Hoffer Easter 2025

Personal

Apr 23

In our family, GiGi is Easter. Since she moved from Milbrook, New York, to live near us in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, my grandma Rita (GiGi) has made the most fabulous Easter breakfast for our crew. My memories of the time spent at her house on Easter morning after the traditional sibling egg hunt through the house will hold a special place in my heart. Since GiGi turned 91 this year, she passed the breakfast baton on to my sister, Katie, and her family. As the youngest sibling, I sometimes feel guilty that Katie is always asked to step up while I continue to just show up. So, I did what I always do to chip in. I brought my camera.

Being a photographer has made me hesitant to grab my camera on my days off in recent years, but it is a gift I can share with my family. It was fun to pester everyone to take photos together like old times. This desire to share my talent with my loved ones again is another benefit of slowing down. While I may not be the best cook like the guys or a baker like the girls, nor can I make my own homegrown, homemade jams and jellies like my parents, I can document it all for everyone!

GiGi was not feeling well enough to join us, so I was especially grateful that I had brought my camera to show her what an excellent job Katie did in continuing the tradition. Breakfast was fantastic—right down to the beautiful place settings and chocolate treats. She and my niece Aubrey are both talented hostesses. Aubrey made the cinnamon bunny twists herself!

GiGi was not the only one missing from breakfast. Isaac, my 19-year-old son, also couldn’t make it back from his trip to Pittsburgh in time. We took a family picture that was incomplete without him. Next time!

For now, my parents host Easter dinner. They are excellent cooks. I love receiving an invitation to dinner at their house on any regular day, but it's especially wonderful when we're all gathered for a holiday! We enjoyed a traditional Easter dinner with asparagus grown by my dad and brother-in-law. There’s nothing like fresh-from-the-garden veggies, and my mom’s pineapple glaze.

Isaac made it to dinner. It was wonderful to catch up with both of my adult children in one day. That doesn’t happen very often anymore! I told Isaac we had taken pictures earlier and asked if he wanted some photos with his siblings. To my utter amazement and delight, he said yes! That completed my day. I also couldn’t resist taking some pictures of the one model who never complains: our dog Char.

I love growing older. The older I get, the easier it is to make my day. Just give me good food, relaxation, and family, and I’m all set.