Easter weekend this year brought with it the realization that family functions will no longer be the same for my mom's side of the family as Grandpa will no longer be sitting at the head of the table.  But as it was Easter we were given the reminder that Christ paid the ultimate price so that we can have Eternal life and in that there is hope in death...the comfort in knowing that we will one day see our loved ones again.  This particular weekend also brought with it the opportunity to spend time with family and to laugh amidst the pain.

 That morning at church we sang several songs that spoke the words of HOPE we have in a risen Christ and of the deep LOVE our Heavenly Father showers upon us...to give His life so that we may live...what love!  So I found it a true blessing to see an earthly example of the love of a father!  These pictures just make me smile...make me proud that I am surrounded by such wonderful men in my life!

My older brother and his family were unable to make it to the dinner and my niece Jessie was up spending time with my in-laws so I decided that since it was nice out and there weren't so many little kids to keep track of, Rachel and I were going to enjoy some time in the sunshine...the wind made things interesting but we had a blast.  Uncle Jamie and I entertained her for a while but she soon wanted Daddy to come out and play...and being the gracious, loving father he his, he complied.

 The things daddy's let their daughters do...oh, Papa Smurf, I can only imagine the things I put you through!

Peek-a-boo!!

 These smiles just...mmmm, melt my heart.

But these 2 pictures really make my heart sing!

Crazy girl just wouldn't give a serious smile, but I love that she's impulsive and doesn't take life too seriously.

While we were out enjoying the weather, Uncle Randy and Caleb were soaking up some quality time together.  When we first got to my Grandma's we found Caleb contentedly perched on Randy's lap and I think Randy is all too thrilled he will have a little buddy to pal around with now.  It was so fun to watch them interact together!

Although the empty place setting at the table this year was tough to process, we had much to be thankful for!  We have the joy and comfort of eternal life our loving Father provided by GIVING His One and Only Son to pay the penalty for our sins and this year I especially praise Him for the family I have to spend this earthly life beside!  I pray your Easter was a blessed and happy one!