Easter Nature Walk

I saw this idea for an Easter Nature Walk online (www.thegoldenseven.blogspot.com and myheartandhome.com), and then yesterday in the mail we got a package from my in-laws with a book titled "Easter Walk, a treasure hunt for the real meaning on Easter".  So I thought we should definetly try it out.  We finally had a day without any rain, so I took advantage Saturday afternoon and we set out on our walk looking for items that remind us of the real reason we celebrate Easter.

Here is a list of the items we were searching for and the reason why.

1.  Branch.  A week before Christ's crucifixion, as he entered the city, people waved branches from palm trees.
Matthew 21:1-11.

2.  Garden Area.  The garden of Gethsemane.
Luke 22:39-44.

3.  Thorns/something prickly.  The crown of thorns that was placed on Jesus's head.
Matthew 27:29-31.

4. Wood.  The cross that Jesus carried and hung on was made of wood.
John 19:17.

5.  Something no longer alive.  The savior really did die for us on the cross.
John 19:30-39

6.  Something White.  Christ was wrapped in white linen before being placed in the tomb.

7.  3 things dark.  Three days of darkness following the death of the savior.
3 Nephi 8:20.

8.  Stone.  A large stone was placed in front of the tomb that the angel removed.
Matthew 27:62-66.

9.  Something living.  The resurrection of our Savior.  He Lives!!

I will definetly do this each Easter.  It not only gave the kids a fun outdoor activity, but something to think about as we looked for each item.  We talked about what the Garden of Gethsemane might have looked like, and pricked our fingers on the thorns, and really thought about what it might have been like for Jesus.  As Shawn and I shared with our kids the story of Jesus's sacrifice and the scriptures, I was touched with the such a sweet spirit.  What an amazing sacrifice we have all been given.  What a beautiful time of year to remember our Savior.  Truly I have been blessed.  I'm glad we have holiday's like this to remind us of what's important.