I grew up with an awesome set of cousins. There were twelve of us altogether with an age span of seven years, so there was never a shortage of playmates. Over the years we’ve kept in touch pretty well and we always have a blast when we get together.

Now that we have our own kiddos, finding time to “play” can be difficult. Lucky for me, last night after Monkey was in bed I got to learn a new technique for dyeing eggs from oldest of the bunch (neener neener!), a vivacious blonde with a wicked sense of humor and a penchant for all things punny.

She’s very creative, never forgets to send a birthday card, plans weekly menus and cooks nightly meals, and chases around five children ages fourteen to one. I’d hate her, but she’s too damn nice.

Anyway, her latest project was coloring eggs using silk ties, and I was lucky enough to be around with a camera to learn how.

First, head to a thrift shop and pick out some seriously ugly ties. Make sure they’re silk. Rip out the seams.

Remember, the uglier, the better.

Grab a couple dozen eggs. (These are store bought, but my cousin is in the process of raising her own chickens and growing her own vegetables. Of course she is. No word yet as to when the Jersey cow will arrive.)

Wrap each egg carefully in a section of tie. Try to get as few wrinkles as possible.

Wrap a rubber band around the end.

Boil the eggs for ten minutes.

Cool.

Carefully unwrap the eggs. It’s best to banish all teenagers from the room during this part, or you’ll end up with cracked eggs. What? They just wanted to help.

Enjoy pretty eggs without dye that rubs off all over everything!