Easter Festivities

Easter is one of my favorite times of the year. I love the mild weather, the beautiful spring colors, and the Cadbury chocolate eggs (not this year). But especially, I love the opportunity it gives us to think of Jesus' life and ultimate gift to all of us. In honor of Him, this week our family spent time every day learning about his ministry, singing songs, and giving compliments and service to each other. I didn't take pictures of much of that part though. So instead, here are some pictures of the beautiful mild weather and spring colors part.

An Easter feast at Cathy and Allen's house, Pictures in our back yard, and our traditional Old Jerusalem feast at home. Grandma Bird, Mary Markoff, Allen, Monica and Greg doing what we do best at any get together--sitting around and talking.

Our Matriarch. Grandma will be 96 years old in June.

No eggs in there, Abbie! Emma, taking a moment to smile for the camera.

Matthew was a serious little egg hunter. He liked the colorful eggs just as much as the candy.

Abbie-dabby-do and me. What a gal!

OOOH, I love these guys!!!

Sorry gals, these two are MINE!!

Easter on the "candy deal." You won't find any candy in this basket this year. Emma, along with Abbie and me- aren't eating candy for a year. This year, the Easter Bunny had to get more creative, filling baskets with powdered donuts, fruit by the foot and black olives--yes, black olives.

Matthew is attempting the impossible. He loves cucumbers.

During the week leading up to Easter we try to do a few activities and lessons that teach about Christ's life, time, and teachings. One of our favorite activities is an Old Jerusalem style feast (usually eaten in recline style) but for obvious reasons--he's 18 months, we ate at the table. This year our feast included grilled (broiled) fish, nuts, fruits, cucumbers, and grape juice (our version of wine).