Saturday, March 31, 2007
Continuing from where I left -

6. Easter Egg Time Capsule.
Create your own Easter memories. Each year, fill a plastic Easter Egg (you may want to buy the larger novelty ones) with notes and mementos of your relationship for the past year. Or, use your Easter Egg time capsule to record your feelings for your partner on that particular day. Each year, look back on your previous notes and include a new one.

7. Aphrodisiac Easter Basket.
Fill an Easter Basket completely full of various chocolates (since it's an aphrodisiac and all). You may want to include a few sexy love notes with suggestions for the night to come.

8. Sexy Easter Basket.
Most definitely not a basket for kids. Fill an Easter Basket full of sexy gifts such as massage oils, an lotions and sensuous creams for a generous back rub

9. Easter Picnic
This is a common suggestion, but not many couples actually take advantage of it! Pack a picnic lunch with Easter traditional s like ham, plus a bottle of wine. Head out to your local park, snag a shady spot under a tree and prepare yourself for an afternoon of romance.

10. Easter Proposal.
Thinking about popping the question? Why not make it a romantic Easter proposal? Sure, you don't usually think Easter when you think of proposals, but there are many creative and romantic Easter ideas for proposing marriage. Check out our Easter proposal ideas.


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posted by Dave Richards at Saturday, March 31, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 1 comments
Friday, March 30, 2007
Easter is not necessarily the first holiday that comes to mind when you think romance, but you can make it romantic in your own way. Grab a chocolate bunny, read through these romantic Easter ideas and you'll be on your way to a hoppin' romantic day.

1. Easter Egg Hunt.
Setup the hunt the night before. If you have kids, you may want to do the hunt in your bedroom. Fill the eggs with love notes, chocolates, and a few small romantic gifts. Jewelry is always nice.

2. Egg-stra Special Love Notes.
Wrap paper messages around chocolate eggs with 'egg' quotes such as: "You are egg-stra special to me", "You egg-cite me!", or "You're an egg-stremely great wife/husband."

3. Dye Easter Eggs.
If you like boiled eggs (or even if you don't), dye Easter Eggs together. This is a fun activity that even adults can enjoy! If you get a white crayon, take the time to write romantic love messages on the eggs before you dye them. As you dye them, the messages will magically appear!

4. Easter Lilies
Surprise her with a room filled with potted Easter Lillies. They're gorgeous, in bloom, and easy to care for. Make sure to add a card letting her know that your love is a pure as the white fragrant blooms.

5. Easter Love Coupons.
Fill those plastic Easter Eggs with bunches of love coupons for your partner to redeem during the remainder of April. You can print free love coupons right here at RomnanceStuck.



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posted by Dave Richards at Friday, March 30, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
Here are the last 5 concluding Chocolate Bunnies for Easter

6) Standing Bunny with Basket from Martine's Chocolates

Martine's Chocolates are made daily at their confection shop in Bloomingdale's in Manhattan. This brightly painted chocolate bunny stands 8 1/4 inches high and is hand-colored. Their website is not the most user friendly. Look under Easter to find the chocolate rabbits. $46.95

7) Racer Bunny from Christopher Norman Chocolates

Christopher Norman makes wonderful chocolates. This hand-painted rabbit rides in a wicker basket convertible. $25.00

8) Hand Painted Calico Bunny from Moonstruck Chocolate Company

These adorable little guys (2.25 ounces) are made of milk chocolate and hand-painted with dark and white chocolates. At $6.00 per rabbit, these are some of the most affordable gourmet bunnies.

9) Easter Bunnies in a Box from L.A. Burdick Chocolate

Five chocolate bunnies snuggle together in a wooden box with marzipan eggs and chocolate truffles. Tied with a festive ribbon, this makes a wonderful gift. $27.00

10) Easter Bunny from Chocolat Michel Cluizel

Nothing fancy here, just really good chocolate. Michel Cluizel is one of France's premier chocolatiers. His chocolates are available through his store in New York (his only retail shop outside of Paris). Easter Bunnies are available in 60% cocoa dark chocolate or 33% cocoa milk chocolate. Both come with 3 chocolate bonbon Easter eggs. $15.00


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posted by Dave Richards at Friday, March 30, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
After covering Easter in Spain, I move to Africa. Take a look at this very interesting write up that I found on the net, about African Easter!

In Africa, Easter is celebrated as a main function of the Christian communities. In the Easter Vigil hundreds of people assemble in the church building.

In most parish churches the Easter Vigil is anticipated, because there are no lights, usually beginning at 3pm and finishing at dark, around 6pm.

The church is decorated by Vitenge and Kanga, clothes made up in the form of butterflies, flowers, banana trees etc. Christian hymns are accompanied by the beating of drums and Kigelegele, the high-pitched sounds made by women.

After the Mass, traditional dances are held outside of the church. Then people return home to continue their celebrations with local food and drinks.

In some parishes the people remain around the church after Mass and sit in their small Christian communities to continue the celebration of eating and drinking, as ceremonial dances and entertainments continue around them.

In Africa, Easter has a social dimension as well as a spiritual one. At Easter families come together. They share special food with Christians and non-Christians indulging in boiled or roasted rice with meat or chicken.

Meat being very scarce and expensive in Africa, the laws of abstinence (not eating meat) does not hold good.


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posted by Dave Richards at Friday, March 30, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Like everywhere else, Spanish Easter is too celebrated with lots of fun, enjoyment and food. So, here a couple of recipes that I found here, from a Star Chef that will simply make your Easter delicious !

Legumes with Truffle and Iberian Pork Sausage:

Ingredients:

* Legumes: 1 liter consommé
* 30 grams vegetable gelatin
* 100 grams white beans
* 100 grams lentils
* 100 grams barley
* 100 grams green soy beans
* 100 grams small garbanzo beans
* 1 shallot
* 50 milliliters truffle vinaigrette

Truffle Consommé and Iberian Pork Sausage:
* 700 milliliters veal consommé
* 100 milliliters truffle juice
* 300 grams Iberian pork sausage

Garnish:
100 grams truffle, julienned

Method:

For Legumes:
Boil the consommé, then add the gelatin and stir until the two combine. Place the liquid into a square dish. Once it has coagulated, cut it into 15-centimeter squares.

Boil all of the legumes separately. Once they are cooked, combine them in a bowl.

Mince the shallot and mix it with the truffle vinaigrette. Combine the legumes with the vinaigrette mixture. Place them on top of the gelatin squares and make a roll with the legume mixture in the middle. Keep refrigerated.

For Truffle Consommé and Iberian Pork Sausage:
Gently heat the consommé and truffle juice and set aside.

Saute the sausage in a pan, cutting it into 2-centimeter pieces. Keep it over low heat.

