Easter Week Activities: Night 1

Palm Sunday:

I remember Palm Sunday as a kid being so special.  Most of the time, I was excited because I knew Easter was just a week away and Lent was almost over!  Ha!  But I have always loved the story of the Savior riding into Jerusalem on the back of a donkey while the people gathered around, eager to see Him, welcoming him by laying palm branches down for his donkey to walk upon, while shouting praises of Hosanna.  In the Catholic church, we always heard that story on Palm Sunday and were given palm branches to take home.  

Easter week is such a special time, I love that it coincides with spring, the weather warming up, flowers blooming, and as an adult I have come to appreciate the celebration of the Resurrection of the Savior even more.  

So last night before dinner, we started our Easter Week festivities with the kids.  

-I asked them questions about Easter and why we celebrate and then explained that it was Palm Sunday.  We talked about how Jesus and his disciples had been away and came into Jerusalem to get ready for the celebration of the Passover and that when the people heard he was coming, the gathered to greet Him.  We watched this beautiful video put out by our church.  

-We talked about how we would prepare if we knew the Savior was coming to our city or home.  How would we feel?  What would be do to get ready to see Him?

-We had dinner and then made our own palm branches out of green construction paper.  

It was really simple, but most of what we do with our little kids has to be simple and to the point.  Our goal was to feel the Spirit and help them better understand the reason we get ready for Easter.  I'm hoping to do something every night this week to deepen their understanding and gratitude for Jesus Christ and to get them excited for more than just the Easter Bunny ;)

On a side note...my sweet parents sent an Easter package for the kids today.  They will be in Oregon visiting my brother for Easter so we won't see them.  The kids were so excited!

 (don't you love her "subtle" way of telling me I need to introduce more protein into Jilly's diet?  proof that moms never stop mothering ;) love her!)

Happy Holy Week!