#48 - Mar. 30th, 2024

Easter was once a very active holiday. I remember often as a child coming to Mandan to see Grandma and the family. The house was full of relatives, smells of ham and fixings, the Easter bunny cake with the spiced candies covered in sugar, hidden eggs and the buzz of talking and laughing. I recall one year we stayed in Devils Lake for Easter. 

I woke up with the excitement of Easter goodies. 

As usual, I had an empty basket and the hunt was on. As I was searching everywhere I could think of, I looked behind the large cabinet stereo we had. Jackpot!!!!! A brand new kite. The excitement roared through me. Once the hunt was complete, I asked my dad to help me put together my new kite. 

As he was attempting to open my new sky flyer, he uttered the words, “Oh, Sh*t”…. 

Well it seems that in my dads… er… I mean, The Easter bunny’s attempt to hide the kite, he didn’t take into account that behind the large cabinet stereo was a base board heater…..

Yes,… that’s right folks, my brand new kite was a melted chunk of plastic garbage!!!” 

As he attempted to peel the layers they just oozed and tore. Of course, there was a bundle of tears and a mighty fine temper tantrum to follow. And of course it was Sunday. Back in my day, the only stores that could be open were gas stations. And any product that wasn’t deemed appropriate to sell on Sundays were blocked off by the dreaded YELLOW ROPE!!!! You could see beyond the rope, but entrance into the holy land was prohibited 🚫 

More tears on the ride home. 

It’s funny how I can remember plenty of good holidays growing up, but that Easter was the most memorable. 

Today, it’s going to be a low key Easter, and that is just fine with me. 

PS. When hiding those kites this Easter, make sure they are far away from the heater vents. 

Happy Easter everyone. 

Love ya,

Dave