Happy Easter

Even though we awoke to a rainy Easter morning, our spirits were filled with the joy that only comes from knowing and loving the victorious, risen Lord Jesus Christ. We gladly joined our congregation in singing the words to this wonderful new hymn by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend:

"See, what a morning, gloriously bright, with the dawning of hope in Jerusalem;

folded the graveclothes, tomb filled with light, as the angels annouce "Christ is risen!"

See God's salvation plan, wrought in love, borne in pain, paid in sacrifice,

fulfilled in Christ the Man, for He lives: Christ is risen from the dead!

See Mary weeping, "Where is He laid?"
as in sorrow she turns from the empty tomb.

Hears a voice speaking, calling her name;
It's the Master, the Lord, raised to life again!

The voice that spans the years, speaking life, stirring hope, bringing peace to us,

will sound till He appears, for He lives: Christ is risen from the dead!"

We were so happy that M&B joined us for the weekend. On Saturday, we took advantage of the sunny weather and went to the beach (that will be the next post). But Easter was a celebration time for our church family and our small family that was able to be here. K loved twirling and dancing in her new Easter dress...

"Ring around the rosy...we all fall down" (And look at those beautiful curls!)

There were candy-filled eggs...

and some fun with stamps.

It was so thrilling to watch this little one as she looked and found those pretty colored eggs. We couldn't help but recall one year ago; Em had only just come home from a long four month stay in the hospital and was still dealing with major health issues. It made us rejoice just to watch her toddling about! A year ago, we did not know if she was going to be blind, and here she is--looking for eggs! We praise God for His goodness.

Big sister carried the basket...

and little sister helped to search for eggs.

I love this picture of the girls hunting behind the sofa!

K showing dad her treasures

Em showing Poppi her treasures!

More surprises!

I love how she looks so intently at things!

Daddy found some free time to just get lost in his book (he said he was freezing!)

Since this little girl started to walk, she has been going non-stop! Sometimes it makes us tired just watching her constantly on the go. She is so busy and always finding something new to hold, or throw, or pick up, or taste. Such a fun time to have at least some of our family together for Easter. (Sadly, we focused so much on the kids that we never did get a family picture together...oh well, we have lots of good memories and pictures in our minds!) A blessed Easter week to all!