Bright and Beautiful Devilled Eggs: A Colourful Twist on a Classic Favourite

I am always asked to bring my famous devilled eggs for Easter and other holiday events. We used to have an abundance of hard boiled eggs from Easter decorating and egg hunts but now my kids are older and they don’t want to do the whole egg thing anymore. So now I just buy a huge family pack of eggs and start devilling them. 

Devilled eggs are a timeless party snack, perfect for holidays, potlucks, or even just a fancy snack at home. But why stick to traditional when you can make them pop—literally? These vibrant devilled eggs are not only delicious, they’re a total showstopper. With brightly dyed whites and a creamy, flavourful yolk filling, they’re fun to make and even more fun to serve.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to whip up your own batch of colourful devilled eggs:

Ingredients:

• 12 large eggs
• 4-6 tbsp mayonnaise
• Food coloring (gel or liquid in your favorite shades)
• Water and vinegar for dyeing
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Garlic salt (optional)
• Paprika for garnish
• Optional: Hot sauce (for a spicy kick)

Instructions:

Step 1: Boil the Eggs

1. Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them with water, about an inch above the eggs.
2. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
3. Once boiling, cover the pot with a lid, turn off the heat, and let the eggs sit for 10–12 minutes.
4. When the time’s up, transfer the eggs to an ice water bath (or very cold water) and let them cool completely. This helps stop the cooking process and makes peeling easier. Some people suggest adding vinegar to the water to aid in peeling but I find it depends how fresh your eggs are is what determines how easy the peels will come off.

Step 2: Peel and Slice

1. Gently crack the shells and peel the eggs under cool running water to make it easier.
2. Slice each egg in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the yolks into a bowl. Place the whites aside.

Step 3: Dye the Whites

1. In small cups or bowls, mix 1/2 cup water, 1 tsp vinegar, and a few drops of food coloring for each color you’d like to use.
2. Drop the egg white halves into the dye and let them soak for about 5–10 minutes, depending on how vibrant you want them.
3. Once coloured, remove them with a spoon and set them on paper towels or a drying rack.

Step 4: Make the Filling

1. Mash the yolks with a fork until they’re crumbly.
2. Add mayonnaise (start with 2 tablespoons and adjust for creaminess), a pinch of salt and pepper, and a little garlic salt for extra flavour. I like to put them in a mixer as it makes it faster and takes care of any lumps. 
3. If you like it spicy, stir in a few drops of your favourite hot sauce—go as mild or wild as you like!

Step 5: Fill the Eggs

1. Scoop or pipe the yolk mixture into the dyed whites using a spoon or a piping bag (a ziplock with the tip snipped off works great too).
2. Sprinkle the tops with a little paprika for that classic devilled egg look, and add extra salt, pepper, or garlic salt to taste.

Tips & Serving Ideas:

• These colorful devilled eggs look amazing on a plain white platter or nestled in a bed of greens.
• Try themed colors for different occasions—pastels for Easter, red and green for Christmas, or team colors for a game day snack. I can’t wait to make Christmas eggs this year! 
• For an extra punch of flavour, mix in a little mustard, relish, or even crumbled bacon to the filling.

These eggs are as fun to eat as they are to make—simple, eye-catching, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re serving them at a party or just want to treat yourself to something special, these pretty devilled eggs are sure to be a hit.

Set Yourself up for Success with Long-Term Health and Financial Goals

Understanding the Importance of Health and Financial Planning

In today's fast-paced world, setting long-term health and financial goals is crucial for a sustainable future. Many individuals often overlook the significance of planning, which can lead to undesired consequences. By taking proactive steps, one can ensure stability and peace of mind in the long run.

Health concerns serve as a wake-up call for many to consider establishing legal documents. For instance, a significant portion of Americans without a will indicate they would create one if they encountered health issues. This highlights how health concerns can directly influence individuals to act on their financial planning.

On the financial front, understanding programs like Social Security can significantly impact one's economic security. Established in the late 1930s, Social Security provides a safety net for many citizens. An awareness of such programs can be instrumental in effective financial planning for future needs.

Addressing Health Concerns: A Key to Longevity

Cardiovascular disease remains a predominant threat to health, being the leading cause of death in America. In 2020 alone, it accounted for over 928,000 deaths, underscoring the importance of cardiac care. By focusing on prevention and management, individuals can mitigate such health risks.

Regular medical check-ups play a vital role in the early detection of potential health issues, paving the way for timely interventions. Proactively tackling health concerns not only aids in prolonging life but also ensures a higher quality of living. Consequently, it emphasizes how intertwined health matters and financial planning are.

Investing in one's health can be equated to saving money for the future. By prioritizing health now, individuals reduce subsequent healthcare costs and improve life expectancy. This also ties back to the notion of having a will in place to safeguard one’s assets and ensure they are utilized effectively.

The Role of Financial Planning in a Fulfilling Life

Sound financial planning is indispensable for navigating life's uncertainties and emergencies. It acts as a safety net during unanticipated circumstances, ensuring that life's plans remain uninterrupted. Moreover, it facilitates a more balanced approach towards spending, saving, and investing.

