Traditions Can Keep us Connected

As a kid, I knew I could count on a few things at Easter: going to church, dyeing eggs and receiving a basket filled with goodies, dental floss and a new toothbrush. 

The traditions around Easter evolved a bit as we got older, and the number of kids in my family expanded from two to five. We started hunting for Easter eggs my mom would hide throughout the house. One year, some eggs were filled with money, but fights ensued--that was a tradition that didn't last. 

I like tradition. It makes me feel connected, gives me something to anticipate and to celebrate. But as kids grow up and families change, traditions change along with it. 

This year, my youngest siblings are 16. Earlier this month, my mom looked at us and asked if we thought Easter baskets were still a necessity. 

"Just dump a few bags of candy in the middle of the table and call it a day," one of my brothers said. 

For me, the baskets of candy aren't what's important, nor is the traditional hunt for eggs, or eating a certain thing for dinner. What's important is getting everyone together (all eight of us) for a meal and taking time appreciate the day. 

This year, we'll likely spend the holiday a little less traditionally--with a post-church brunch instead of dinner, so my husband and I can make it to his family's Easter event. 

I think just being together is one tradition we'll hang onto.