Light Hearted

Happy Easter, my friends! Although I didn’t grow up celebrating this holiday myself, the joy and wonder of Easter became a cherished part of my life when my children were born here in Michigan.

As winter’s chill still lingers in the air, the spirit of spring’s renewal and rebirth warms our hearts on this blessed day. Easter is a time of hope, new beginnings, and simple joys that bring communities together.

The origins of Easter date back centuries, intertwining ancient pagan rituals celebrating rebirth with the Christian commemoration of Jesus’s resurrection. Decorated eggs, one of the holiday’s most beloved symbols, were part of spring festivals long before their adoption into Easter traditions. In many cultures, the egg represented the universe’s creation and the renewal of life after winter’s dormancy.

When my kids were young, few experiences captured the magic of Easter quite like the annual egg hunt in the park behind our home. I watched with delight as they carefully decorated their wicker baskets, eyes shining with eager anticipation for the hunt to begin. The simple thrill of scouring the grounds for those vibrant, candy-filled shells created memories that still bring a smile.

It was more than just a sugary quest, though; it was a chance for our tight-knit subdivision to gather, neighbors greeting one another with warm smiles and well-wishes as winter’s grip loosened. I loved witnessing my children partake in the rituals and traditions that I had missed out on growing up.

Even now, years later, I can’t help but feel nostalgic as I watch a new generation of youngsters racing across that park, baskets in hand. Their delighted squeals and peals of laughter remind me that the magic of Easter, much like the cycles of nature it celebrates, endures and connects families across generations.

While I didn’t awaken to find a trail of paw prints or nibbled carrots from the Easter Bunny’s overnight visit in my childhood, I treasured witnessing that precious belief and innocence in my own children’s eyes. Those magical memories are among the gifts this holiday offered our family.

So whether you’re gathering with loved ones or enjoying a moment of quiet reflection, I wish you all the blessings of Easter. May its spirit of renewal, hope, and the simple pleasures of spring warm your heart, even in the lingering Michigan chill.