The recent time change in Alberta, where I live, is a welcomed one for this
time of the year as I do not have to think of the change when going out to visit my family just over the border.
The farm is busy with the birth of new life in the corrals. Thankfully the weather has been pleasant with the recent chinooks and other systems going through the area. There is no snow, but the moisture for the coming season is a concern. Hopefully some spring rains will help, although there is still a strong chance of getting a spring storm or two, which could cause some concerns.
With all the spring happenings, thoughts also turn to Easter. The Lenten period is coming to an end while Easter, celebrated by many, is on the horizon.
The “Ukrainian Easter” is at the end of April – April 29 is Good Friday. I have the privilege of celebrating both – with my family their way and then later bringing out the customs and food of the other.
The exposure to the different celebrations creates an interest into the family dynamics. A school assignment for my grandson, Nolan, was such. Thankfully my brother Terry was here at the time with his extensive knowledge of the homeland where the grandparents came from. He visited Ukraine several times over the years – I believe it is seven.
The entire family was fascinated with the wealth of information he shared with us, covering a range of topics. I interjected at times with my own experiences growing up in a Ukrainian environment.
Nevertheless some of these early memories stick with me as I look forward to the season with the decorated eggs and the various foods. I miss the blessing of the Easter baskets on Easter morning and greeting the early morning sunrise service. Now I will concentrate on what I can do to make it more special.
I think I will make a batch of Ukrainian “babka” to share with my friends during this season. Happy Easter to all!
