Easter Wishes and Easter Greetings

Passover Seder - Constituents of Passover Seder Plate

2008-04-12T01:28:00.004-05:00

Hi friends! The Jewish festival of Passover is here. Its time for the Seder, the Jewish culinary ritual. Seder is an integral part of Passover and has symbolic significance that dates back to the time of the great Passover itself. The Passover seder plate consists of six items:

Chazeret: Bitter herbs. These remind them of the bitter experiences of slavery.
Charoset : Made from grated apples, chopped walnuts, red wine and cinnamon. These signify the mortar used by Egyptians for constructions where the Israelites had to undergo suffering.
Karpas: Parsley. This is dipped in salt water to pay respect to the tears shed by the Israelites in slavery.
Z'roa: Roasted shank-bone. Symbolic of the lamb sacrificed on the night of Passover.
Beitzah: Roasted egg. This is the symbol of spring and regeneration.

These make up the Passover seder meal.

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Passover is loaded with symbolisms and historical significance. Bask in the festivities of Passover. Click on these Seder cards to send across these to your friends and family.

A Glimpse Of Passover celebration Ideas

2008-04-02T06:04:00.001-05:00

Passover is almost here and I am missing Jonathan. He is Jewish and one of the most adorable guy I ever met in school. I remember once discussing Passover with him. I only knew the history of Passover - how Moses rescued the Israelites from the slavery of Egyptians, how God redeemed his followers. Being a non Jew, I dint know what exactly is the meaning of Passover or what are the things that people do as a part of Passover celebrations. Insofar I remember from what Jonathan said it was a special holiday time that includes family gatherings and exotic Jewish meals, that are called Seders. There are also special prayers at the Synagogue, that includes reading of the Book of Haggadah ( that tells the Passover story).
But what most touched me was Jonathan's interpretation of Passover and Passover celebrations. He said that Passover is the reminder for all believers that no matter what the difficulty is, God shall deliver them from it. One just needs to believe. God never fails a true believer. It was a beautiful reassurance of God's presence in men's life.
Here's a couple of lovely free Passover ecards for all who believe that God is the almighty. Send these Passover ecard to all.

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Last Minute Easter Celebrations Ideas

2008-03-22T03:32:00.004-05:00

Hi friends! Its Easter and the celebrations are raring to begin. Those of you who have not planned anything in advance, here are a few last minute ideas for Easter celebrations. Even if you cannot make elaborate plans in a short notice, do not let Easter whiz past, unsung.

A good last minute ideas for Easter celebrations would be to bake a cute Easter cake. That can double up as a feast course as well as dessert. Take up Easter eggs and let your creative juices flow. Dip them in the myriad hues of your creativity. Decorate the house with Easter eggs and Easter bunnies.

You can reach out to your friends and family through Easter eggs and Easter bunnies by means of Easter greetings cards and Easter greetings ecards. Make sure they feel special during weekend Easter celebrations.

Easter Egg Hunts - Easter Greetings

Easter Poems - Easter Greetings

Good Friday Greetings

2008-03-19T07:40:00.000-05:00

The day of Christ's Crucifixion has gone down in the annals of history as 'Good Friday'. You may debate over the fact how a day of mourning for the entire Christendom can be called 'good'. The reason is etymological. The words 'good' and 'God' are known to have replaced each other in various phrases over a period of time. So you may safely conclude that 'Good Friday' is a variant of 'God Friday', signifying the victory of God's love and compassion. This is why we call it 'Good Friday'!

Not being a federal holiday in the United States, Good Friday this year is going to be really painful for me because I won't be able to see my kins and pals. However, some states do mark this as a red-letter day, but if you are like me - staying away from family and relatives, don't worry! You can reach out to the with your heartfelt Good Friday wishes on the day. Look for some really thoughtful Good Friday greetings. Here are some of them that hold the real spirit of Good Friday.

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Make This Easter Celebration A Way To Celebrate Your Love

2008-03-19T01:02:00.004-05:00

Folks! If you are romantic by soul, I'm sure you would just love this post. Yes, I'm going to talk about some really romantic ideas to celebrate Easter 2008. Easter celebration doesn't start on the day of Easter, but from the day you start planning Easter celebration. What better way can you freak out for a perfect easter celebration than by celebrating it in a romantic way?

Romantic Easter Gifts
To starting off with easter gifts, you can be really romantic in buying little Easter basket for your soul mate. Fill your Easter basket, with easter candies, easter cookies multicolored artificial easter eggs and cute stuffed easter bunnies. Add a special fervor of love by decorating the easter basket with red laces and frills. Fix some red satin bow in the external wall of the basket. And leave a love not in the basket; just see the magic you can create with it.

Easter Flowers Says It The Best
If you want delight him or her with wonder in a different way, if your sweetheart doesn't like to have an easter basket, just offload your headache to easter flowers. Reach out to him or her with a bunch of flowers and see the magic of spreading the fragrance of your love. Make sure you put an easter poem in the flowers to convey your message of love.

Romantic Drive On Easter
You don't need to say the three magical words over and over again to let your sweetheart know how much you love him or her. Just take your sweetheart in your arm and freak out for a long drive -- away from the hectic bustle of life. I would have headed somewhere around the sea where the sound of rippling waves of slashing the shore would waft off wearies out of my mind.
And the expansive nature would refill me and my lady with all the romantic thoughts.

Walk along the shore, together you leave your foot prints on the silvery sandy beach and let the world know how much you love each other and how far can you walk together.

Easter Egg Hunt
Noopes! I'm not talking about Easter games. Look for some good restaurant where you can have your lunch. If you are going to sponsor the lunch, let your partner choose the menu. Just delight him or her with surprise by ordering a special dish. Try to make it a blast together with your beloved, so that you'll love to treasure the memories even after years down the line.

There's nothing better than this to make this Easter celebration ideas romantic way to celebrate your love. So why wasting time? Just call your soul mate and chalk out a plan for the trip!

Easter Music -- Musical Easter Ecards

2008-03-13T01:29:00.001-05:00

Sending special Easter greeting cards on Easter is one of the commonest way reach out to your loved buddies across the miles. Have you ever thought that only good Easter ecards with thoughtful sayings may not work? Music is the heart of festive and add the right tune to your Easter wishes may turn out to be a real blast. When the world would rock with the Easter music and Easter songs like "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name" and "All the Earth Will Sing Your Praises", put a smile on your dear ones' faces with some really thoughtful musical Easter ecards.

So check out these really wonderful musical Easter ecards and send these musical animated ecards as Easter wishes in your way with your very won personalized message of friendship and love just to say "May You Have a Joyous And Blessed Easter". These are some of the beautiful musical easter greetings that you can try out and delight your friends with wonder. Let their day be filled with all the rhythm of life, taking them away from the hectic and bustling monotony of life.

Click on these beautiful Easter thumb images and you will find yourself redirected into a special musical Easter ecards page. Just click on each of these and find what's there awaiting -- free ecards easter!

Happy Easter Greetings

Love Easter Ecards

Send Easter Flowers

Easter Egg Hunt

Choosing The Right Easter Greeting Cards

2008-03-12T04:19:00.005-05:00

Are you looking for a better way to wish your friends with special Easter greetings this time? Easter is just around the corner and there's a noticeable growth in search volume for Easter greeting cards and free Easter ecards. This is all about how to choose the right Easter greeting cards.

Choosing the right Easter greeting cards for the right person is what the secret of fun for Easter wish is all about! There are certain things to be borne in mind while you choose the Easter greeting cards. And you know what? Picking the right Easter cards for your acquaintances demands sparing thoughts on the mood and the purpose of sending the Easter cards. It also depends largely on who the recipient actually is. If he or she is your soul mate, staying miles away from you and missing you badly with every single breath, just pick the one that would spread the aura of your presence around him or her. What about some really thoughtful free love greeting cards on Easter? Let not these few miles frizzle your love when the world is waved by eggs-tra happiness.

Wondering how to pick the perfect Easter greeting cards for your colleagues? Its not all that a big deal either! Just be little more creative and think of the person whom you want to reach out with your Easter wish. Try to make a perfect blend of your artistic sense and little bit of professionalism.

Are you planning for launching a special Easter party? That's really a great idea! But it's always wise to give an early start on that. So spare some thoughts on Easter invitation. Check out these really thoughtfully designed Easter greetings on Invitation.

Do you know someone, staying far away, who's artistic by heart and loves poetry? You can just bridge these few miles and put some rhythm in their life through these poetic Easter greetings. Doesn't matter whether he or she is of your age or younger than you these poetic Easter greetings are just the perfect pick to put rhythm in their life.

Good Friday Greetings

2008-02-22T00:19:00.000-05:00

Let's talk something about Good Friday. with Good Friday edging on fast, you probably have been looking for some really unique ways to make Good Friday a perfect blast. What better way can you start off celebrating Good Friday than to teach your kids, brothers, sisters and little Jesuses 'What is Good Friday'? Let them know the meaning of Good Friday and what is Good Friday prayer is all about. Teach them the Good Friday tradition of wishing loads of good things on Good Friday to our pals and beloveds across the globe.

Here's some great ways to share your thoughts and to reach out with your Good Friday wishes to friends and acquaintances this pious time of the year. May your life be filled with love & peace on Good Friday and forever!

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Easter 2008 -- When Is Easter?

2008-02-21T04:08:00.003-05:00

When is Easter? This is one of the commonest questions that people tend to ask before Easter. This is because the Easter Date tends to change every year. According to the way the Easter date is calculated in Western Christianity tradition, Easter date always falls on the Sunday immediately following the Paschal Full Moon.

The Easter 2008 date schedule is as follows:

February 6 - Ash Wednesday
March 16 - Palm Sunday
March 21 - Good Friday
March 23 - Easter Sunday (Western)
April 27 - Easter Sunday (Orthodox)

Easter 2007 calendar was almost entirely different:

February 21 - Ash Wednesday
April 1 - Palm Sunday
April 6 - Good Friday
April 08 - Easter Sunday (Western)
April 08 - Easter Sunday (Orthodox)

So with Easter only around a month away, just start off with your plans on Eastern ideas... Early the better, or else there's a good chance that you may have to find yourself gripped in pronged pressure and end up with a total mess. This was exactly what happened to me last year -- Easter 2007. You need to plan for Easter gifts, Easter party invitation, making Easter baskets etc. Get an Easter idea on how to decorate Easter eggs.

Check out this beautiful Easter ecard that you may be looking for to reach out to your pals and beloveds around and on Easter Sunday.

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Easter gifts

2008-01-29T07:23:00.000-05:00

Although Easter is not around the corner but it's not too far away too. Time flies like anything. So what are you planning for this Easter? I mean your plans for Easter decorations and making Easter bunnies! But have you ever thought of the Easter gifts? It's probably the right time you should think about it. One of the best ways to reach out to your friends this Easter is to give them bunch of Easter flowers as easter gifts. This way you can spread the fragrance of your presence this Easter. Easter baskets filled with gourmet Easter chocolates and candies can also make wonderful Easter gifts for your friends.

Lucky To Have A Friend Like You !
Bring on the smiles of your friends with this warm and cute Easter wish.
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Sending You A Hug !
Surprise your Internet pals or friends who are far away on Easter with a big, warm hug.
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Beautiful Season And Happy Easter !
Touch your friends' hearts on Easter with this beautiful ecard.
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Wonderful Easter Wish !
Reach out to your friends on Easter with this warm and wonderful wish.
[ Flash ]

Can't Imagine My Life Without You...
Reach out to your friends on Easter with this cute and touching ecard.
[ Flash ]

Glad I Bumped Into You !
Make your friends feel eggs-tra special with this cute Easter wish.
[ Interactive ]

To A Really Special Friend...
Send this cute Easter wish to tell your friends how special they are to you.
[ Interactive ]

You Got Eggstraordinary Taste !
Bring on the smiles of your friends on Easter with this eggs-tra cute ecard.
[ Flash ]

How To Decorate Easter Eggs in A Natural Way

2007-10-11T07:05:00.000-05:00

There's no solid evidence as to how eggs got connected to this real fun-filled event – the Easter. But often claims are made that Easter Eggs were originally symbols of a pagan goddess. Let's not go in for any debate as to how eggs got into Easter. One thing I really love about the Easter Eggs is that it gives the event a real nice colorful look.

Here's how to decorate the easter eggs in a natural way. Let's set the all the synthetic dyes aside. Why not color the easter eggs with all the natural pigments? Yes, you can come up with a wide assortment of colors from natural things that are found almost in any grocery store. You can color your easter eggs with these natural dyes and can give a very different look to your Easter eggs.

Here are the ingredients you need:

Fresh beats and frozen raspberries give pale red color.
Spinach leaves gives pale green color.
Red cabbage leaves gives blues color when dried
Orange, carrot tops and ground cumin give pale yellow color.
Ground turmeric gives bright yellow color
Yellow onion skin gives orange color.
Strong brewed coffee gives chocolate brown color.

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How to color Easter eggs:

Put the eggs in a pan containing water. Eggs should be fully under the water.
Add Vinegar – 1 Teaspoon full
Put the particular ingredient that you want the color from.
Heat the water for 20 minutes in low flame.
Remove the pan from heat and let it stay for at least 12 hours

How to make an Easter Gift Basket

2007-10-09T06:53:00.000-05:00

Special Easter gifts can give your Easter celebration a special touch. And who doesn't love to get gifts on a special occasions like Easter? If you are looking for some inspirational gifts for your friends on Easter here's an idea that you can try out.

Make a fun package in a Easter gift basket with a dozen of colored eggs, chocolate bunny, their favorite Easter candies, assorted Easter cookies, and Easter message cards.

I can say for sure that these baskets are going to be the perfect Easter gifts for anyone who has an weakness for candies and chocolates. If you can include any of the award-winning chocolate brands like Jer's chocolate peanut butter ball , you can create a real blast this Easter. Any true chocolate lover will be satisfied to the fullest extent on getting this gorgeously decorated yummy Easter gift basket.

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Special Easter Songs for Your Easter Party

2007-10-04T07:16:00.000-05:00

What better way can you make your Easter party more special than making your guests rock with some great Easter party songs? “Bunny, bunny, bunny, you're so funny”... who doesn't love this song? You will find your cute little guests rocking all around on your party floor. To commemorate the Easter festival you would really love to play the special Easter songs to give your Easter party a special touch.

Here's a list of some of the awesome Easter songs:

He arose
Easter parade
Peter Cottontail
Christ the Lord is risen today
Bunny hop
Little bunny foo foo
Funny bunny
Ten little bunnies

Why waste time? Just invite your friends to join you on the grand Easter party. Find them having lots of fun, dancing around with the tunes of these great Easter songs.

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Easter Decoration Tips

2007-09-28T06:44:00.001-05:00

Are you planning for to throw an Easter Sunday party and going to have some special guests for Easter dinner? Then it's for sure that you are also planning to add some festive look to your house on Easter. I've come up with some simple tips on Easter decoration that you can try out to give your sweet home an elegant touch of the festive Easter. Let the bunch of Easter flowers brighten up your place.

Start off with decorating your party floor with colored streamers, paper chains, ribbons etc. Use pastel colors only.

Just like a cherry on a cake give it a perfect touch, a beautiful Easter tree at the corner of the room will give the room a special dimension. So place an elegant Easter tree either at the center of the room or at a corner.

Easter door banner is again anther very important elements for decoration. Welcome your Easter bunny and you guests with an elegant Easter door banner.

You can also make some beautiful Easter baskets to be placed on the tables as centerpieces. This will definitely add to the decoration of your room, as it will also be a wonderful way to display some multi-colored Easter eggs.

Buy some decorative candle holders and pastel colored candles to be placed around the party floor.

All the more don't forget about the flowers. Make classy Easter Wreaths with the help of an wide assortment of vibrant September flowers.

So friends, why wasting time? Start sending Easter invitations. Wish you all a very Happy Easter Weekend!

Hoppy Happy Easter!

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Fathers day Wishes For Dad

2007-06-06T01:53:00.000-05:00

Father’s Day is celebrated around the world, across different cultures and ethnicities with more regard every year.Every year the third Sunday in June is celebrated as Father’s Day in most parts of the world to love and honor this one special man in all our lives—the Father ! The man you looked up to all through your growing years, the man who taught you the meaning of courage, the man who showed you how to rise up smiling after you fell from your bicycle or bruised your leg while playing and the man whom you know would always be by your side through all highs and lows is the man you lovingly call ‘Father’.

As the name already suggests, Father’s Day is the day when the spotlights are on this special man in every household—the father ! Be it your dad, dad-in-law, grandfather, son, brother, husband or others—who you think do a great job as fathers, wish them a happy Father’s Day with gifts, flowers or other tokens of gratitude.

Now, if you want to get some ideas on your Father’s Day celebrations, check out the following:

* Give dad a grand treat right at breakfast on Father’s Day. Serve him a tray with his favorite victuals, a flower, a gift and a special Father’s Day greeting neatly arranged.

