Easter!

Easter has always been one of my favorite holidays. Growing up I always looked forward to our family's annual Easter egg hunt (where the eggs are filled with money as well as candy!), the Easter bunny, coloring eggs, and that beautiful new Easter Sunday dress I knew I would get. My parents were always so good at making sure that we understood the "real reason" for Easter, but honestly, back then that was kinda the boring part. As I have gotten older I have started to appreciate the "real reason" more and more each year; but this year I don't know what I would do if there was nothing to Easter but eggs, bunnies, and dresses. I am so grateful for this wonderful time of year where I can focus on the Savior and the mind-boggling sacrafice he made for me and my family. I love how Easter is always kind of "kicked-off" with General Conference-and this years especially touched my heart. I appreciated Elder Holland's talk that reminded me how much Jesus Christ loves me and how His atonement has impacted my life. As hard as losing my dad was last Easter seaso (and still is), I can't imagine what it would have been like to go through this without the comfort and hope the atonement gives us. I really don't think I could have it if I didn't really KNOW that I would get to see my Dad again. Christ suffered the suffering of the world so that when my family came to this near-unbearable trial, we would get throught because he understood how badly everything hurt. I know He was with my dad and my family each step of the way. I know He is with my Mom and that that is how she can stay so strong. And I know that he is with my brother helping him stay strong while he is so far from home and would otherwise seem alone. I hope I will always remember and appreciate this amazing blessing.

Now for the commercial side of Easter: :)

Well, the last few years I have found the most eggs but this year Dustin "dethroned" me by finding a whopping 49 eggs. I got second place but it was a little discouraging...haha. Well, at least it wasn't my sister.... ;) Sadly, I didn't take any pictures of our hunt, but it was as intense as always.

Austin and Alexis Coloring eggs. I can't believe how big they are getting!

Some of Dustin's and my eggs. Dustin's are on the left and he was very proud of his creativity-haha

Austin and Alexis in their new Easter outfits

Dustin was able to meet his new little niece this trip! He held her for the first time (actually I think it was the first time he ever held a baby....period) and I swear I saw a little twinkle in his eye..haha. She is so beautiful and we just love her to pieces!