SPRING IS APPROACHING and it’s time to go after the seasonal items that have been missing for a while. Go to local farmers markets and get the inside scoop. Take advantage of crops that aren’t readily available to the masses.

Have your neighbors over and make them jealous that you scooped them on the good stuff. It’s guaranteed to impress them. It’s a great time for vegetables and fruits like asparagus, artichoke and strawberries, and let’s not forget about the refreshments.

It’s time to break out the bartenders books and remember how to make a Margarita, a Hurricane, or just enjoy your favorite gin with a boutique tonic water. Blood oranges and berries are good bet for Spring, especially if you want to try your own hand at cocktail invention.

You can’t go wrong adding Rum or Vodka which are perpetually in season. Rye Whiskey and all manner of fruits and nectars work nicely together this time of year. Don’t forget about grapefruit, which goes nicely with Tequila! The key to this season is color. Make sure its plentiful both on your plates and in your glasses (and those of your guests).

Whatever your plans, change things up a little. With a nod to the changing of the seasons, life deserves a good kick start to follow mother earth as she defrosts and the sun makes its annual pit stop between the ski slope and the pools and beaches of summer.

The featured blogger for this post is Station Casinos Vice President of Food & Beverage Mark LaVoie