Five Little Things

Happy Spring, my friends! My beloved hills here in Northern California are a brilliant green, and everywhere I turn, my eyes are treated to the beautiful pink and white blossoms on the plum and pear trees. It is my favorite time of the year, and I am so grateful every time I walk our pup outside. I hope that signs of spring are coming your way, wherever you live.

Here are Five Little Things I loved this week:

1. Change of Scenery

February and early March brought me out of the kitchen and on the road. I spent a brief but very much appreciated time with my family in Southern California, cheering my son in races amongst the cacti in Arizona, and visiting a college in the South.

2. Mangoes

Beautiful Ataulfo mangoes have returned to the markets, and I have welcomed them with open arms! I recently updated my recipe for Sweet Coconut Sticky Rice with Mango—if you’re looking for a delicious treat, I can’t recommend it enough. Other must-tries: Mango Float (Crema de Mangga), which is like a tiramisu-style layered dessert, and Mango Coconut Tapioca Pudding!

3. Filipino Recipes on NYTCooking

I’ve noticed that NYTCooking has been highlighting several Filipino recipes, including one for Halo Halo, and it warms my heart to see some beloved classics getting attention. As you know, I have shared some of my own family recipes, so a good place to start is my authentic Filipino Chicken Adobo or Pork Adobo. I also have 10 Easy Filipino Recipes you should try!

Related Kitchen Confidante Podcast Episode: Learn to Cook (and Love It) with New York Times Deputy Editor Genevieve Ko

4. 50 Years of Little House

If only you could see my battered copies of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s beloved Little House series! Those books were like friends; the television show made me love each character even more. Are you a Little House fan? Did you know that there is a 50th Anniversary Cast Reunion & Festival in Simi Valley, California, this weekend?

5. Beautifully Dyed Easter Eggs, the Natural Way

If you are celebrating the Easter holiday, have you tried dying eggs naturally with the ingredients you have at home?

BONUS: A Stunning Cover

Stay joyful!