Happy Easter Birthday, Dad!

Peter's birthday fell on Easter this year: The Big Four-O! He did not want to be surprised. He did not want to go out. He definitely did not want deviled eggs for breakfast. Instead, we woke up to Boston Cream donuts (because they are his favorite and because he was born in Boston) and we had fun using black wrapping paper. He got a James Bond movie (because he always does), 2 additions to his collection of Alice in Wonderland illustrated editions (bringing the total to 31), a baseball hat (what else do you think the boys would choose this time of year?!) and a balls and strikes counter (because he is still in the game!). I couldn't resist making an Easter birthday cake either! We love you, Peter!
Now... I think I'm supposed to be doing an Easter post.
Next. I promise.

Graeme wants you to know....

This foot...

kicked this ball...

way up there....

... as in way, way up there.

Now... I think I'm supposed to be doing an Easter post.

Good Friday

The boys are growing old enough now to really think about Easter and its significance. We had memorable and enjoyable scripture study this week about Palm Sunday, the Passover and the events leading to the Savior's atonement and crucifixion. Connor and Graeme enjoyed an overnight trip to the cousins' to participate in a Passover dinner on Thursday and then the cousins joined us in Annapolis for a non-denominational stations of the cross faith walk on Friday. The boys all remarked how moving it was to walk a crowded pathway with a growing throng of reverent believers and were impressed that someone carried a wooden cross to each station marking an event in Jesus' last mortal day. I was also gently touched by the Spirit when I noticed that the farther we went along the way, the farther ahead of me the boys were. At first, they literally held my hand and sang over my shoulder. Then they recited the scriptures on their own and walked just a few yards in front of me. By the end, I couldn't see them but knew they were ahead, finding their own way. It was a sweet reassurance that yes, they have been taught and they have learned. As they grow in testimony and stature, they will walk on in life ahead of me, but still I'll know, they know the path, and I'll have faith that they are on it. I love being their mom (and their aunt).