There was of course the obligatory Lent fasting (I usually gave up chocolate) Ash Wednesday (one of my favorites) and Palm Sunday (I loved the story of Jesus arriving in town and having people lay Palm fronds before Him)!
My mother lit candles in the evening and there was the preparation of a huge Easter feast (our family was turkey all the way, no ham at the Smith house).
Family history was important and many were the times my mother told us stories about Great Grandmother McDonald and how strict she was. Being Irish and Catholic was who and what she was and she never wavered in her faith and her pride.
I am lucky enough to have her little prayer book entitled "Prayers of an Irish Mother" which is well-worn and has been repaired many times.
My great grandmother Catherine and her only daughter Maude kept a tight ship-shape home and Holy days were no exception. So in keeping with family tradition and in gratitude of Our Lord's sacrifice I offer this post to families everywhere who are keeping this special time sacred.
God bless you and yours this day!