To Assemble and Serve:
In room-temperature soup bowls, place the legume rolls, the pork sausage and the julienned truffle. Ladle the truffle consommé around the sides and serve.

Sea Bass with Garlic and Calçots:
Calçots are a cross between a spring onion and a leek and are found in the Catalonia region of Spain. You may use ramps as a substitute if calçots are unavailable.

Ingredients:

* Calçot “Confit”: 6 calçots
* Thyme oil

Garlic Cream:
* 6 heads garlic
* 1 liter milk
* 200 milliliters cream
* Salt

Sea Bass and Roasted Calçots:
* 4 (300-gram) sea bass fillets
* 12 calçots
* Olive oil
* Salt and pepper

Grated Macadamia and Pepper Oil:
* 6 macadamia nuts
* 1 hot pepper
* 100 milliliters olive oil

Method:

For Calçot “Confit”:
Clean the calçots and julienne them. Blanch them in salted boiling water, and then plunge them into ice water. Pat dry and cover calçots with the thyme oil. Place in a water bath at 104ºF for 5 hours. Place calçots in a sealed jar when done.

For Garlic Cream:
Peel the garlic and blanch them 5 times, changing the water each time. Follow by boiling them with the milk until they become soft. Strain the garlic out and grind it up with the cream until it becomes a puree. Season with salt and set aside.

For Sea Bass and Calçots:
Preheat oven to 390ºF. Put the sea bass in a frying pan with olive oil, skin side down. When it begins to sear, put the pan in the oven to finish cooking.

Clean 12 calçots and season them with oil, salt and pepper. Wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in the oven until they soften. Remove and set aside.

For Grated Macadamia and Pepper Oil:
Grate slices of macadamia on a microplane and reserve in a dry place.

Combine the pepper and oil, then put the mixture into a blender until smooth. Strain the mixture and put it into a squeeze bottle.

To Assemble and Serve:
On a flat plate, draw some lines with the garlic cream. Next place the roasted calçots on the plate, with the sea bass on top. Sprinkle with macadamia slices and the pepper oil. On top of this place the calçot “confit” strips. Serve.

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posted by Dave Richards at Thursday, March 29, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 2 comments
What is Easter without a chocolate bunny rabbit? Among a basket of jellybeans, chocolate eggs, and marshmallow chickens, only the chocolate rabbit stands alone. Towering over the other treats, the bunny surveys all he sees and decides he is the most worthy of being eaten. Rightly so, but all bunnies are not created equal. For a truly gourmet chocolate experience, you must go to the artisan chocolate maker. Here is a list of my favorite chocolate rabbits from world class chocolatiers.

1)Mr. Goodtimes Easter Bunny from Lake Champlain Chocolates

Mr. Goodtimes Bunny is 16 1/2 inches tall and weighs 3 pounds. Even though he's hollow, that's a lot of chocolate. This milk chocolate rabbit is hand-decorated with white and dark chocolate. Mr. Goodtimes is also the most expensive rabbit on the list with a price tag of $85. Lake Champlain also makes a Cruisin' Easter Bunny for only $20.

2)Exotic Rabbits from Vosges Chocolates

These cute little bunnies are only a fraction of the size of Mr. Goodtimes (4 inches high) and price ($9.50). At first glance, they may seem a little on the plain side but their secret is in the taste. These solid chocolate rabbits come in 4 exotic flavors: Red Fire Bunny is flavored with Mexican spices, Gianduja Bunny has hazelnuts and almonds, Black Pearl Bunny is Japanese with wasabi and ginger, and Naga Bunny has Indian flavors with curry and coconut.

3)The Famous Robert L. Strohecker Assorted Rabbit from Harbor Sweets

This deceptively plain looking rabbit is actually a map of delightful flavors. The ears contain toasted almonds, the head is almond butter crunch, the body contains caramel with pecans, and the base has toasted almonds. 5 ounces, $15.50 to $16.75, available in milk or dark chocolate.

4)Mr. Chocolate's Easter Bunny from Jacques Torres Chocolate

Here's a wonderful Easter rabbit from the master of chocolate, Jacques Torres. These hollow bunnies stand 10 inches tall and are available in milk or dark chocolate. $18.00

5)Standing Boy Bunny from Ghyslain Chocolates

This chocolate bunny is really a work of art. Beautifully hand-painted with a hazelnut acorn and chocolate squirrel, this sculpture stands 14 inches tall and weighs a hefty 24 ounces. Also available is the Sitting Girl Bunny, also hand-painted. $44.95

Check out my next 5 Chocoloate Bunnies For easter tomorrow

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posted by Dave Richards at Thursday, March 29, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
Easter celebration in Mexico is held as a combination of two separate big observances - Semana Santa and Pascua. The former means the whole of the Holy Week - Palm Sunday to Easter Saturday. And the Pascua is the observance for the period from the Resurrection Sunday to the following Saturday.

For most Mexicans, this two-week period is the time for a great vacation. People enjoy this time with the community of their choice.

Semana Santa celebrates the last days of the Christ's life. Pascua is the celebration of the Christ's Resurrection. It is also the release from the sacrifices of Lent.

In many communities, the full Passion Play is enacted from the Last Supper, the Betrayal, the Judgement, the Procession of the 12 Stations of the Cross, the Crucifixion and, finally, the Resurrection. In some communities, real crucifixion is included. The enactments are often nicely staged, costumed and acted, with participants preparing for their roles for nearly the full year leading up to Semana Santa.


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posted by Dave Richards at Thursday, March 29, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 2 comments
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
My last bit of posting on Easter food - I start with 'breaking bread' and finish up with desserts!

Bread/Rolls - Easter Bread

Ingredients:
1 pkg. Dry yeast
1/2 C. Warm water
1/2 C. Boiling water
1 tsp. Cinnamon
3/4 C. Sugar
3 Eggs
1/4 C. Butter; melted
1/2 C. Warm milk
1 tsp. Baking powder
1/2 tsp. Salt
5 C. Flour (all-purpose)
1 Egg yolk; beaten
Sesame seeds
5 Eggs; hard-cooked; unshelled -and dyed red

Directions:

Soften yeast in warm water and set aside. Combine boiling water and cinnamon; set aside. Combine sugar and eggs; beat well. Add melted butter to egg mixture and beat again. Skim off 1/4 C. clear cinnamon water and add along with yeast and milk to egg mixture, blending well. Combine dry ingredients and add to batter; knead dough until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. Shape dough to fit into 2 greased 8 in. round pans; crisscross 2 strips of dough over each loaf. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk. Brush loaves with beaten egg yolk and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until brown. Push dyed eggs into bread immediately when loaves are removed from oven.

Now for the best part of the whole meal... Dessert. Have fun and create an eye popping dessert that your whole family will enjoy. Here are some different options to choose from.

