Easter

I was amazed when I opened this year-old Easter photo. Lilly has changed so much -- it's hard to believe it has only been one year since this picture was taken! I have a little girl now instead of a baby.

Thought I'd post some Easter ideas for those moms out there who want to focus on the Jesus story. Now, I love the Easter bunny as much as the next mama, and we love doing the baskets and eggs -- all of it! But, I want to be diligent in teaching my children the true meaning of Easter.

Following are just a few ideas. Enjoy!

Tomb Cookies
Prepare the evening before Easter. Children awake to a surprise -- the cookies are hollow and empty, just like the tomb of Jesus.

From everythingpreschool.com:

Jelly Bean Prayer

Give jelly beans and attach the following:

The Jelly Bean Prayer
RED is for the blood He gave.
GREEN is for the grass He made.
YELLOW is for the sun so bright.
ORANGE is for the edge of night.
BLACK is for the sins we made.
WHITE is for the grace He gave.
PURPLE is for his hour of sorrow.
PINK is for our new tomorrow.

A bag full of Jelly Beans,
Colorful and sweet.
Is a prayer, is a promise,
Is a friend's small treat.

Tomb Snack

Cut a donut in half and stand it up on a plate. Place the donut hole in front.

Easter Advent
Twelve days of Easter; this is a great way to focus on the resurrection story.

Song: Jesus is Alive (sung to "Mary had a Little Lamb")
Jesus is alive today,
Alive today,
Alive today!
Jesus is alive today,
Happy Easter morning!