When all the dust was wiped clean ....

and the windows poured in afternoon spring light...

the community came over for an Easter Tour of Homes

to help raise money for the new community center.

And I looked at a picture of Him

as I encouraged the crowd to join me in the kitchen

where grandma's dishes graced the wooden table.

And I looked at the picture of Him again

as the folks made their way upstairs.

And every which way I went through the house,

I was reminded of Him.

And that He loved me this much...

Y es, this much.

And yes, that is a real tree in my house...

after all,

trees are very much a part of The Story.

Between the living room and the study

I planted a dogwood tree.

Legend is the cross was made out of dogwood...

We will plant it in the yard this Easter,

bury it's roots in earth

so that it may continue to live.

And the Stations of the Cross hang
on branches,
our version of Easter-ornaments.