Spring-series II.

With the warmer weather here, we've got the recipe of the great lemon sparkle cupcakes for a perfect picnic. So spring into it!

Lemon Sparkle Cupcakes

Preheat oven to 350°. In a large bowl, cream 2/3 cup of shortening and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
Add 3 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Combine 2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with 2/3 cup of milk, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 tablespoon grated lemon peel.Fill paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. 

Combine topping ingredients: 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon grated lemon peel and 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg; sprinkle a rounded 1/2 teaspoonful over each cupcake. Bake 20-24 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.

 Sometimes we may forget to focus on what will make us happier, like being outside and seeing the amazing flowers and tree blossoms right outside our doors. Of course work and daily eating and exercising can add happiness, but when we focus on what can bring more happiness this springtime, it can inspire us to take action on planting that garden or planning that vacation or reaching out to friends to go have more outdoor fun, or buying that new bike to take out on trails.

Spring-series

“When spring came, even the false spring, there were no problems except where to be happiest. People were always the limiters of happiness except for the very few that were as good as spring itself.”  Ernest Hemingway

Spring is the most anticipated, exciting, and blessed season of the year.  The cold weather, low temperatures, bracing wind, and even occasional snow and ice all pass away.  The deadness of the trees, the barrenness of the gardens, and the colorless grass pass away, to be replaced with refreshing showers, delightful temperatures, and bright sunshine of March, April, and May.  The summer’s burning rays and burdensome heat have not yet arrived. Spring is a delightful time.

For most people that means getting outside and seeing everything bloom, including us. Spring offers warmer days and lighter and longer evenings, which means we are more inclined to exercise and spend outdoor time and activities with friends.

To make things a little easier, we made this sort for the first week of spring, that will help you keep yourself cheering and enthusiastic!

Popular festivals of Hungary II.

Cervinus Art Fesztivál

You can find several different cultural programs from classical music concerts to historical plays here – Cervinus Art Fesztivál is a perfect destination for the whole family. While their children are taking part in archery and other sport events, parents can enjoy various theatrical performances.

Művészetek Völgye

This festival became popular for its classical-, and folk music concerts, plays, literary evenings and exhibitions. If you like arts, music and literature, Művészetek Völgye in Kapolcs is a great place to visit!

Bor, Mámor, Bénye

Oanophiles are waiting for enquirers in Tokaj, where Bor, Mámor, Bénye gastrocultural festival is organized. The original aim of this event was to show people the famous wines, growers and manufacturers of Tokaj.

Ördögkatlan Fesztivál

Simplicity and quality at the same place! There are so many and so various programs – it’s impossible to make a list of the handcrafting, music and family events. The only thing you can be sure about is wherever you go, you meet kindness and love in Ördögkatlan Fesztivál!

Hungarikum Fesztivál – Szeged

It’s a lot more than a simple festival – all products you see are Hungarian made by Hungarian people and reflects Hungarian culture! Purchase the best wines, taste the hot fish soup and feel the atmosphere of Hungarikum Fesztivál!

Debreceni Virágkarnevál

It started about a century ago with some bouquets but nowadays it’s getting more and more popular due to the huge statues made from flowers. The procession and fireworks attract thousands of people and children to Debrecen every year.

Nemzetközi Tiszai Halfesztivál

Imagine plenty of cauldrons and the smell of spicy fishsoup in the air on the bank of the River Tisza. Moreover, there are many different programs, and the market to purchase the goods of local traders.

Csabai Kolbászfesztivál

Don’t miss Csabai Kolbászfesztivál if you like sausages and Hungarian spices! Békés County is famous for its products and traditional methods of sausage-making. Hundreds of respecters arrive every year from around the world to purchase this popular and delicious speciality.