Dear Easter – I’m totally kicking your butt this year. Love, Katie Bower
Folks….I gotta admit to you…I love Easter. I love it so much. I love all the parts. All.the.parts. And as someone that truly believes in the ‘crazy impossible parts’ of Easter….the real meaning and reason we even have the holiday…it is more than just the pretty colors, the family get together and the fun scramble for eggs hidden in tall grass to me. It’s the most humbling holiday in my opinion. It’s the one that makes me feel overwhelmingly grateful and so refreshed in true love. I know that some of you may think I’m nuts….but really, I like celebrating all the parts because I like celebrating my Savior as big as I can. Is it about the baskets and the colored eggs and the cute Sunday outfits? Nope. Not a single iota of that really matters….but all of that reminds me to celebrate the thing that DOES matter. Does that make any sense?
As for this coming holiday, we are getting ready now because once LJ’s birthday hits, it’s totally crazy town in our house. We have LJ’s birthday in 11 days, Spring Break in 18 days, Will’s birthday in 24 days, and then Easter in 32 days. It’s like a eggstravaganza of holidays 🙂 Yes. I’m breaking out the holiday puns now. And that is what I really wanted to share with you….how we are celebrating all the things.
So first up…LJ’s birthday. He had a small family birthday party last year and I think we are gonna repeat that with a few more friends in the mix. He has requested a DINOSAUR theme which of course…it makes me oh-so-happy. I have a few ideas of what we will do….most of them are from other parties online. #pregnancybrain I especially love these dinosaur terrariums (link here)…
We will definitely do a dinosaur bone dig….I will order these things for the kids to dig out of a baby pool filled with sand. (click on photos for link)
And I am gonna let them do a dinosaur egg hunt….because egg hunts are always a good idea. These are fun because they break out of the shell with water. We might also do a search for mini dinos too. (click on photos for link) They can also add these to their little thank-you-for-coming cups 🙂
I think a feed-the-dinosaur bean bag toss will be something LJ will enjoy…I mean…all my kids like throwing things. (link to this dino party and here)
And then maybe I will get the little ones a parting gift like this dinosaur themed gear. (dino tails link) (DIY hat link – plain green hat link)
For spring break we are hoping to visit Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge. In the early summer we have a beach vacation planned and I can not be more excited about it. So many exciting things planned! More on that later. For spring break, we found that Tennessee has some things that are toddler friendly that we could enjoy and that the kids haven’t done yet. We tend to vacation earlier in the year because of baseball…and then this year, I anticipate not being able to walk by July….so it’s now or never folks! Any recommendations would be SO helpful…especially when it comes to places to eat.
For William’s birthday, we haven’t nailed down concrete plans. He keeps changing his mind between a Ninja Warrior party and a race car party. I’m hoping he says Ninja Warrior because there is a local CrossFit that hosts kids birthday parties…and I’m gonna wanna outsource that 🙂
As for Easter – William and I already hit up Kroger to see what was in the holiday aisle. He picked out a few items that he wanted the Easter Bunny to put in his basket. I plan on repeating that with Weston. It actually is really nice to not avoid the candy aisle completely…and it’s actually really funny taking photos and fake-texting it to Harvey. Harvey the invisible Easter Bunny.
As for Easter Sunday clothing….you know me….as long as the boys match, I’m solid. Obviously in years past we do the coordinating thing…its the boys matching and us coordinating. This year I even bought a new dress….because I found one that I dream about. Literally. I had three dreams now. It’s stalking me.
So the plan is something like this….
That minty green is so pretty and I love anything that places nicely with navy. I’m gonna wear this dress. I ordered the boys outfits with shoes…so that will stay safely stashed away until the big day. And then I love the fact that the shorts and shoes will be something the kids will wear all summer long. Seersucker on little boys is THE BEST. And it even makes the t-shirts look semi nice. Since Jeremy really only wears blue…this works for him too. Love you babe. Plus, I don’t think he will mind if it means getting new Sperrys…..he lives in them during the summer months.
I’m not 100% sure on the necklace….but I can’t wait till Jeremy buys me that bag. hint hint. I make your babies and then push all nine plus pounds out. love you lots.
And because I know that all of you family of six with one on the way want to copy this outfit combo completely….here are the links to everything except the boys vest and shirt (those are HERE and HERE) and I also included a few other things that caught my eye. It’s amazing how many pretty options are out there right now. Plus I tossed in a few little girl ideas because sometimes other people have girls….at least that’s what I hear….