Easter Angel Cake Ingredients:

1 pkg. white angel food cake mix
8 oz. frozen whipped cream topping, thawed
1 cup flaked coconut
6 drops green food color
Jelly beans

Directions:

Bake and cool cake as directed on package, remove from pan. Frost with whipped topping. Combine coconut and food color until evenly tinted. Sprinkle over top of cake. Arrange jelly beans on coconut. After serving, refrigerate any remaining cake.


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posted by Dave Richards at Wednesday, March 28, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Continuing my series on Easter Food -

Now for a Lamb Recipe: Honey Glazed Lamb

Ingredients :
1 C. Honey
1/2 C. Dry white wine
4 Tbs. Minced fresh mint
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 lbs. Boneless leg of lamb, (2 whole legs)

Directions :
Combine honey, wine and mint; mix well. Season cut side of boned lamb with salt and pepper, then spread with honey mixture; roll and tie lamb. Brush outer surface with honey mixture. Roast on rack in shallow baking pan at 325 degrees F 1 to 1-1/2 hours or to 160 degrees F on meat thermometer for medium doneness. Baste every 15 minutes. Let stand 10 to 15 minutes before slicing.

Side dishes are a must and just as important as the main course - Side Potatoes Dishes Oven Roast Greek Potatoes

Ingredients :
4-5 Medium Potatoes; Cubed
1 Tbs. Olive Oil
1 Tbs. Butter; Melted
1-2 Tbs. All Purpose Greek Seasoning
Dash Garlic Seasoning

Directions :

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Toss potatoes with remaining ingredients. Bake in 9x13" casserole dish for 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden. Yield: 4 servings

Sides Dishes - Oven Roasted Potatoes and Asparagus

Ingredients :

1 1/2 lb. red potatoes cut into chunks
2 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil
8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
4 tsp. dried rosemary
4 tsp. dried thyme
2 tsp. kosher salt
1 bunch fresh asparagus trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces ground black pepper to taste

Directions :

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a large baking dish, toss the red potatoes with 1/2 the olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and 1/2 the kosher salt. Cover with aluminum foil. Bake 20 minutes in the preheated oven. Mix in the asparagus, remaining olive oil, and remaining salt. Cover, and continue cooking 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Increase oven temperature to 450 degrees. Remove foil, and continue cooking 5 to 10 minutes, until potatoes are lightly browned. Season with pepper to serve.

Side Dishes - Glazed Carrots

Ingredients :
6 C. carrots cut into 1" diagonal slices
1/4 C. brown sugar
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 C. orange juice
1/4 C. butter
1 tsp. cornstarch
1/2 tsp. salt

Directions :

Cook carrots on stovetop in a small amount of salted water until tender, drain water. Combine orange juice, nutmeg, brown sugar, cornstarch, and mix until smooth. Pour over carrots and cook for several minutes until mixture thickens. Add butter and toss. Serve hot.


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posted by Dave Richards at Tuesday, March 27, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 1 comments
This sacred and joyous holiday for Christians throughout the world celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his death by crucifixion. For many Christians, especially those of Eastern and Orthodox faith, Easter is the most important holiday of the year, even over Christmas.

Traditional Easter meals can either have ham or lamb as a main dish. These days, many families favor the salty sweetness of ham. Most ham dishes served on this holiday are honey glazed with sides of candied yams, glazed veggies and potatoes.

Below I have found some great recipes that are easy to follow and absolutely perfect for your Easter brunch. And don’t worry, if you are one of those families who prefer lamb over ham I have found some delicious recipes for you as well.

Let’s start off with the main course: Easter Ham

Ingredients :
1-7 to 8 lb. fully cooked smoked ham shank 1 C. maple syrup 2 Tbs. cider vinegar 1 Tbs. prepared mustard whole cloves

Directions :
Combine syrup, vinegar and mustard. Place ham, fat side up, on rack in shallow roasting pan. Pour about 1/2 C. mixture over ham and bake, uncovered, in a preheated 325 degree oven for 1-1/2 hours. Baste every 30 minutes with additional sauce. Remove ham from oven and score fat into diamond shapes. Insert a clove into each diamond. Bake ham an additional 30 minutes or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of meat registers 140 degrees. Let ham rest 15 minutes before carving.


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posted by Dave Richards at Tuesday, March 27, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 1 comments
Monday, March 26, 2007

The most fun you can have with your child is creating Jell-O deserts. There is a Jell-O dessert for every occasion. Children love the color and the jiggle of Jell-O treats. Make it a fun project to create an Easter Jell-O egg basket. You can make these fun Easter Eggs using cake molds or cookie cutters.

Color-Me-Fun With Jell-O Eggs/Bunny Molds – Make these in Pastel Colors for Easter

Ingredients:

  • 2- 4 oz pkg. unflavored gelatin
  • Egg Shaped Molds
  • Bunny Shaped Molds
  • 8-oz Cool Whip
  • Jello-O in flavors of your choice

Instructions:

1. Two 4-ounce packages of unflavored gelatin dissolved in 1 cup of boiling water
2. Cool to room temperature
3. Fold in 8 ounces of Cool Whip
4. Combine the unflavored gelatin and cool whip 5. Add to 6 ounces of flavored Jell-O that has been dissolved in 1 cup boiling water. 6. Pour into molds that are set inside a lightly greased pan
7. Refrigerate until firm (about 2 hours)
8. Decorate the bunny with shredded coconut, skittles and M&M's

Fun Ice Cream Bunny

Ingredients:

  • Vanilla ice cream
  • 1 pkg. of coconut
  • Carrot shavings
  • Jellybeans
  • Licorice strings

Instructions:

1. On a flat plate arrange 3 balls of vanilla ice cream in the form a bunny.
2. Use medium scoop for head - Larger scoop for body-smallest scoop for the tail.
3. Cover the bunny body with shredded coconut.
4. Place carrot shavings (large) for ears.
5. Use jelly beans for eyes and nose.
6. Use licorice strings for whiskers.

Happy Easter Bunny Salad

Ingredients:

  • Lettuce
  • Cottage cheese
  • 1 can of pear halves
  • Celery stick
  • Raisins
  • 1 Red Grapes

Instructions:

1. Place leaves of lettuce on a salad plate.
2. Use Ice cream scoop and place cottage cheese on top of the lettuce.
3. Use 1 canned pear half and place on top of cottage cheese.
4. Use thin slices of celery for whiskers.
5. Place the raisins where the eyes should be.
6. Use a grape for the nose.

Cut the remaining pear in half to create the ears.

http://ezinearticles.com/?Easter-Recipe-For-Kids&id=468944



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posted by Dave Richards at Monday, March 26, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 3 comments
Easter is a festival that has lot of significance for Christians. It is a holiday that is celebrated to commemorate the resurrection of Lord Jesus. Most of us are ignorant about legends associated with Easter.

