Easter in Pennsylvania

Last weekend, we celebrated Easter with our family in Pennsylvania. It had been quite a while since we saw our extended family. On Saturday, everyone gathered at Nana's house for the annual feast. 

After the meal, as is Ohl tradition, the men went outside to shoot guns into the field, swing golf clubs, throw the football, ride vehicles and various other "outdoor" activities. 

While the women stayed inside, talking, enjoying dessert and cleaning up (not sure how that always works out that way). 

I got to meet Zack and Maura's little doll, Riley, who's 6 months old. She's got red hair like her Mom and beautiful big blue eyes. She barely made a peep the whole time. So. So. Cute. 

I love getting to see our cousins.

We went for a long walk, as is also tradition, around the neighboring farmland and roads. 

The landscape really is beautiful. Everything is starting to re-awaken from winter. The fields will soon be growing again. Makes me feel like I've been transported back in time to simpler days.

The sky was an amazing blue and the sun was shining just enough to not be too cold. 

Nana is doing well. She's always got stories to tell (some new, and some have been told many times). She is the only grandparent we have left, and I look forward to visiting with her. It's also amusing and fascinating to look around her house. 

Especially on the porch where we have dinner. You know, just your usual deer head, turkey, pheasant, fox, squirrel, rabbit and bee hive on display. She has quite the collection of "nature". The funny part is that we're all so used to seeing it! 

On Sunday, we went to church with Denny, Marilyn and David, followed by brunch at The Local (also known as the old caboose). Is caboose a funny word, or what? Is it just me? It is a delightful little place with a unique locally based menu. It was fantastic. 

Aren't my in-laws the cutest? They really are the best. It's always great spending time with them. 
 

It was also so good spending time with David, who took some time away from Philly to be with us. Wish we could do this more often (minus the 5 hour drive time).

Here we are, just a couple of honey bunnies. I hope you enjoyed your Easter. Remember, Jesus Christ is risen! He is the reason we celebrate.
 

Happy Resurrection Sunday!

"But he was wounded for our transgressions,

he was bruised for our iniquities:

the chastisement of our peace was upon him;

and with his stripes we are healed."

Isaiah 53:5 

There is love that came for us
Humbled to a sinner's cross

You broke my shame and sinfulness

You rose again victorious

Faithfulness none can deny

through the storm and through the fire

there is truth that sets me free

Jesus Christ who lives in me

You are stronger, You are stronger
Sin is broken, You have saved me

it is written, Christ is risen

Jesus You are Lord of all

No beginning and no end

You're my hope and my defense

You came to seek and save the lost

You paid it all upon the cross

You are stronger, You are stronger
Sin is broken, You have saved me

it is written, Christ is risen

Jesus You are Lord of all

So let your name be lifted higher,
Be lifted higher, be lifted higher

So let your name be lifted higher,
Be lifted higher, be lifted higher

You are stronger, You are stronger
Sin is broken, You have saved me

it is written, Christ is risen

Jesus You are Lord of all

Stronger, by Hillsong

This song beautifully says it all. I've been singing it in my head throughout the week, thinking about Resurrection Sunday. The day we remember when Jesus Christ died and rose from the grave, conquering sin and death. His love and salvation made available to all. His grace is all-inclusive and all-forgiving, to those that call upon His name.

Our God is greater

Our God is stronger

God You are higher than any other

Our God is Healer

Awesome in Power

Our God, Our God

And if our God is for us

then who could ever stop us?

And if our God is with us

Then what could stand against?

Our God is Greater, by Chris Tomlin

My prayer is that you would know Jesus this Easter, and experience His life-giving gift of Salvation. He paid it all. For you!