* Make your dad the master of the grill this Father’s Day and watch him sweep you over with his cool culinary expertise. And you arrange for all the favorite items, and cocker him with the limelight. You might just happen to taste the most delectable dishes cooked by daddy dear this Father’s Day.

* Or to pep up the Father’s Day celebrations, you can also take dad out to dine at his favorite joint or at the food-court which has a nostalgia attached to it. Order his favorites and have a great time together talking about old times or about a common passion.

* Another great idea for a Father’s Day celebration is to make an album together with your dad fixing the choicest pictures of family moments into it. You can make the photos more captivating and cute with your own humorous comments. As you do that on Father’s Day don’t forget to tell him how those moments have touched you deeply. Dad’s always a busybody, but you can be sure that he will warmly relax to that.

* Father’s Day can be one good occasion to clean dad’s tool box. He will surely swell at your efforts to let him have a no-work kind of day. And doing a bit of daddy’s job is yet another way to make him feel really special.

* Now to add to the thrill and joy of your dad on Father’s Day, make him a waste-bin or pen-stand for his work area. It can suffice both for a unique Father’s Day gift and an item of utility that dad would always prize.

* If you can plan ahead of Father’s Day, it would be a great way of celebration to take a trip or go camping or just hike to your dad’s favorite spot.

* If dad’s a sports-buff or a movie-freak, celebrate Father’s Day accordingly. Go for a game-session outdoors or watch a match indoors while you polish off bowls of popcorn together. Or you can bring home some movie CDs from a collection of old favorites, pop the pack of chips or cookies and munch your way to a holistic fun-time at the cozy corner of your room.

Happy Father's Day
Wish your dad/ grandpa/ uncle/ son/ bro/ someone like your dad on Father's Day with these warm ecards.
[ 24 cards ]

Fun
Fetch your dad/ bro/ son/ uncle/ dear ones lotsa smiles as you send them these fun filled ecards on Father's Day.
[ 16 cards ]

From Daddy's Girl
Touch your dad's heart with your warm words 'n thoughts as you send him these cute and thoughtful ecards.
[ 24 cards ]

Friends
Reach out to your loving friends 'n wish them a Father's Day that's a chilled out one.
[ 8 cards ]

Missing You
Let your dear ones know how much you are missing him or thinking about him on Father's Day.
[ 10 cards ]

Family
Make your family members feel on top of the world as you wish them with these heart touching Father's Day egreetings.
[ 28 cards ]

Special Dad
On Father's Day wish a new dad/ dad-to-be/ someone special with these warm ecards.
[ 8 cards ]

World's Bestest Dad
Grab the opportunity to thank your Dad and appreciate him for all the li'l things as you hand him a virtual award.
[ 6 cards ]

I Am Your fan !
Say it to your favorite hero, your daddy.
[ Postcard ]

My Best Buddy...
A sporty ecard that expresses your true feelings.
[ Postcard ]

My windfall In you !
An elegant ecard to express your gratefulness to your dad.
[ Postcard ]

Best At Being My Dad !
Tell your dad that he is best at being your dad with this lovely ecard.
[ Interactive ]

Through All Ups 'N' Downs...
Thank your dad as you've always found him by your side.
[ Postcard ]

An Elemental Part Of My Life...
Let your dad know how much he means to you and that you follow his footsteps.
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You Are The Best !
A warm message to express your love for your Dad.
[ Postcard ]

Dad !
Thank your Dad for the love and care he gave you.
[ Postcard ]

These are some; but there can be more ways, and more innovative ones, to celebrate a Father’s Day. You just need to come up with your own unique ways of celebration. And one can blindly vouch, there’s practically no end to it. Making dad feel special and appreciating his role in your life are the major agenda for your Father’s Day. So when this is fixed, just stay focused and you’ll discover newer routes to strike the right chord this Father’s Day !

Pentecoast day Greeting Cards

2007-05-24T01:38:00.000-05:00

It's Pentecost, the fiftieth day after Easter, celebrating fertility. Time for you to rejoice and celebrate with all your friends and loved ones. Reach out to them through these warm ecards.

Happiness And Joy...
Reach out to your friends and loved ones/ family/ colleagues/ acquaintances through this ecard.
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Holy Spirit !
Send this blessed e-wish to all your friends/ family/ dear ones.
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Illuminate Your Heart...
A bright e-wish for all your friends/ family/ near and dear ones.
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Warm Wishes...
A warm e-wish to reach out to all you know.
[ Postcard ]

Easter Thank You Greeting Cards

2007-04-09T08:02:00.000-05:00

Did somebody bring a smile on your face with a perfect wish/ party/ surprise this Easter ? It's your turn now to express your gratitude for their warm gesture. Send them from our warm and wonderful Easter Thank You ecards and tell them how special they made your day.

Thank You And Happy Easter !
Say Thank You to a dear one and wish him/ her a Happy Easter with this warm and cute ecard.
[ Flash ]

A Bouquet Of Wishes !
Send this beautiful ecard to thank a dear one for making your Easter a memorable one.
[ Postcard ]

Thank You !
Thank your friends/ family/ loved ones for their Easter wishes and wish them a joyful Spring with this warm ecard.
[ Animated ]

Thanks From Me To You !
Thank a dear one for his/ her Easter wishes with this eggs-tra cute ecard.
[ Interactive ]

Eggs-tra Special Thank You !
Reach out to your friends/ family/ dear ones with this warm Thank You ecard.
[ Postcard ]

Springing Out With A Warm Thank You !
Thank your friends/ family/ loved ones for making your Easter eggs-tra special with this cute ecard.
[ Animated ]

Eggs-tra Large Thank You !
A warm and cute ecard to thank your friends/ family/ dear ones for their Easter wishes.
[ Animated ]

Thank You For Eggs-tra Fun !
A warm and cute ecard to thank someone for adding eggs-tra fun to your Easter.
[ Flash ]

Belated Easter Greetings and Wishes

2007-04-09T07:59:00.000-05:00

Oops ! Easter's over... and you forgot to send your wishes to someone special ? Don't worry... we've got just what you need ! Click on our warm and cute Belated Easter ecards and bring on the smiles of the dear one you forgot to wish. It's never too late to spread some Easter cheer... send them from these lively ecards and brighten up their Spring with your hearty wishes.

Belated Happy Easter !
A cute 'n funny Belated wish for the dear ones you missed wishing on Easter.
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Oops... I Hopped Over Easter !
Send ur Belated Easter wishes with this funny ecard.
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Missed The Chance To Wish You...
Bring on the smiles of a dear one you missed wishing on Easter with this cute Belated ecard.
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Skipped Over Easter...
Reach out to the loved ones you missed wishing on Easter with this warm Belated wish.
[ Postcard ]

HAPPY EASTER!

2007-04-07T04:36:00.000-05:00

Easter... time for colored eggs, egg hunts, sweet choco treats 'n waiting for Easter bunny ! Watch the li'l Easter chicks and bunnies gamboling 'n playing as you revel in the spirit of Easter. Also reach out to your friends/ family/ dear ones/ associates/ colleagues with the beautiful colors of Spring as you send them our bright ecards for Easter.

Send this Easter eCard !

Send this Easter eCard !

Send this Easter eCard !

Easter Baskets For Her

2007-04-07T00:16:00.000-05:00

Get an average size Easter basket in a color you know she'll love. Even better, get a basket she can reuse to store things in after Easter. You might also want to use a flower pot, a wooden crate or a tote bag.

To start off your Easter basket for her you should try and find out what her interests are. What does she absolutely love? Don't go by what she has, but rather what she always picks up at the store or talks about, but doesn't ever get for herself. Usually a woman will not buy what they really want to have.

A good start is a stuffed animal or an Easter bunny. You really can't go wrong with those. Try and pick a theme for your basket. It is a lot easier to create a basket or gift idea when you've got a theme. Below are a few ideas to help get you started!

Bubble Bliss
*Bottle of their favorite scented bubble bath
*Really fluffy bath towel set
*Candles
*Scented bath oils
*Inflatable head rest
*The current best selling romance novel
*Her favorite romantic CD or tape
*Bath brush, sponge or loofah
*Coupon for a bath for two or uninterrupted bath time

For the Romantic
*Bouquet of their favorite flowers (Can be real, dried or fake flowers)
*Hardback journal to express their thoughts
*A good book of love poetry or love quotes
*Their favorite perfume
*Candles
*Comfy Slippers
*Classic romantic book or movie
*Tickets to the current romantic movie in theaters

For the Scrapbooker
*A new, blank scrapbook
*Box or photo album to store extra photos
*A TON of stickers
*Set of crafting scissors
*Glue sticks
*Acid-free markers
*A love letter to start her next scrapbook with
*Gift certificate to her favorite craft store

Also when buying candy or sweets for your beloved try to be considerate of their dietary needs. If they are on a diet try to find low calorie and low fat products. Jelly beans, licorice, colored hard boiled eggs and popcorn are some ideas.

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Easter Baskets For Him

2007-04-06T23:58:00.000-05:00

Get an average size Easter Basket, and if you have time, try to spray paint it in your love's favorite team colors. A nice touch is to spray paint their favorite player's number on it or find team related stickers and place those all over the basket. You don't have to use a basket either. You can use a toolbox, bucket, fishing box or anything else that goes along with your theme.

What goes inside the basket depends on what they are interested in. Choose a theme and go around that.

A starting point would be get a six pack of beer, travel size bottles of alcohol or their favorite wine. If your beloved does not drink try non-alcoholic versions of the beverages or their favorite soda.

Next choose items relating to your them. Some theme ideas you might try include:

Poker Night
*Deck of cards
*Poker chips
*Pad of paper
*Pencils or pen
*Dominoes or other small sized games

Baseball Lover
*Baseball
*Glove
*Tickets to favorite team or local team game
*Favorite team t-shirt or hat
*Chocolate wrapped baseballs

You can change the baseball theme to any sport. If you can, try to arrange a date with his friends within the upcoming week for a friendly game. Place a Love Coupon in his basket good for one day of play with his friends.

For the Cook
*A recommended cookbook they don't have. Try an ethnic food book or something a bit different.
*Wooden spoons (you can always use those!)
*Raid their spice rack and replace spices that are low or out.
*Imported chocolates for their basket.
*Gourmet Jelly Beans
*An apron.
*Gift Certificate for one night out of the kitchen to their favorite restaurant.

Remember, guys are generally easy to please. Whip them up a batch of their favorite cookies and/or brownies, tuck in a favorite movie and a guarantee for a special night together and he'll be praising your thoughtfulness. In the end it really is the thought that counts not how much you gave him.

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Easter Party Ideas

2007-04-06T12:05:00.000-05:00

It won't be long now. Easter is just around the corner and this is the perfect theme for a family get-together. It's so easy to do, so much fun and so festive! Whether you are doing it at home or you've decided to eat out or have it catered, these few things can make for a memorable occasion. So check out these ideas that I found in here -

Party Decoration -
The traditional symbols of the Easter holiday--fluffy bunnies, baby chicks, brightly decorated eggs and Easter baskets-- make for great decorations for your Easter party. Fill pastel-colored baskets with artificial grass and chocolate eggs to make colorful centerpieces, and put out bowls of dyed hard-boiled eggs to liven up both the buffet table and the décor.

If you're planning a child's Easter party, use plush stuffed rabbits and chicks to serve as both decorations and party favors, and go to a party-supply store for bunny-shaped helium balloons to decorate your mailbox or add to the festivities.

The spring season means that there are lots of natural decorations available, so pick some flowers from your garden or the nearest flower shop and put them in pastel-colored vases. Look for tulips and daffodils, which are in season around this time, but any spring flowers in bright or pastel hues add flair to your party, as well as the additional bonus of a springy floral scent.

Party Costumes -
What should you and your guests wear to an Easter party? Why, an Easter bonnet and crisp white gloves, of course! If bonnets and white gloves aren't your style, how about bunny ears and a fuzzy white tail?

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Costumes aside, you can get in the spirit of the holiday with clothes in traditional Easter colors like yellow, pink, light blue, lavender and green. Traditionally, people dress up on Easter, but an Easter party doesn't have to be a posh affair. Keeping things casual is a good idea if you're going to be enjoying classic Easter activities like egg dyeing and egg hunts.

Because these can be messy affairs, you'll want to tell your guests to bring an apron or wear some old clothes that wouldn't be ruined if they were stained with dye or grass.

Party Activities -
Got eggs? Then you have tons of fun Easter games to play. If you have access to a large outdoor area, have an egg-and-spoon race, an Easter egg roll just like at the White House, or get really messy with an egg toss.

Easter egg hunts are fun both for kids and grown-ups and can be played outdoors or indoors. Just hide chocolate eggs or plastic eggs filled with chocolates and jellybeans around your yard or your home, and then start the hunt. Hide one golden egg in an especially difficult hiding place, and give a special prize to the person who finds that one.

Easter crafts, like dyeing eggs or making and breaking an Easter egg piñata, are also great activities for all ages.

Party Food -
Lamb and ham are traditional main dishes at Easter feasts in the US, but the holiday is best known for its sweet snacks.

From chocolate bunnies to jelly beans to marshmallow Peeps, Easter is all about sugar. If you have any food coloring left over from dyeing eggs, decorate cupcakes with frosting dyed in pastel colors and top each one with a sprinkling of green-dyed coconut and jelly beans.

Balance out all that sugar with savory holiday-appropriate treats like deviled eggs and baby carrots with a rich ranch dip.

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Easter Basket Gift Ideas

2007-04-05T07:55:00.000-05:00

Although jelly beans and chocolate eggs are always popular with the kids, parents may want to include some not so sugary alternatives. Think of their Easter basket as sort of an 'Easter stocking' instead.

TOYS
Toys are always a hit with kids. From Yo-Yo’s and 'Slinkies' to popular action figures like Barbie dolls and Power Rangers, including toys make a unique Easter basket idea that is sure to delight your child. You can also go with plush toys like fuzzy Easter chicks or soft and cuddly Easter bunnies. Keep your child’s age and gender in mind as you consider what to include, as every toy is not suitable for every child.

BOOKS
It has been said that reading to your child brings many benefits to your child’s development. An Easter themed story book is not only a more healthy Easter basket idea, but you now have a great chance to spend some quality time with your child as you both settle down and enjoy a good story book.

DVD’s and CD’s
Imagine your child’s surprise when they see that the Easter bunny even gives out movies! They don’t necessarily have to be Easter themed. How excited your child will be when they see a DVD of their favorite character in their Easter basket. Including a favorite CD for them to enjoy is equally pleasing. They can sing along to their favorite songs as they enjoy their new toy or hunt for Easter eggs.

CRAYONS AND COLORING BOOKS
A timeless but ever so popular choice, a brand new box of crayons with a fresh Easter coloring book is always a hit.

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HEALTHIER SWEET TREATS
There are other sweet snacks that make great Easter basket treats. Most kids love fruit roll ups which, depending on the brand, are much healthier than candy. How about raisins? Even if you choose chocolate covered raisins, there is still a health benefit to your child snacking on a handful of fruit instead of a handful of sugar loaded candy.

Make some Easter cookies. Mom always says homemade is best! Yes, cookies contain sugar, but if you’ve made them yourself they won’t be loaded with preservatives and dyes like store bought cookies are. Of course, since they’re homemade they’ll taste better too!

MONEY
Depending on your child’s age, money is a great Easter basket idea. Get some of the new dollar coins that are now being circulated. Their shiny appeal will bring a wide smile to your child’s face. Giving them a few dollars to spend is a great opportunity to start teaching them how to manage money wisely; life long habits start early!

Give your child healthy alternatives to conventional Easter basket candy and keep them just as happy without the worry of too much sugar. A great book, movie or CD gives you a wonderful chance to spend quality time with your child. Some bright and shiny dollar coins are your opportunity to teach your child all about managing money wisely. Toys, crayons and coloring books are a great choice for unique Easter basket ideas. Your child will have long lasting Easter basket goodies and you won’t have to worry about all that sugar they’re eating.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Unique-Easter-Basket-Ideas&id=488479

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Unique Easter Eggs

2007-04-05T00:01:00.000-05:00

Easter would not be Easter without Easter eggs. This symbol has been a part of this spring time holiday for generations. Easter Egg decorating is something that we all love to do and various countries and cultures each have, over the years, developed their own unique ways of making Easter eggs and special and memorable part of this holiday. Traditionally given as gifts, lets take a look to see how different countries have developed different styles of Easter egg decorating based on their own unique culture.

Poland-Polish Easter eggs come in several different types depending on how the Easter egg is created. There are various ways these can be created one way is by boiling the egg in a mixture of plants to create a particular color, the color depends on the blanks used. Brown is created by boiling the eggs in onion peels, black, oak or alder bark or walnut. This process is called Kraszanki, malowanki or byczki and these types of polish Easter eggs take their name from it.

