Easter's many blessings

By DEVIN WEEKS

Staff Writer

Easter activities have been hopping for the past week or so, with more fun to be had today.

Egg hunts, church services, family meals, getting outside and breathing the fresh spring air after a long winter — it's a special time, and North Idaho families all have their own take on the celebrations and what Easter means to them.

"Usually I go to my grandma’s and I get to see my cousins because I barely get to see my cousins," said Lillyan Lowery, 9, of Post Falls. "I like to spend time with them."

Saturday was sunny and fair, a perfect day to go outside and participate in community egg hunts.

In Q’emiln Park in Post Falls, families gathered around a roped-off area as children carried Easter bags and baskets, ready to fill them at the sound of the whistle.

Lauren White of Post Falls festively wore bunny ears as she and her son, Ethan, 6, patiently waited for the hunt to start.

"It's food, fun and family," she said of the holiday.

Ethan had one word to describe what Easter means to him.

"Happy," he said with a sweet smile.

Jacob and Mandi Budvarson of Post Falls brought their boys to the Q’emiln egg hunt. Jacob carried their son, Morgan, 1, on his shoulders.

Their family takes part in the fun festivities, but also honors the memory of a loved one when this time of year comes around.

"It’s kind of reflective," Mandi said. "His brother died on Easter, so it’s looking back and appreciating what we've got."

Michelle Tufte of Post Falls attended the hunt with her son, Tait, 7. She said their family shares an early Easter morning and acknowledges what the celebration is all about.

"It’s the tradition of the Easter sunrise service and just celebrating Jesus’ crucifixion. There’s a big sunrise service out here at the Greyhound Park at 6:30 and you actually watch the sunrise," she said. "It’s just a family tradition for all of us to get up early and watch the sunrise together."