I pride myself in quickly responding to Mansion requests for help. I have a network of places to buy things cheaply (but in perfect shape), from consignment and thrift stores to online shopping centers, including Amazon.

In these years of purchasing things, I can only think of one or two times I failed to get what I was asked to call. Today was one of them. With only two shopping days left, I was asked to find a bunny suit for one of the aides to wear.

I found plenty online, but none could be shipped quickly enough to get her for Easter. This morning, I took a couple of hours to search – Walmart, Dollar Store, the Big Lot – and I called several stores in Saratoga and  Bennington.

I did find some chintzy Easter stuff, but I fought it anyway. It’s the thought that counts.

Nobody had a Rabbit suit left so close to Easter.

I found some bunny ears, a couple of fo baskets for prices, a Happy Easter sign, and I picked up a dozen Ball Jars full of flowers for the dining tables at the Mansion and the Memory Care Unit right next door.

I texted a photo of all this to Tania Woodward, who said it was “awesome,” but I’m slightly disappointed I couldn’t find the rabbit suit.

Still, it will be a lovely Easter. Maria and I have gotten into the habit of visiting the Mansion on holidays when the people whose families pick them up are gone, and some are left with no visitors. They love seeing Zinnia and us show up.

We don’t stay long, and the Mansion is eerily quiet on holidays.

We are bringing fresh flowers, some pants for new resident Patrick, shoes for two new other new residents, and some puzzles. Also, there are many Easter bunnies, a couple of stuffed animals, signs, ears, and Easter candies.

Tania and the aides will know what to do with them.

I’m pleased with the fresh flowers every few weeks, that will make eating brighter and more pleasant.

We’ll bring Zinnia along and visit with anyone who wants to see us. That is usually a good-sized crowd.

It’s the proper holiday for doing good. I’m big into rebirth. Happy Easter to all of you; I will be blogging through the weekend.

Next Sunday, we are going on a four-day vacation to the ocean.