For people, who are genuinely interested to learn facts about Easter, a fabulous idea is to look out for Easter books. One can surf the list of books on Easter on net and locate the same in library. In fact, during the Easter time, bookstores are virtually flooded with top Easter storybooks.

Here is a list of Easter books for children: -

* The Country Bunny and the Little Gold Shoes by Du Bose Heyward
* The Story of Easter by Christopher Doyle
* The Story of the Easter Bunny by Katherine Tegen
* Love One Another: The Last Days of Jesus by Lauren Thompson
* Easter by Jan Pieñkowski
* The Golden Egg Book by Margaret
* Easter Cooking
* Easter Mice by Bethany Roberts
* Five Little Chicks by Lark Carrier
* 175 Easy to Do Easter Crafts by Sharon Dunn Umnik
* The Easter Egg Farm by Mary Jane Auch


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posted by Dave Richards at Monday, March 26, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
Saturday, March 24, 2007

Continuing from where I left yesterday...

1. Wash all eggs well and dry off with a paper towel.

2. Carefully, (and I suggest only adults do this) poke a small hole in each end of the raw egg.

3. Over a bowl, hold the egg and blow into one of the holes you just made. The raw yolk should slowly come out from the other hole. Sometimes this can be easy and sometimes it can be hard.

4. Once the egg is empty gently rinse it off again and towel dry. Place the raw eggshells in a safe place where they cannot get broken. I suggest placing them in the egg carton they originally came from.

Keeping Things Clean -
Now that your eggs are ready, you need to set up a station where you can decorate them. Here are some starter tips for you to get ready to hop into your decorating mode.

- Think about setting up your table outside, if weather permits. That way the kids and adults can be as messy as they want to be.

- Cover the table with plenty of newspaper so cleaning will be less work than it needs to be.

- Remember to hold on to all the empty egg cartons so when it comes time to place the painted eggs somewhere to dry you can use these. Just rip off the top of the carton and flip the bottom of the carton that actually holds the eggs in its place. More than likely some of the dye will drip from the bottom of the painted egg onto the carton so just use caution when picking them up.

- Make sure all eggs are completely dry before handling them.

Now for the fun part..... Decorating!

Anyone can find Easter egg decorating kits at party stores, kid’s toy stores and even grocery stores but if you want to save some money, below is an easy recipe to make Old Fashioned Egg Dye for your Easter eggs.

Old Fashion Egg Dye Ingredients

1/2 C. boiling water
1 tsp. vinegar
Food coloring

Directions

  • Combine boiling water, vinegar and the specified number of drops of food color to achieve desired colors. Dip hard cooked eggs in dye for about 5 minutes or until desired color.
  • For variety, try dipping the top half in one color and the bottom half in another; or leaving the egg in the dye for different lengths of time, creating different shades of a particular color. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to add or remove eggs from dye.

Following are some color combinations to create a vivid palette of colors for your Easter eggs:

Lime - 24 yellow, 4 green
Purple - 15 blue, 5 red
Cantaloupe - 24 yellow, 2 red
Jade - 17 green, 3 blue
Plum - 10 red, 4 blue
Spearmint - 12 green, 6 yellow, 2 blue
Raspberry - 14 red, 6 blue
Maize - 24 yellow, 1 red
Watermelon - 25 red, 2 blue
Teal - 15 green, 5 blue
Grape - 17 blue, 3 red
Fuchsia - 18 red, 2 blue
Orange Sunset - 17 yellow, 3 red
Jungle Green - 14 green, 6 yellow

Have a wonderful Easter and keep your eyes out for the Easter Bunny!




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posted by Dave Richards at Saturday, March 24, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 3 comments
Friday, March 23, 2007

When we think of Easter, eggs are definitely a main symbol most of us can relate to. Every April in most homes, families gather around a table to decorate and dye eggs. These pastel colored eggs are used for decoration around the house, in baskets or they are used for children’s Easter Egg Hunts. You simply can’t celebrate Easter without homemade Easter eggs.

How To Hard Boil The Perfect Easter Egg -

When it comes to hard-boiling an egg there is a special way to get it to be perfect. Sometimes an egg yolk can come out a little runny in the middle or completely opposite and be a dark grayish color. Obviously you are either keeping the egg in the boiling water for too little or way too long. Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect hard-boiled egg.

1. Place the pot on top of the stove. Make sure the pot is big enough to hold the desired amount of eggs you want to hard-boil plus boiling water.

2. place the number of eggs carefully in the pot. Add enough water (temperature of water doesn’t matter) to completely cover the eggs. Place the pan on the stove and turn the burner on to high heat. Leave the pan alone for 20 minutes.

3. After the time has passed, place pan under cold running water to cool off the eggs. Let the eggs sit in the cold water for awhile. I sometimes add ice cubes to the pot to help cool of the eggs.

Blow or Hollow Out Easter Eggs -

Sometimes families blow out the eggs and then decorate instead of using hard-boiled eggs. It might be more difficult for a child to try to decorate an egg that is hollowed out because it is more fragile.

Follow these simple steps to blowing out your Easter Eggs...




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posted by Dave Richards at Friday, March 23, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
It’s hard to imagine Easter without Easter baskets. Traditionally, these are filled with candy treats such as chocolates and jelly beans, usually in the shape of an egg. There may also be hollow plastic eggs with coins or other treats inside. But did you ever wonder where the whole idea of baskets on Easter came from in the first place?

Like the Easter holiday itself, the basket is the result of the confluence of several traditions from different cultures. Some of these stem from the Judeo-Christian tradition; others date back to pagan customs.

In ancient Europe, the vernal or spring equinox was a significant time. In the original home of the Indo-Aryan peoples – ancestors of most of the ethnic and linguistic groups of Europe as well as Armenia, Kurdistan, Iran, Afghanistan and India – winters were long and bitter. Spring was considered a time of renewal and rebirth.

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Among Semitic-speaking peoples of the ancient Middle East – who include the Hebrews, Arabs, Babylonians, Assyrians and others – it was a tradition to bring the first seedlings of the growing season to the temples in order to insure a successful harvest. This connection to agriculture is also reflected in the holiday’s relationship to the cycles of the moon; it is always held on the Sunday (day of Sol Invictus, or the “Unconquerable Sun”) following the first full moon after the spring equinox. To early farmers, the phase of the moon was always significant in determining when to plant seeds.