After the eggs have finished boiling and are dyed designs are carved into them by scratching the surface of the egg with a sharp tool, this takes off the dye in the scrapped areas creating a white design. Pisanki are created by either drawing within a coating of wax placed over the egg or by drawing with wax the egg is then placed into a dye bath. These are traditionally handed out on Easter Sunday and shared during a meal.

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The Ukraine Easter egg is created in a very similar process to the Polish Easter egg however the designs are usually complex geometric shapes, works of art in themselves, they are given as gifts of great honor during the Easter holiday season. Greece- Traditional Greek Easter eggs are dyed a solid red to symbolize the resurrection and how Christ’s blood washed away the sins of man.

Germany and Austria- These two closely related countries share a common and diverse culture reflected in their Easter egg practices, These two countries share a common practice of decorating hollow eggs or passing green eggs out on the Thursday after Easter Sunday.

British Isles- Here Easter egg decorating shows up in a variety of styles and colors, usually far simpler than Eastern Europe’s practices, however, the British have something truly unique to do with their Easter Eggs, they roll them, the object, is to make it down the hill rolling your egg without breaking it.

The United States is truly a melting pot, here people of all nations and cultures gather so naturally reflected in our Easter Eggs, a prime example the White House Egg Roll. Obviously the modern day easter egg has become a chocolate creation rather than the more traditional decorative one. That said many countries still carry on the tradition of the easter egg hunt. However if you were to ask people in the street what their idea of an easter egg is you would probably find that they would say the chocolate easter eggs.

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First Easter

2007-04-04T00:35:00.000-05:00

So child isn’t a baby anymore and you’re going to have to convince him or her that the Easter Bunny has hopped into your home, left a basketful of chocolate goodies and hidden a horde of dazzling colored Easter eggs around your house. As a new parent, how are you going to pull off this important holiday for your child? Here are a few hints for making sure your little one will believe in the magic of the Easter Bunny for the first time and for years to come:

You don’t have to wear a bunny costume The good news is that you don’t have to make a complete fool of yourself to create the illusion of the Easter bunny for your little prince or princess. You just have to have a little more energy than your child does for a couple of days while you prepare the following things:

• Colored eggs – no Easter is complete without them. The hard-boiled variety are not only fun to color, but are genuinely healthier than any chocolate treat you can muster up, so coloring your own batch is a great place to start. Boil the eggs on Thursday night and tuck them into the back of the refrigerator so they are ready to color on Friday - then they’ll be completely dry and ready to place into baskets on Saturday night.

• The basket – you can make your own, paint a basket you have around the house, or buy one. The bestway to make your child believe in the bunny is to add a few home-made treats that only the bunny could have made. During the week before Easter, spend a night making some Chocolate Bunny Pops or easy Hollow Chocolate Eggs that you can add to your baby’s basket alongside a few little toys, and your toddler will be amazed.

• The hunt – so the last time you were involved in an egg hunt you were the one finding the eggs? As long as you remember the complete joy you felt when you discovered another of the Easter Bunny’s treats you’ll be alright. This is probably the most exciting part of playing the Easter bunny. If the climate in your area is particularly hot or humid, you may want to wake up early to hide the eggs instead of hiding them on Saturday night. If you are hiding eggs outside be sure to use tightly closing plastic eggs or well-wrapped treats.

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Don’t be caught speechless - as small as they are, your kids will come up with some questions about the Easter Bunny that may stump you. Be prepared to defend the bunny as if your life depends on it! Some of the most common questions are:

• Why does the Easter Bunny lay eggs? Rabbits don’t lay eggs, and even if they did, the Easter Bunny is a boy. The real answer to the question is that the Easter Bunny (originally the hare) and the egg both symbolize fertility and renewal of life and are not co-dependent. But many people still think the Easter Bunny lays the brightly colored egg treats that kids find during the Easter hunt every year. Kids are not brainless though, and it’s pretty clear - even to a three year old - that the plastic eggs filled with store-bought candy are not actually expelled from the bunny’s body. So, you can completely deny that the bunny actually lays the eggs and tell your child that he buys them or makes them just like Santa buys or makes the toys that are delivered at Christmas time. Instead of a magical sack, the bunny has a magical basket. Or you can tell them it’s a complete mystery to you, too.

• What do Easter eggs have to do with the resurrection of Jesus? This is another good question that most kids ponder sometime during the Easter Sunday service, when they are supposed to be paying attention to the longest sermon of the year but can’t get their minds off the basketful of goodies they had to leave behind in order to get to church on time. Right after you reprimand him for letting his mind wander during the service, you could tell your curious church-goer that after the resurrection Mary Magdalene delivered a red egg to the Emperor of Rome proclaiming the rising of Christ. The red coloration represented the blood of Jesus, the egg shell His tomb, and the fertilized egg His renewed life.

• If the bunny leaves the eggs, why are we coloring our own? As kids grow up it is hard not to want to share the dyeing experience with them. But how do you explain that the Easter Bunny is no longer responsible for bringing the colored eggs with him? Well, it’s always nice to help out, and the Bunny does have a lot of work to do on the night before Easter. If we make our own there will be more eggs for him to share with the kids who don’t make their own.

No matter how many times you let the ball drop and think that you’ve given the kids reason to doubt your story, just remember that they want to believe in the Easter Bunny as much as you want them to believe it. The magic of it all is so alluring that you have lots of room for slip ups!
http://ezinearticles.com/?Being-the-Easter-Bunny-for-the-First-Time&id=496139

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Easter - Party Planning For Kids

2007-04-03T00:06:00.000-05:00

Kids look forward to holidays and Easter is always a kid favorite. The Easter bunny, chocolates, an Easter egg hunt, and coloring eggs are all fun activities children anticipate well in advance. If you are interested in planning an Easter party for kids you can do so with minimal effort and for a low cost if you are well organized and planned. The following tips will help you plan an outstanding Easter party for kids that will be enjoyed by kids and adults.

First, you need to decide what you want to do. An Easter egg hunt is a definite, but you need to make some decisions about this. Will you be inviting children of a similar age or will there be a wide age range? The reason this is important is because you want everyone to have a chance to find some eggs. If there are lots of big kids and little kids all mixed together then the little kids won't find any eggs, or not many, and then they will feel sad and won't enjoy the party. So, if you have kids that are close in age at the party then one Easter egg hunt will suffice. But, if you are going to have a wide range of ages then you will need to plan an Easter egg hunt for both groups.

Another thing to keep in mind is where you will have the hunt and what will you place in the eggs. Chocolates, especially dark chocolates, are great suggestions to place inside the plastic eggs. Money, jelly beans, and even small toys are also great suggestions. Some people like to use real boiled eggs for their Easter egg hunt. This is completely up to you and what is easiest should be chosen.

If you do decide to use real eggs then you might want to have an egg coloring contest before. That way the kids could really enjoy decorating the eggs and once decorated they could be hidden for the Easter egg hunt. That would be a lot of fun for the kids to hunt for the eggs they already decorated!

Beyond including an Easter egg hunt and possibly an egg coloring contest you should have refreshments. It is really easy to make a cake that looks like a bunny, or if you aren't that creative you could just buy one already made. A bunny cake is the centerpiece and then you could just offer chips, Easter candy and some punch or other drinks.

Remember as well that if you invite many children to the event you will need chaperones, especially if you are having an egg hunt and kids are roaming around. Ask a couple of parents to stay or invite kids with their parents so everyone can enjoy the party and you don't have the responsibility of that many kids on your hands.

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Easter Birthday

2007-04-02T07:12:00.000-05:00

Easter is a perfect holiday to combine with a birthday celebration, as Easter is not only a religious holiday, but also heralds the entrance of spring. So, if you are already thinking ahead to holding an Easter birthday party this year, here are some ideas to get your planning started:

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1) Using a rabbit cookie cutter, trace the outline onto pastel colored construction paper. Decorate the bunnies, using cotton for the tails, googly eyes, and yarn for the whiskers. On the bunny’s backside, provide the party details. Use bunny language, i.e. “Hop on over to our bunny trail for an Eggs-tra Special Celebration!”

2) All pastel colors would be a great decorating color scheme, for balloons, streamers, and tableware. Chocolate eggs would be a fun confetti all over the party table. For a centerpiece, have a bunch of fresh spring flowers in the center or a stuffed bunny rabbit with a few bunny Mylar balloons attached.

3) Coloring Easer Eggs would be a fun welcoming activity while everyone arrives. Have the eggs boiled and ready for dipping. Have the colors prepared and the eggs out. Provide a few crayons for the kids to write their names or draw little pictures on the eggs before they dip.

4) The central game of this party will be the classic Easter Egg Hunt. Fill lots of plastic eggs with candies, coins, and small toys. Hide them throughout the party area, preferably outdoors, and have either baskets of pastel-colored buckets available for collecting the eggs. You could also have the kids make a Bunny Basket for collecting as well. You could hide a $1 dollar bill in one of the eggs for extra fun.

5) You can also play “Pin the Tail on the Bunny.”

For food, you can serve -

1) small egg salad sandwiches cut into ducks, rabbits, sheep, and Easter egg shapes to keep it festive. Serve a veggie platter filled with carrots, celery, peppers, etc. with a ranch dip, deviled eggs, and crackers with cheese cut into small shapes, finger fruits served with a yogurt dip.

2) fruit punch mixed with Rainbow Sherbet.

3) Make Easter Jell-O eggs: Make Jell-O according to the package, but substitute vanilla ice cream for the cold water. For Easter colors try any of the red Jell-O flavors. You’ll end up with pretty pastel colors. Fill hollow egg molds with the Jell-O.

Party Favors can include -

Sending the kids home with the plastic Easter eggs they found during their hunt, and some real colored Easter eggs if the kids dipped some. A small chocolate bunny would also be yummy.

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Easter Proposal Ideas!

2007-04-02T00:36:00.000-05:00

Easter marks new beginnings... the new beginnings of spring, life, and your relationship. Here is are several unique ways to propose marriage at Easter.

# Take her on an Easter Egg Hunt. You call fill plastic eggs with clues to the final egg that holds the ring or you can just hide several eggs with candy and one with the ring. When she finds the egg that contains the ring, get down on one knee and propose.

# Give her an Easter basket with the ring in one of the eggs. Similar to the egg hunt, but without the hunt. When she opens the egg with the ring, get down on one knee and ask her to marry you.

# Write the words "Will you marry me" each on a separate egg and make her find them. When she's collected all of the eggs and read your message, get down on one knee and ask for her hand in marriage.

# Write the words "Will you marry me?" on a boiled egg with a white crayon. When you dye eggs together, your message will appear on the special egg!

# Give her a hollowed chocolate bunny. Break a small hole into one of the corners and slip the ring inside for the surprise of a lifetime.

# Give her a stuffed Easter bunny with the ring tied around it's neck with a ribbon. When she notices the ring, ask her to give you the honor of her hand in marriage.

# Take her to your local mall and have a photo of the two of you taken with the Easter Bunny. While the photo is being taken, get down on one knee and propose. You'll have a great photo of the special day and she'll be completely surprised.

# Give her a small basket filled with small egg shaped chocolates. Put the ring around one of the small eggs for her to find as she's eating her sweet treats. When she finds it, tell her that she's sweeter than candy and ask for her hand in marriage.

# Take her out for Easter brunch and have the waiter bring the ring out as a surprise. When the waiter brings the ring out, get down on one knee and propose.

# Make Jello Jigglers in the shape of Easter eggs (you can order a mold from the Jello website) and put the ring in one of the Jigglers.

10 Romantic Easter Ideas - II

2007-03-31T00:30:00.000-05:00

Continuing from where I left -

6. Easter Egg Time Capsule.
Create your own Easter memories. Each year, fill a plastic Easter Egg (you may want to buy the larger novelty ones) with notes and mementos of your relationship for the past year. Or, use your Easter Egg time capsule to record your feelings for your partner on that particular day. Each year, look back on your previous notes and include a new one.

7. Aphrodisiac Easter Basket.
Fill an Easter Basket completely full of various chocolates (since it's an aphrodisiac and all). You may want to include a few sexy love notes with suggestions for the night to come.

8. Sexy Easter Basket.
Most definitely not a basket for kids. Fill an Easter Basket full of sexy gifts such as massage oils, an lotions and sensuous creams for a generous back rub

9. Easter Picnic
This is a common suggestion, but not many couples actually take advantage of it! Pack a picnic lunch with Easter traditional s like ham, plus a bottle of wine. Head out to your local park, snag a shady spot under a tree and prepare yourself for an afternoon of romance.

10. Easter Proposal.
Thinking about popping the question? Why not make it a romantic Easter proposal? Sure, you don't usually think Easter when you think of proposals, but there are many creative and romantic Easter ideas for proposing marriage. Check out our Easter proposal ideas.

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10 Romantic Easter Ideas - I

2007-03-30T05:56:00.000-05:00

Easter is not necessarily the first holiday that comes to mind when you think romance, but you can make it romantic in your own way. Grab a chocolate bunny, read through these romantic Easter ideas and you'll be on your way to a hoppin' romantic day.

1. Easter Egg Hunt.
Setup the hunt the night before. If you have kids, you may want to do the hunt in your bedroom. Fill the eggs with love notes, chocolates, and a few small romantic gifts. Jewelry is always nice.

2. Egg-stra Special Love Notes.
Wrap paper messages around chocolate eggs with 'egg' quotes such as: "You are egg-stra special to me", "You egg-cite me!", or "You're an egg-stremely great wife/husband."

3. Dye Easter Eggs.
If you like boiled eggs (or even if you don't), dye Easter Eggs together. This is a fun activity that even adults can enjoy! If you get a white crayon, take the time to write romantic love messages on the eggs before you dye them. As you dye them, the messages will magically appear!

4. Easter Lilies
Surprise her with a room filled with potted Easter Lillies. They're gorgeous, in bloom, and easy to care for. Make sure to add a card letting her know that your love is a pure as the white fragrant blooms.

5. Easter Love Coupons.
Fill those plastic Easter Eggs with bunches of love coupons for your partner to redeem during the remainder of April. You can print free love coupons right here at RomnanceStuck.

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Top 10 Chocolate Bunnies for Easter: Part-2

2007-03-30T02:47:00.000-05:00

Here are the last 5 concluding Chocolate Bunnies for Easter

6) Standing Bunny with Basket from Martine's Chocolates

Martine's Chocolates are made daily at their confection shop in Bloomingdale's in Manhattan. This brightly painted chocolate bunny stands 8 1/4 inches high and is hand-colored. Their website is not the most user friendly. Look under Easter to find the chocolate rabbits. $46.95

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7) Racer Bunny from Christopher Norman Chocolates

Christopher Norman makes wonderful chocolates. This hand-painted rabbit rides in a wicker basket convertible. $25.00

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8) Hand Painted Calico Bunny from Moonstruck Chocolate Company

These adorable little guys (2.25 ounces) are made of milk chocolate and hand-painted with dark and white chocolates. At $6.00 per rabbit, these are some of the most affordable gourmet bunnies.

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9) Easter Bunnies in a Box from L.A. Burdick Chocolate

Five chocolate bunnies snuggle together in a wooden box with marzipan eggs and chocolate truffles. Tied with a festive ribbon, this makes a wonderful gift. $27.00

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10) Easter Bunny from Chocolat Michel Cluizel

Nothing fancy here, just really good chocolate. Michel Cluizel is one of France's premier chocolatiers. His chocolates are available through his store in New York (his only retail shop outside of Paris). Easter Bunnies are available in 60% cocoa dark chocolate or 33% cocoa milk chocolate. Both come with 3 chocolate bonbon Easter eggs. $15.00

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Sending You Something Irresistible !
Pull a prank on your friends/ family/ loved ones with this eggs-tra funny ecard.

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African Easter

2007-03-30T00:30:00.000-05:00

After covering Easter in Spain, I move to Africa. Take a look at this very interesting write up that I found on the net, about African Easter!

In Africa, Easter is celebrated as a main function of the Christian communities. In the Easter Vigil hundreds of people assemble in the church building.

In most parish churches the Easter Vigil is anticipated, because there are no lights, usually beginning at 3pm and finishing at dark, around 6pm.

The church is decorated by Vitenge and Kanga, clothes made up in the form of butterflies, flowers, banana trees etc. Christian hymns are accompanied by the beating of drums and Kigelegele, the high-pitched sounds made by women.

After the Mass, traditional dances are held outside of the church. Then people return home to continue their celebrations with local food and drinks.

In some parishes the people remain around the church after Mass and sit in their small Christian communities to continue the celebration of eating and drinking, as ceremonial dances and entertainments continue around them.

In Africa, Easter has a social dimension as well as a spiritual one. At Easter families come together. They share special food with Christians and non-Christians indulging in boiled or roasted rice with meat or chicken.

Meat being very scarce and expensive in Africa, the laws of abstinence (not eating meat) does not hold good.

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Spanish Easter Food Recipes

2007-03-29T07:16:00.000-05:00

Like everywhere else, Spanish Easter is too celebrated with lots of fun, enjoyment and food. So, here a couple of recipes that I found here, from a Star Chef that will simply make your Easter delicious !