WHEW. Now that I’m 90% of the way done with all that planning…I gotta go finish installing trim in our bathroom. The one we talked about before, well, it’s coming along. I can’t wait till it’s all finished and I can show you the final product….I think you will really love it 🙂
I’m impressed! I have 4 kids myself and I think I need to get my act together and start planning. Can I ask a question unrelated to this post… we are doing board and batten and I’m wondering what finish you would do for it?! Also, I’m going to tackle all my trim, what finish do you usually get for trim?! I’m leaning towards satin for the batten but I honestly have no idea. Thanks!!
LOVE pigeon forge. We only live about 2 hours away soooo: You can go the back way and exit off i40 and go to the Bush Beans visiter center.. or go the normal way on i40 and go by Bass Pro (poor Mans aquarium). There is a little go kart park right in down down with little rides and putt putt. They have carp in the water that you can feed and they go crazy and swarm. There is always Dixie stampede and the lumberjack dinner shows, but call ahead early that day or the day before. Ripley’s Aquarium in gatlenburg is nice. The island in pigeon forge has a huge arcade and a little train that they can ride around (plus shopping and food). Dollywood is nice but expensive for adults. I was pregnant last time and had to pay full price and didn’t get to ride anything :(. The Jurassic ride is a joke for adults but your older kids might like it. My 2 year old (now 3) was a little scared. There is a parrot mountain thing I’ve heard is good. If you go up 441, eat at the Dillard House in Dillard GA near the state line, visit Santa’s Land in Cherokee, and go through the great smokey mountain national park. . Wow I wrote a lot sorry, but if you want to know more things, I can help out!
Harvey – love that reference!
And while I’m commenting, CONGRATULATIONS on #5. Hope you have a very smooth pregnancy and all the boys wait on you hand and foot.
P.S. I think I want a dinosaur party like that next birthday!!
I made dinosaur tails for my girls, but mainly my almost 2 year old nephew for Christmas. He didn’t take it off for weeks. I’m sure they would be a big hit with the kids at LJ’s party!
Katie,
My book launch for Edge of Extinction was obviously dinosaur themed. The post is on my author’s websitehttps://lauramartinbooks.com/2016/06/04/book-launch/ Lots of dinosaur party ideas for you to borrow for LJ’s party! I know yours will be really cute!
I bought those little dino mugs for my friend’s daughter who is obsessed with dinosaurs and her play kitchen….they are SO cute in person and a big hit.
How am I following you on the blog and instagram and missed a pregnancy announcement?!
Smokey Mountain Brewery – get the brewmasters pizza. Sooo good. Bullfish Grill. The bread is ah-maaa-zing! Both are kid friendly. The new Island is ok, but not terribly exciting. 😉 Ober Gatlinburg is fun. My mom lives near there so we go every year. LMK if you have other questions.
Congrats on baby #5! Praying you have another gorgeous bower baby! And I’m thinking dresses are in your future!
Food in Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge! You must take the kids to the Island in PF and go to Poyner’s Pomme Frites for some ice cream spaghetti!! It is fabulous! Flapjacks is our favorite breakfast place. Alamo steak house has the best steak!! In Gatlinburg, there is a small Italian restaurant on hwy 321, Taste of Italy, it is our new favorite!!
My kids loved the Jungle cruise and Comedy Barn. But I wouldn’t do Guinness world records or museums like that, way too much reading for little kids. My kids got bored quickly and we couldn’t read through everything. Have a great time!!!
The Pancake Pantry is my favorite place to eat in Gatlinburg! Everything there is delicious, but they have a cinnamon spice pancake with cinnamon cream syrup that is amazing!
Ashlen at the kidsperts wrote about their trip to Gatlinberg!
http://www.thekidsperts.com/2016/07/summer-road-trip-to-tennessee.html
http://www.thekidsperts.com/2016/07/4th-of-july-in-tennessee.html
http://www.thekidsperts.com/2016/07/our-white-water-rafting-adventure.html
Ahh Laura! Thank you!
xo – kb
I get semi gloss for trim. That is what I would do for trim and for board and batten. It would be the easiest to clean up and be wipeable and resist showing any little flaws the most.
xo – kb
Thank you! Awesome recommendations. You know me well if you suggest pizza and bread 🙂
xo – kb
We just went to Gaitlinburg and Pigeonforge this past summer with our four kids and had a great time. If you guys are big hikers we loved the Grotto Falls hike in the Great Smokey Mountains. The kids favorite dinner place was Huck Finn’s (http://www.huckfinnsrestaurant.com/) They loved the watermelon on a stick for dessert and we went to The Ripley’s aquarium which was okay. The kids liked all of the hands on stuff and it was a good size for little kids but it was crowded. Have a great time and congratulations on number 5-I couldn’t talk my hubby into another!
Thanks so much!!!