The tradition of Easter gift baskets is really most closely connected to Western Christianity, however. In the Roman Catholic Church, Easter is only part of an entire season of rituals and observances that begin forty-six days prior to Easter itself. Many who have experienced the revelry of Mardi Gras or Carnivale don’t realize that the “Fat Tuesday” celebration represents a last chance to party before entering that period called Lent – when the devout are expected to fast and give up meat, eggs and dairy. Lent ends on Easter, hence the tradition of a large, sumptuous family meal. At one time, it was a tradition for Roman Catholic families to carry the food for Easter dinner to Mass in a basket, where it could be blessed by the priest – harking back to the ancient tradition of bringing first crops and seedlings to the temple. German immigrants to the U.S. contributed their own customs. “Pennsylvania Dutch” children eagerly awaited the Osterhase to deliver eggs on Easter Sunday, which he would deposit on his “rabbit’s nest” – hence the tradition of lining Easter gift baskets with grass (or more commonly today, artificial decorative grass).

Although considered a religious holiday, Easter is really a universal expression of renewal and new beginnings.


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posted by Dave Richards at Friday, March 23, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
Thursday, March 22, 2007
To most people, Easter is about Easter baskets. Children look forward to receiving a chocolate Easter gift, and even newborns may get a baby Easter basket. At least as a secular holiday, Easter is not nearly as big as Christmas. Unlike Christmas, we don’t have a lot of secular songs that are associated with Easter, nor does the holiday have a movie like It’s A Wonderful Life. Two songs do come to mind, however, and they’re both written by the same person. One is Happy Easter, and the other is Easter Parade. Both are from the same 1948 Hollywood musical, and both were written by the son of Russian Jewish immigrants, who is known as Irving Berlin.

Irving Berlin is also known for God Bless America and White Christmas as well as Alexander’s Ragtime Band, Blue Skies and Puttin’ On The Ritz, to name but a few of the 3,000 songs he penned over the course of his 101-year lifetime.

Berlin started life as Israel Baline. Born to Rabbi Moses Baline and his wife Leah in a small Russian village in 1888, the family fled that country in 1891 to escape the frequent pogroms and persecutions suffered by the Ashkenazi Jews. In New York, Rabbi Baline went to work certifying kosher meat. When his father died in 1896, eight-year-old Israel wound up having to go to work in order to survive. It was some years later while working as a singing waiter that his first song, Marie From Sunny Italy started him on his songwriting career. It also resulted in a name change; on the published sheet music, I. Baline was misprinted as I.Berlin.


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Irving Berlin was almost sixty years old when he penned the score for MGM’s Easter Parade in the late 1940’s. The film was set to star Judy Garland, Gene Kelly and Cyd Charisse. Just before production was to begin, Gene Kelly suffered an injury and Cyd Charisse backed out. Fred Astaire was coaxed out of “retirement” and a new face, Ann Miller, was cast to replace Charisse. The cast also included Peter Lawford, who would go on to become one of the “Ratpack” that included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and Joey Bishop.

The plot of Easter Parade is nothing remarkable. The music on the other hand won an Oscar for Best Scoring of a Musical as well as a Writer’s Guild of America Award. is packed with numerous Berlin’s songs that represent some of his best work – several of which were written especially for the film.

Perhaps the significance of Easter Parade – aside from its Easter related songs – is that new, brilliant, creative work can be produced by people of any age, not just young “up-and-comers.” Considering that Easter is about renewal and new beginnings, that’s something to think about.

http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anne_Harvester


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posted by Dave Richards at Thursday, March 22, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
Like I said, Easter songs are very popular both among the youth and the old and they sell like hot cakes during Easter. Here are few videos on Easter Songs that I found, have a look -





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posted by Dave Richards at Thursday, March 22, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 2 comments
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
To commemorate Easter festival, people sing special Easter songs. In fact, CDs on famous songs for Easter sell like real hot cakes during Easter festivity. Not only they have gained momentum among youth, but are paving way for popularity of Easter Hymns too. Easter songs sail smoothly in Easter parties. Children dance to the tunes of Easter songs. In churches, men and women sing Easter hymns.

As a part of Easter tradition, people enjoy the soothing melodious songs on Easter, while having their delicious Easter feast. Easter season also gives a warm welcome to the refreshing springtime.

Thus, songs on the theme of spring can also be heard in the music stores. There are multiple websites that provide the opportunity of free downloading of Easter songs. Here is a list of some famous songs on Easter:

* Easter parade
* Christ the Lord is risen today
* He arose
* Peter Cottontail
* Easter Bunny
* Ten little bunnies
* Little bunny foo foo
* Funny bunny
* Bunny hop

http://www.indobase.com/holidays/easter/easter-songs/index.html


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posted by Dave Richards at Wednesday, March 21, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
Some more of humor on Easter!

Q:Why did the rabbit cross the road?
A: Because it was the chicken's day off.

Q: Why are people always tired in April?
A: Because they just finished a march

Q: What's the difference between a bunny and a lumberjack?
A: One chews and hops, the other hews and chops.

Q: What did the rabbit say to the carrot?
A: It's been nice gnawing at you.

Q: Do you know how bunnies stay in shape?
A: Hareobics.

Q: What grows between your nose and chin?
A: Tulips.

Q: What do you get when you find a rabbit with no hair?
A: A hairless hare!


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posted by Dave Richards at Wednesday, March 21, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 2 comments
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
When it's the time for some festivity, one should enjoy it to the fullest. Easter holiday is incomplete without Easter humor. Infact these days, newspapers and magazines are flooded with jokes on Easter. Here are some Easter jokes: -

Q: What do you call rabbits that marched in a long sweltering Easter parade?
A: Hot, cross bunnies.

Q: What do you call Easter when you are hopping around?
A: Hoppy Easter!

Q: Why was the rabbit rubbing his head?
A: Because he had a eggache! (headache)

Q: How do bunnies stay healthy?
A: Eggercise

Q: What does a rooster say to a hen he likes?
A: Your one hot chick!

Q: What do ducks have for lunch?
A: Soup and quackers!


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posted by Dave Richards at Tuesday, March 20, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 2 comments
Flowers have a language of their own. When words fail, flowers act as the best medium of expression. Most of them mean different meanings to different people. So, while all flowers convey thoughtfulness and love, here are some of the more traditional meanings.

