives:

• I thoroughly enjoyed reading this guide to saying no without guilt. For natural people-pleasers like myself, setting boundaries can be a real challenge, and this article provided practical, empathetic steps to navigate those situations more effectively. It’s definitely a must-read for anyone who struggles with feeling obligated to always say yes.
• These quotes about finding yourself deeply resonated with me. The transition from being a primary caregiver for an infant to navigating the energetic world of a toddler has been a significant shift, and to be honest, I’ve felt a little lost in my own identity through it all. It’s so easy to immerse yourself completely in motherhood and lose sight of who you are beyond that role. Does anyone else out there feel this way?
• How mindfulness helped me become my own best friend was another incredibly powerful read. This article beautifully illustrates the transformative power of mindfulness in fostering self-compassion and inner peace. It’s a journey well worth exploring for anyone seeking a deeper connection with themselves.
• For all the parents out there with toddlers, or those soon to embark on that adventure, this list of the best toddler books is a fantastic resource. Reading is such a crucial part of early development, and finding engaging stories can make a world of difference for both parents and little ones.

Fun Finds and Entertainment for April

Beyond personal growth and delicious food, April also brings new opportunities for entertainment and hobbies. Here’s what caught my eye this month:

• Curious about what’s new to binge-watch? Here’s what’s coming to Netflix (and leaving) in April. The return of The Home Edit for a new season has me seriously considering another round of home organization – because who doesn’t love a good decluttering spree, especially with spring cleaning vibes? What shows or movies are you most excited to watch this month?
• For those who enjoy a peek into the astrological predictions, here’s every zodiac sign’s horoscope for April 2022. I’ll be honest, as a Libra, my horoscope isn’t looking super stellar, and I’m not quite sure how to feel about that! But it’s always fun to read and see what the stars might have in store.
• I’m determined to keep my indoor plants thriving this year, so this spring guide to caring for indoor plants has been incredibly helpful. I have a bit of a reputation for inadvertently killing my plants, so I’m hoping this comprehensive guide will equip me with the knowledge and tips needed to nurture them successfully through the spring season. Wish me luck!

Essential Spring Kitchen Must-Haves

As we transition into spring, my kitchen is also getting a refresh with a few coveted items I’ve been eyeing. These products are perfect for elevating your spring cooking and entertaining:

• Staub recently released a simply GORGEOUS blueberry collection that has completely captured my heart! A high-quality cast iron skillet is an absolute non-negotiable in my kitchen for its versatility and even heat distribution, but this stunning stackable 4-piece set is a game-changer. Not only does it provide every cast iron piece you could possibly need, but its clever design also makes it a fantastic space-saver in any kitchen.
• Speaking of Staub, I was genuinely SHOCKED to discover this incredible set of two oval bakers on sale for just $50! This is an unbelievable deal for such high-quality bakeware. They are absolutely perfect for preparing a variety of dishes, from delicious spring sides and hearty casseroles to elegant seasonal desserts. Their oval shape adds a touch of sophistication to any table setting.
• If you’re in need of some stylish new highball glasses for your spring cocktails, look no further! These beautiful glasses are currently 50% off and are simply stunning. They’re ideal for serving refreshing spring concoctions, like a vibrant Gin Sling or any other sparkling drink you fancy. Elevate your happy hour with these elegant additions.

Easter Is Just Around the Corner!

With April in full swing, Easter is quickly approaching, and that means it’s time to start thinking about festive recipes and delightful treats! To help you get your planning underway, I’ve gathered some of my favorite inspirations for this joyful spring holiday. Whether you’re hosting a grand brunch or simply looking for a sweet indulgence, these recipes are sure to bring cheer to your Easter celebration.

• Carrot Cake Cookies: A delightful twist on a classic Easter dessert, these soft, spiced cookies with a tangy cream cheese frosting are perfect for sharing.
• Strawberry Rhubarb Gin Fizz: This refreshing and vibrant cocktail captures the fresh flavors of spring, making it an ideal choice for your Easter brunch or a celebratory evening.
• Herb Goat Cheese Stuffed Leg of Lamb: An impressive yet surprisingly simple main course, this flavorful lamb dish is infused with fresh herbs and creamy goat cheese, perfect for a memorable Easter dinner.
• Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Pastries: Elegant and savory, these pastries are a fantastic addition to any Easter brunch spread, offering a sophisticated bite that everyone will love.
• Lemon Rosemary Meringue Tart: With its bright citrus notes and fragrant rosemary, this beautiful tart is a show-stopping dessert that perfectly encapsulates the essence of spring.

Don’t forget to check out my last Monthly Slice for more insights and recommendations!