Like many, I initially scoffed at the idea of registering for china. Why would I want people to spend over $100 on a single place setting? Who uses china in this day and age? Where am I going to put it? (hello tiny apartment) When would I ever use it?

It seemed over the top. It seemed old-school and old-fashioned. It seemed like a waste.

But then over a lunch in Chicago with my Mom and the Taster’s Sister, they totally convinced me. As in, in less than a few hours, my Mom and I were at Macy’s checking out the selection.

Lets back track a bit to how they convinced me.

They told me to look ahead 10-15 years…Easter at our house… {envisioning mini red-heads running around }

And I started to actually think about the future.. I recalled Easter at my parents house and I recalled eating off of china on a daily basis at home. Not that we were fancy but my Mom always used the china that she had – one set for every day – one set for special occasions. China also reminds me of my grandparents and although I was very young when my grandma passed away, if there’s an opportunity to feel close to her, I’ll take it.

There really is no sense in getting china if you aren’t ever going to use it, but I will use it and I’m excited to use it.

Unfortunately it seems that it is kind of a now or never decision as china isn’t really a thing you go out and buy 15 years down the line. My Mother explained it best with, “you’ll be paying for dance classes.”

So we registered for china, and while the Taster isn’t completely convinced, I have a feeling he’ll come around one of these days…especially if there’s a little red-head running around the table on Easter.

Thoughts on China: Have it? Love it? Never use it? Want it?

Creamy goat cheese. Tart lemon. Fresh thyme. Crusty bread.

Need I say more? I wanted to make a spread or dip with goat cheese for a get together and came across this recipe on epicurious.com. It sounded perfect, light, and can easily be made ahead of time. When recipes combine cheese and bread, I rarely need anymore convincing.

Switch up the fresh herbs and serve with baguette slices, crostini or crackers.

Lemon Thyme Goat Cheese Spread - recipe inspiration from Bon Appétit

• 6 oz goat cheese
• 1-2 Tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• salt & pepper to taste
• juice of 1/2 lemon
• 4 Tbsp olive oil
• baguette slices

Press goat cheese into a mound.

Season with thyme, salt and pepper and press seasonings into cheese.

Whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.

Pour lemon juice mixture over goat cheese mound.

Serve with slices baguette, fresh or toasted.

*You can also mix lemon juice mixture and goat cheese all together if making ahead of time.

Best served with wine and good friends.