I've been working on a few stories about Easter traditions and was lucky enough to run into Shirley O'Brien at the Mentor Senior Center during my research.

She opened up to me and told me all about her family; her very large family of seven children, 21 grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Myself and Duncan Scott met up with Shirley and her daughter Aileen at St. Gabriel Parish in Concord Township for the annual Easter basket blessing, where families bring in their Easter food prior to their celebration.

After the blessing, we were invited into Aileen's home to learn a little more about their family's traditions, including coloring eggs and making a meal suitable for 25 people.

This family was very, very welcoming and extremely open and friendly. I just wanted to extend a written thank you to everyone in the O'Brien/Schneeberger family for their kindness.


--Caitlin Fertal
CFertal@News-Herald.com