As spring officially arrives, my thoughts turn to Easter meals and the joy of setting a beautiful table. My grandfather Manuel — whom everyone lovingly called “Manolo” — used to say, “No hay nada mejor que una mesa bien puesta” (“There is nothing better than a well-set table”). And to this day, those words live in me.

Those who know me best will tell you that setting a table has always been a little passion of mine. I love every part of it — choosing the plates, ironing the linens, getting the napkins just right, polishing the silver, and creating floral arrangements that make people smile. It’s more than aesthetics; it’s about creating a space where memories are made. I even joke with my family, “Life’s too short for paper plates!”

So, for this month’s column, I’m doing something a bit different. Instead of recipes, I want to share a few simple ideas for setting a beautiful table for Easter or any spring gathering.

And now comes something I’ve been holding close to my heart: This will be my last column for a while. As many of you know, my full-time role at the Athens Theatre involves a great deal of writing, and my commitments with other organizations and committees continue to grow.

After nearly three years of writing this column, month after month, I’ve decided — thanks to the encouragement of many — to finally take on something I’ve dreamed about for a long time: writing a cookbook.

This will be a big, joyful project — but one that requires time, space and focus. And while stepping away from this column isn’t easy, I know it’s the right moment to make room for what’s next.

On a deeply personal note, I’ll never forget walking into The Beacon in August 2022 and asking if they might be open to a food and lifestyle column. I could never have imagined the journey it would lead me on. These pages have become a place where I’ve shared not just recipes, but stories — of my family, my heritage, and the moments that have shaped me. The fact that many of you have reached out over the years to tell me that a certain story resonated, or that you made a dish for your loved ones, has meant more to me than words can say.

Believe it or not, I’ve saved every single one of my printed articles in a box. I imagine myself one day, many years from now, opening that box and remembering all the memories we’ve shared — one column at a time.

You may still see me pop in now and then with a special holiday recipe or a new technique I can’t wait to share. But for now, as I begin this next chapter, I want to thank you — from the bottom of my heart — for welcoming me into your homes and your kitchens each month. I’ve written this column for 32 months, sharing three recipes each time. That’s 96 recipes! And to me, that’s something worth celebrating.

So, let’s set a table to mark the moment.

First up is a setting I created a few years ago at my parents’ home for a spring brunch. The centerpiece? Potted plants running down the length of the table. If you’d like to re-create the look, be sure to plant your flowers two to three days before your event. Head to the nursery, choose your favorite blooms, and use pots that fit your aesthetic. I used terra cotta to match the rustic vibe, but anything from porcelain planters to vintage Italian tomato cans with charming labels would work. Let your creativity guide you.

Another sweet and simple idea: seed packets as place cards. They’re affordable and meaningful — guests can take them home, plant the seeds, and think of you when their garden begins to bloom. Just pick up some packets, small clothespins and cardstock. Write your guests’ names, clip the cards to the packets and voilà — something thoughtful, personal and so very spring.

Finally, for a bolder, more dramatic table, here’s another setting I loved creating. I started with a striking black-and-white plaid fabric from the remnants bin and added tiny sunflower arrangements in small bottles. I anchored the table with large jars of yellow peppers and vases filled with bright green limes. The result was cheerful, fresh and perfect for a spring celebration.

And so, dear friends, until we meet again — may your food be delicious, your table welcoming, and your company full of laughter. This little column has been a joy to write and a chapter of my life I’ll always look back on with warmth and gratitude.