Easter Sunday was uplifting and quiet. Not quiet like the way you would normally assume – I’ve got 5 kids and we met up with extended family. The volume of the noise was definitely not quiet. But it was a reflective day and even during the evening, as the sun tucked behind the horizon, I watched the kids play with their cousins and continue to explore their newly found eggs, I was quiet. I was in my “thin place” as I observed all that was going on around me but didn’t feel the need to participate or be in conversation to enjoy it.

I am grateful for those quiet moments in a loud world. I am grateful for Easter and all that we’ve studied as a family as we prepared for this special holiday. I’m grateful for my Savior and His atoning sacrifice for all my shortcomings and fears and worries…and everything else I’m willing to unload on Him. It’s been a good week and Sunday was the culmination of it all.

These kids are learning that the faster they smile and take a nice picture, the sooner they can run off and play. It’s taken a while to get to this point and Briggs is still learning the ropes.

Steve’s brother and sister-in-law have hosted Easter for years and I’m so happy every year that they’re willing to do it again. They make it nice and elegant (which can be hard for a crowd our size) and the setting always fosters great conversations. Whether they be lighthearted and laughing or personal and introspective. I usually get pictures of all the tables – this year I got this shot. Hallie has made it to the older kids table and she played it cool – and didn’t spill anything! 😉

Easter 2018

Easter 2018

Easter 2018

Easter 2018

Easter 2018

Easter 2018

Briggs found an egg, yep – only one! Once he found that egg and shook it he realized it contained candy. There was no convincing him of hunting eggs after that. He was happy with the candy in his hand.

Easter 2018

Easter 2018

Easter 2018

Easter 2018

We’re happy to have Steve’s parents home from another mission in Africa. Here are some of the grandkids – including two “grandkids” that married into the family and one great grandbaby.

Easter 2018