Gatlinburg is about three hours from us, and we’ve enjoyed visiting since I was child. Some
Of our favorite things to do are off the beaten path and less touristy. Cade’s Cove is a beautiful stop. One I’d highly recommend. And the town of Wears Valley is full of shops and beautiful vistas. If you happen upon the main stretch in G-burg, The Village has a store, Verbena, and it’s a favorite of mine. And of course, I giant Corn dog from the Ogle dog place is a must for a pregnant mama. Ask me how I know! The Apple Barn in Pigeon Forge is a delicious and great stop with kids. Hello Chicken and Waffles.
I’m with you, I love Easter and love having my kids match. I tear up every Easter because I’m overwhelmed by the significance of the day. This year I found a navy and white gingham dress for my two year old daughter and her five year old and ten month old brothers will have matching navy gingham buttons ups- I die . I’m having the hardest time finding a pretty dress that I can still nurse in and preferably has sleeves because we could still have snow up here in Washington. But I’ve still got time, fingers crossed. Love this post!
Would love to hear more about how you navigate the real meaning of Easter and also having the Easter Bunny visit, if you are willing to share!
The mint/white/navy combo is the best! Great choice!
Omg I’m so excited y’all are coming to my back yard for spring break!!! Y’all are going to have so much fun! There are great dinner shows Dixie stampede and Hatfield and the McCoys. You definitely want to check out the island in pigeon forge, and just walking the strip in galtinburg there is so much to see! And you have to go to Cades Cove! Check out Townsend sweet little town! Literally I could go on forever!!! Of course I could mention Dollywood! Hope you have a blast!! Almost forgot the applewood grill (across the street from tanger outlets) in pigeon forge is AWESOME! Apple fritters FTW
I second Smokey Mountain Brewery. We prefer the Pigeon Forge location. Their wings, pizza, and well everything I’ve ever had is so good!
I’m crushing on your outfit, and to me, the necklace makes it! Go for the necklace!!!
I spy a number of little girl dresses. Hoping for a girl or you know baby’s a girl?
Emily Henderson did a precious dinosaur party recently. She bought blow up dinosaurs from Amazon that were a hit. https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/blog/charlies-3rd-birthday
Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge: We live in middle TN so we go every year or so. We haven’t gone with a kid but one time and he was only 2. We plan to go with both our kids in the near future. For Gatlinburg side you can basically do the main strip which has restaurants and touristy kind of stores and Ripley’s Aquarium. I would definitely go do Cades Cove with the kids because there is history and a lot of room for them to run….and amazingly spectacular views.
Pigeon Forge: Everyone raves about doing The Island with the large ferris wheel. We haven’t done that yet but looks really fun. That is also where Paula Deen’s restaurant is at. There is every chain restaurant you can think of in Pigeon Forge or Sevierville (closer to the interstate) so you will have plenty to choose from. We loved the Joe’s Crab Shack in PF the last time we were up there. For non-chain restaurants you should try The Old Mill Pottery House Cafe in PF where they serve wonderful lunch meals and serve it on the hand-made pottery that is made right there on site. They also sell the pottery there and it’s gorgeous. I want it all! You should also try to hit up The Apple Barn for brunch or breakfast one morning. It’s right by the water too.
There are some good family-friendly hikes in the National Park so if that interests you at all just get with a park ranger. I would recommend driving up to Chimney Tops picnic area in the park one afternoon. It’s amazing and right by a fast-moving part of the creek/river that comes down from the mountains. That is where the wildfire got started this past year so I’m not sure how it looks right now or anything but it’s great!
Did I miss a pregnancy announcent!?! Congrats!!
Jeremy’s always hoping for a girl 🙂 But not for that…just because it’s nice to have suggestions. Even before I had kids, I would make moodboards of little girls clothing. Everyone knows that I have an obsession for it 🙂
xo – kb
Well, we say that the Easter bunny is invisible…that makes it less ‘real’ and more pretend. It’s to us like Santa Clause. If the boys ask, we ask them if they think it’s real. We realize that the time is approaching when it won’t be real anymore in their minds…but at that point, we will just say that it represents something that IS real…a gift during that holiday. And of course, if you tell others that it’s not real, it’s not teaching them about the real meaning and also that isn’t kind. When it comes to the real reason, we do talk about death. We don’t talk about the torture part (yet) because obviously. But we do say that Jesus was a real man that felt real pain and He loved us so much that he died to pay our price. And our price was paid for freedom. He died so that we can make a choice….we can choose to obey him and follow him and LOVE him….or we can choose not to. He doesn’t force us to choose Him. We make a lot of analogies to our own relationships…like parent and child. And we also say that there are a lot of people that think Easter is all about the eggs and bunny and stuff like that…but we are trying to teach them that that stuff is FUN and just a small part of the celebration. Overall, we keep it light and gratitude filled.
xo – kb
Love it! I am looking for Easter outfits for the boys. Southern California weather is very hard to predict right now! Shorts or pants? I don’t know! By the way, did you hear that MyPublisher is closing down? I am so sad. I started using them for my yearly photo books after seeing yours and YHL. Trying to get my last book with them finished 🙁
We love Garlinburg! Check out Crockett’s Breakfast Camp for breakfast. The food is so good and the atmosphere is fun for kids. Have fun and congrats on the new baby!