Legumes with Truffle and Iberian Pork Sausage:

Ingredients:

* Legumes: 1 liter consommé
* 30 grams vegetable gelatin
* 100 grams white beans
* 100 grams lentils
* 100 grams barley
* 100 grams green soy beans
* 100 grams small garbanzo beans
* 1 shallot
* 50 milliliters truffle vinaigrette

Truffle Consommé and Iberian Pork Sausage:
* 700 milliliters veal consommé
* 100 milliliters truffle juice
* 300 grams Iberian pork sausage

Garnish:
100 grams truffle, julienned

Method:

For Legumes:
Boil the consommé, then add the gelatin and stir until the two combine. Place the liquid into a square dish. Once it has coagulated, cut it into 15-centimeter squares.

Boil all of the legumes separately. Once they are cooked, combine them in a bowl.

Mince the shallot and mix it with the truffle vinaigrette. Combine the legumes with the vinaigrette mixture. Place them on top of the gelatin squares and make a roll with the legume mixture in the middle. Keep refrigerated.

For Truffle Consommé and Iberian Pork Sausage:
Gently heat the consommé and truffle juice and set aside.

Saute the sausage in a pan, cutting it into 2-centimeter pieces. Keep it over low heat.

To Assemble and Serve:
In room-temperature soup bowls, place the legume rolls, the pork sausage and the julienned truffle. Ladle the truffle consommé around the sides and serve.

Sea Bass with Garlic and Calçots:
Calçots are a cross between a spring onion and a leek and are found in the Catalonia region of Spain. You may use ramps as a substitute if calçots are unavailable.

Ingredients:

* Calçot “Confit”: 6 calçots
* Thyme oil

Garlic Cream:
* 6 heads garlic
* 1 liter milk
* 200 milliliters cream
* Salt

Sea Bass and Roasted Calçots:
* 4 (300-gram) sea bass fillets
* 12 calçots
* Olive oil
* Salt and pepper

Grated Macadamia and Pepper Oil:
* 6 macadamia nuts
* 1 hot pepper
* 100 milliliters olive oil

Method:

For Calçot “Confit”:
Clean the calçots and julienne them. Blanch them in salted boiling water, and then plunge them into ice water. Pat dry and cover calçots with the thyme oil. Place in a water bath at 104ºF for 5 hours. Place calçots in a sealed jar when done.

For Garlic Cream:
Peel the garlic and blanch them 5 times, changing the water each time. Follow by boiling them with the milk until they become soft. Strain the garlic out and grind it up with the cream until it becomes a puree. Season with salt and set aside.

For Sea Bass and Calçots:
Preheat oven to 390ºF. Put the sea bass in a frying pan with olive oil, skin side down. When it begins to sear, put the pan in the oven to finish cooking.

Clean 12 calçots and season them with oil, salt and pepper. Wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in the oven until they soften. Remove and set aside.

For Grated Macadamia and Pepper Oil:
Grate slices of macadamia on a microplane and reserve in a dry place.

Combine the pepper and oil, then put the mixture into a blender until smooth. Strain the mixture and put it into a squeeze bottle.

To Assemble and Serve:
On a flat plate, draw some lines with the garlic cream. Next place the roasted calçots on the plate, with the sea bass on top. Sprinkle with macadamia slices and the pepper oil. On top of this place the calçot “confit” strips. Serve.

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Top 10 Chocolate Bunnies For Easter: Part 1

2007-03-29T02:41:00.000-05:00

What is Easter without a chocolate bunny rabbit? Among a basket of jellybeans, chocolate eggs, and marshmallow chickens, only the chocolate rabbit stands alone. Towering over the other treats, the bunny surveys all he sees and decides he is the most worthy of being eaten. Rightly so, but all bunnies are not created equal. For a truly gourmet chocolate experience, you must go to the artisan chocolate maker. Here is a list of my favorite chocolate rabbits from world class chocolatiers.

1)Mr. Goodtimes Easter Bunny from Lake Champlain Chocolates

Mr. Goodtimes Bunny is 16 1/2 inches tall and weighs 3 pounds. Even though he's hollow, that's a lot of chocolate. This milk chocolate rabbit is hand-decorated with white and dark chocolate. Mr. Goodtimes is also the most expensive rabbit on the list with a price tag of $85. Lake Champlain also makes a Cruisin' Easter Bunny for only $20.

2)Exotic Rabbits from Vosges Chocolates

These cute little bunnies are only a fraction of the size of Mr. Goodtimes (4 inches high) and price ($9.50). At first glance, they may seem a little on the plain side but their secret is in the taste. These solid chocolate rabbits come in 4 exotic flavors: Red Fire Bunny is flavored with Mexican spices, Gianduja Bunny has hazelnuts and almonds, Black Pearl Bunny is Japanese with wasabi and ginger, and Naga Bunny has Indian flavors with curry and coconut.

3)The Famous Robert L. Strohecker Assorted Rabbit from Harbor Sweets

This deceptively plain looking rabbit is actually a map of delightful flavors. The ears contain toasted almonds, the head is almond butter crunch, the body contains caramel with pecans, and the base has toasted almonds. 5 ounces, $15.50 to $16.75, available in milk or dark chocolate.

4)Mr. Chocolate's Easter Bunny from Jacques Torres Chocolate

Here's a wonderful Easter rabbit from the master of chocolate, Jacques Torres. These hollow bunnies stand 10 inches tall and are available in milk or dark chocolate. $18.00

5)Standing Boy Bunny from Ghyslain Chocolates

This chocolate bunny is really a work of art. Beautifully hand-painted with a hazelnut acorn and chocolate squirrel, this sculpture stands 14 inches tall and weighs a hefty 24 ounces. Also available is the Sitting Girl Bunny, also hand-painted. $44.95

Check out my next 5 Chocoloate Bunnies For easter tomorrow

Spanish Easter

2007-03-29T01:11:00.000-05:00

Easter celebration in Mexico is held as a combination of two separate big observances - Semana Santa and Pascua. The former means the whole of the Holy Week - Palm Sunday to Easter Saturday. And the Pascua is the observance for the period from the Resurrection Sunday to the following Saturday.

For most Mexicans, this two-week period is the time for a great vacation. People enjoy this time with the community of their choice.

Semana Santa celebrates the last days of the Christ's life. Pascua is the celebration of the Christ's Resurrection. It is also the release from the sacrifices of Lent.

In many communities, the full Passion Play is enacted from the Last Supper, the Betrayal, the Judgement, the Procession of the 12 Stations of the Cross, the Crucifixion and, finally, the Resurrection. In some communities, real crucifixion is included. The enactments are often nicely staged, costumed and acted, with participants preparing for their roles for nearly the full year leading up to Semana Santa.

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Easter Brunch - III

2007-03-28T00:55:00.000-05:00

My last bit of posting on Easter food - I start with 'breaking bread' and finish up with desserts!

Bread/Rolls - Easter Bread

Ingredients:
1 pkg. Dry yeast
1/2 C. Warm water
1/2 C. Boiling water
1 tsp. Cinnamon
3/4 C. Sugar
3 Eggs
1/4 C. Butter; melted
1/2 C. Warm milk
1 tsp. Baking powder
1/2 tsp. Salt
5 C. Flour (all-purpose)
1 Egg yolk; beaten
Sesame seeds
5 Eggs; hard-cooked; unshelled -and dyed red

Directions:

Soften yeast in warm water and set aside. Combine boiling water and cinnamon; set aside. Combine sugar and eggs; beat well. Add melted butter to egg mixture and beat again. Skim off 1/4 C. clear cinnamon water and add along with yeast and milk to egg mixture, blending well. Combine dry ingredients and add to batter; knead dough until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. Shape dough to fit into 2 greased 8 in. round pans; crisscross 2 strips of dough over each loaf. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk. Brush loaves with beaten egg yolk and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until brown. Push dyed eggs into bread immediately when loaves are removed from oven.

Now for the best part of the whole meal... Dessert. Have fun and create an eye popping dessert that your whole family will enjoy. Here are some different options to choose from.

Easter Angel Cake Ingredients:

1 pkg. white angel food cake mix
8 oz. frozen whipped cream topping, thawed
1 cup flaked coconut
6 drops green food color
Jelly beans

Directions:

Bake and cool cake as directed on package, remove from pan. Frost with whipped topping. Combine coconut and food color until evenly tinted. Sprinkle over top of cake. Arrange jelly beans on coconut. After serving, refrigerate any remaining cake.

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Easter Brunch - II

2007-03-27T07:45:00.000-05:00

Continuing my series on Easter Food -

Now for a Lamb Recipe: Honey Glazed Lamb

Ingredients :
1 C. Honey
1/2 C. Dry white wine
4 Tbs. Minced fresh mint
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 lbs. Boneless leg of lamb, (2 whole legs)

Directions :
Combine honey, wine and mint; mix well. Season cut side of boned lamb with salt and pepper, then spread with honey mixture; roll and tie lamb. Brush outer surface with honey mixture. Roast on rack in shallow baking pan at 325 degrees F 1 to 1-1/2 hours or to 160 degrees F on meat thermometer for medium doneness. Baste every 15 minutes. Let stand 10 to 15 minutes before slicing.

Side dishes are a must and just as important as the main course - Side Potatoes Dishes Oven Roast Greek Potatoes

Ingredients :
4-5 Medium Potatoes; Cubed
1 Tbs. Olive Oil
1 Tbs. Butter; Melted
1-2 Tbs. All Purpose Greek Seasoning
Dash Garlic Seasoning

Directions :

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Toss potatoes with remaining ingredients. Bake in 9x13" casserole dish for 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden. Yield: 4 servings

Sides Dishes - Oven Roasted Potatoes and Asparagus

Ingredients :

1 1/2 lb. red potatoes cut into chunks
2 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil
8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
4 tsp. dried rosemary
4 tsp. dried thyme
2 tsp. kosher salt
1 bunch fresh asparagus trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces ground black pepper to taste

Directions :

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a large baking dish, toss the red potatoes with 1/2 the olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and 1/2 the kosher salt. Cover with aluminum foil. Bake 20 minutes in the preheated oven. Mix in the asparagus, remaining olive oil, and remaining salt. Cover, and continue cooking 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Increase oven temperature to 450 degrees. Remove foil, and continue cooking 5 to 10 minutes, until potatoes are lightly browned. Season with pepper to serve.

Side Dishes - Glazed Carrots

Ingredients :
6 C. carrots cut into 1" diagonal slices
1/4 C. brown sugar
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 C. orange juice
1/4 C. butter
1 tsp. cornstarch
1/2 tsp. salt

Directions :

Cook carrots on stovetop in a small amount of salted water until tender, drain water. Combine orange juice, nutmeg, brown sugar, cornstarch, and mix until smooth. Pour over carrots and cook for several minutes until mixture thickens. Add butter and toss. Serve hot.

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Easter Brunch - I

2007-03-27T01:20:00.000-05:00

This sacred and joyous holiday for Christians throughout the world celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his death by crucifixion. For many Christians, especially those of Eastern and Orthodox faith, Easter is the most important holiday of the year, even over Christmas.

Traditional Easter meals can either have ham or lamb as a main dish. These days, many families favor the salty sweetness of ham. Most ham dishes served on this holiday are honey glazed with sides of candied yams, glazed veggies and potatoes.

Below I have found some great recipes that are easy to follow and absolutely perfect for your Easter brunch. And don’t worry, if you are one of those families who prefer lamb over ham I have found some delicious recipes for you as well.

Let’s start off with the main course: Easter Ham

Ingredients :
1-7 to 8 lb. fully cooked smoked ham shank 1 C. maple syrup 2 Tbs. cider vinegar 1 Tbs. prepared mustard whole cloves

Directions :
Combine syrup, vinegar and mustard. Place ham, fat side up, on rack in shallow roasting pan. Pour about 1/2 C. mixture over ham and bake, uncovered, in a preheated 325 degree oven for 1-1/2 hours. Baste every 30 minutes with additional sauce. Remove ham from oven and score fat into diamond shapes. Insert a clove into each diamond. Bake ham an additional 30 minutes or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of meat registers 140 degrees. Let ham rest 15 minutes before carving.

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Kids’ Easter Recipes

2007-03-26T07:25:00.000-05:00

The most fun you can have with your child is creating Jell-O deserts. There is a Jell-O dessert for every occasion. Children love the color and the jiggle of Jell-O treats. Make it a fun project to create an Easter Jell-O egg basket. You can make these fun Easter Eggs using cake molds or cookie cutters.

Color-Me-Fun With Jell-O Eggs/Bunny Molds – Make these in Pastel Colors for Easter

Ingredients:

2- 4 oz pkg. unflavored gelatin
Egg Shaped Molds
Bunny Shaped Molds
8-oz Cool Whip
Jello-O in flavors of your choice

Instructions:

1. Two 4-ounce packages of unflavored gelatin dissolved in 1 cup of boiling water
2. Cool to room temperature
3. Fold in 8 ounces of Cool Whip
4. Combine the unflavored gelatin and cool whip 5. Add to 6 ounces of flavored Jell-O that has been dissolved in 1 cup boiling water. 6. Pour into molds that are set inside a lightly greased pan
7. Refrigerate until firm (about 2 hours)
8. Decorate the bunny with shredded coconut, skittles and M&M's

Fun Ice Cream Bunny

Ingredients:

Vanilla ice cream
1 pkg. of coconut
Carrot shavings
Jellybeans
Licorice strings

Instructions:

1. On a flat plate arrange 3 balls of vanilla ice cream in the form a bunny.
2. Use medium scoop for head - Larger scoop for body-smallest scoop for the tail.
3. Cover the bunny body with shredded coconut.
4. Place carrot shavings (large) for ears.
5. Use jelly beans for eyes and nose.
6. Use licorice strings for whiskers.

Happy Easter Bunny Salad

Ingredients:

Lettuce
Cottage cheese
1 can of pear halves
Celery stick
Raisins
1 Red Grapes

Instructions:

1. Place leaves of lettuce on a salad plate.
2. Use Ice cream scoop and place cottage cheese on top of the lettuce.
3. Use 1 canned pear half and place on top of cottage cheese.
4. Use thin slices of celery for whiskers.
5. Place the raisins where the eyes should be.
6. Use a grape for the nose.

Cut the remaining pear in half to create the ears.

http://ezinearticles.com/?Easter-Recipe-For-Kids&id=468944

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Easter Books

2007-03-26T00:14:00.000-05:00

Easter is a festival that has lot of significance for Christians. It is a holiday that is celebrated to commemorate the resurrection of Lord Jesus. Most of us are ignorant about legends associated with Easter.

For people, who are genuinely interested to learn facts about Easter, a fabulous idea is to look out for Easter books. One can surf the list of books on Easter on net and locate the same in library. In fact, during the Easter time, bookstores are virtually flooded with top Easter storybooks.

Here is a list of Easter books for children: -

* The Country Bunny and the Little Gold Shoes by Du Bose Heyward
* The Story of Easter by Christopher Doyle
* The Story of the Easter Bunny by Katherine Tegen
* Love One Another: The Last Days of Jesus by Lauren Thompson
* Easter by Jan Pieñkowski
* The Golden Egg Book by Margaret
* Easter Cooking
* Easter Mice by Bethany Roberts
* Five Little Chicks by Lark Carrier
* 175 Easy to Do Easter Crafts by Sharon Dunn Umnik
* The Easter Egg Farm by Mary Jane Auch

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How to Decorate The Perfect Easter Egg - II

2007-03-24T02:04:00.000-05:00

Continuing from where I left yesterday...

1. Wash all eggs well and dry off with a paper towel.

2. Carefully, (and I suggest only adults do this) poke a small hole in each end of the raw egg.

3. Over a bowl, hold the egg and blow into one of the holes you just made. The raw yolk should slowly come out from the other hole. Sometimes this can be easy and sometimes it can be hard.

4. Once the egg is empty gently rinse it off again and towel dry. Place the raw eggshells in a safe place where they cannot get broken. I suggest placing them in the egg carton they originally came from.

Keeping Things Clean -
Now that your eggs are ready, you need to set up a station where you can decorate them. Here are some starter tips for you to get ready to hop into your decorating mode.

- Think about setting up your table outside, if weather permits. That way the kids and adults can be as messy as they want to be.

- Cover the table with plenty of newspaper so cleaning will be less work than it needs to be.

- Remember to hold on to all the empty egg cartons so when it comes time to place the painted eggs somewhere to dry you can use these. Just rip off the top of the carton and flip the bottom of the carton that actually holds the eggs in its place. More than likely some of the dye will drip from the bottom of the painted egg onto the carton so just use caution when picking them up.

- Make sure all eggs are completely dry before handling them.

Now for the fun part..... Decorating!

