My mother, aka: "Nana," came for the weekend so she could be involved in the early morning festivities. I was hoping to get breakfast served before the egg hunt frenzy, but my plans went up in bunny dust when Luke spotted his first plastic candy-filled egg hidden high on a chandelier. Emma was impressed at how high the Easter Bunny can jump! The next hour was a free-for-all for Luke and Emma running around the house trying to find all the eggs. After breakfast, we headed to a friend's outdoor Chapel overlooking the Brandywine River for a lovely Easter service. Fortunately, the unseasonably warm weather made the rest of the day especially fun: an afternoon by the pool. Not a typical Easter afternoon, but a fun way to spend time with the family.
In addition to our Easter service, I tried to introduce my children to the religious meaning of Easter. Each day the week leading up to Easter, I would read to them "The Story of Easter," a picture book explaining the biblical account of Jesus' life, death and resurrection. When Luke asked me what "crucifixion" meant, I tried to explain in a matter of fact way that wouldn't give him nightmares. We talked about how my husband's father, "Grandpa," who died two years ago, was now an angel in heaven, thanks to Jesus.
We took a lot of photos, hoping to capture each special moment. I was surprised to find out how Luke remembered last Easter vividly; pointing out that last year, the Easter Bunny left the eggs outside (this year the grass was still wet from Saturday morning showers.) Child development experts say family traditions are important for children: they give youngsters and sense of security by knowing what to expect each year and helps strengthen the family bond. And whatever the holiday or occasion, any fun event that brings our family together is something to enjoy.
Happy parenting! Cecily
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