Who’s ready for a warm-up? Maybe you’ve had blue skies and toasty days where you’re from (lucky ducks!), but here in Wisconsin—where we recently shoveled ourselves out from a couple “spring” snowstorms—we’ve been dreaming of the sun-kissed celebrations that make this time of year feel so special. Oh, and the food, too. We’re always looking forward to the food.

May is a pretty fantastic month if you love to entertain. And the April/May issues of Taste of Home and Simple & Delicious come in pretty handy during party season. They’re packed with tasty tacos and spicy salsas for Cinco de Mayo, Mom’s specialty roast chicken and tempting brunch dishes, plus happy drinks and juicy burgers for Memorial Day cookouts, and plenty of irresistible recipes for every day in between. Check out some of my favorites below, all ready to help you celebrate in style.

Here’s to warm smiles ahead,