SPRING ARRIVES TODAY

Although it is a date on the calendar, it may not seem like spring in many parts of Canada. More snow for the east and rain for the west. With some areas with temperatures in the one digit, people are already sitting outside for a drink. What I love the most is to see people outside. It is like the hibernating bear that emerges from his cave. More light, fresh air and activities that draw us outside- like a leisurely walk make spring a time of year for renewal, review and the proverbial- spring cleaning! There is space on the curb to put out misc items that someone else may want to take. Stuff in the garage that can go to a charity or sell or just to the curb! Besides first day of spring on a Friday- can not beat it! So how are you feeling this first day of spring? Do you have plans? Dinner out? If warm enough to sit outside? Oh spring with its hope of rebirth!!

EASTER EGG CANADIAN STYLE

The Easter Egg has pagan roots
and in most cultures around the
world it is a symbol of rebirth.
For some there is an association with
fertility. Even the word Easter was from the Saxon language- Eostre. They brought their traditions involving eggs, chicks and rabbits to Britain in the 5th centruy AD. All items that are prevalent during the Easter season today.
As a child, we would boil eggs and then decorate them with crayons or markers. Small eggs were hidden throughout the house to find on Easter morning. There was an Easter parade in Toronto in the1950's. I remember getting an Easter bonnet to wear
to it.

Sometimes a new Easter outfit or dress to match would be a gift. Then it seemed special to go to church with the new outfit to hear the Easter story. Many different cultures throughout the world have their own customs around eggs and how they decorate them.
Now Adolph and I hide some chocolate Easter eggs for the grandchildren to collect in their colourful baskets. They have an egg hunt at their own homes before coming to our house for Easter dinner. Last week I asked my granddaughter if she wanted the Easter bunny to come to our house to hide eggs. She said yes. So I asked if she wanted me to email him to ask him to come here. She agreed! There are some books on the coffee table to read about the real significance of Easter. A nice blend of religious and fun things to do! What do you do for Easter? Do you have fun with your children or grandchildren? Do you have any special traditions with eggs?