How to stay home and still make this Easter one you can cherish. You're welcome!
“Who would have thought at the beginning of Lent that we would be spending Easter at home, not going to church, and sulking alone?” asked my 14-year-old daughter, making sad, pouting lips at the same time.
I paused and thought for a moment. And then I replied to her (and to myself!), "There are two kinds of people in the world: the ones who sulk and the ones who do something about it."
Even though things have seemed pretty grim as of late, at that moment I decided to do something about it—because Easter is as much about hope and keeping the faith as it is about the resurrection. It is also a time to count our blessings and make the most of what we have. So I decided to make the best of Easter because I know one way or the other this is one Easter we are most likely never to forget.
It also reminded me of all the families in our community and communities across America, probably thinking the same thing. So I decided to share my plan because, with some effort, a bit of creativity, and a little help from us at OCN, this Stay-at-Home Easter can be full of joy and memories to cherish for everyone.
The one thing we all love is great food. I started my research and came up with five recipes that have something for everyone in the family. Here is what I came up with.
Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham
Image Courtesy Cafe Delites
Brown sugar mustard glazed ham is the perfect juicy centerpiece for your Easter dinner table! It takes a little effort, but it is definitely something you should try. Here is the recipe.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Image Courtesy The Chunky Chef
I have yet to meet a person who does not like potatoes, which basically means this is something you can’t miss. This recipe is special because the chef takes that classic dish and adds a garlic Parmesan flavor and then adds three kinds of cheese. The great thing about cheesy scalloped potatoes is that they taste great freshly cooked as well as frozen. Here is the recipe.
Hot Cross Buns
Image Courtesy The Food Network
Easter without hot cross buns is like going to D.C. and not visiting the Lincoln Memorial. The great thing about these buns is that they can last the entire week. (I know we are all bingeing these days!). Here's the recipe.
Classic Deviled Eggs
Image Courtesy Gimme Some Oven
This is here for two reasons: I love deviled eggs and because I can make this so my wife knows I am helping her out with cooking. This recipe is great as it gives you an option to make yours with either mayo or Greek yogurt, plus ideas for fun add-ins! Here is the recipe.
Super-Moist Carrot Cake
Image Courtesy Sally's Baking Addiction
If things are good, you want dessert; if things are bad, you need it. So the one thing I never ever forget whenever I plan a meal is dessert. This carrot cake recipe is special because I love cakes that are moist, plus it adds that outstanding spice flavor, super-moist crumb, and velvety cream cheese frosting. Brown sugar and toasted pecans are recommended for a deeper flavor. Here is the recipe.
We know food is not everything, so here are some ideas on how to brighten up your Easter celebration:
- Attend a live online mass, and yes—dress up! It changes the mood. There are tons of sources available on the net.
- House Party. No, not literally—this is a platform. Let’s just say it is the family version of Zoom and is a social networking platform that helps you not just connect with your family and loved ones through video, but also has lots of games and challenges that can make social distancing a bit more fun.
- Make a donation to an organization meaningful to you. It may or may not cheer you up, but it will definitely cheer up someone out there who needs your help.
- Have an egg hunt in the backyard (only with the members in your household, of course).
- Drop something off at your neighbor’s house with an Easter wish. It could be something nice that you cooked or something which is valuable these days. Either way, it will make their day.
- Put up Christmas lights. It doesn’t make sense (I know) but what does these days? And my kids loved the activity.
Do you have any recipes for Easter or things to do you want to share? Let us know in the comments section.
