{Easter 2014}

The house is quiet and all the dishes are put away.  Both girls are sleeping soundly in their beds.  After a busy week of Easter egg hunts, spring cleaning, and resurrection Sunday, I finally have a moment to reflect on all the joyful memories we made with our girls.  

Easter is such a beautiful reminder that God makes all things new and that He brings us from death to life.  Every spring, as I watch the flowers bloom and sit still enough to hear the birds sing, my heart smiles just a little bit more.  This weekend, I finally had time to get all the pine cones out of the house and replace them with fresh flowers!  We also planted our garden and a few flower pots for the deck.  It makes me so happy to sit on our deck and let the birds serenade me! 

On Thursday, Abigail had her first Easter egg hunt.  Watching the excitement on her little face as she spotted each colorful egg was so sweet.  We have since had many egg hunts in the front yard.  I was a pretty competitive egg hunter so I plan to train her up right! 

As Mike and I sat on our deck last night admiring our new garden and pretty spring flowers, I found myself having a bit of a pity party.  I realized that I would be missing his sermon because it was my turn to volunteer in the nursery at our church.  Mike thanked me for volunteering and reminded me how special it is to serve our parents and allow them time to worship together.  Then, he walked me through his entire sermon.  At one point, I saw tears in his eyes as he shared the details surrounding the resurrection.  It was the sweetest moment and it reminded me why I love him so much.  His love for Jesus is palpable.  

I am so thankful for my church, my husband, and my family for making this Easter such a special day.  A few of our closest friends surprised me by coming to our service after they finished worshiping with their church family.  And then God totally blessed me with the time I spent in the nursery today.  Another mom and I had such a good heart to heart talk and I think we both left feeling inspired and encouraged. Sometimes the best ministry happens, when you least expect it!  

We wrapped up this beautiful day with sweet family and good food.  I love a house full of people and any excuse to get my pretty dishes out so I am one happy girl tonight.  Hope you all had a wonderful Easter Sunday!