Core components of financial planning include setting clear objectives and formulating strategies to achieve them. Programs such as Social Security are essential elements that contribute to financial stability in retirement. Understanding and maximizing these benefits is a crucial aspect of financial foresight.

Beyond government programs, individuals are encouraged to cultivate personal saving habits. Regular and disciplined saving, coupled with wise investment choices, fosters financial growth. Such practices are fundamental in securing a comfortable and worry-free future.

Integrating Health and Financial Goals for Overall Success

A holistic approach involves marrying both health and financial goals, as these domains significantly influence each other. Healthy lifestyles often result in reduced healthcare expenditure, thereby enabling more financial resources to be directed towards other goals. This synergy underscores the importance of viewing health and finances as interconnected facets of life planning.

The integration of health and financial planning requires conscious lifestyle decisions and financial discipline. By prioritizing these elements, individuals can set themselves up for success in both fields. Such integration ultimately contributes to holistic well-being and personal fulfillment.

Maintaining a balance between health and finances also ensures that individuals are more resilient to life's challenges. With a comprehensive plan in place, one can navigate potential obstacles smoothly. This not only secures one's future but also enhances present-day living standards.

Action Steps for Setting Successful Long-Term Goals

Establishing both health and financial goals involves careful consideration and precise action steps. Begin by assessing personal priorities and current status in both realms. From this assessment, develop a strategic plan tailored to individual needs and circumstances.

Regular review and adjustment of these goals ensure alignment with changing life circumstances. Re-evaluating financial commitments and health initiatives periodically is essential for progress. Such diligence ensures that long-term aspirations are on track and achievable.

Lastly, seeking professional advice is invaluable, offering expertise and guidance in navigating complex decisions. Engaging with health professionals and financial advisors provides insights and tailored solutions. This collaborative approach enhances the effectiveness of one's plan, securing success in long-term goals.

4 Thoughtful and Heartwarming Gifts for New Parents

Welcoming a new baby is a beautiful milestone for any family, but it often comes with a whirlwind of emotions, sleepless nights, and overwhelming adjustments. The first few months of life with a new baby is a chaotic learning process, usually putting a lot of burden on the parents. Thoughtful and heartwarming gifts for new parents mean a lot at this time, as you can make their lives easier and brighter. Here are our top four suggestions.

Practical Steps to Take When Going Through a Divorce

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Going through a divorce is one of the most stressful experiences many people will face. Separating from a partner takes a huge toll on your well-being and you will likely be feeling a wide range of emotions. When you are experiencing the emotional turmoil of a breakup, understanding how to take control of the situation during this confusing time can be incredibly difficult. However, there are many different practical tasks that need to be completed when you’re going through a separation. There’s no doubt that understanding what you need to do to make the situation easier for yourself in the long-term can be challenging. With this in mind, here are just some of the practical steps you may choose to take when you’re going through a divorce.

Choose a Divorce Lawyer

There’s no replacement for proper legal advice when you’re going through something as serious as a divorce. So, one of the first practical steps to take is to find a divorce lawyer. Choosing an experienced lawyer who specializes in family law is a must if you are to get the best outcome from your divorce proceedings.

The legal process of divorcing can be extremely stressful and complicated. However, with the help out of your divorce attorney, navigating the process will become much simpler.

Get Your Finances in Order

The finances of most married couples are entangled, which can make it especially difficult when it comes to divorce. Shared assets, such as real estate, personal belongings, and savings can cause significant complications when you’re trying to divide up your finances. 

Gathering together your financial documents as soon as you can will give you a better idea of your financial situation. The types of paperwork to look for include details of your accounts, tax returns, information about your pension, and investment information. Having this information can prove extremely helpful when you get into the details of dividing up your finances with your former partner.

Work With a Mediator

Tensions are often running high when it comes to dealing with arrangements post-separation. Unfortunately, many people find themselves stuck in an endless cycle of arguments. These disagreements can relate to everything from child custody arrangements to who gets to live in the house while the divorce goes through. There are certainly many contentious issues to deal with when you’re trying to separate.

If you find it impossible for you and your ex-partner to have a fair discussion about who gets what without it descending into an argument, using a mediator can help. 

Seek Support

A mediator can help reduce the stress involved in communicating with your ex-partner during a divorce, and getting a family lawyer is a must to guide you through the legal processes and to ensure you get what you’re entitled to. However, there’s one final consideration you need to focus on, and that’s seeking support for yourself. 

Seeking professional support from a therapist provides you with an outlet to discuss your emotions and navigate life while the divorce is finalized.

Non-Candy Easter Basket Ideas: Inspiring Young Minds Through Books and Imagination

When we think of Easter baskets, it’s easy to default to chocolate bunnies, marshmallow chicks, and jelly beans. But what if this year’s basket could bring something sweeter than sugar? A thoughtful, candy-free Easter basket can be just as exciting—and far more meaningful—when it includes items that spark creativity, inspire imagination, and encourage lifelong learning. At the top of that list? Books.

