Growing up in the south, there were rules and traditions that governed our lives. They gave structure and a feeling of safety and warmth. Easter was and still is the announcement of the coming of spring. Even as a child in the South, we knew that Easter was more than chocolate bunnies and new outfits.
Churches and Sunday schools taught about the real meaning of Easter. It’s about the death of Christ for the salvation of us all. I can remember Palm Sunday and getting the cross made of vegetation that we wore. I am not sure the children of today know what that means.
We also had the tradition of a big family dinner. Baked ham with the skin scored into blocks. Aromatic sticks of clove stuck into each area. Then the whole thing covered in brown sugar and mustard, cooked to a golden brown. Next there were the green beans cooked with bacon. Yes, by today’s standards they were cooked too long and too high in cholesterol. But these greasy boys were so good. Kids did not object to veggies then. Next was the great big bowl of potato salad. Boiled potatoes, boiled eggs, sweet pickles, mayo (not salad dressing), mustard, and celery mixed and seasoned oh so well that just a taste would make you shiver. Food in the south is love and any chance to show love and receive it tightens the family bond. Last was the dessert. My mom slaved over the stove and made one of my favorites. Coconut cake with seven minute white frosting. My taste buds went into overtime with every bite. A visit from or to friends finished off the day.
Another tradition was the after Easter sales. Off I would go with my mom to see what things we could get at half price.
I remember one Monday I got all dressed up in my Easter finery. A frilly pastel dress, shinny black patent leather shoes, and oh yes there was my brand new straw Easter bonnet. It was bedecked with flowers and bows. While getting off the bus I felt a great big breeze. Off went my new hat. As I turn to run after it my heart sank. My beautiful hat was crushed under the wheels of the bus.
Were there other great Easter memories? Yes, I am sure there are. But even now being the Diva of Fashion that I am, my heart still sinks at the thought of my beautiful Easter hat.
Tags: clothes, dinner, easter, family, food, sales, tradition