Easter Weekend

{Easter Weekend 2009}

We were all so happy to have Grandma & Grandpa Perkins here for the weekend. Having them fly here just for the weekend really shows all the kids how important baptism is. I'm so glad that they could be a part of it all.

The fun started Friday with all of Clay's birthday celebrations. Then, we were up bright and early to prepare for the after-the-baptism feast, which consisted of pretty much the same things we have every brunch before Easter. {ham, french toast casserole, egg casserole, muffins and croissants from Costco, and fruit salad} We were even ready to take pictures before we left. I'm still wondering what miracle of miracles happened for that to occur, but I'm grateful nonetheless.

Here they are all dressed in white.

Lexi, Clay, and Clay. A very happy lot, those three. It was an exciting day to share together.


I love tulips. Mine are just barely starting to bloom, but Costco pulled through for me so we could have a little touch of spring for our brunch.
The kids had a blast searching for Easter Eggs, and Emma just happened to find this really cool shirt in the wood pile. Yes, I know you've seen this before. Nate gathered all the kids to share what they found, and {of course} had Emma put her new tshirt on. There was quite a bit of excitement after that. Amelia was so thrilled she almost started to cry. It was pretty fun. It was also neat to see the kids sharing and trading candy, money, and toys. Of course, not everyone got the same things, and not everyone got an egg with money in it. Somehow, Uncle Ross very quickly became the man with the dollars for those who did not get one. Anyone who got an empty egg got a picture of the Savior. It was a good time.

The kids then just played with cousins all afternoon. It is one of their absolute favorite things to do. When the evening settled down, we got out the eggs and colored them pretty colors.

Sunday: Easter Sunday. One of my favorite days of the year. The kids enjoyed their simple Easter baskets, {church books, posters, and candy} and then we all got ready for church. We weren't so good at being ready this time, so the pictures had to wait until after church.

It's the candid shots that are often the most priceless. While Sam and Amelia were busy trying to get in the picture, Clay and Emma were sharing a rare peaceful moment together, hugging and loving.

The top picture reminded me of one I took in Cleveland about six years ago...can you believe it? Where has the time gone? The one below has long been one of my favorites.