• Azalea - Take Care of Yourself for Me, Temperance, Fragile Passion, Chinese Symbol of Womanhood

• Begonia - Beware

• Chrysanthemum - You're a Wonderful Friend, Cheerfulness and Rest

• Chrysanthemum (white) - Truth

• Chrysanthemum (yellow) - Slighted Love

• Daffodil - Regard, Unrequited Love, You're the Only One, The Sun is Always Shining when I'm with You

• Hyacinth (purple) - I am Sorry, Please Forgive Me, Sorrow

• Hyacinth (red or pink) - Play

• Hyacinth (white) - Loveliness, I'll Pray for You

• Hyacinth (yellow) - Jealousy

• Lily (white) - Virginity, Purity, Majesty, It's Heavenly to be with You

• Lily (yellow) - I'm Walking on Air, False and Gay

• Tulip (general) - Perfect Lover, Frame, Flower Emblem of Holland

• Tulip (red) - Believe Me, Declaration of Love

• Tulip (variegated) - Beautiful Eyes

• Tulip (yellow) - There's Sunshine in Your Smile

http://www.fernlea.com/easter/easttriv.htm


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posted by Dave Richards at Tuesday, March 20, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
Monday, March 19, 2007
Easter lily is a symbol associated with motherhood. Symbol of Easter, white Lily signifies purity and hope. There are many legends related to Easter lily flower. It's not just a flower meant to adorn house, but it has a lot of significance too. According to Roman mythology, white Lily is associated with Juno, the queen of gods. It is said that at the time when queen Juno was feeding her baby son Hercules, some milk fell from the sky. The part of it that remained above the earth, paved way for the formation of Milky Way and the rest of it that fell on to the earth, lead to the blooming of beautiful white lilies. While some stories suggest that, white lilies are an outcome of the milk of the mythological queen of heaven, Hera, through which these gorgeous flowers had sprung.

As a part of Easter tradition, to honor the Jesus' resurrection, churches are decorated with beautiful white lilies. At homes, they find a special place for themselves in colorful flower baskets. Also, they serve as wonderful Easter gifts, heading their way to splendid flower bouquets. Since white lily symbolizes purity, it is often associated with mother Mary. This explains the reason why the paintings for Easter picturise saints presenting gorgeous white lilies to mother Mary, while congratulating her for being the mother of Jesus. Thus, Easter lily is a very sacred flower that marks the commemoration of Jesus' return to life.

http://www.indobase.com/holidays/easter/easter-symbols/easter-lily.html


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posted by Dave Richards at Monday, March 19, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 3 comments
Another facet of Easter - this is very very yummy. Take a look below to know more.

Easter hot cross buns recipe is not just a yummy dish that is served on Easter festivity, but the cross-pastry icing that is done on the bun, reminds us of the cross on which Jesus was crucified. Eating hot cross buns is a tradition that is passed over from one generation to another. From the Pagan times, it has been a custom to eat Easter symbol, hot cross buns at the breakfast time on Good Friday. And since then, this tradition has become a major part of Easter celebration.

One can relish the different flavors of hot cross buns that are added on in different proportions to make a perfect combo of sweet, spicy and fruity taste. These hot cross buns are baked at home in the oven and served hot. That is why they are called hot cross buns. These buns sell like hot cakes during Easter springtime, fetching a good business to the bakery shops.

Everything has some or the other superstition related to it. So is the case with hot cross buns too. People have a belief that hot cross buns protect us from evil spirits and have a magical power of curing. This explains the reason why in ancient times, people used to hang these buns on the kitchen ceilings. This Easter, enjoy the delicious recipe of hot cross buns and don't forget to serve it hot.

http://www.indobase.com/holidays/easter/easter-symbols/easter-hot-cross-bun.html



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posted by Dave Richards at Monday, March 19, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 1 comments
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Kids love to watch cartoon films and when it comes to watching animated films, oh there is no barrier of their happiness. So why not use kids's favorite hobby of watching films to educate them.

Easter movies are a great fun to watch and the best part is that, they provide ample information about Easter history and the symbols associated with it. There are different types of movies on Easter, to say for example there are Easter egg movies, Easter Island movies, movies on Easter bunnies etc.

Here is a list of some movies that one can enjoy watching on Easter day: -

* Easter Parade
* Who Framed Roger Rabbit
* Harvey
* Alice in Wonderland
* The Easter Bunny is Comin' to Town
* Happy go Ducky - Tom and Jerry show
* The Tale of the Bunny Picnic
* Easter Titans
http://www.indobase.com/holidays/easter/easter-celebration/easter-movies.html


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posted by Dave Richards at Saturday, March 17, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 1 comments
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Take a look here, for some interesting information on the Easter Cross.

Easter cross has a lot of significance for the Christian community. A cross symbolizes the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, reminding us of the blood that Jesus had shed in lieu of the sins committed by mankind. It is a sacred symbol that signifies faith. An empty Easter symbol cross, on the other hand, is indicative of the resurrection of Lord Jesus that represents the triumph of goodness over evil spirit and life over death. Thus this symbol of Easter, cross is indicative of both crucifixion and resurrection. If on one hand, it signifies sacrifice, and then on the other hand, it is a symbol of new life.


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Different kinds of crosses are famous among various Christian groups. For example among Catholics and Protestants, Latin cross is in usage and Eastern Orthodox churches have adopted the Greek cross.

Crosses of different lengths can be spotted but six to seven feet long looks real impressive. It is used for prayer purpose during the Lent season. But on Good Friday, the cross usually a wooden one, is covered with black, a color for mourning for the death of Jesus. Black cross is meant to remember the sacrifices of Jesus but before the Easter Sunday, the draping in black is removed and the cross is rather decorated with flowers to honor the Jesus' return to life. Thus, Easter cross has a lot of significance for Christians.

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posted by Dave Richards at Thursday, March 15, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 2 comments
The Easter bunny has its origin in pre-Christian fertility lore. The Hare and the Rabbit were the most fertile animals known and they served as symbols of the new life during the Spring season.

The bunny as an Easter symbol seems to have it's origins in Germany, where it was first mentioned in German writings in the 1500s. The first edible Easter bunnies were made in Germany during the early 1800s. And were made of pastry and sugar

The Easter bunny was introduced to American folklore by the German settlers who arrived in the Pennsylvania Dutch country during the 1700s. The arrival of the "Oschter Haws" was considered "childhood's greatest pleasure" next to a visit from Christ-Kindel on Christmas Eve. The children believed that if they were good the "Oschter Haws" would lay a nest of colored eggs.

The children would build their nest in a secluded place in the home, the barn or the garden. Boys would use their caps and girls their bonnets to make the nests . The use of elaborate Easter baskets would come later as the tradition of the Easter bunny spread through out the country.


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posted by Dave Richards at Thursday, March 15, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Here are some more 'eggy' games! Wow, I never thought Easter could be so 'egg-treme'!

EASTER GUESSING GAME
Take a Jar filled with various types of easter eggs, jelly beans, malted, chocolate etc. Count Them as You fill it add a $5 bill at the top and tape it shut. I leave paper next to the jar and
everyone guesses how many are in the jar... even grandma & grandpa. The person who is the closest without going over is the winner. They win the jar, eggs and the $5. Fun for all.

EASTER MEMORY
You paint one side of the egg a color, or even a shape. You hide it in the grass, with the color side facing the ground. The players have to remember what color is where, just like the game memory have fun!

EGG RELAY RACE
The way you play this game is to have at least 15 kids and/or adults. If you were playing with 15 people you would need 5 hard-boiled eggs because there are 3 people on a team and you get the point. Well,you put the egg on the spoon and run with it to the next person in the line(you need to put the three people in a line about 10 to 15 feet apart.)If you drop the egg then you have to go back to YOUR starting point and run with it again. Whoever wins gets the desired prize of the person who is responsible for holding the race.There are first,second, and third places.

