It's Easter Time!

One of my favorite things about Easter that happens around here, besides the warmer days and the cool evenings, is the Easter Pageant at the Mesa Temple!  It is such a beautiful performance that so many take time out of their busy lives to practice so that they can share the life of the Savior with all those who want to listen. It's such a great reminder of what the Easter season is all about

and I love how real the Savior becomes and the events of his life become to my children.  

So this year, I have an awesome sister, who loves to have close seats, went early and helped save seats for our family....yes, only 3 rows back from the front!  The best seats EVER!

Granted, she did go like 1 1/2 hours early but after eating a picnic chicken dinner and desserts the kids were not bothered a bit to run the fields and play together waiting for the performance to begin.

 

 

 Of course, while we were waiting we had to take a walk to the visitor center and see the Christus, the map of Jerusalem, and the movie, "God gave us Families."  I cry EVERY SINGLE TIME I see that movie.  Despite the crazy life, the crazy children and the trials that come with raising a family, I think that I wouldn't have it any other way.  I love these little monkeys!

Max thoroughly enjoyed having everyone hold him up to see the map when you pushed the button to light up the light on the city of Jerusalem.  It became quite a game for him.

 And just before the performance, the characters come out and mingle with the audience, just like in Palmyra, and are all dressed up waiting for their picture to be taken.  These soldiers were such good sports.  And yes, those are real swords.

 

 

 At first, Lizzie wasn't too sure about holding the sword, but after seeing Cole do it, she figured it would be ok.

And as night fell, the performance proceeded.  Cole really got into it this year, and enjoyed it the most.  Kate and Lizzie enjoyed seeing it with their cousins and enjoyed seeing the dancers and the music.  And Max, well....let's just say, he didn't sit still for much but he sure liked the snacks we brought!

All in all, it was a great way to start our Easter celebration, and I, for one, am grateful for the sacrifice the Savior made for each and every one of us, so that we could be happy for the eternities, with our families forever.  I look forward to the day when the trumpets blow and the Savior comes again.

I know he lives!