I did hear that. I think I am probably gonna switch to Blurb. I’ve heard good things 🙂
xo – kb
You might even get away with re-using last year’s Easter outfits for the boys. They look a little big on them in last year’s picture. Cute cute.
I second the Apple Barn! Sooooo delicious!
The Apple barn, Old Mill restaurant, and Crockett’s Breakfast Camp are a must eat when we stay at our cabin.
Love your Easter ensemble and I am with you on loving our Savior big. The most important holiday of the year and hallmark of our faith! We do resurrection eggs with our kids, they are a fan favorite and a great teaching tool! 🙂 Congrats again! Love following you and your beautiful family and sweet and funny you! xoxo Erin
We also love Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge and I echo all the previous suggestions. We love Cade’s cove but it is a pretty long trip. For a shorter one try the Historic Nature Trail. Just out of Gatlinburg, a 6 mile drive and several places to stop along the way and see old cabins, etc. In October we saw several bears! I also agree that the Alamo Steak house was great but it unfortunately burned during the fires.
Have a great time!
Katie – We did a dinosaur party when my guy (now 10) was little. That year I took the made up goody bags to my local party shop and had them dropped inside one of those big fillable balloons, along with a ton of streamers confetti. I then took the balloon and paper-mached & painted it, turning it into a giant dinosaur egg. When the kids were young and not yet reading, we would do picture clue scavenger hunts. That year the final clue was the location of the egg, which they got to break into together. I would be happy to share some pictures with you, if you would like.
None of them fit the shoes anymore…which was a bummer….but also two of them didn’t fit in the shirts due to some epic growth spurts 🙂 Don’t worry – we will get more use out of the individual pieces though!
xo – kb
Thanks for responding! I like the hands-off approach of waiting for them to bring it up, and letting them take the lead. And the focus on doing fun things to celebrate but also talking about the larger purpose of the holiday – framing it in that way is easy for kids to understand.
These topics can get so complicated as an adult that I forget the kids don’t need a detailed theology/cultural history lesson haha!
You need to check out Morgan Taylor nail polish in Water Baby. It’s the exact shade of blue as your dress. I just bought a bottle at my beauty supply….I’m a hairstylist.
It is hard to navigate. I am always asking other moms the same questions. I feel like truly the only way to do it is to trust your mama gut when it comes to each child. They are all so different and can process things differently at different times 🙂
xo – kb
I love Gatlinburg. The Dixie Stampede is a MUST!!!! Kinda pricey but the dinner is great (LOVE the soup!!!) and the show was even better. My kids were 2, 6 and 9 years old when we went 4 years ago and they still talk about that show. The aquarium is awesome! Cade’s Cove is really beautiful but my kids were bored with it at those ages. My kids loved just pulling over and walking down to the creeks to explore and throw rocks in. Dollywood and Ober Gatlinburg are great places to visit also.
I’d like to request two updates later: your trip to the Gatlinburg area and what you did (which is on your list already, I’m sure, but I do love those!) And how the material of your dress works with the boys. I ask because my boys (5 and 2) and I are rough on things and I’ve been shying away from lacey dresses that are gorgeous because I’m terrified of ripping them. Your take would be so helpful! Thanks for sharing!
Love your Easter picks! Can’t wait to hear about your trip… Haven’t been in years. I remember having my first bowl of white chili there and I’ve never made red chili since.
I found a really cute and simple but informative Easter picture book at the library called Easter by Gail Gibbons. It’s a bit over my 4 year olds head but he gets the big picture and I might share it with my young Sunday school class. It explains about Jesus and even about Eostre and the painted eggs and the legend of the Easter Bunny in just a few sentences.
We too are headed up to Tennessee for Spring Break! We have a 3 yo and it will be our last trip before welcoming our 2nd in June. I’ve been trolling the comments for places to visit on our trip! We are definitely going to be checking out Wilderness of the Smokies as well. Indoor waterpark for the win!
As the youngest girl of 3 girls in my family… I always laugh when I see the matching outfits. Your youngest will be wearing the next size up of the same outfit for YEARS. I remember wearing the same dress from when I was 6-10ish because i kept growing into the next identical dress in a new size. ah the horrors of being the youngest 🙂 I kept 70s fashion alive throughout the early 80s.