Anyone can find Easter egg decorating kits at party stores, kid’s toy stores and even grocery stores but if you want to save some money, below is an easy recipe to make Old Fashioned Egg Dye for your Easter eggs.

Old Fashion Egg Dye Ingredients

1/2 C. boiling water
1 tsp. vinegar
Food coloring

Directions

Combine boiling water, vinegar and the specified number of drops of food color to achieve desired colors. Dip hard cooked eggs in dye for about 5 minutes or until desired color.
For variety, try dipping the top half in one color and the bottom half in another; or leaving the egg in the dye for different lengths of time, creating different shades of a particular color. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to add or remove eggs from dye.

Following are some color combinations to create a vivid palette of colors for your Easter eggs:

Lime - 24 yellow, 4 green
Purple - 15 blue, 5 red
Cantaloupe - 24 yellow, 2 red
Jade - 17 green, 3 blue
Plum - 10 red, 4 blue
Spearmint - 12 green, 6 yellow, 2 blue
Raspberry - 14 red, 6 blue
Maize - 24 yellow, 1 red
Watermelon - 25 red, 2 blue
Teal - 15 green, 5 blue
Grape - 17 blue, 3 red
Fuchsia - 18 red, 2 blue
Orange Sunset - 17 yellow, 3 red
Jungle Green - 14 green, 6 yellow

Have a wonderful Easter and keep your eyes out for the Easter Bunny!

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How to Decorate The Perfect Easter Egg - I

2007-03-23T08:05:00.000-05:00

When we think of Easter, eggs are definitely a main symbol most of us can relate to. Every April in most homes, families gather around a table to decorate and dye eggs. These pastel colored eggs are used for decoration around the house, in baskets or they are used for children’s Easter Egg Hunts. You simply can’t celebrate Easter without homemade Easter eggs.

How To Hard Boil The Perfect Easter Egg -

When it comes to hard-boiling an egg there is a special way to get it to be perfect. Sometimes an egg yolk can come out a little runny in the middle or completely opposite and be a dark grayish color. Obviously you are either keeping the egg in the boiling water for too little or way too long. Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect hard-boiled egg.

1. Place the pot on top of the stove. Make sure the pot is big enough to hold the desired amount of eggs you want to hard-boil plus boiling water.

2. place the number of eggs carefully in the pot. Add enough water (temperature of water doesn’t matter) to completely cover the eggs. Place the pan on the stove and turn the burner on to high heat. Leave the pan alone for 20 minutes.

3. After the time has passed, place pan under cold running water to cool off the eggs. Let the eggs sit in the cold water for awhile. I sometimes add ice cubes to the pot to help cool of the eggs.

Blow or Hollow Out Easter Eggs -

Sometimes families blow out the eggs and then decorate instead of using hard-boiled eggs. It might be more difficult for a child to try to decorate an egg that is hollowed out because it is more fragile.

Follow these simple steps to blowing out your Easter Eggs...

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Easter Basket

2007-03-23T00:33:00.000-05:00

It’s hard to imagine Easter without Easter baskets. Traditionally, these are filled with candy treats such as chocolates and jelly beans, usually in the shape of an egg. There may also be hollow plastic eggs with coins or other treats inside. But did you ever wonder where the whole idea of baskets on Easter came from in the first place?

Like the Easter holiday itself, the basket is the result of the confluence of several traditions from different cultures. Some of these stem from the Judeo-Christian tradition; others date back to pagan customs.

In ancient Europe, the vernal or spring equinox was a significant time. In the original home of the Indo-Aryan peoples – ancestors of most of the ethnic and linguistic groups of Europe as well as Armenia, Kurdistan, Iran, Afghanistan and India – winters were long and bitter. Spring was considered a time of renewal and rebirth.

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Among Semitic-speaking peoples of the ancient Middle East – who include the Hebrews, Arabs, Babylonians, Assyrians and others – it was a tradition to bring the first seedlings of the growing season to the temples in order to insure a successful harvest. This connection to agriculture is also reflected in the holiday’s relationship to the cycles of the moon; it is always held on the Sunday (day of Sol Invictus, or the “Unconquerable Sun”) following the first full moon after the spring equinox. To early farmers, the phase of the moon was always significant in determining when to plant seeds.

The tradition of Easter gift baskets is really most closely connected to Western Christianity, however. In the Roman Catholic Church, Easter is only part of an entire season of rituals and observances that begin forty-six days prior to Easter itself. Many who have experienced the revelry of Mardi Gras or Carnivale don’t realize that the “Fat Tuesday” celebration represents a last chance to party before entering that period called Lent – when the devout are expected to fast and give up meat, eggs and dairy. Lent ends on Easter, hence the tradition of a large, sumptuous family meal. At one time, it was a tradition for Roman Catholic families to carry the food for Easter dinner to Mass in a basket, where it could be blessed by the priest – harking back to the ancient tradition of bringing first crops and seedlings to the temple. German immigrants to the U.S. contributed their own customs. “Pennsylvania Dutch” children eagerly awaited the Osterhase to deliver eggs on Easter Sunday, which he would deposit on his “rabbit’s nest” – hence the tradition of lining Easter gift baskets with grass (or more commonly today, artificial decorative grass).

Although considered a religious holiday, Easter is really a universal expression of renewal and new beginnings.

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Easter Parade

2007-03-22T08:07:00.000-05:00

To most people, Easter is about Easter baskets. Children look forward to receiving a chocolate Easter gift, and even newborns may get a baby Easter basket. At least as a secular holiday, Easter is not nearly as big as Christmas. Unlike Christmas, we don’t have a lot of secular songs that are associated with Easter, nor does the holiday have a movie like It’s A Wonderful Life. Two songs do come to mind, however, and they’re both written by the same person. One is Happy Easter, and the other is Easter Parade. Both are from the same 1948 Hollywood musical, and both were written by the son of Russian Jewish immigrants, who is known as Irving Berlin.

Irving Berlin is also known for God Bless America and White Christmas as well as Alexander’s Ragtime Band, Blue Skies and Puttin’ On The Ritz, to name but a few of the 3,000 songs he penned over the course of his 101-year lifetime.

Berlin started life as Israel Baline. Born to Rabbi Moses Baline and his wife Leah in a small Russian village in 1888, the family fled that country in 1891 to escape the frequent pogroms and persecutions suffered by the Ashkenazi Jews. In New York, Rabbi Baline went to work certifying kosher meat. When his father died in 1896, eight-year-old Israel wound up having to go to work in order to survive. It was some years later while working as a singing waiter that his first song, Marie From Sunny Italy started him on his songwriting career. It also resulted in a name change; on the published sheet music, I. Baline was misprinted as I.Berlin.

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Irving Berlin was almost sixty years old when he penned the score for MGM’s Easter Parade in the late 1940’s. The film was set to star Judy Garland, Gene Kelly and Cyd Charisse. Just before production was to begin, Gene Kelly suffered an injury and Cyd Charisse backed out. Fred Astaire was coaxed out of “retirement” and a new face, Ann Miller, was cast to replace Charisse. The cast also included Peter Lawford, who would go on to become one of the “Ratpack” that included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and Joey Bishop.

The plot of Easter Parade is nothing remarkable. The music on the other hand won an Oscar for Best Scoring of a Musical as well as a Writer’s Guild of America Award. is packed with numerous Berlin’s songs that represent some of his best work – several of which were written especially for the film.

Perhaps the significance of Easter Parade – aside from its Easter related songs – is that new, brilliant, creative work can be produced by people of any age, not just young “up-and-comers.” Considering that Easter is about renewal and new beginnings, that’s something to think about.

http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anne_Harvester

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Easter Songs and Hymns

2007-03-22T00:41:00.000-05:00

Like I said, Easter songs are very popular both among the youth and the old and they sell like hot cakes during Easter. Here are few videos on Easter Songs that I found, have a look -

Easter Songs

2007-03-21T00:45:00.000-05:00

To commemorate Easter festival, people sing special Easter songs. In fact, CDs on famous songs for Easter sell like real hot cakes during Easter festivity. Not only they have gained momentum among youth, but are paving way for popularity of Easter Hymns too. Easter songs sail smoothly in Easter parties. Children dance to the tunes of Easter songs. In churches, men and women sing Easter hymns.

As a part of Easter tradition, people enjoy the soothing melodious songs on Easter, while having their delicious Easter feast. Easter season also gives a warm welcome to the refreshing springtime.

Thus, songs on the theme of spring can also be heard in the music stores. There are multiple websites that provide the opportunity of free downloading of Easter songs. Here is a list of some famous songs on Easter:

* Easter parade
* Christ the Lord is risen today
* He arose
* Peter Cottontail
* Easter Bunny
* Ten little bunnies
* Little bunny foo foo
* Funny bunny
* Bunny hop

http://www.indobase.com/holidays/easter/easter-songs/index.html

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Easter Humor - II

2007-03-21T00:33:00.000-05:00

Some more of humor on Easter!

Q:Why did the rabbit cross the road?
A: Because it was the chicken's day off.

Q: Why are people always tired in April?
A: Because they just finished a march

Q: What's the difference between a bunny and a lumberjack?
A: One chews and hops, the other hews and chops.

Q: What did the rabbit say to the carrot?
A: It's been nice gnawing at you.

Q: Do you know how bunnies stay in shape?
A: Hareobics.

Q: What grows between your nose and chin?
A: Tulips.

Q: What do you get when you find a rabbit with no hair?
A: A hairless hare!

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Easter Humor - I

2007-03-20T06:44:00.000-05:00

When it's the time for some festivity, one should enjoy it to the fullest. Easter holiday is incomplete without Easter humor. Infact these days, newspapers and magazines are flooded with jokes on Easter. Here are some Easter jokes: -

Q: What do you call rabbits that marched in a long sweltering Easter parade?
A: Hot, cross bunnies.

Q: What do you call Easter when you are hopping around?
A: Hoppy Easter!

Q: Why was the rabbit rubbing his head?
A: Because he had a eggache! (headache)

Q: How do bunnies stay healthy?
A: Eggercise

Q: What does a rooster say to a hen he likes?
A: Your one hot chick!

Q: What do ducks have for lunch?
A: Soup and quackers!

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Easter Flower Meanings

2007-03-20T00:46:00.000-05:00

Flowers have a language of their own. When words fail, flowers act as the best medium of expression. Most of them mean different meanings to different people. So, while all flowers convey thoughtfulness and love, here are some of the more traditional meanings.

• Azalea - Take Care of Yourself for Me, Temperance, Fragile Passion, Chinese Symbol of Womanhood

• Begonia - Beware

• Chrysanthemum - You're a Wonderful Friend, Cheerfulness and Rest

• Chrysanthemum (white) - Truth

• Chrysanthemum (yellow) - Slighted Love

• Daffodil - Regard, Unrequited Love, You're the Only One, The Sun is Always Shining when I'm with You

• Hyacinth (purple) - I am Sorry, Please Forgive Me, Sorrow

• Hyacinth (red or pink) - Play

• Hyacinth (white) - Loveliness, I'll Pray for You

• Hyacinth (yellow) - Jealousy

• Lily (white) - Virginity, Purity, Majesty, It's Heavenly to be with You

• Lily (yellow) - I'm Walking on Air, False and Gay

• Tulip (general) - Perfect Lover, Frame, Flower Emblem of Holland

• Tulip (red) - Believe Me, Declaration of Love

• Tulip (variegated) - Beautiful Eyes

• Tulip (yellow) - There's Sunshine in Your Smile

http://www.fernlea.com/easter/easttriv.htm

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Easter Lily

2007-03-19T08:07:00.000-05:00

Easter lily is a symbol associated with motherhood. Symbol of Easter, white Lily signifies purity and hope. There are many legends related to Easter lily flower. It's not just a flower meant to adorn house, but it has a lot of significance too. According to Roman mythology, white Lily is associated with Juno, the queen of gods. It is said that at the time when queen Juno was feeding her baby son Hercules, some milk fell from the sky. The part of it that remained above the earth, paved way for the formation of Milky Way and the rest of it that fell on to the earth, lead to the blooming of beautiful white lilies. While some stories suggest that, white lilies are an outcome of the milk of the mythological queen of heaven, Hera, through which these gorgeous flowers had sprung.

As a part of Easter tradition, to honor the Jesus' resurrection, churches are decorated with beautiful white lilies. At homes, they find a special place for themselves in colorful flower baskets. Also, they serve as wonderful Easter gifts, heading their way to splendid flower bouquets. Since white lily symbolizes purity, it is often associated with mother Mary. This explains the reason why the paintings for Easter picturise saints presenting gorgeous white lilies to mother Mary, while congratulating her for being the mother of Jesus. Thus, Easter lily is a very sacred flower that marks the commemoration of Jesus' return to life.

http://www.indobase.com/holidays/easter/easter-symbols/easter-lily.html

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Easter - Hot Cross Buns!

2007-03-19T00:40:00.000-05:00

Another facet of Easter - this is very very yummy. Take a look below to know more.

Easter hot cross buns recipe is not just a yummy dish that is served on Easter festivity, but the cross-pastry icing that is done on the bun, reminds us of the cross on which Jesus was crucified. Eating hot cross buns is a tradition that is passed over from one generation to another. From the Pagan times, it has been a custom to eat Easter symbol, hot cross buns at the breakfast time on Good Friday. And since then, this tradition has become a major part of Easter celebration.

One can relish the different flavors of hot cross buns that are added on in different proportions to make a perfect combo of sweet, spicy and fruity taste. These hot cross buns are baked at home in the oven and served hot. That is why they are called hot cross buns. These buns sell like hot cakes during Easter springtime, fetching a good business to the bakery shops.

Everything has some or the other superstition related to it. So is the case with hot cross buns too. People have a belief that hot cross buns protect us from evil spirits and have a magical power of curing. This explains the reason why in ancient times, people used to hang these buns on the kitchen ceilings. This Easter, enjoy the delicious recipe of hot cross buns and don't forget to serve it hot.

http://www.indobase.com/holidays/easter/easter-symbols/easter-hot-cross-bun.html

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Easter Movies

2007-03-17T01:39:00.000-05:00

Kids love to watch cartoon films and when it comes to watching animated films, oh there is no barrier of their happiness. So why not use kids's favorite hobby of watching films to educate them.

Easter movies are a great fun to watch and the best part is that, they provide ample information about Easter history and the symbols associated with it. There are different types of movies on Easter, to say for example there are Easter egg movies, Easter Island movies, movies on Easter bunnies etc.

Here is a list of some movies that one can enjoy watching on Easter day: -

* Easter Parade
* Who Framed Roger Rabbit
* Harvey
* Alice in Wonderland
* The Easter Bunny is Comin' to Town
* Happy go Ducky - Tom and Jerry show
* The Tale of the Bunny Picnic
* Easter Titans
http://www.indobase.com/holidays/easter/easter-celebration/easter-movies.html

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Easter Cross

2007-03-15T07:01:00.000-05:00

Take a look here, for some interesting information on the Easter Cross.

Easter cross has a lot of significance for the Christian community. A cross symbolizes the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, reminding us of the blood that Jesus had shed in lieu of the sins committed by mankind. It is a sacred symbol that signifies faith. An empty Easter symbol cross, on the other hand, is indicative of the resurrection of Lord Jesus that represents the triumph of goodness over evil spirit and life over death. Thus this symbol of Easter, cross is indicative of both crucifixion and resurrection. If on one hand, it signifies sacrifice, and then on the other hand, it is a symbol of new life.

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Different kinds of crosses are famous among various Christian groups. For example among Catholics and Protestants, Latin cross is in usage and Eastern Orthodox churches have adopted the Greek cross.

Crosses of different lengths can be spotted but six to seven feet long looks real impressive. It is used for prayer purpose during the Lent season. But on Good Friday, the cross usually a wooden one, is covered with black, a color for mourning for the death of Jesus. Black cross is meant to remember the sacrifices of Jesus but before the Easter Sunday, the draping in black is removed and the cross is rather decorated with flowers to honor the Jesus' return to life. Thus, Easter cross has a lot of significance for Christians.

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Easter Bunny Trivia!

2007-03-15T01:09:00.000-05:00

The Easter bunny has its origin in pre-Christian fertility lore. The Hare and the Rabbit were the most fertile animals known and they served as symbols of the new life during the Spring season.

The bunny as an Easter symbol seems to have it's origins in Germany, where it was first mentioned in German writings in the 1500s. The first edible Easter bunnies were made in Germany during the early 1800s. And were made of pastry and sugar

The Easter bunny was introduced to American folklore by the German settlers who arrived in the Pennsylvania Dutch country during the 1700s. The arrival of the "Oschter Haws" was considered "childhood's greatest pleasure" next to a visit from Christ-Kindel on Christmas Eve. The children believed that if they were good the "Oschter Haws" would lay a nest of colored eggs.

The children would build their nest in a secluded place in the home, the barn or the garden. Boys would use their caps and girls their bonnets to make the nests . The use of elaborate Easter baskets would come later as the tradition of the Easter bunny spread through out the country.

