Easter Week is Approaching

Before we know it, Easter will be here, and I can hardly contain my excitement! Easter has always been my favorite holiday, even more than Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Halloween. Growing up, my family would always travel to Florida to visit my grandparents during this time. Our trips typically took place over spring break, making the journey from Cleveland down to Southern Florida where my grandparents had their home.

They moved around a lot, but eventually settled in Jupiter, where I made some of my fondest memories with them. The Jupiter and Palm Beach area will always hold a special place in my heart.

Memorable Moments in Jupiter

Every summer, I would spend a whole week in Jupiter with my Nonnie, just the two of us. We would indulge in brunch, shop until I was exhausted (which meant it was time to stop for lunch since Nonnie loved her “lunch”), and then she would take a nap while I relaxed. By dinner time, we would dress up nicely.

Before dinner, we often prepared a small cheeseboard as an appetizer. I would sip on orange juice from a cocktail glass while Nonnie enjoyed her chardonnay, and of course, dining al fresco was a must for me. We would usually watch a movie before bed too. One year, we binge-watched the entire Vacation series with Chevy Chase. Christmas Vacation remains our all-time favorite!

Easter Traditions

Those memories are why Florida holds such a special significance for me. As for Easter, we would often make chocolate bunnies from molds, my mom would prepare baskets filled with delicious candies, and we would hunt for eggs stuffed with treats or even a few bills. It was always such a joyous time, nothing could compare.

Sometimes, Nonnie would even bake a bunny cake. Now that I’m older, I still cherish this time of year. Some years, I help my mom prepare Easter baskets, while other years we travel, but I’m always excited because if all goes well, our family will gather together for Easter this year. Just one week to go!

Thoughts on Austin

Beyond the joy of Easter, life in Austin is pretty fantastic. The weather is perfect, the spring flowers are blooming beautifully, everyone here is incredibly friendly, and today, Proper Hotel even sent me some gorgeous flowers. I absolutely adore them. I know I’ll feel a little sad when it’s time to leave.

What about you? Do you have any travel plans this month or are you staying close to home? What’s bringing you joy right now?

Recent Favorites

I’m really enjoying my Smythson notebooks. Their latest Spring collection features vibrant colors and fruity designs. They sent me the Apple Chelsea Notebook from the Panama Fruits collection, and it’s simply adorable. I love writing, and these notebooks make my evening to-do lists something I look forward to.

On the dining front, I’m thrilled about the newly opened Bedford restaurant by Martha Stewart. Everyone is buzzing about this place! I’ve also picked up a few lovely items from Zara, including a long-sleeve tee and flared jeans.

Exciting Discoveries

I’ve been listening to the podcast "Life Awakenings." It’s a simple yet profound episode, and I know many, including myself, can relate to it. Lately, I’ve also been enjoying my stay at the Proper Hotel in Austin. They’ve been so kind and sent me flowers this week; nothing makes me happier than flowers and a candle.

I’m also on the hunt for a new candle and stumbled upon the Liis brand, which I added to my cart. As for beauty products, I’m using YSE Exfoliating Pads and finding them very effective for my sensitive skin.

This Week’s Meals

On Monday, I had crispy Katsu chicken fried rice, Tuesday was grilled salmon with garlic butter, Wednesday featured Buffalo Ranch chicken made in a skillet, Thursday was stir-fried chicken with spinach and artichoke, Friday was chipotle chicken enchiladas, Saturday was homemade chocolate donuts, and over the weekend, I indulged in carrot cake with cream cheese frosting.

I hope you all have a wonderful spring and a happy Easter!

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Easter Week is Approaching