Page 14 - 3-28-22

Page 14, RURAL-URBAN RECORD, March 28, 2022
Spring Home Improvement

Fun activities to enjoy
FROM PG 12
and Germany. As Easter celebrations evolved, chocolate
how wide a tree is likely to be at maturity. Trees that spread eggs were not the only delicacy; chocolate Easter bunnies this spring
out quite a bit don’t necessarily need to be avoided, but it’s also were shared and enjoyed.
important that they’re planted far enough apart so they don’t While there are scores of mass-produced chocolate bun-
adversely affect surrounding plants. In addition, wide trees nies available for purchase, and many local chocolatiers also With its increased sunshine and warmer temperatures,
that are planted too close together can make the landscape make Easter bunnies and other sweet treats, families may spring is a beloved time of year. For those who live in ar-
appear crowded, taking something away from its aesthetic want to try making their own chocolate Easter bunnies this eas where the weather changes dramatically throughout
appeal. year. This can be a family-friendly activity that favors togeth- the year, spring can be a respite from the snow and also a
· Growth rate: Growth rate is an important variable be- erness with the promise of a sweet reward. chance to enjoy the outdoors prior to the arrival of the mug-
cause it can affect how quickly homeowners will see chang- 1. The first step to creating chocolate Easter bunnies is gy, hot days of summer.
es in their landscapes. Homeowners who want to plant for to select the type of chocolate you prefer. Bunnies can be Families can create a bucket list of entertaining and per-
privacy can consider trees with quick growth rates or pur- made from white chocolate, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, haps educational spring activities. Those who want to try
chase more mature trees that are already near full growth. or even a combination for a marbleized effect. Chocolate something new can explore these ideas.
Those who are not in need of instant transformation can try melts, chips or chocolate couverture are widely available at · Check out a cherry blossom showcase. Cherry trees are
trees with slower growth rates, which the ADF notes typically specialty chocolate and food shops or craft supply stores, ac- popular and beautiful trees that flower in the spring. Their
live longer than fast-growing species. cording to DoItYourself.com. This simplifies the bunny-mak- masses of pink and white blossoms are one of the first sig-
· Requirements: Different trees require different amounts ing process. Some retailers also may sell bunny-making kits nals that winter has ended. Cherry tree varieties bloom over
of sun and moisture and different soil components to thrive. that pair the chocolate melts with the mold in one box for the course of several weeks, and climate will dictate how
Homeowners can have their soil tested to determine which ultimate convenience. early or late these trees will showcase their spectacular flow-
trees will thrive in it. Local garden centers can be a great 2. Craft stores also have aisles devoted to culinary crafts. ers. Visit public gardens and other areas known for their dra-
resource for homeowners who want insight as to which trees Browse to find an Easter bunny mold. Some may sell solid matic cherry blossom displays.
will thrive in their local climates. chocolate bunnies or hollow varieties. Choose molds in the · Watch a sunrise or sunset. Take advantage of longer
- Fall: Fall Season is a time in which leaves, fruits, seeds desired size, as bunny molds may be large or small. days by enjoying nature’s light show. Wake up extra early
and more debris can come off of a tree. Depending on how 3. Follow directions to melt chocolate successfully. Some and start the day with the sunrise. If you’re not a morning
much maintenance you are willing to want to have can deter- chocolates can be slowly melted in the microwave. A dou- person, then wait until the last of the amber and red streaks
min which tree may be right for you. Black Walnut Trees drop ble-boiler method, in which the chocolate is melted in a bowl light the sky and watch the sun drop below the horizon.
large walnuts which can be both a hazard to walk on as well placed above a pan with boiling water, can help the choco- · Fly a kite. There is a reason why the adage “March goes
as ding up lawn mower blades. late melt consistently and prevent it from burning. in like a lion and comes out like a lamb” is so fitting. Early
Trees serve many functions on a property. Choosing the 4. Pour the chocolate into the mold and gently tap the spring weather can be gusty and unpredictable. Take advan-
right trees for a landscape requires careful consideration of mold so that it displaces air bubbles and helps the chocolate tage of windy conditions by flying a kite by the coast or in an
a host of variables. settle evenly into the design. Allow the chocolate to set up open field.
in the refrigerator. If your mold is hollow, you can seal the · Head to a farm. Spring is not only about the rebirth of
Make your own two halves of the bunny with a little melted chocolate on the trees and flowers, but also a prime time for various animals
to give birth to their young. A visit to an area farm or petting
seam.
Creativity can be unleashed when making homemade
chocolate Easter chocolate bunnies. Experiment with adding a few drops of zoo can be a great way to catch a glimpse of some of these
adorable little as they enter and adapt to their new environ-
peppermint oil or orange liqueur to customize the flavor. Be- ments.
bunnies fore sealing hollow bunnies, place peanut butter or raspberry · Check out a small town. Take a road trip to an out-of-the-
jam inside for a tasty surprise. Use colored candy melts to way hamlet. Spend the entire day there shopping, dining and
The Easter bunny is a tradition that has been passed add colorful eyes or cheeks or to tint the inside of the bunny supporting a small town community.
· Enjoy al fresco dining. While outdoor dining during the
down for centuries. Symbolizing fertility and wealth, the Eas- ears. pandemic may have been done as a necessity, do not forget
ter bunny became a holiday standard in Germany during the For an even more festive effect, seal a lollipop stick in a how it also can be a relaxing way to enjoy a meal. Find a
16th century. chocolate bunny and use it to secure the Easter bunny to the restaurant with a particularly scenic backdrop and dine out-
The custom of chocolate eggs came along centuries after top of a cake. doors.
the Easter bunny, originating in the 19th century in France