Why is the farm an allure this Easter? We tend to gather there for family events, but Easter has been at Mom and Dad's in town for decades. This year, it's at their granddaughter's several blocks away.

But the images that come to me are from the farm. With more than an acre for a yard, space was no object in the great egg hunts. Of course, the bunny's area grew as I did. Then a little brother came along and the eggs returned to a smaller area. 

Easter was sunrise service at the drive-in in Steeleville. Coats would go on over pajamas and we'd head out in the dark. The scratchy speaker would be attached to the window, which let in a stream of cool or cold air. Mom and Dad both sang well and we all knew the words to "Beautiful Savior" and "I Know that my Redeemer Lives." I remember no sermons, only the newly risen sun and music squawking through the speakers. I may have napped.

In memory, rain always fell on Good Friday and/or Easter Saturday. Easter was heady with the smell of damp grass, newly pushing up through the spring soil and not yet mowed. 

Neither child will join me this Easter, which may explain why my memories are of my childhood, not theirs. One will be in Key Largo; the other in the Berkshires. 

Last update: 21-03-2008 09:21

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