Delano Herald Journal

Serving the communities of Delano, Loretto, Montrose, MN, and the surrounding area

Jenni Sebora Column – 3/26/12



Did you know that the date of Easter is determined by the moon?

It is true. The first Sunday after the first full moon in spring is Easter. Easter and spring are about rebirth and the chance to start over again.

As Robert Flatt said, “The resurrection gives my life meaning and direction and the opportunity to start over, no matter what my circumstances.”

That is why spring is my favorite season. You can start over again. New growth. New chances. New life. In fact, bunny rabbits and eggs are symbols of spring because they symbolize fertility.

What do many children get in their Easter baskets? Chocolate Easter bunnies and marshmallow eggs are probably among the goodies.

I found a fun spring recipe. Using a large can of chow mein noodles, about 4 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips (or butterscotch or whatever one prefers), and 2 teaspoons of shortening or butter, you can make some edible birds’ nests.

Melt the chips and butter or margarine in a microwavable bowl in the microwave, about one minute. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Pour the noodles into the melted chips, and stir until the noodles are covered.

Drop by large spoonfuls onto plates, and allow the children to form into the nests. The children can then add jelly bean eggs or malted milk eggs and marshmallow chicks, such as Peeps into the nests to fill them up and truly make them into spring nests. (idea source: www.dltk-children.com).

You could also make the nests by making the Rice Krispy recipe. When melting the butter and marshmallows, add some food coloring. Add the Rice Krispy cereal, and then have the children form them into nests instead of Rice Krispy bars. Have your children coat their hands in non-stick cooking spray so the Rice Krispy mixture doesn’t stick to their hands when forming the nests.

Remind or explain to your children that the Vernal Equinox marks the first official day of spring, which is usually March 20 or 21. About 12 hours each of daylight and night and both hemispheres are at an equal distance to the sun on the Vernal Equinox.

With our early spring weather, trees, plants, and flowers are beginning to bud. Everything is waking up from winter naps – animals, plants, and people, too. Children are moving around the neighborhoods on bikes, trikes, and even automobiles (my son just got his permit). Neighbors are in their yards raking, cleaning out flower beds, and adding some waves and greetings to their neighbors.

These are all true signs of spring and Easter.

Martin Luther said, “Our Lord has written the promise of resurrection, not in books alone, but in every leaf in springtime.”

Enjoy the season, and remember, new growth, new chances, new life.








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