EGG ROLL
Here is another easter game for little ones. Mark off a start and stop point anywhere from 5 to 10 feet apart. Using a hard boiled egg ( can be decorated or plain) have the kids down on
hands and knees. Roll the egg across the floor using only there noses. The first one to the finish line without touching the egg with their hands is the grand champion nose roller.

NIGHTTIME EGG HUNT
Have an Easter Egg Hunt in the dark with flashlights for adults. It's a Blast watching all the OLD folk look like GOOFS :)


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posted by Dave Richards at Wednesday, March 14, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 2 comments

Eggs play an important part in Easter sports. The Romans celebrated the Easter season by running races on an oval track and giving eggs as prizes. So get ready for some 'eggs-tra' fun this Easter with these cool game ideas that I found !

JELLYBEAN TOSS
Cut the top off an egg carton. Using the bottom , number cups 1-12 with a magic marker or crayon. Place the carton on the floor and mark a starting line about 8 feet away. Give each player a different color jellybean. To Play, each player stands behind the line, calls out a number between 1-12 and tried to toss the jellybean into that numbered cup. For each successful toss, one point is given. First player with 21 points WINS!

EGGHEAD
You take three eggs and hardboil one and leave two raw. Put them in a bowl, have someone pick one out and smash it over their head. If they get the hardboiled one out of three people, they get a prize.

KIDS EGG HUNT
Take 5 to10 eggs and hide them inside for kids to find. The kid who has most eggs at the end WINS.


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INDOOR EGG HUNT
Is rain going to ruin your Easter egg hunt? Just hide jelly beans inside the house and have your adults or kids hunt for them. Depending on the age of the participants you can make the hunt easy or hard. Ever try and see a black jelly bean on a black object? Have fun!!

REVERSE EGG HUNT
You could have your children make at least five eggs each and hide them around theh ouse.When they are done hiding them, the parents could look for them. I hope this is a great idea.

TEENAGE EGG HUNT
Have a scavenger hunt. Place clues on the Table for when they wakeup on Easter morning, Remember, kids are slick so don't make the CLUES too easy... after all we all know they know it all.. The one who finds his or hers final clue first can get a Bonus along with his goodies that are at the end of the hunt... like 2 tickets to a show!

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posted by Dave Richards at Wednesday, March 14, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Easter Eggs.. yummy! But wait, there is more to easter eggs then just eating them. Here's what I got 'eggs-tra' on the Easter Egg, from the net.

Of all the symbols associated with Easter the egg, the symbol of fertility and new life, is the most identifiable. The customs and traditions of using eggs have been associated with Easter for centuries

Originally Easter eggs were painted with bright colors to represent the sunlight of spring and were used in Easter-egg rolling contests or given as gifts. After they were colored and etched with various designs the eggs were exchanged by lovers and romantic admirers, much the same as valentines. In medieval time eggs were traditionally given at Easter to the servants. In Germany eggs were given to children along with other Easter gifts.


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Different cultures have developed their own ways of decorating Easter eggs. Crimson eggs, to honor the blood of Christ, are exchanged in Greece. In parts of Germany and Austria green eggs are used on Maundy Thursday (Holy Thursday). Slavic peoples decorate their eggs in special patterns of gold and silver.

Austrian artists design patterns by fastening ferns and tiny plants around the eggs, which are then boiled. The plants are then removed revealing a striking white pattern. The Poles and Ukrainians decorate eggs with simple designs and colors. A number of eggs are made in the distinctive manner called pysanki (to design, to write).

Pysanki eggs are a masterpiece of skill and workmanship. Melted beeswax is applied to the fresh white egg. It is then dipped in successive baths of dye. After each dip wax is painted over the area where the preceding color is to remain. Eventually a complex pattern of lines and colors emerges into a work of art.

In Germany and other countries eggs used for cooking where not broken, but the contents were removed by piercing the end of each egg with a needle and blowing the contents into a bowl. The hollow eggs were dyed and hung from shrubs and trees during the Easter Week. The Armenians would decorate hollow eggs with pictures of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and other religious designs.


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posted by Dave Richards at Tuesday, March 13, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
Here's my continuing post on Easter customs -

6. The Easter Fire

The Easter Fire is lit on the top of mountains and must be kindled from new fire, drawn from wood by friction. This is a custom of pagan origin in vogue all over Europe, signifying the victory of spring over winter. The bishops issued severe edicts against the sacrilegious Easter fires but did not succeed in abolishing them everywhere. The Church adopted the observance into the Easter ceremonies, referring it to the fiery column in the desert and to the Resurrection of Christ; the new fire on Holy Saturday is drawn from flint, symbolizing the Resurrection of the Light of the World from the tomb closed by a stone. In some places a figure was thrown into the Easter fire, symbolizing winter, but to the Christians on the Rhine, in Tyrol and Bohemia, Judas the traitor.

7. Processions and awakenings

At Puy in France, from time immemorial to the tenth century, it was customary, when at the first psalm of Matins a canon was absent from the choir, for some of the canons and vicars, taking with them the processional cross and the holy water, to go to the house of the absentee, sing the "Haec Dies", sprinkle him with water, if he was still in bed, and lead him to the church. In punishment he had to give a breakfast to his conductors. A similar custom is found in the fifteenth century at Nantes and Angers, where it was prohibited by the diocesan synods in 1431 and 1448. In some parts of Germany parents and children try to surprise each other in bed on Easter morning to apply the health-giving switches.


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8. Blessing of food

In both the Oriental and Latin Churches, it is customary to have those victuals which were prohibited during Lent blessed by the priests before eating them on Easter Day, especially meat, eggs, butter, and cheese. Those who ate before the food was blessed, according to popular belief, were punished by God, sometimes instantaneously.

9. House blessings

On the eve of Easter the homes are blessed in memory of the passing of the angel in Egypt and the signing of the door-posts with the blood of the paschal lamb. The parish priest visits the houses of his parish; the papal apartments are also blessed on this day. The room, however, in which the pope is found by the visiting cardinal is blessed by the pontiff himself.

10. Sports and celebrations

The Greeks and Russians after their long, severe Lent make Easter a day of popular sports. At Constantinople the cemetery of Pera is the noisy rendezvous of the Greeks; there are music, dances, and all the pleasures of an Oriental popular resort; the same custom prevails in the cities of Russia. In Russia anyone can enter the belfries on Easter and ring the bells, a privilege of which many persons avail themselves.

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posted by Dave Richards at Tuesday, March 13, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
Monday, March 12, 2007
Like I mentioned before, there is indeed more to Easter apart from eggs and bunnies. Here's an interesting collection of few Easter customs that I found over the internet!

