Saturday, March 28, 2015

Using "Resurrection Eggs" to Illustrate the Easter Story

 

I use "Resurrection Eggs" to illustrate and reinforce the Easter story with young children.  "Resurrection Eggs" kits can be purchased at Christian book retailers, through Amazon, or you can make your own.

The kit contains plastic eggs filled with objects representing different parts of the Easter story,  and a booklet containing the Biblical account of Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection.

After children locate the hidden eggs, read the Biblical passages, opening each egg in story order. Children delight in discovering the objects and how they relate to the Easter message.

Follow up with a children's Easter song. We like Ho-Ho-Ho-Hosanna by Cedarmont Kids.

God's blessings to your and your family as you celebrate the resurrection of Jesus!


What tools or activities have you used to help little ones discover the true meaning of Easter?





Wednesday, March 18, 2015

"Mimi & Grandpa's Book of the Month": An Easter Adventure

The Littlest Bunny in Texas - An Easter Adventure by Lily Jacobs is the March choice for "Mimi & Grandpa's Book of the Month." After moving to Texas, May and Joe visit a pet shop. They choose the littlest bunny for their pet and name him Flop. The children do not realize Flop is actually the Easter Bunny. Flop travels around Texas delivering Easter eggs. My grandchildren have visited several destinations mentioned in the story, and they will be excited to hear these familiar names. I believe they'll also enjoy imagining what it would be like to have the Easter Bunny as a pet!

The book's illustrations by Robert Dunn are bright and colorful. Eggs hidden in the pictures add a fun element.  Children love searching for hidden objects within a picture.

Although The Littlest Bunny in Texas - An Easter Adventure does not convey the Biblical meaning of Easter, it does emphasize the beloved traditions of the Easter Bunny and egg hunts.
 
My grandchildren know Easter's true meaning is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, Son of God. I've given them many Bible story picture books to read and enjoy. We make resurrection rolls  together to celebrate our risen Lord. They also enjoy decorating and searching for Easter eggs.

May God bless you and yours this Easter season.





Thursday, March 12, 2015

15 Things I Love About My Husband

My husband, Dale, and I are celebrating our 27th wedding anniversary. Here are 15 things  I love about my husband:

1. He's trustworthy and honest.
2. He loves God, family, and  country.
3. He's a generous giver.
4. He demonstrates a good work ethic.
5. He is wise with money, and manages resources well.
6. He's meditative. He thinks before he speaks.
7. He has a good sense of humor and enjoys laughter.
8. I know his passwords, and he knows mine. We keep no secrets from each other.
9. He knows my love language- "acts of service." Rarely, do I gas up my own vehicle. And, he never makes me push a lawn mower.
10. After 3 years, he's still willing to learn how to dance. We've learned two-step, waltz, foxtrot, and west coast swing. We'll dance at your wedding for cake.
11. Aside from my parents, he's the only person in the world who has always had my back.
12. He chose to be the dad he didn't have to be.
13. He's a good grandpa...very playful.
14. He grills a mighty good bacon-wrapped filet. It's his signature dish.
15. He'd rather have this blog post than a Hallmark card.

Happy Anniversary Dale. I love you more than ever!


What are 3 things you love about your spouse?


Friday, March 6, 2015

Waiting for the Daffodils

Daffodils bloom as the new spring awakens from its slumber. Anticipating my first daffodils sighting, I'm reminded God is faithful. As the cycle of seasons turns, I know the LORD will cause the seed to die, and He will call forth new life. 

A daffodil symbolizes regard for someone. God is faithful, and every year, because of His regard for me, He provides these yellow blooms. I can count on it. Deuteronomy 7: 9 says, "Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant  of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands."

Daffodils also symbolize rebirth and new beginnings. Thirty years ago, my life changed forever when my first husband, Michael, passed into eternal life. On that day, the daffodils in my mother-in-law's garden were a gentle reminder of a my new beginning. At age 26, I woke up a widow. Against the dark canvas of death, those sun-shiny blossoms painted the promise that all things would be made new. 

Daffodils are God's sweet gift that bring delight to my soul.  I'm grateful. In these thirty years, I've lived a good life. My husband, Dale, and I will soon celebrate our twenty-seven year marriage.  Together, we raised a son who has grown to be a loving husband and father. We blessed to have a daughter-in-law who is a fabulous wife and mother.  Our four grandchildren bring us joy. 

I commemorate this anniversary appreciating the goodness and faithfulness of my God. And I will remember those who suffer loss and grief. May you sense the LORD'S compassion today.

Father God, you are good, faithful, and loving. Thank you for your gifts, and for always being with me. You have been my protector, my provider, and my peace. Remember, LORD, those who suffer loss, grief, and despair. Hear their cries, and sustain them. Comfort those who mourn with your unfailing love, and fill them with your peace. Restore hope and joy. In the name of Jesus, your Son, amen.


What reminds you of God's faithfulness?