Remembering the Bunny

Here comes Peter Cottontail, hopping’ down the bunny trail… Hippity, hoppity, Easter’s on its way! Boy, does this song brings back memories (Don’t pretend you don’t know the lyrics)! I remember wondering about that bunny, and how he could cover so much territory on Easter morning.

I remember waking up on Easter morning, listening to the birds sing and waiting with anticipation to retrieve my special basket of goodies, from the Easter Bunny. Since my basket was always outside, I had to practice some reserve before bouncing out the door. Mr. Sun had yet to emerge from behind the hill, as it was early and a Sunrise Service would be attended before my basket could be found. As I walked to the car, my eyes were busy looking into the dark corners, at every shadow. In my heart of hearts, I hoped to see the magical creature stealing away, after leaving my basket behind. Needless to say, I never spotted him on those brisk mornings.

The Sunrise Service was also special, evoking emotions of both sadness and elation. As the service was among the gravestones of a cemetery, the feeling of death and resurrection was present. It wasn’t a bad feeling, just an unusual feeling, creating heightened emotions. I remember a feeling of sadness thinking about the cruelty of the cross. I heard scripture passages read by the people gathered to celebrate the Easter event, and suddenly, the sun rose, bringing with it the wondrous song, “He Lives”, and my emotions switched to that of a joyous jubilant nature.

On the drive home I felt lifted by a sweet spirit, but my Easter Bunny thoughts were ever present. I noticed every little bunny along the way, and imagined each knew a secret, and was in some way connected to the Easter Bunny. I had no idea how, but I was convinced it was true. As the car pulled into the driveway, my eyes surveyed the yard, looking for the precious treasure. Of course, it would not be that easy! But, after a quick search the basket was found.

I was never disappointed! Oh, the goodies! There were a few bright, beautiful eggs, like Sister Sue’s (we also colored our own and the Easter Bunny needed to make his go-around to many other children). There were jelly beans of every color, just like Tommy’s. And the chocolate bunnies, both solid and marshmallow, were great. The Robin’s eggs were especially good, but my all-time favorite were the little yellow and blue baby chicks (not living) sitting in my basket. I could play for hours with those chicks! And all this was just the beginning. There were hats, gloves, new dresses and dress coats to match, new patent leather shoes, laced socks and new pocket book. And, after church, the mighty feast shared with many cousins, not to forget the egg hunting!

What a day…what a memory! But all things change as we grow older. The Easter Bunny forgot where I live, but the song still brings back memories! Happy Easter!