He is risen!

3 John 1:4

I have no greater joy 

than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.

What a beautiful Easter weekend spent with family, celebrating our risen Lord, and witnessing declarations of faith from those we love. A few family members were missing but we understand how difficult it is for them to be with us. Much love to them!

Saturday was spent with Mariana at Holy Apostles Orthodox Church. We can't call it "Jake's church" anymore. Now it's Ana's. Or maybe Ana and Jake's?

The service came with a surprise ending when Eden and I were called up front. We thought we had misunderstood. But then, a gift from the church to Backpacks of Hope. What a caring and giving group of people! I love when a church gathers to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Someone always finds the vulnerable. Let it be the followers of Christ who meet them with love and open arms.

Then a gift from Mariana to a special mentor, commissioned and painted by Eden, the view from church.

Easter morning started with a sunrise service of sorts; breakfast at Cracker Barrel.

Who knew that a cassette player could keep him somewhat happy?

We are now accepting any and all old cassettes that you

are looking to unload, especially stories!

The Kings just can't handle the sun.

Then Shoun's public declaration of faith, baptism by his dad, and prayer by PopPop.

Some people get more baptized than others.

A special day made even more special when your sisters show up!

Beautiful pre-dinner music.

Somehow the only part of the meal that was saved for posterity was the dessert table. But that's the most important part of any meal, isn't it? Brought to you by the grandkids, it was complete with M&Ms from Victor, banana bread embellished with chocolate chips and brown sugar (so Jake would agree that it was a dessert) from Mariana, decorated mini cakes from Eden and HopeAnne, and quasi Jell-O helmets from Jesse and Megan along with peanut butter fingers for good measure. (and to make up for the Jell-O flop).

One lone child in the under-12 age group for the egg hunt. But he was thankful for the beeping eggs! Thanks, MomMom!

Jake taught us all the art of Pysanky egg dying (A Russion Orthodox tradition). To make it even more special, he brought his grandmother's kit with dye and instructions.

The Vanna White of Pysanky egg dying

Victor heard that you were supposed to lightly

outline your design with pencil first.

He is risen! He is risen, indeed!

And so we have hope!