Why Books Belong in Every Easter Basket

Books are one of the most valuable gifts we can give children at any age. From babies discovering their first words to teens exploring new perspectives, stories help children understand the world, build empathy, and develop essential literacy skills. Reading together strengthens bonds between caregivers and kids, and independent reading fosters self-confidence and curiosity. These amazing books are great gifts at any time of year!

Easter is the perfect time to renew your commitment to reading as a family. By making books a part of special traditions, children learn to associate stories with joy, comfort, and celebration.

Clever Publishing: A Perfect Fit for Little Learners

If you’re looking for books that are not only educational but beautifully designed and engaging, Clever Publishing has you covered. They offer a wide range of books tailored to every stage of development, from soft cloth books for babies to interactive lift-the-flap adventures and early readers for growing minds.

Here are a few Clever Publishing picks that would fit perfectly in any Easter basket:

• For Babies and Toddlers: Peek-a-Boo and Touch and Feel board books are ideal for tiny hands. These sensory books offer tactile experiences and vibrant illustrations that keep the littlest readers captivated.

Things That Go Look & Learn Photo Book

Babies and toddlers will discover first words with this sturdy board book! Bright, colorful photographs and simple prompts introduce readers to a variety of vehicles. Children will learn the words for rescue vehicles, such as fire truck and ambulancer; construction vehicles, such as excavator; vehicles that fly, such as airplane and rocket; trucks in the neighborhood, such as street sweeper and garbage truck; and much more. This engaging board book is sure to encourage interactive learning.

Animals Look & Learn Photo Book

Babies and toddlers will discover animals with this sturdy board book! Bright, colorful photographs and simple prompts introduce readers to a variety of animals in different environments. Children will learn pets, such as dog and cat; farm animals, such as horse, pig, and cow; forest animals, such as bear, fox, and squirrel; jungle animals, such as lion, zebra, and leopard; and much more. This engaging board book is sure to encourage interactive learning.

Colours Look & Learn Photo Book

Babies and toddlers will discover colours with this sturdy board book! Bright, colorful photographs and simple prompts introduce readers to a variety of objects in different colors. Children will learn color words by seeing pictures of toys, such as a ball and a puzzle; food, such as an orange and an eggplant; flowers, such as a sunflower; beach toys, such as a pail and shovel; and much more. This engaging board book is sure to encourage interactive learning.

First Words Look & Learn Photo Book

Babies and toddlers will discover first words with this sturdy board book! Bright, colorful photographs and simple prompts introduce readers to a variety of first words. Children will learn the words for toys, such as dinosaur, rubber duck, and car; clothing, such as socks and pajamas; outdoor toys, such as scooter and slide; food, such as apple and sippy cup; and much more. This engaging board book is sure to encourage interactive learning.

• For Preschoolers: Clever’s Learning Wheels and First 100 Words series help toddlers learn new concepts through play. Their sturdy pages and engaging layouts are great for curious, busy kids.
• For Early Readers: Storybooks like Clever’s Big and Little or I Love You, Little One blend heartwarming messages with charming artwork—perfect for cuddling up together. Easter With Nana is a wonderful book for kids who love their nana’s and enjoy being reminded of them.

Easter is such a special holiday for the young narrator and her brother—and it’s made even more special when they spend it with Mom and Dad at Nana and Grandpa’s house! In this sweet story, the children color eggs, help prepare Easter dinner, look for eggs during Grandpa’s egg hunt, look for animal shapes in the clouds with Nana, and spend time enjoying a sweet treat with everyone outside.

• For Activity Lovers: Clever’s sticker books, colouring books, and puzzle titles combine fun with fine motor skill development, making them a great screen-free alternative for independent play. This Easter Activity Book is perfect for kids to enjoy on their way to Easter celebrations or to keep them busy while waiting for the big dinner or egg hunt. 

Children can explore a world of springtime friends and Easter surprises with this engaging activity book that features a large variety of fun challenges to complete. Young readers can draw, color, complete mazes, connect the dots, finish the drawing, find the differences, complete matching challenges, and much more. This exciting activity book is packed with ways for children to show off their creativity, as well as help to develop their logic and memory skills.

More Non-Candy Easter Basket Fillers

Books can be the star of the show, but you can round out your Easter baskets with thoughtful, non-sugary treats like:

• Art supplies: markers, crayons, watercolors, and mini sketch pads
• Outdoor toys: jump ropes, chalk, bubble wands, or seed kits
• DIY kits: bracelet making, slime, or science experiments
• Stuffed animals or puppets that tie into storybook characters
• Personalized bookmarks or bookplates to encourage ownership and pride in reading

The Takeaway

Every Easter basket is a chance to give your child something that lasts longer than a chocolate bunny. By including books from Clever Publishing, you’re not just giving a gift—you’re planting seeds of imagination, curiosity, and lifelong learning.

So this Easter, skip the sugar overload and fill your basket with stories. Because the most lasting treasures aren’t found at the bottom of a candy wrapper—they’re found between the pages of a great book.