Easter Weekend
Thursday, April 2 - Colton and I had the opportunity to go to the Easter Pageant at the Mesa Temple on Thursday night and leave Paige at home with a babysitter. We didn't get to go last year because Paige was so little and we were so tired so it was such a blessing to be able to go again! We got ice cream sandwiches at Slickables on Main and then saw the pageant. Colton's favorite part of the pageant is when the little boy on crutches is healed and runs to Jesus. I don't have a specific favorite part but if I had to pick one it would probably be the loud thunder and silence in the audience just after Jesus dies on the cross.
Friday, April 3 - Friday morning, Colton and I went to the Gilbert temple for a session with my brother Cam and his wife Sherese. I try to go to the temple twice a month and I always go the first Friday or Saturday of the month whether by myself or with my sister in law Sherese. That way I know for sure I at least made it to the temple once a month. I have an inside joke with Colton that I now appreciate the temple so much more that I have a kid because it's one of the few places parents can go where kids aren't crying or making noise. I can just sit and feel the spirit and think. Attending church and listening to the lessons and talks almost becomes impossible when you have a mobile baby! So I'm thankful I live 15 minutes from two different temples.
Saturday, April 4 - Saturday morning Colton and I woke up early, woke the baby up and headed to my family picnic. It's always such a fun time to be with all my extended family! I've been in charge of the Easter egg hunt for probably 8 years now. That means filling and hiding 300 eggs at Papago Park. This year was my favorite one yet because I had my own little girl who got to participate in the hunt. I got home from the picnic and had a plan to watch conference but ended up taking a nap that was almost like a full night's sleep.. Whoops! haha! But don't worry, I've used the amazing resources the church has and have watched every single talk from all sessions.. including Women's and Priesthood session. That night we went to my brother's house with all my siblings that have kids and their spouses. While the men watched/listened to conference, us moms watched the kids run around and play. I'm grateful for a husband who so diligently watches conference and attends the Priesthood session and takes notes. He's kind of the best! :)
Sunday, April 5 - Paige woke up to her first Easter basket filled with her favorite baby cookies, a new book about Jesus, bubbles and chalk. We went to my parent's farm for our family traditional Conference Sunday "Day". We have breakfast (normally my mom makes delicious cinnamon rolls but she wasn't here this year), watch conference, play outside in between conference and then have lunch before the second session starts. I used to look forward to this day because I could be super lazy and just sit around and be fed delicious food... NOT ANYMORE! My child wants to be outside 24/7 and she's not old enough to just be let loose. She puts everything in her mouth! Gross warning... yes, even chicken poop. Being pregnant and chasing a busy 1 year old all day is definitely HARD! I basically sleep when she sleeps. Colton laughs at me because when Paige goes to bed at night (around 7:30p-8) I'm right behind her and sleep until she wakes up.
Listening to conference changes when you have a baby/toddler who is mobile. Last year for the April and October conferences, Paige wasn't so mobile so it was easier to listen and contain her. I heard bits and pieces here and there both days this time between chasing, playing and searching for Paige. I have since gone and listened to all 6 sessions of conference while she naps so I can hear every word. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE all the leaders of our church... that being said, Jeffrey R Holland is definitely my "favorite"! He gives such powerful and emotional talks that always hit home.
Because of conference and reading terrifying personal stories online, I have decided to no longer post pictures of my little girl on Instagram or Facebook. I actually went back and deleted all pictures and post about her. I'll still post them here on my blog since this is basically my journal. I know some of you are probably thinking i'm being "that crazy mom" but I want to do everything to protect my children and if a simple change can be made, I'll do it.
I am grateful for conference and the guidance and love I was given and felt because I was diligent and listened. I think of those who missed out listening or have not yet heard the words and I feel sorry those people. There is something for EVERYONE in the talks given at conference. I love my Savior and am so thankful for his sacrifice so many years ago so that I may return to His presence with my family for all eternity.
The Girl Who LOVES Easter For So Many Reasons,
Erica
