Easter Bonnets

Down South, we are known for dressing to the nines for any special event.  But, Easter...oh Easter!  Easter is a southern tradition that dates way back.  Back to strolling along the sidewalk modeling your new Easter frocks.  Back to frilly socks and smocked dresses.  Back to Easter bonnets.  Back to clip on ties and suspenders.  Easter attire is a southern tradition that may never fade.  Although we may outgrow buying our "new Easter dress," we never outgrow our Easter family pictures outside near the azalea bush, front porch, or on the church steps.

At least, our family has not outgrown those photo opportunities!

This year, Russ's side of the family decided to gather for a family photo.  We usually spend Easter day with my side of the family and the Saturday before Easter with his side.  We stopped by on our way to my parents' after church to take part in the photo op.

Now, you know with four families represented, eight children, and three siblings...there will be various combinations of photos.  I won't give them all to you, but you can get the idea.

Party of Two with Russ's parents

The "original Johnsons"

Jimmy and Roan's family

It took about an hour to get everyone together, organized, and pictures snapped.  When Russ and I left around 1, there were still come combinations left.  It was the perfect day for photo shoot!

A look at how our hour went

We raced back to my parents' house in hopes that no one had changed clothes yet.  After all, the Smith photo shoot had yet to begin!  They are always so excited to see me coming with my big ole camera!  [insert sarcasm here]

We had a few combinations of our own...just not quite as many.  No little ones yet...and quite familiar with the "Easter drill!"  Ha!  I think it took a total of 15 minutes.

Smithites

Smithites plus 2

Family picture

Wait!  That wasn't everyone!  Don't you know by now that my family is not complete without our furry loves!

Complete family picture

That's better!  We can't forget our honorary Smith...Lee's mom!  We pretty much claim her as ours at every holiday and special event.

The Tulls

Here's to, what I hope is, our last family Easter photo without a Baby J!

Me and Russ

Our morning started out with sweet surprises left by the Easter bunny!  Yes...the Easter bunny AND Santa still come to our house!  The Easter bunny used to leave our baskets of goodies next to our beds on Sunday morning.  Now that we're married, he/she leaves our goodies in our bathroom.  Of course, Farley has never had to do without either!

Russ, my, and Farley's Easter baskets

After church, Mama got busy on the finishing touches for lunch.  This is the one time of year that we break out Mama and Daddy's fine China from their bridal registry.  The table is always beautifully set, and the food is always divine!

Easter is serious business in our family!  We do it right!

Easter has always been a special time for family.  A special time of celebration.  A sweet time for our families!  We can't wait to share all these special times as our family grows!