This time of year, Easter egg hunts are certainly hopping in the Juniata Valley. Sorry for the bunny pun.

But seriously, the hunts organized by local churches, organizations or other agencies have become classic Easter activities for kids.

The hunts provided an opportunity for youngsters to enjoy a morning of joy and happiness as they scavenge for eggs hidden in obvious and not-so-obvious locations.

While the kids are ready and raring to go, a lot of time and dedication goes into hosting these kinds of events. There’s fundraising in order to purchase the necessary supplies; filling the eggs with candy or small toys; and somebody’s got to hide them all over the grounds of wherever the Easter egg hunt is taking place.

The reward for those involved is simple: seeing the smiling faces of the participants as they display their haul of plastic candy-filled eggs. That laughter warms the hearts of many volunteers and organizers. Parents will spend the new few weeks trying to ration those sweets to thwart their kids from getting that jolt of exuberance from all of that sugar. And maintaining their sanity, in the process.

In a time where the world is filled with chaos and conflict, these events provide a beacon of light that there is still good in the world.

One look at the community calendar reveals the Easter egg hunt schedule has been filled for weeks. Chances are there’s one being not too far from where you are reading this editorial. From Lewistown and Mifflintown to all of the surrounding communities, the sound of laughter should be prevalent as egg-seekers unite for the scavenger hunts.

Many have loaded up with hundreds of eggs to hide, with some containing special prizes – yes, those golden eggs do exist. In an hour or so (maybe less), they will be found and their contents eaten.

This is a special weekend as parents will glean cherished photos of their little ones. Tiny hands will clutch those candy-filled baskets, not wanting to lose track of those tasty treats.

There’s also a few breakfasts scheduled – complete with buffets as another fundraiser – if you want to dine out before heading off to the hunt. If you go, bon Appetit.

So, ready, set, go. Let the search begin and thank you to those who made these special events possible. They provide egg-citing times for many youngsters!