However, we change and we grow, and I have realized this Easter season more than ever before, that this holiday means everything to me! Without the Savior's willingness to suffer and die for us, this would be all there is. But, we know there is much more.
Everything I live for is based upon the events of that one supreme weekend we now call Easter.
The Resurrection, Eternal Families, Life Beyond the Grave, all are possible because of the love of Jesus.
Yesterday, my good friend from Maryland, Kirsten Eads, and her husband and six children and two grandchildren came to our home for dinner. They were here because her father-in-law had passed away, and he lived just a few miles from where we do. It was WONDERFUL to see her and all her family again. (Why do I forget my camera at such moments??? I guess I'm too busy enjoying their company, but still - that was a once in a lifetime opportunity!!)
Anyhow, as I was thinking about the continuation of families, that Dave has lost his dad, but not permanently, I was reminded of how grateful I was for the bittersweet chance I had to see my grandmother at springtime a few years ago before she passed away on April 23 - today!
It was bitter because I knew it would be my last time for a long time, but sweet to be able to spend that time actually with her and know that it wasn't the last time as well as being able to see so many other loved ones too.
When I see this photo and remember that time, I am SO GRATEFUL FOR EASTER! I look forward to her smile and hugs and love again someday.
We live about five minutes south of our county line. The next town north of us, is Castle Rock. The stake president of the Castle Rock Stake is my dear friend, Amy Gillie's, uncle. I think of her every time I pass through there, and lately I've been thinking about her a lot. It was April last year that she had her first stroke. I just drove through Castle Rock on the way to the temple this week.
As I think about Amy, I am also grateful for the chance to see her again. I was so sad to see Kirsten go yesterday. Friends are sweet blessings, and I still miss the sweetness of Amy. I guess I always will until the blessings of Easter are realized in my life.
On a more upbeat note, my nephew, Adam, got his mission call to Las Vegas, the same place my cousin, David, went many years ago. Adam has been there before, to visit us when we he was six months old, for BigBuddy's baby blessing. They have been roommates this past year, and become even more wonderful friends in the process. We are so excited for him to preach the gospel and let more people know all the good the Savior can do for them, not just at Easter but throughout their whole lives.
I am so blessed by the gospel in my life! I truly "stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me."
Happy Easter!
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