1. Risus Paschalis

This strange custom originated in Bavaria in the fifteenth century. The priest inserted in his sermon funny stories which would cause his hearers to laugh e.g. a description of how the devil tries to keep the doors of hell locked against the descending Christ. Then the speaker would draw the moral from the story. This Easter laughter, giving rise to grave abuses of the word of God, was prohibited by Clement X and in the eighteenth century by Maximilian III and the bishops of Bavaria.

2. Easter Eggs

Because the use of eggs was forbidden during Lent, they were brought to the table on Easter Day, coloured red to symbolize the Easter joy. This custom is found not only in the Latin but also in the Oriental Churches. The symbolic meaning of a new creation of mankind by Jesus risen from the dead was probably an invention of later times. The custom may have its origin in paganism, for a great many pagan customs, celebrating the return of spring, gravitated to Easter. The egg is the emblem of the germinating life of early spring. Easter eggs, the children are told, come from Rome with the bells which on Thursday go to Rome and return Saturday morning. The sponsors in some countries give Easter eggs to their god-children. Coloured eggs are used by children at Easter in a sort of game which consists in testing the strength of the shells. Both coloured and uncoloured eggs are used in some parts of the United States for this game, known as 'egg-picking'.


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3. The Easter Rabbit

The Easter Rabbit lays the eggs, for which reason they are hidden in a nest or in the garden. The rabbit is a pagan symbol and has always been an emblem of fertility.

4. Handball

In France handball playing was one of the Easter amusements, found also in Germany. The ball may represent the sun, which is believed to take three leaps in rising on Easter morning. Bishops, priests, and monks, after the strict discipline of Lent, used to play ball during Easter week. This was called libertas Decembrica, because formerly in December, the masters used to play ball with their servants, maids, and shepherds. The ball game was connected with a dance, in which even bishops and abbots took part. At Auxerre, Besancon, etc. the dance was performed in church to the strains of the 'Victimae paschali'. In England, also, the game of ball was a favourite Easter sport in which the municipal corporation engaged with due parade and dignity. And at Bury St. Edmunds, within recent years, the game was kept up with great spirit by twelve old women. After the game and the dance a banquet was given, during which a homily on the feast was read.

5. Men and women

On Easter Monday the women had a right to strike their husbands, on Tuesday the men struck their wives, as in December the servants scolded their masters. Husbands and wives did this "ut ostendant sese mutuo debere corrigere, ne illo tempore alter ab altero thori debitum exigat". In the northern parts of England the men parade the streets on Easter Sunday and claim the privilege of lifting every woman three times from the ground, receiving in payment a kiss or a silver sixpence. The same is done by the women to the men on the next day. In the Neumark (Germany) on Easter Day the men servants whip the maid servants with switches; on Monday the maids whip the men. They secure their release with Easter eggs. These customs are probably of pre-Christian origin.


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posted by Dave Richards at Monday, March 12, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 1 comments
Here's the second part of my post on what to give ladies as gifts for Easter.

Flowers are a favorite with all women. These indoor plant kits amke for a great gift as they dont take up much space and are easy to maintain as well.





White lilies comprise of the perfect gift for Easter as they bring out the feeling of both joy and tradition together.




If the lady of the house is an avid home maker, then this gift of beautiful table linens is sure to make her happy.





If budget is not a problem, then this collection of beautiful Easter Eggs make a classic gift.




A gift to cherish, these personalized photo frames give out a feeling of togetherness and pride when on display.


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posted by Dave Richards at Monday, March 12, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Easter isn't just about bunnies, easter eggs and egg hunting. Of course golden eggs as gifts would be nice too. Here's few gift ideas for the women in your life, be it your mom or your girl for Easter.

Now jewelry is something that very few women can actually not like. So I start with this little piece of trinket. You can opt for jewelry from - Footprints In The Sand. They have a good collection.




You can also opt for this charming Teapot and Pitcher Floral Bouquets. They make wonderful gifts.






Another great gift would be Movie Madness Gift Sets. Let the lady in your life enjoy a great movie hour with this cute gift.





Now, can anyone go wrong with chocolates? And when its Easter, how can chocolate and chocolate bunnies be far behind? So, just go and happy up with these yummy Gourmet Chocolate Easter Bunnies




Wow, Giant Easter Cookies. I am drooling!

Look yummy don't they?

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posted by Dave Richards at Saturday, March 10, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 1 comments
Friday, March 9, 2007
Jesus Figurine from Things You Never Knew Existed ($24.98) -
Enjoy divine inspiration anytime with this tasteful depiction of Jesus Christ. Touch his back and this talking Jesus figure speaks one of six New Testament phrases.

Easter Bunny Disguise Hare Bear from The Vermont Teddy Bear Company ($59.95) -
This teddy bear is a bunny wannabe. Disguised as an Easter Bunny in removable bunny ears, Hare Bear will make their day!

Cruisin' Easter Bunny from Lake Champlain Chocolates ($20.00) -
Cruisin' your way just in time for Easter, this hollow bunny drives a car!

Easter Basket For Her from The Obsession Box Company ($24.99) -
This Easter Basket is for HER only, filled with bath gels, candles, a Cadbury Chocolate Chick, a box of creamy chocolates, candy easter eggs, and a 6 1/2" Porcelain Rabbit detailed in roses and gold.

Cross Trinket Box from Things Remembered ($25.00) -
You'll be sending a blessed message when you give this stunning trinket box. It features a blue interior lining throughout to safely store earrings and pins. Engrave a message from your heart for a gift they'll never forget.


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posted by Dave Richards at Friday, March 09, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 2 comments
Wee, its gift time for the little ladies. Here's few ideas that I got for some great Gifts for Easter for the young ladies!

Sterling Silver Two-tone Footprints Sentiment Ring from Limoges Jewelry ($19.99) -
Sentiments of faith in Sterling Silver and 14K Gold. Adorable 14K Gold footprints accent this lovely filigree ring.

Gray Bunny Slippers from CrazyforBargains.com ($9.99) -
These adorable gray bunny slippers cover the entire foot. They have floppy ears, front paws, and a cotton tail.

Birthstone Cross Pendant from Limoges Jewelry ($9.99) -
This cross in layered 14K Gold, unites the birthstones of your family with the world's most cherished symbol of faith.

Blessings of Jesus Diamond Necklace from Collectibles Today ($119.00) -
Unique sterling silver religious diamond necklace, fine diamond jewelry with Ichthus Christian Fish and Jesus jewelry pendant - eternal life and everlasting love.

Women's Angel Tee Nike from Finishline.com ($14.99) -
This limited edition tee is a rare find with its gold graphics and fitted look.

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posted by Dave Richards at Friday, March 09, 2007 ¤ Permalink ¤ 0 comments