By Margie DiGiovanni
Elmore/Autauga News’ Eclectic Reporter
Top Photo: Shoppers at Original Grace Boutique in Eclectic, Alabama stop for a photo.
Marley, Zachary, and Joshua Blake opted to play the ring toss at Harmony Yoga and Wellness Studio. With encouragement from their parent and Cammy Day who is employed there, they succeeded in winning the toy of their choice from the basket. Marley, a feisty young lady, decided that sitting beside or standing over the cones gave her the upper hand in landing the rings every time.
Amy Hibbs from Bless Your Heart prepared for what looked to be an onslaught of children and shoppers as the day quickly went from a few to an onslaught of Eclectic folk looking for a day of fun. Charlotte Rippy and Wanda Hart “womaned” the sales counter at Original Grace Boutique. Offering good discounts for the adults, and a surprise or two for the kiddies, they quickly found the store full of shoppers looking for bargains.
At our fave coffee shop, Cornerstone, Ms. Anne Porter read to attentive youngsters in a cozy back corner. Up front, the craft table became an instant hit, with children coloring, or making a surprise to enclose in a plastic egg. Regulars Brie Wright, Dorian Leonard and Jada McLeod relaxed with warm brews against the chill of the outdoors.
Checking out the Eclectic Public Library, I discovered the regular Saturday reading program is back in business. The reading room overflowed with delighted children and parents, while Ms. Coker’s big, white dog took center stage. Assistant librarian Donna Parr updated progress on the Eclectic Museum, as it moves toward completion. The museum now sports two new front doors, and a new roof from the Blount Foundation. Walmart manager Alphonso Grace donated two ceiling fans from the Wetumpka store.
The Leopard Fox, Expect Envy and Dash of Fashion welcomed so many customers that their doors seldom closed. Some offered Easter eggs filled with goodies, or like Expect Envy, with each purchase, a guest received a chance toward a nice gift basket. Several stores had secret eggs hidden. Finders received a gift or deeper discounts.
On the sidewalk, Ms. Felicia Hand offered lovely bouquets of flowers from her soon-to-be-open shop, Humble Blooms. The blossoms were so perfect, they almost looked as though made of silk. She hopes to have her place ready for business soon.
The highlight of my visit came when I approached a porch where Mr. Easter Bunny sat, looking forward to meeting children and having his picture taken with them. Between groups of kiddies, I broke in for a brief interview. Mr. Bunny sat up more than willing to answer my questions.
Reporter: Mr. Bunny, I understand your family has had Easter Bunnies for six generations. Is that correct?
Bunny (a bunny of few words): Nodded enthusiastically.
Reporter: If there were more bunny holidays, would your family be available?
Bunny: Hopped up and down, smiled and nodded. Then he cocked his head to one side as though asking when these might happen.
Reporter: I did not mean to mislead you, Mr. Bunny. Alas, there is but one bunny day now, and I do not foresee more in the future. However, perhaps we can talk to Congress about it.
Bunny: Frowning and looking dejected.
Reporter: You are so right. That would take forever, but we can dream, can’t we?
Bunny: Regained his smile as he looked past me to another group of children on their way to see him.
Reporter: Thank you for your time. And Happy Easter!
Bunny: With a wave of his paw and a wiggle of his fluffy tail, he turned as a child arrived.
So, dear readers, that is how the Eclectic Easter Egg Hunt went Saturday. Mr. Bunny, all the merchants of Eclectic and your reporter wish you a very Happy Easter and may you find lots of eggs. See you at church!
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