Santa Barbara Easter: The Great Egg Hunt

After church we gathered at Satya's house because someone mentioned that the Bunny had come while we were gone.

First, we were forced to take a few photos

And while we waited for the rain to pass, we enjoyed a bit of chocolate.

Finally, we were able to head out and hunt for eggs.

Luke and Satya take on the lawn area

While Mia and Jude explore the patio area 

Uncle Kenny helps a little

Luke has become an expert egg hunter

Mia gets some pointers from Daddy

All in all, we had a wonderful Easter weekend in Santa Barbara - full of fun, family, food, gratitude... and lots of candy!

Santa Barbara Easter: Baskets from the Bunny

Easter morning began with a hunt for baskets around Grammy and Papa's house

The bunny found us!  Mia finds her basket with brother's help.

She goes straight for the candy!

Luke finds his basket, which was hidden a bit better.

And he appreciates the new socks (but only for a moment before making sure that he received at least as much candy as his sister!).

Santa Barbara Easter: Dying Eggs

Easter this year was spent in Santa Barbara with cousins Satya and Jude and our beloved Grammy and Papa.

Upon arrival, we got right down to the Easter business of dying eggs.

We were much too busy to smile for photos.

Very happy with the end results!

Early Christmas in Santa Barbara

Luke, Mia, my mom, and I traveled down to Santa Barbara earlier in the week to visit Great Grammy, Great Papa, cousin Satya, my cousin Nicolette, and her new little love, Jude.  It was great to see all of them, particularly since we will not all be together for Christmas this year.

We had a pre-Christmas celebration and the kids all opened a few gifts.  They loved being together and truly enjoyed each of their gifts in a way that they can't usually on Christmas, simply because there always seems to be so much for each of them.  Grandma made a beautiful lunch and the weather was absolutely gorgeous.

What a great few days leading us into Christmas week!

Mia playing in the fort that the kids made out in the backyard

Cousins

Opening a few gifts

Mia loving her new Rody horse

And sweet baby Jude - he's a doll!

Pretty Mommy and her sweet boy