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Fun Filled Easter Games - part II

2007-03-14T07:35:00.000-05:00

Here are some more 'eggy' games! Wow, I never thought Easter could be so 'egg-treme'!

EASTER GUESSING GAME
Take a Jar filled with various types of easter eggs, jelly beans, malted, chocolate etc. Count Them as You fill it add a $5 bill at the top and tape it shut. I leave paper next to the jar and
everyone guesses how many are in the jar... even grandma & grandpa. The person who is the closest without going over is the winner. They win the jar, eggs and the $5. Fun for all.

EASTER MEMORY
You paint one side of the egg a color, or even a shape. You hide it in the grass, with the color side facing the ground. The players have to remember what color is where, just like the game memory have fun!

EGG RELAY RACE
The way you play this game is to have at least 15 kids and/or adults. If you were playing with 15 people you would need 5 hard-boiled eggs because there are 3 people on a team and you get the point. Well,you put the egg on the spoon and run with it to the next person in the line(you need to put the three people in a line about 10 to 15 feet apart.)If you drop the egg then you have to go back to YOUR starting point and run with it again. Whoever wins gets the desired prize of the person who is responsible for holding the race.There are first,second, and third places.

EGG ROLL
Here is another easter game for little ones. Mark off a start and stop point anywhere from 5 to 10 feet apart. Using a hard boiled egg ( can be decorated or plain) have the kids down on
hands and knees. Roll the egg across the floor using only there noses. The first one to the finish line without touching the egg with their hands is the grand champion nose roller.

NIGHTTIME EGG HUNT
Have an Easter Egg Hunt in the dark with flashlights for adults. It's a Blast watching all the OLD folk look like GOOFS :)

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Easter Games - part I

2007-03-14T01:13:00.000-05:00

Eggs play an important part in Easter sports. The Romans celebrated the Easter season by running races on an oval track and giving eggs as prizes. So get ready for some 'eggs-tra' fun this Easter with these cool game ideas that I found !

JELLYBEAN TOSS
Cut the top off an egg carton. Using the bottom , number cups 1-12 with a magic marker or crayon. Place the carton on the floor and mark a starting line about 8 feet away. Give each player a different color jellybean. To Play, each player stands behind the line, calls out a number between 1-12 and tried to toss the jellybean into that numbered cup. For each successful toss, one point is given. First player with 21 points WINS!

EGGHEAD
You take three eggs and hardboil one and leave two raw. Put them in a bowl, have someone pick one out and smash it over their head. If they get the hardboiled one out of three people, they get a prize.

KIDS EGG HUNT
Take 5 to10 eggs and hide them inside for kids to find. The kid who has most eggs at the end WINS.

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INDOOR EGG HUNT
Is rain going to ruin your Easter egg hunt? Just hide jelly beans inside the house and have your adults or kids hunt for them. Depending on the age of the participants you can make the hunt easy or hard. Ever try and see a black jelly bean on a black object? Have fun!!

REVERSE EGG HUNT
You could have your children make at least five eggs each and hide them around theh ouse.When they are done hiding them, the parents could look for them. I hope this is a great idea.

TEENAGE EGG HUNT
Have a scavenger hunt. Place clues on the Table for when they wakeup on Easter morning, Remember, kids are slick so don't make the CLUES too easy... after all we all know they know it all.. The one who finds his or hers final clue first can get a Bonus along with his goodies that are at the end of the hunt... like 2 tickets to a show!

Easter Egg Trivia!

2007-03-13T06:33:00.000-05:00

Easter Eggs.. yummy! But wait, there is more to easter eggs then just eating them. Here's what I got 'eggs-tra' on the Easter Egg, from the net.

Of all the symbols associated with Easter the egg, the symbol of fertility and new life, is the most identifiable. The customs and traditions of using eggs have been associated with Easter for centuries

Originally Easter eggs were painted with bright colors to represent the sunlight of spring and were used in Easter-egg rolling contests or given as gifts. After they were colored and etched with various designs the eggs were exchanged by lovers and romantic admirers, much the same as valentines. In medieval time eggs were traditionally given at Easter to the servants. In Germany eggs were given to children along with other Easter gifts.

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Different cultures have developed their own ways of decorating Easter eggs. Crimson eggs, to honor the blood of Christ, are exchanged in Greece. In parts of Germany and Austria green eggs are used on Maundy Thursday (Holy Thursday). Slavic peoples decorate their eggs in special patterns of gold and silver.

Austrian artists design patterns by fastening ferns and tiny plants around the eggs, which are then boiled. The plants are then removed revealing a striking white pattern. The Poles and Ukrainians decorate eggs with simple designs and colors. A number of eggs are made in the distinctive manner called pysanki (to design, to write).

Pysanki eggs are a masterpiece of skill and workmanship. Melted beeswax is applied to the fresh white egg. It is then dipped in successive baths of dye. After each dip wax is painted over the area where the preceding color is to remain. Eventually a complex pattern of lines and colors emerges into a work of art.

In Germany and other countries eggs used for cooking where not broken, but the contents were removed by piercing the end of each egg with a needle and blowing the contents into a bowl. The hollow eggs were dyed and hung from shrubs and trees during the Easter Week. The Armenians would decorate hollow eggs with pictures of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and other religious designs.

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Easter Customs - Part II

2007-03-13T00:11:00.000-05:00

Here's my continuing post on Easter customs -

6. The Easter Fire

The Easter Fire is lit on the top of mountains and must be kindled from new fire, drawn from wood by friction. This is a custom of pagan origin in vogue all over Europe, signifying the victory of spring over winter. The bishops issued severe edicts against the sacrilegious Easter fires but did not succeed in abolishing them everywhere. The Church adopted the observance into the Easter ceremonies, referring it to the fiery column in the desert and to the Resurrection of Christ; the new fire on Holy Saturday is drawn from flint, symbolizing the Resurrection of the Light of the World from the tomb closed by a stone. In some places a figure was thrown into the Easter fire, symbolizing winter, but to the Christians on the Rhine, in Tyrol and Bohemia, Judas the traitor.

7. Processions and awakenings

At Puy in France, from time immemorial to the tenth century, it was customary, when at the first psalm of Matins a canon was absent from the choir, for some of the canons and vicars, taking with them the processional cross and the holy water, to go to the house of the absentee, sing the "Haec Dies", sprinkle him with water, if he was still in bed, and lead him to the church. In punishment he had to give a breakfast to his conductors. A similar custom is found in the fifteenth century at Nantes and Angers, where it was prohibited by the diocesan synods in 1431 and 1448. In some parts of Germany parents and children try to surprise each other in bed on Easter morning to apply the health-giving switches.

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8. Blessing of food

In both the Oriental and Latin Churches, it is customary to have those victuals which were prohibited during Lent blessed by the priests before eating them on Easter Day, especially meat, eggs, butter, and cheese. Those who ate before the food was blessed, according to popular belief, were punished by God, sometimes instantaneously.

9. House blessings

On the eve of Easter the homes are blessed in memory of the passing of the angel in Egypt and the signing of the door-posts with the blood of the paschal lamb. The parish priest visits the houses of his parish; the papal apartments are also blessed on this day. The room, however, in which the pope is found by the visiting cardinal is blessed by the pontiff himself.

10. Sports and celebrations

The Greeks and Russians after their long, severe Lent make Easter a day of popular sports. At Constantinople the cemetery of Pera is the noisy rendezvous of the Greeks; there are music, dances, and all the pleasures of an Oriental popular resort; the same custom prevails in the cities of Russia. In Russia anyone can enter the belfries on Easter and ring the bells, a privilege of which many persons avail themselves.

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Easter Customs - Part I

2007-03-12T06:37:00.000-05:00

Like I mentioned before, there is indeed more to Easter apart from eggs and bunnies. Here's an interesting collection of few Easter customs that I found over the internet!

1. Risus Paschalis

This strange custom originated in Bavaria in the fifteenth century. The priest inserted in his sermon funny stories which would cause his hearers to laugh e.g. a description of how the devil tries to keep the doors of hell locked against the descending Christ. Then the speaker would draw the moral from the story. This Easter laughter, giving rise to grave abuses of the word of God, was prohibited by Clement X and in the eighteenth century by Maximilian III and the bishops of Bavaria.

2. Easter Eggs

Because the use of eggs was forbidden during Lent, they were brought to the table on Easter Day, coloured red to symbolize the Easter joy. This custom is found not only in the Latin but also in the Oriental Churches. The symbolic meaning of a new creation of mankind by Jesus risen from the dead was probably an invention of later times. The custom may have its origin in paganism, for a great many pagan customs, celebrating the return of spring, gravitated to Easter. The egg is the emblem of the germinating life of early spring. Easter eggs, the children are told, come from Rome with the bells which on Thursday go to Rome and return Saturday morning. The sponsors in some countries give Easter eggs to their god-children. Coloured eggs are used by children at Easter in a sort of game which consists in testing the strength of the shells. Both coloured and uncoloured eggs are used in some parts of the United States for this game, known as 'egg-picking'.

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3. The Easter Rabbit

The Easter Rabbit lays the eggs, for which reason they are hidden in a nest or in the garden. The rabbit is a pagan symbol and has always been an emblem of fertility.

4. Handball

In France handball playing was one of the Easter amusements, found also in Germany. The ball may represent the sun, which is believed to take three leaps in rising on Easter morning. Bishops, priests, and monks, after the strict discipline of Lent, used to play ball during Easter week. This was called libertas Decembrica, because formerly in December, the masters used to play ball with their servants, maids, and shepherds. The ball game was connected with a dance, in which even bishops and abbots took part. At Auxerre, Besancon, etc. the dance was performed in church to the strains of the 'Victimae paschali'. In England, also, the game of ball was a favourite Easter sport in which the municipal corporation engaged with due parade and dignity. And at Bury St. Edmunds, within recent years, the game was kept up with great spirit by twelve old women. After the game and the dance a banquet was given, during which a homily on the feast was read.

5. Men and women

On Easter Monday the women had a right to strike their husbands, on Tuesday the men struck their wives, as in December the servants scolded their masters. Husbands and wives did this "ut ostendant sese mutuo debere corrigere, ne illo tempore alter ab altero thori debitum exigat". In the northern parts of England the men parade the streets on Easter Sunday and claim the privilege of lifting every woman three times from the ground, receiving in payment a kiss or a silver sixpence. The same is done by the women to the men on the next day. In the Neumark (Germany) on Easter Day the men servants whip the maid servants with switches; on Monday the maids whip the men. They secure their release with Easter eggs. These customs are probably of pre-Christian origin.

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Easter Gifts Ideas For Women - Part II

2007-03-12T01:14:00.000-05:00

Here's the second part of my post on what to give ladies as gifts for Easter.

Flowers are a favorite with all women. These indoor plant kits amke for a great gift as they dont take up much space and are easy to maintain as well.

White lilies comprise of the perfect gift for Easter as they bring out the feeling of both joy and tradition together.

If the lady of the house is an avid home maker, then this gift of beautiful table linens is sure to make her happy.

If budget is not a problem, then this collection of beautiful Easter Eggs make a classic gift.

A gift to cherish, these personalized photo frames give out a feeling of togetherness and pride when on display.

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Easter Gifts Ideas For Women - Part I

2007-03-10T00:47:00.000-05:00

Easter isn't just about bunnies, easter eggs and egg hunting. Of course golden eggs as gifts would be nice too. Here's few gift ideas for the women in your life, be it your mom or your girl for Easter.

Now jewelry is something that very few women can actually not like. So I start with this little piece of trinket. You can opt for jewelry from - Footprints In The Sand. They have a good collection.

You can also opt for this charming Teapot and Pitcher Floral Bouquets. They make wonderful gifts.

Another great gift would be Movie Madness Gift Sets. Let the lady in your life enjoy a great movie hour with this cute gift.

Now, can anyone go wrong with chocolates? And when its Easter, how can chocolate and chocolate bunnies be far behind? So, just go and happy up with these yummy Gourmet Chocolate Easter Bunnies

Wow, Giant Easter Cookies. I am drooling!

Look yummy don't they?

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Easter Gift Ideas For Teen Girls - part II

2007-03-09T06:09:00.000-05:00

Jesus Figurine from Things You Never Knew Existed ($24.98) -
Enjoy divine inspiration anytime with this tasteful depiction of Jesus Christ. Touch his back and this talking Jesus figure speaks one of six New Testament phrases.

Easter Bunny Disguise Hare Bear from The Vermont Teddy Bear Company ($59.95) -
This teddy bear is a bunny wannabe. Disguised as an Easter Bunny in removable bunny ears, Hare Bear will make their day!

Cruisin' Easter Bunny from Lake Champlain Chocolates ($20.00) -
Cruisin' your way just in time for Easter, this hollow bunny drives a car!

Easter Basket For Her from The Obsession Box Company ($24.99) -
This Easter Basket is for HER only, filled with bath gels, candles, a Cadbury Chocolate Chick, a box of creamy chocolates, candy easter eggs, and a 6 1/2" Porcelain Rabbit detailed in roses and gold.

Cross Trinket Box from Things Remembered ($25.00) -
You'll be sending a blessed message when you give this stunning trinket box. It features a blue interior lining throughout to safely store earrings and pins. Engrave a message from your heart for a gift they'll never forget.

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Easter Gift Ideas For Teen Girls - part I

2007-03-09T01:38:00.000-05:00

Wee, its gift time for the little ladies. Here's few ideas that I got for some great Gifts for Easter for the young ladies!

Sterling Silver Two-tone Footprints Sentiment Ring from Limoges Jewelry ($19.99) -
Sentiments of faith in Sterling Silver and 14K Gold. Adorable 14K Gold footprints accent this lovely filigree ring.

Gray Bunny Slippers from CrazyforBargains.com ($9.99) -
These adorable gray bunny slippers cover the entire foot. They have floppy ears, front paws, and a cotton tail.

Birthstone Cross Pendant from Limoges Jewelry ($9.99) -
This cross in layered 14K Gold, unites the birthstones of your family with the world's most cherished symbol of faith.

Blessings of Jesus Diamond Necklace from Collectibles Today ($119.00) -
Unique sterling silver religious diamond necklace, fine diamond jewelry with Ichthus Christian Fish and Jesus jewelry pendant - eternal life and everlasting love.

Women's Angel Tee Nike from Finishline.com ($14.99) -
This limited edition tee is a rare find with its gold graphics and fitted look.

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Easter Gift Ideas For Teen Boys - part II

2007-03-08T07:53:00.000-05:00

Here's a few more to l0ok out for -

Spring Sampler Gift Box from The Popcorn Factory® ($19.99) -
A sampling of favorite spring treats! This spring sampler has 2 plump bags of very tasty popcorns, fluffy White Cheddar and luscious Chocolate Drizzled Caramel Corn, box of crunchy chocolate chip cookies and more.

Gold Plated Brass Crucifix from O'Byrne Religious Goods Company ($12.95) -
This simple 4.25" 24K gold plated brass cross with a silver plated corpus is a unique gift for any special occasion.

The Catholic Youth Bible from O'Byrne Religious Goods Company ($41.95) -
Over 650 lively articles draw on the most current biblical scholarship and combine with the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible to address the interests and real-life concerns of today's Catholic young people.

Did Adam & Eve Have Bellybuttons... Matthew J. Pinto from O'Byrne Religious Goods Company ($12.99) -
#1 book teens turn to for answers on their Catholic Faith. It inspires, informs and challenges teens. Over 125,000 copies sold, it is the top teen book in the Church, five straight years in a row.

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Easter Gift Ideas For Teen Boys - part I

2007-03-08T01:50:00.000-05:00

Easter is for everyone to celebrate with joy and happiness and lots of goodies. A big part of Easter celebrations also include gifts. So, here's a few gift ideas that I found here for Teen Boys.

Cruisin' Easter Bunny from Lake Champlain Chocolates ($20.00) -
Cruisin' your way just in time for Easter, this hollow bunny drives a car! Milk chocolate with hand decorated dark and white chocolate accents. Comes wrapped in cellophane with ribbon.

Talking Jesus Figure From Things You Never Knew Existed ($24.98) -
Enjoy divine inspiration anytime with this tasteful depiction of Jesus Christ. Touch his back and this talking Jesus figure speaks one of six New Testament phrases.

Easter Movie Madness™ Gift from The Obsession Box Company ($34.99) -
A Blockbuster Gift Card, 3 boxes of candy, 3 Butter Popcorns & 2 Kettle Corns, Plush Bunny Ears, 10" butter yellow bunny, a popcorn bunny, a Large Easter Egg with a plush little animal inside, and Easter Flavored Mike & Ikes!

GoodiePot Bouquet (Cookies and Candy) from CookiePots ($44.95) -
This delicious GoodiePot Bouquet of Chocolate chip cookies, and plenty of candy make this a big hit!

Easter Egg Gift Box from Lake Champlain Chocolates ($17.00) -
Six assorted flavors to astound anyone: coconut cream, hazelnut praline, peanut butter, raspberry cream, java, and caramel. An easter egg for every taste!

