Ramps, or wild leeks, are smaller and have a more garlicky flavor. Cut off the root and slice the white and light-green parts into rounds. Shallots have a marvelous subtle flavor and can be substituted for onions in many recipes. Finely chopped shallots enhance a vinaigrette, and whole roasted shallots are a perfect accompaniment to a roast. A friend collected seashells for me.
Shells make wonderful natural decorations.
A bowl filled with small shells or a single large shell can adorn a table or bureau, or you can line up several favorites along a windowsill or the edge of a shelf. Embellish the frame of a mirror, picture or bulletin board, a box painted a color to complement the shells, a terra-cotta flowerpot or any object that could use a little dressing up. You can cover entire surfaces with shells, encrusting the object. A dab or two of craft glue is all you need to attach the shells. The way you arrange them depends on your collection.