Easter

The morning dawned sunny,
with a gentle breeze.
Baskets and snacks were loaded 
into our cars,
as my brother and I set off for the day.

A quick stop at the train station
to grab my oldest,
then a visit to my niece’s new home,
and a walk along their backyard trails
with her husband and their dog.

My oldest niece's house was buzzing
when we arrived,
with aunts and uncles,
great aunts, cousins,
Grandpa, friends,
a big boy, toddler and baby.

Food, stories, naps, games, diapers,
repeated on a loop throughout the day.
I taught my tiny great niece
to keep score during Cornhole.
"Nope!" she would say, swishing her hand,
when a beanbag would miss its landing.
Later, she lay down with her cousin's dog,
chilling to Miss Rachel and taking a rest.
  
The Easter Egg Hunt was next,
as we adults had been busy hiding eggs,
all shapes and sizes,
some filled with prizes,
for the little ones to discover.
    
A giant meal,
prepared by my niece,
with contributions and help from others,
eaten around their huge dining table,
completed our day.

Family.
Tradition.
Connection.
Togetherness.

Photos:  Springfield, VA.  4.20.25 by LA