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Easter Gift Ecards

2007-03-05T06:41:00.000-05:00

Easter is here and so is the bunny with gift baskets fulla choco eggs, jelly beans and a whole lotta other sweet treats. Share the sweet moments of Easter with your friends/ family/ loved ones. Send them from our warm and delightful Easter Gifts ecards and surprise them with virtual baskets fulla goodies for their eyes to feast on.

Wish your friends/ siblings/ loved ones a fun-filled Easter with this eggs-tra cute ecard.

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Make your loved ones feel special with the gift of your love on Easter.

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Easter Gift Ideas For Kids

2007-03-05T01:38:00.000-05:00

Easter is specially enjoyable for children, it is a great occasion for them to have fun and have a most enjoyable time feasting on chocolate easter bunnies, eggs and other goodies. But little ones get bored very quickly, and too much of chocolate feasting is also not good. Apart from this, there is also a big question as what to gift the little bunnies themselves for Easter. So here's a few gift ideas that I found on the net, which can make the kids happy and keep them entertained for a long time!

Thanks Easter Bunny Boy - 35 dollars
Thanks Easter Bunny Girl - 35 dollars
Bunny Love Easter basket - 35 dollars

Easter Gift Boxes of Treats - 45 dollars
Easter Cuddle Bunny - 45 dollars

Easter Cookie Basket - 50 dollars
Bunny House Foam Craft Kit - 50 dollars
Easter Special Sticker Set - 50 dollars.

Apart from these regular ones, you can also go for a Personalized Letter from the Easter Bunny that can comprise of ideas for crafts, stickers and lot of other fun activities. Another good idea would be to gift a Easter Surprise Package, consisting of all the things that your child loves about Easter!

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Easter Quotes

2007-03-02T00:58:00.000-05:00

A little bit of inspiration goes a long way in uplifting our spirits. Easter is one such holiday that combines both feelings of joy and tradition. Here's few inspirational quotations about Easter that I found in this site.

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Easter tells us that life is to be interpreted
not simply in terms of things but in terms of ideals.
- Charles M. Crowe

Earth's saddest day and gladdest
day were just three days apart!
- Susan Coolidge

Easter is the demonstration of God that
life is essentially spiritual and timeless
- Charles M. Crowe

Let the resurrection joy lift us from
loneliness and weakness and despair to
strength and beauty and happiness
- Floyd W. Tomkins

The joyful news that He is risen does not change
the contemporary world. Still before us lie work,
discipline, sacrifice. But the fact of Easter gives
us the spiritual power to do the work, accept the
discipline, and make the sacrifice.
- Henry Knox Sherrill

And he departed from our sight that we might
return to our heart, and there find Him. For
He departed, and behold, He is here
- St. Augustine

He takes men out of time and makes them feel eternity.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Easter Egg Hunt Wishes

2007-03-01T05:05:00.000-05:00

It's Easter ! The bunny has hopped into town and it's time again to go hunting for the delightful chocolate eggs. Reach out to your friends/ bro/ sis/ cuz/ loved ones with our cute Easter Egg Hunt ecards. Wish them a fun time searching every nook and corner for their own treasure trove and make their Easter an egg-citing one with these cheerful ecards.

Wish your friends/ family/ loved ones a fun filled Easter with this interactive ecard.

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Send this cute ecard to let your loved ones have a fun time clicking around for Easter goodies.

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Easter Games!

2007-03-01T04:56:00.000-05:00

Easter games are an important part of the celebration for Easter. Thet provide many people children with happy memories for the easter games they have played. In the U.S, even the White house gets in on the action, with their annual Easter Egg Roll on the White House lawn.

Here's a couple of games ideas, that I got here!

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Easter Games Egg Hunt
Probably the most popular Easter Game is an egg hunt. You might not have to worry about preparing for this one, because if you're lucky, when you wake up on Easter morning, the Easter Bunny will have already come to your house and hidden the eggs. In this case, all you'll have to do search until you find them. However, if the bunny was too busy to hide the eggs (which he frequently is), you'll have to do it yourself. Here are a few egg hunt hints:

1. Take a count of how many eggs are hidden and how many are found. Make sure they match. The aroma of eau de rotten oeuf in July can be overpowering.
2. Don't hide eggs where pets might eat them.
3. Hide eggs in easy and difficult places to find to keep it interesting for all the kids.
4. Sometimes it's a good idea to give little kids a minute or so head start on their older siblings.
5. For extra fun, let the kids know that finding certain designated colored eggs will earn them an extra prize.

Egg Rolling
For an egg roll, you must have some sort of incline, preferable a hill. The Egg Roll is basically a race, the eggs are rolled down the hill and the one that reaches the bottom first, wins. Steep hills make great races, but slow climbing.

Egg Bowling
When coloring boiled eggs, leave one white for this game which is very similar to Italian Bacci Ball. Place the white egg in the center of an open space and take turns to see who can roll their dyed egg closest to the white egg without touching or moving it.

Easter Wishes!

2007-02-28T07:26:00.000-05:00

Easter is here... with baskets fulla fun and good cheer ! Celebrate this joyful occasion with your friends/ family/ associates/ acquaintances and brighten up their Springtime with our warm and cute Happy Easter ecards. Wish them lotsa fun and smiles with these wonderful ecards and make their Easter a truly eggs-tra special one.

Make your friends/ family/ dear ones go LOL on Easter with the timeless question of what came first.

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Make this Easter a special one for your friends/ siblings/ cousins/ dear ones with this cool Easter game.

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Easter Facts!

2007-02-28T01:41:00.000-05:00

Easter or Oestre, as it is sometimes called, celebrates the Resurrection of Christ following his crucification previously. The word 'Oestre' was the old Teutonic word for dawn/sunrise. This word is one of the roots of our word 'east', and also the name of the female hormone 'estrogen'.

Dating back to the period AD 27 to 33, Easter is widely celebrated throughout the world. Christ's crucification and resurrection mark the basis for the salvation of mankind. Although Christian in nature, Easter, brings together the entire human race. Here are some lesser known facts about Easter-

Easter, also known as Pascha (Greek: Passover), the Feast of the Resurrection, the Sunday of the Resurrection, or Resurrection Day, is the most important religious feast of the Christian liturgical year, observed between late March and late April.
Easter is named after Eastre, an Anglo-Saxon goddess! Her symbols were the hare and the egg.
It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus, which his followers believe occurred on the third day after his death by crucifixion.
In Western Christianity, Easter always falls on a Sunday from March 22 to April 25 inclusive. The following day, Easter Monday, is a legal holiday in many countries with predominantly Christian traditions. In Eastern Christianity, Easter falls between April 4 and May 8 between 1900 and 1970 based on the Gregorian date.
Those following the Church of Alexandria, actually follow an ecclesiastic full moon instead of an astronomical moon-

The ecclesiastical rules are:

Easter falls on the first Sunday following the first ecclesiastical full moon that occurs on or afterMarch 21 (the day of the ecclesiastical vernal equinox).

This particular ecclesiastical full moon is the 14th day of a tabular lunation (new moon).

In Western Christianity, Easter marks the end of the forty days of Lent, a period of fasting and penitence in preparation for Easter which begins on Ash Wednesday. The week before Easter is very special in the Christian tradition: Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday respectively commemorate Jesus's entry in Jerusalem, the Last Supper and the Crucifixion.
In Eastern Christianity, preparations begin with Great Lent. Following the fifth Sunday of Great Lent is Palm Week, which ends with Lazarus Saturday. Lazarus Saturday officially brings Great Lent to a close, although the fast continues for the following week.
The resurrection of Jesus took place during the Passover. The Passover is the 8 day observance commemorating the freedom and exodus of the Israelites (Jewish slaves) from Egypt during the reign of the Pharaoh Ramses II.
According to the Guinness Book of World Records the largest Easter egg ever made was just over 25-ft high and made of chocolate and marshmallow. The egg weighed 8,968 lbs. and was supported by an internal steel frame.

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Easter Formal Greetings!

2007-02-27T07:16:00.000-05:00

It's Easter ! Time to rejoice and celebrate. Convey your wishes for happiness and joy to your colleagues/ employees/ partners/ associates/ business acquaintances with our warm and special Easter Formal Greetings ecards. Reach out to them with these wonderful ecards and make their Easter a memorable one.

Wish your business/ social acquaintances a Happy Easter with this beautiful ecard.

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Wish your friends/ colleagues/ associates/ dear ones happiness and success with this beautiful Easter ecard.

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Non-religious Easter Traditions

2007-02-27T00:13:00.000-05:00

The celebration of Easter extends beyond the church. Since its origins, it has been a time of celebration and feasting. Today it is commercially important, seeing wide sales of greeting cards and confectionery such as chocolate Easter eggs, marshmallow bunnies, Peeps, and jelly beans.

Here's a gist of how Easter is celebrated by the Pagan population or the less-religious Christian community and the rest of the world.

1. America:

Throughout North America, the Easter holiday has been partially secularized, so that some families participate only in the attendant revelry, central to which is decorating Easter eggs on Saturday evening and hunting for them Sunday morning, by which time they have been mysteriously hidden all over the house and garden. Many families in America will attend Sunday Mass or services in the morning and then participate in a feast or party in the afternoon.

2. Belgium:

Belgium shares the same traditions as North America but sometimes it is said that the Bells of Rome bring the Easter Eggs together with the Easter Bunny. The story goes that the bells of every church leave for Rome on Saturday which is called "Stille Zaterdag" which means "Silent Saturday" in Dutch. So since the bells are in Rome, the bells don't ring anywhere.

3. Scandinavia:

In Norway, in addition to skiing in the mountains and painting eggs for decorating, it is tradition to solve murders at Easter. All the major television channels show crime and detective stories (such as Poirot), magazines print stories where the readers can try to figure out who did it, and many new books are published. Even the milk cartons change to have murder stories on their sides. Another tradition is Yahtzee games. In Finland and Sweden, traditions include egg painting and small children dressed as witches collecting candy door-to-door, in exchange for decorated pussy willows. This is a result of the mixing of an old Orthodox tradition (blessing houses with willow branches) and the Scandinavian Easter witch tradition. Fake feathers and little decorations are also placed on willow branches in a vase. For lunch/dinner on Holy Saturday, families traditionally feast on a smörgåsbord of herring, salmon, potatoes, eggs and other kinds of food. In Finland, the Lutheran majority enjoys mämmi as another traditional easter treat, while the Orthodox minority's traditions include eating pasha instead.

4. Netherlands:

In the eastern part of the Netherlands (Twente and Achterhoek), Easter Fires are lit on Easter Day at sunset.

5. Central Europe:

In the Czech Republic, Hungary and Slovakia, a tradition of whipping is carried out on Easter Monday. In the morning, males whip females with a special handmade whip called pomlázka (in Czech) or korbáč (in Slovak). The pomlázka/korbáč consists of eight, twelve or even twenty-four withies (willow rods) and is usually from half a metre to two metres long and decorated with coloured ribbons at the end. The purpose is for males to exhibit their attraction to females. The whipped female gives a colored egg to the male as a sign of her thanks and forgiveness. In some regions the females can get revenge in the afternoon when they can pour a bucket of cold water on any male. The habit slightly varies across the Czech Republic.

In Hungary (where it is called Ducking Monday), perfume or perfumed water is often sprinkled in exchange for an Easter egg.

Source: wikipedia

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Easter Weekend!

2007-02-26T06:11:00.000-05:00

The Easter Weekend is always fun! It's a time to be with friends, family and loved ones. And also a time for Easter parades, egg hunts or attend church services and have a joyful time.

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Easter Monday Tradition!

2007-02-26T00:24:00.000-05:00

This is something that I found here, for Hare Pie Scramble and Bottle Kicking.

The Easter Monday tradition of 'Hare Pie Scramble and Bottle Kicking' in Hallaton, Leicestershire, England, is really quite intricate. To start, the ingredients of a hare pie include:

4 pounds of flour
2 pounds of lard
2 hares
3 pounds of onions
7 pounds of potatoes
Seasoning

The pie is cooked on Easter Monday, using a 20-inch square tin, at either the Torch House, which belongs to Torch Trust for the Blind or at the Bewick Arms.

The pie is paraded in a procession through the village from the Fox Inn to the gate of St. Michael's Church. Immediately behind the pie in the procession are the three 'bottles' that are used for the Bottle Kicking match. These are actually small barrels, about 14 inches high by 9 inches in diameter and weighing about 20 pounds. Two of these are brown in color and filled with about a gallon of ale each. The remaining 'bottle' is left empty and is colored red and white.

The pie is distributed by the rector of St. Michael's Church to the crowd. Some of the pie is put into sacks and carried away with other processions through the village, ending at the top of Hare Pie bank. This is where the Bottle Kicking match takes place between Hallaton and the neighboring village of Medbourne. There is no limit to the number of competitors in the Bottle Kicking match.

The competitors arrange themselves in a circle at the top of the bank. The chairman of the Bottle Kicking match throws the first full bottle into the air and allows it to fall on the ground. This is repeated twice more. When the bottle lands on the ground the third time, it is 'in play.' What follows is a chaotic battle between the two teams to move the bottle toward their respective villages over their respective touch lines, which are between two separate streams at each end of Hare Pie bank, approximately three-quarters of a mile apart. There are numerous hedges, lanes, ditches and even barbed wire between the two touch lines.

Once the first score has been made, the whole process is repeated with the empty bottle. If the previous losing team effects a tie, the process is repeated with the final bottle. At the end of the match, both teams walk back to Hallaton, where the winning team drinks both bottles and the losing team has to watch!

It is believed that Hare Pie bank was previously a stowe, a place of pagan worship.

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Easter Fun Greetings!

2007-02-23T07:05:00.000-05:00

It's Easter ! Time for egg painting, egg hunts and a whole lotta egg-citement ! Celebrate the joys of this bright season and have lotsa fun with your friends, family and loved ones. Send them your wishes for a hippity-hoppity happy time with our cute Easter Fun ecards. Go on... make this Easter a memorable one for everyone with these funny pranks, jokes or cool surprises.

Wish everyone you know with this eggs-tremely funny Easter joke.

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Make your pals/ siblings/ dear ones go LOL with this eggs-tra funny Easter riddle.

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Easter Jokes!

2007-02-23T01:58:00.000-05:00

What is Easter without a couple of good jokes? Check out these that I got from here!

Why does the Easter bunny have a shiny nose?
His powder puff is on the wrong end.

Is it true that bunnies have good eyesight?
Well you never see a bunny wearing glasses, do you?

What is the difference between a crazy bunny and a counterfeit banknote? -
One is bad money and the other is a mad bunny!

Why did the Easter egg hide? He was a little chicken!

Why did a fellow rabbit say that the Easter Bunny was self-centered?
Because he was eggo-centric!

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Easter Candy!

2007-02-22T07:33:00.000-05:00

Hey, Easter is also about all things sweet - like Easter candies! So check out this quiz to know what kind of an Easter candy are you...

You Are a Bunny Pop

It takes a whole lot more than three licks to get to your center. You cheeky bunny!

What Easter Candy Are You?

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Easter Trivia!

2007-02-22T03:09:00.000-05:00

A few of Easter trivia that I found here -

Decorating and colouring eggs for Easter was the custom in England during the middle ages. The household accounts of Edward I, for the year 1290, recorded an expenditure of eighteen pence for four hundred and fifty eggs to be gold-leafed and coloured for Easter gifts.

The most famous decorated Easter eggs were those made by the well-known goldsmith, Peter Carl Faberge. In 1883 the Russian Czar, Alexander, commissioned Faberge to make a special Easter gift for his wife, the Empress Marie.

The first Faberge egg was an egg within an egg. It had an outside shell of platinum and enameled white which opened to reveal a smaller gold egg. The smaller egg, in turn, opened to display a golden chicken and a jeweled replica of the Imperial crown.

This special Faberge egg so delighted the Czarina that the Czar promptly ordered the Faberge firm to design further eggs to be delivered every Easter. In later years Nicholas II, Alexander's son, continued the custom. Fifty-seven eggs were made in all.

In 1878 President Hayes and his wife Lucy officially opened the White House grounds to the children of the area for egg rolling on Easter Monday. The event has been held on the South Lawn ever since, except during World War I and World War II. During the war years the Easter Egg Roll was held at the National Zoo, and other Washington locations.

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Easter Egg Hunt!

2007-02-21T00:07:00.000-05:00

It's Easter ! The bunny has hopped into town and it's time again to go hunting for the delightful chocolate eggs. Reach out to your friends, brothers, sisters, cousins and loved ones with our cute Easter Egg Hunt ecards. Wish them a fun time searching every nook and corner for their own treasure trove and make their Easter an egg-citing one with these cheerful ecards.

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Wish your friends/ siblings/ dear ones a great Easter with this fun-filled egg catching game.

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White House Easter Egg Roll!

