Our Viewpoint

Our question to readers this week (page 3) asks about Easter traditions. When I lived in Everett, Washington, I attended a large church. The number of people was always higher at Easter, and at Christmas. Hence why the pastor joked that it was the "C&E Club."

This weekend, as people gather for church and Easter egg hunts and family dinners, it feels like one of the most normal holidays we've had in awhile. I joked with someone the other day, when they asked me about something in 2020, that I'm pretty sure last year just didn't happen.

Last Easter, everyone was in lockdown and there was a sense of panic that swept across the world. There was a new virus, new restrictions, and a significant unknown factor. People were wondering if they were going to get sick, and if so, how bad. Business owners were trying to figure out how to stay open and keep employees working. Let's face it, times were trying.

This Easter, families will gather together for meals, egg hunts and fellowship. Everyone is a bit more comfortable with gatherings. More than 1,571 residents in the county are fully vaccinated, as Sanders County Public Health and Clark Fork Valley Hospital continue to administer vaccines. People are still being cautious of the coronavirus, but airlines and highways are getting busier as people are more comfortable traveling.

Easter egg hunts will commence this weekend throughout the county. They will look a little diferent, but it's exciting that the kids will get to experience some of the Easter traditions.

We're thankful that we have made it through what we hope was COVID-19's worst and are able to get back to traditions.