Tips for dyeing eggs with your kids or grandkids
Colouring eggs is a beloved Easter tradition. Eggs long have been symbols of fertility and rebirth, making them fitting icons for spring.
One story links eggs to Easter as well. According to some religious scholars, Mary Magdalene, the woman who was the first person to see Jesus Christ after His resurrection, was holding a plain egg in her hand while waiting for the emperor to share the good news. The emperor then told her that Jesus’ resurrection was as improbable as that egg suddenly blushing. The egg then turned red.
Dyeing eggs is an entertaining activity, but one that also may have some religious significance. Many families will colour eggs this Easter, and these guidelines can make the process go smoothly.
• Wait until just before colouring to hard-boil eggs. Good Housekeeping recommends boiling eggs for 11 minutes for a hard boil. Do not chill the eggs afterward; warm eggs absorb colour more effectively for more vivid results.
• Egg dye can stain furniture, clothing or tablecloths. Therefore, dress in clothing that you’re not worried about staining. Also, cover work surfaces with an old tablecloth and newspapers to soak up any spills.
• Make a drying rack to ensure that eggs will dry evenly. This can be a rimmed cookie sheet lined with layers of paper towels to absorb any excess dye that runs off the eggs. Or push pins into thick foam board and place the eggs on top to allow air to circulate.
• Consider using glass bowls or ceramic mugs to house the coloured dye solutions.
These vessels are more sturdy than plastic cups, and less likely to be overturned by eager young hands.
• Scissor-style tongs are ideal tools for retrieving eggs from the dye. Eggs tend to slide off of the spoons or wire rings provided in kits, leading to splashing and kids dunking their fingers in to grab eggs.
• Stir dyeing cups often to guarantee consistent colour.
• Use electrical tape to make patterns on Easter eggs. Dip the eggs and let dry. Afterwards, remove the tape to reveal the designs.
• If food colouring-based dyes seem too messy, use watercolour paint sets and allow everyone to get creative.
While some people may want to use Easter eggs for recipes later on, it may be safer to boil up a fresh batch of eggs for that purpose, even if it seems wasteful. According to Emily Rubin, RD, LDN of the Thomas Jefferson University Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, “hardboiled eggs should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking and discarded if left out for more than two hours at room temperature.” Chances are it may take two hours or more for children to find these eggs hidden by the Easter bunny.
For Thursday, March 28, 2024
While this isn’t the best time for undertaking new commitments with brainy Mercury going retrograde soon and an impactful solar eclipse on the way, the early morning hours are great for handling outstanding tasks. The energy for the day also supports meeting new people, professionally and otherwise, as well as engaging in creativity and tending to our emotional well-being. Spontaneity and flexibility are the keys to getting the most out of the day, as the winds of change continue to shake things up.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19)
You may receive support or encouragement from others when you least expect it. Whether you realize it or not, you’ve got people rooting for you.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20)
You might be looking to make a change in your life. Partnering with the right people can get you where you want to be.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20)
Strike a better balance between work and rest today. Be mindful of taking on more than you should.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22)
The seemingly random connections that you make with people can oftentimes be some of the best connections. Keep your mind and heart open.
LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22)
Follow your gut when it comes to your role as a leader or with how you approach your career.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22)
Before you make a big decision, consider talking it over with a trusted friend or advisor. They may have some helpful suggestions for you.
LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22)
Today may present you with the chance to happily resolve a financial issue. Perhaps you’ll finish paying off a debt.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21)
You might receive a last-minute invitation from your partner or friend to do something fun. Take them up on it.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21)
Don’t overdo it today. Take it easy. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider what you can do to keep yourself calm.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19)
Find a happy medium between being independent and allowing others to help you.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18)
Be mindful of You’ve got what succeed. self-doubt. it takes to
PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20)
Use your voice. Speak your truth. Share your ideas with confidence. Your message will be well-received.
FOR TODAY’S BIRTHDAY You’re resilient, courageous and a go-getter. You’re unafraid to ask the hard questions or challenge the norm. You’re an original. You follow your own lead rather than anyone else’s. You can be a team player, but if you need to go it alone, you will. By being your authentic self, you often empower others to be true to who they are. You hold vast to your values, and you never cave when it comes to getting what you want. This year, you may feel like you’re shedding an old skin in preparation for a more fulfilling way of life.
BIRTHDATE OF: Lady Gaga, singer/actress; Reba McEntire, singer/actress; Julia Stiles, actress/director.