Menu Plan Monday & Warm Weather Excitement

I fell in love with Michigan all over again this weekend. You see, this state and I have a love/hate relationship. On our first visit to Michigan, it was snowing. I had never seen snow before and I was mesmerized. I couldn't get enough of it and I sat in our hotel room the day the hubby had his medical school interview staring out the window. It was the most beautiful thing. On our second trip, it was summer. The days were long and warm (I couldn't believe there was still light out at 9:00 at night), the grass was SO green, and the skies SO blue. I loved it.

We left Florida in late July. Moved in and set up our new apartment. I began looking for a job. Then Fall came and oh my god if you thought I was bad about winter, I was madly in love with Fall (some much that I have to capitalize it). I love everything about Fall- the colors, the smells, the apple cider, doughnuts, and cider mills. It is hands down my favorite season and I can't comprehend how I lived before without having a Fall.

And then winter. Don't get me wrong, I actually do like winter. Up until February that is. By then I can't WAIT to shed all my layers and wear sandals again. 

So, coming around back to how I started this post, I fell in love with Michigan all over again because this weekend was gorgeous. It felt like the city has woken up again and everyone was dying to be outside. We went to the farmer's market (which you would know if you follow me on Twitter :) and it was full of people. We explored a new part of town that we didn't even know about. We opened up all the windows and breathed in the fresh air.

This is when I love Michigan.
And in the Fall, too. :)

So how about you? How's the weather in your neck of the woods? Are you as excited about the warmer temps as I am (or am I a tad bit crazy)? I hope you got to spend Mother's Day with your Mom, or your kids, or your grandma's. I didn't get to spend it with my Mom, but I am definitely excited to see her next month when she comes to visit! :) 

 Mom & I Christmas 2010

I don't understand how, but I'm finding myself with a lack of new recipes to try for dinner. Got any that have recently rocked your socks off? Please share. :)

Sauteed Chicken with Sage and Browned Butter
Orange Chicken Stir Fry
Pork Marsala
Mushroom Herb Mac and Cheese
Shrimp with Basil and Fresh Tomatoes

What state do you live in? What do you love/hate about it?