"Ham is gross"

Although Easter is supposed to usher in blooming flowers, fuzzy baby animals (the kind so cute you almost consider sneaking one home from a roadside petting zoo), and of course, a brunch or afternoon spread full of springtime favorites—including that sweet and savory ham…

That has not been the case in my house.

For years, we had ham. Whether I made it, my mom, sister, or mother-in-law did, there it was: that spiral-sliced or honey-baked round of meat, pulled out once a year to take center stage on a giant platter. The table was always dressed to impress with sides like scalloped potatoes, sugar-glazed carrots, or Brussels sprouts (a personal favorite of mine). It was tradition.

But year after year, the chorus from my kids was the same: “Ham is gross.”

And, honestly? I had to agree. Too salty, often too fatty, and never something I craved—even on a sandwich. My husband didn’t complain, but let’s be real—he’ll eat anything you put in front of him.

So, as the kids got older and our family gatherings began to shift, I finally said it out loud: “You know what? Ham is gross!”

And just like that, we broke tradition.

We’ve been doing Easter brunch ever since. Egg bakes, French toast, fruit salad, fresh baked goods—all the brunchy goodness. One favorite in our house? Banana muffins. It’s perfect for snacking on while we watch the Great Gatlin Egg Hunt unfold in the yard.

I’m not sure what took us so long, but it’s a reminder that traditions are hard to break—until a little honest voice (or two) gives you permission to start new ones.

https://www.fiftyseasonedlife.com/recipes/banana-crunch-muffins