2007-02-20T08:11:00.000-05:00

Here's the story of the White House Easter Egg Roll that I have here, from this wonderful site!

The original site of the Easter Egg Roll was the grounds of the United States Capitol. The event began during the Presidency of James Madison (1809-1817) at the suggestion of his wife, Dolley Madison. Mrs. Madison was fascinated to learn that Egyptian children rolled colored eggs on the site of the Pyramids. She thought the children of the Washington area would enjoy this enchanting activity.

In 1877, under orders from members of Congress, Capitol policemen required the children to leave the grounds. Some Congressmen, tired of slipping and sliding on the remains of boiled eggs, felt the grounds should no longer be torn up in such a way. Some sources tell us that one irritated nursemaid, followed by several of her charges, stormed down to the White House where she demanded access to the White House grounds for egg rolling. Others claim that President Rutherford B. Hayes, riding by the Capitol grounds in his carriage, saw the tearful children and invited them to the White House for their egg roll.

In 1878 President Hayes and his wife Lucy officially opened the White House grounds to the children of the area for egg rolling on Easter Monday. The event has been held on the South Lawn ever since, except during World War I and World War II. During the war years the Easter Egg Roll was held at the National Zoo, and other Washington locations.

The White House Easter Egg Roll is eagerly awaited each year by thousands of children. It is always held on the Monday after Easter, on the South Lawn of the White House. Children hunt for brightly colored wooden signature eggs hidden in hay. Many of these eggs have been signed by famous people, including the athletes, astronauts, musicians, and celebrities from film, television, and theatre who visit the White House during the year. Of course, the real treasures are the eggs personally signed by the President and First Lady (as well as Socks)!

By the late 1800s such games as "Egg Picking," "Egg Ball," "Toss and Catch," and "Egg Croquet" were popular Easter Monday activities. The children attending the event take part in many newer activities, but rolling a hard-boiled egg across the lawn is still a highlight of the day.

Common Easter Activities for Kids

2007-02-09T02:57:00.000-05:00

Check out these easter Activities that I found here .

Easter Cookies
To be made the evening before Easter
You need:
1c. whole pecans
1 tsp. vinegar
3 egg whites
pinch salt
1c. sugar
zipper baggie
wooden spoon
tape
Bible
Preheat oven to 300.

Instructions:
Place pecans in zipper baggie and let children beat them with the wooden spoon to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested He was beaten by the Roman soldiers.
Read John 19:1-3

Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1 tsp. vinegar into mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross he was given vinegar to drink.
Read John 19:28-30

Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life.
Read John 10:10-11

Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus' followers, and the bitterness of our own sin.
Read Luke 23:27

So far the ingredients are not very appetizing. Add 1c. sugar. Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him.
Read Ps. 34:8 and John 3:16

Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white represents the purity in God' s eyes of those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus.
Read Isa. 1:18 and John 3:1-3.

Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto wax paper covered cookie sheet. Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus' body was laid.
Read Matt. 27:57-60.

Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF. Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door. Explain that Jesus' tomb was sealed.
Read Matt. 27:65-66. GO TO BED!

Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight. Jesus' followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed.
Read John 16:20 and 22.

On Easter morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow! On the first Easter Jesus' followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty.
Read Matt. 28:1-9
(special note) Great to use for a Sunday School Class or Vacation Bible School too... Cookies can be left on a very very low temp..like 250 degrees. and be ready in a couple of hours...when surface of cookie looks dry and cracked....they are ready to eat!!!!!

Check out More Easter Kids Activities at http://www.squiglysplayhouse.com/ArtsAndCrafts/Holidays/Easter/Index.html

Easter Puzzle...
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The Symbols of Easter

2007-02-08T04:24:00.000-05:00

The festival of Easter abounds in many interesting symbols-from the colorful Easter eggs, the hippy-hoppy bunnies, the glowing candles, the white lilies, the Lamb and the Cross to the Easter bonfires, the list is quite a long one indeed ! But interestingly enough, each of these are such integral parts of the Easter celebration that it's practically unjust to do away with any one of it. Each Easter symbol has its own distinct significance, each one has its own story attached to it, and that is what makes Easter even more colorful !

Easter Eggs: Come Easter, and the first thing that's sure to pop up in your mind are the Easter eggs in their vibrant colors. The Easter egg is the most important symbol of Easter and the one which the kids are most excited about.

Easter Bunnies:

"Bunnies are brown
Bunnies are white
Bunnies are always
An Easter delight !"

Yes, the bunnies ARE really a delight on Easter and yet another important symbol of Easter. Now you must be wondering what have bunnies got to do with Easter. Well, the Easter bunnies have their roots in the fertility lores of the pre-Christian era. Being the most prolific and fertile of all animals, the hare and the bunny or rabbit stand for abundance, profusion and new life. It was the Germans who brought the Easter bunny to America, but since it was not until after the Civil war that Easter gradually began to turn into a real celebration, the acceptance of the Easter bunny as a symbol of Easter celebrations comes in only as a recent addition. They symbolize the bountiful Spring season as well as the joyous Easter. So hop, skip and jump with them as Easter comes by…

The Lamb: An indispensable part of Easter, the Lamb, relates to the Crucifixion of Christ. The sacrifice of a lamb during the first Passover commemorated Christ's death nailed to a cross. This explains why Christ is many a times referred to as the 'lamb of God'. The importance of the lamb is so much that in many Christian homes, the Easter feast is incomplete without the preparation of lamb. This custom however started in the European countries. Today, only for this big day, candies and cakes are baked in the shape of a lamb for decorative purposes.

The Cross: A symbol of Christianity, a symbol of suffering and a symbol of God's victory over death and darkness, the Cross certainly is the most religiously significant part of Easter. The crucifix (Jesus nailed to a cross) signifies the sacrifice given by Christ for the sins committed by mankind. An empty cross, on the other hand, signifies the Resurrection of Christ, his immortality. It symbolizes the victory of life over death, of light over darkness.

Easter Candles: Ever heard the phrase 'The Light of The World' ? It's just one of the many ways by which the Christians call upon their God. A common belief is that Jesus is present in the light of the candles. Now that's precisely why the candles on the altar are put out on Good Friday (the day Jesus died at the cross) and are lit up again on the following Sunday, which is the Easter Sunday. You may, perhaps, also notice that some of the churches light up huge bonfires on the eve of Easter, to burn away all that's decayed and worn-out and to welcome Spring. Some also call it Judas' fire as images of Judas Iscariot (the man who betrayed Christ for thirty pieces of silver) are often burnt in them.

Lilies: Easter is incomplete without the pure, white, fully-bloomed lilies that adorn the churches with their mellow sweetness and chaste beauty. The lilies on Easter symbolize purity-a pure new beginning that's to unfold at the Resurrection of Christ. It's believed that angel Gabriel came to Virgin Mary and sprayed white lilies on her. And, Christ was born ! So, pick what you may this Easter, don't forget the lilies and let happiness bloom all around !

Wishing You A Joyful Easter !
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Wat Came First ?
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The Easter Bunny

2007-02-08T04:14:00.000-05:00

The Easter Bunny: Beloved Easter Symbol

Of all the symbols of Easter, none is more beloved than the Easter Bunny. And, of all the symbols of this season, none has a more varied, unique and universal background than this floppy-eared chocolate confection deliveryman. With his place—and yes, for some reason, the Easter Bunny is always referred to as "he"—in the traditions of many cultures, Rabbit can most certainly answer the question, "What's up, doc?" (after all, what would Elmer be without Bugs?).

The Advent of The Easter Bunny
The first documented use of the bunny as a symbol of Easter appears in Germany in the 1500s; although the actual matching of the holiday and the hare was probably a much earlier folk tradition. Not surprisingly, it was also the Germans who made the first edible Easter Bunnies in the 1800s.

The Pennsylvania Dutch brought the beneficent Easter Bunny to the United States in the 1700s. Children eagerly awaited the arrival of Oschter Haws and his gifts with a joy second only to that brought about by the winter visit of Kris Kringle.

Rabbits Revered Around the World
Many Asian and Eurasian cultures revere the rabbit (or hare) as a sacred messenger of the Divine; to the Chinese, he is a creature in the moon, pounding rice (the staff of life) in a mortar.

To the followers of Buddhism the rabbit was placed in the moon as a result of his self-sacrifice in offering himself as food. In a second version, the rabbit cooks himself in Indra's fire since he had no food to offer her and the deity placed him in the moon as a reward. To the Egyptians, the hare (as opposed to the rabbit) was known as un, which meant "to open," or "the opener." This was because the hare, unlike his cotton-tailed cousin, is born with his eyes open. "Un" also meant "period" as it was a symbol for both lunar and human cycles.

These traditions undoubtedly spread to the indigenous tribes of Western Europe much as the Indo-European language base developed through encounters between these two groups. This also blended well with Celtic tradition, which viewed the hare as a symbol of fertility and new life, and the Germanic tradition that the hare brought new life each spring.

Even in North America, the Rabbit/Hare is revered. To the Native American peoples, he was the Trickster/Transformer who either plays the Fool or, in other instances, has brought about a benefit for humankind (i.e., the legend of Rabbit bringing fire to the people). The ancient Mayan culture gives Rabbit credit for inventing Mayan writing.

Just as the ancient sacred places and names were blended into the holiday celebration we know as Easter, so too was the Rabbit/Hare molded from an ancient bringer of new life and renewal to the Easter Bunny, a symbol of a holiday celebrating a resurrection. In truth, the Rabbit stays the same: a messenger of a season when all things are possible and all things can again be new

Easter is here... with baskets fulla fun and good cheer ! Celebrate this joyful occasion with your friends/ family/ associates/ acquaintances and brighten up their Springtime with our warm and cute Happy Easter ecards. Wish them lotsa fun and smiles with these wonderful ecards and make their Easter a truly eggs-tra special one.

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Beautiful Spring And Happy Easter !
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The Lord Has Ris'n Today !
Reach out to everyone you know with this beautiful and inspiring Easter wish.

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Easter Traditions and Wishes

2007-02-08T04:04:00.000-05:00

The Easter Season
Easter is not only a holiday but a season unto itself. To many religious people, it marks a time of miracles and a reaffirming of faith. To those with a more secular view of the world, it is a celebration of the end of winter, a time to look toward the warmth of the coming summer and a chance to shed the heavy, dour clothing of the winter for the bright colors of spring.

Easter traditions and symbols are well known: the Easter Bunny, Easter eggs and Easter baskets have become hallmarks of this spring festival. Yet there is more to them than meets the eye. Let us examine these and other Easter traditions and symbols and see just how our modern day version of the Easter holiday developed and from where.

Around the world, the onset of Spring is reason enough for people to get up to high jinks. Spring signifies the rebirth-a time when a bright and fresh world awakens, brimming with new life, bringing cheer to every face and a spring in every step.

Since the Resurrection of Jesus happened around the same time, you'll find that the traditions associated with Easter celebrations are remnants of earlier pagan spring festivals. In fact, the very name 'Easter' is said to be derived from the names of the ancient pagan goddesses of spring and fertility, whose festivals were celebrated with the coming of Spring. Traditions associated with these festivals survive in the Easter Rabbit or Easter Bunny, the colored Easter eggs and the Easter bonfires. But the Easter traditions start with Lent with the rest following:

The Lenten Season: 'Lent' is the 46-day period prior to Easter Sunday. It begins with 'Ash Wednesday', which is a day of fasting and prayer and repentance continued throughout the period of Lent.

Fat Tuesday: The somewhat austere observances of Lent led to the creation of 'Fat Tuesday' (Shrove Tuesday), the day before Ash Wednesday. It is on this day, that Carnivals are taken out to make the best of all kinds of celebrations before Lent begins. The most famous one is the Mardi Gras in New Orleans. 'Fat' in Fat Tuesday refers to the ox that traditionally led the procession on Shrove Tuesday in France.

Holy Week: This is the week immediately preceding Easter Sunday and observances and rituals of this week lead to the culmination of Lent in the celebration of Easter Sunday.

It begins with 'Palm Sunday' and commemorates the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem with crowds placing palms at his feet. Palms are blessed and distributed during church services on Palm Sunday.

This is followed by 'Holy Thursday' which commemorates the Passover meal that Jesus shared with his disciples and where he revealed that he would be betrayed to the Romans who would put him to death. This meal is usually referred to as the 'Last Supper'.

Holy Thursday is followed by 'Good Friday' when Christians commemorate the suffering, crucifixion and death of Jesus. Good Friday is sometimes commemorated by taking out a procession that re-enacts the 14 steps or stations of Jesus' journey from his condemnation to the laying of his body in the tomb.

Passion Plays: In many countries, the dramatization of the story of Jesus' suffering and death dominate Holy Week activities and is a popular tradition of almost all parishes.

Easter Sunday: The Sunday that follows Good Friday brings Christians out in the joyous celebration of the Resurrection of Christ. This is Easter. They commemorate this with church services and feasting, and once more churches will ring out 'Alleluia' !

Wishing You Joys And Blessings of Easter!
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Egg-Makeover Game !
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Easter History and Origin

2007-02-08T03:06:00.000-05:00

The origin of Easter lie in pre-Christian religions and Christianity. All in some way or another are a "salute to spring," marking re-birth. The white Easter lily has come to capture the glory of the holiday. The word "Easter" is named after Eastre, the Anglo-Saxon goddess of spring. A festival was held in her honor every year at the vernal equinox.

People celebrate the holiday according to their beliefs and their religious denominations. Christians commemorate Good Friday as the day that Jesus Christ died and Easter Sunday as the day that He was resurrected. Protestant settlers brought the custom of a sunrise service, a religious gathering at dawn, to the United States.

Today on Easter Sunday children wake up to find that the Easter Bunny has left them baskets of candy.

He has also hidden the eggs that they decorated earlier that week. Children hunt for the eggs all around the house. Neighborhoods and organizations hold Easter egg hunts, and the child who finds the most eggs wins a prize.

The Easter Bunny is a rabbit-spirit. Long ago, he was called the "Easter Hare." Hares and rabbits have frequent multiple births so they became a symbol of fertility. The custom of an Easter egg hunt began because children believed that hares laid eggs in the grass. The Romans believed that "All life comes from an egg." Christians consider eggs to be "the seed of life" and so they are symbolic of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is commemorated by Christians all over the world on the feast of Easter. This is the day that marks the end of the Lenten season, the forty-six-day period (excluding the Sundays) that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends with Easter, the period of penitence, of sacrifice and repentance, in preparation for the highest festival of the church year.

Why we dye, or color, and decorate eggs is not certain. In ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome and Persia eggs were dyed for spring festivals. In medieval Europe, beautifully decorated eggs were given as gifts.

Easter falls on a Sunday between March 22nd and April 25th.

Basketful Of Easter Wishes !
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Sunny Spring And A Hoppy Easter !
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Welcome to Easter Wishes

2007-02-08T03:00:00.000-05:00

It's Easter ! Time again for the colored eggs, egg hunts or sweet choco treats ! Watch the li'l chicks crack out of their shells, the furry bunnies hop and skip and enjoy the many joys of the season. Reach out to your friends/ family/ associates/ dear ones with our warm and cute Easter ecards and wish them happy Easter Wishes. Wish them a joyful time and make their Easter an eggs-tra special one.

Alleluia ! The Lord is risen !"
That's the proclamation of the festival of Easter, and a time to rejoice in the glory of Christ's Resurrection. Crucified on a Friday (observed as Good Friday), our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ arose again on the following Sunday, overcoming death and darkness to save mankind and bring a spiritual revolution in this world. This was His Resurrection, the historic Rising and the threshold to Easter celebrations.

The festival of Easter or Pascua (as it's known in Spanish) is not celebrated on the same day each year and that's why Easter is called a 'movable' holiday. In fact, Easter is a multiple holiday in the sense that it is celebrated by the Eastern (Orthodox Church) and the Western church on two different days. The reason is simply because the western church uses the Gregorian calendar while the Orthodox Eastern Church uses the Julian calendar. The Gregorian calendar is a modification of the Julian calendar and was first proposed by the Neapolitan doctor Aloysius Lilius and decreed by Pope Gregory XIII, after whom it was named, on February 24, 1582.

In the West, Easter is celebrated on the Sunday that follows the full moon which occurs on or after the vernal or spring equinox (March 21); thus, it falls between March 22 and April 25. For the Orthodox Eastern Church, Easter usually comes several weeks after that of the West. Many dates of the Christian calendar are dependent on Easter.

One of the most important of all Christian festivals, Easter is celebrated with much joy and cheer all over the world. A hippity-hoppity mood rules the Easter celebrations when the bunnies come out and the kids are all excited to hunt or make colorful Easter eggs ! The lovely lilies are in bloom, joyous Easter hymns from the Churches sweeten up the breeze, the smell of the hot cross buns take over the senses…and above all, Easter is when that extra spring is added to your steps ! So, go ahead and celebrate the colors, the bounties and the freshness of a very happy Easter !