What a blessing, indeed. Svanna, Gabe and Summer were baptized this past Sunday, July 3.
When the kids first came home, we thought about having them baptized then. But unlike infant baptism, they were plenty old enough--especially Svanna and Gabe--to know what was going on. Instead of something that confused them, and possibly scared them, we wanted baptism to be special and meaningful for them. The Promise of the One who loves them. The sign of that Promise.
They decided they were ready. Well, Gabe wasn't so sure. He knew that Jesus loves him and died for him, but he wasn't so sure he wanted to be in front of all those people! He would have rather been baptized as a baby. But, unfortunately, I couldn't turn back time and make him a baby again. Not literally anyway. Even when you're born again and you change on the inside, you don't become younger! But he decided it was best to do it with his sisters, and not at a later date by himself.
The kids were quite excited because the service Sunday was scheduled to be in the park, in celebration of the 4th. However, God seemed to have other plans. A large front was headed our way, and even though it never did rain (maybe sprinkle?), church was held inside the sanctuary because of it. They were somewhat disappointed, but still enjoyed their day.
I don't have pics yet of the service. My friend took them on her camera and will get them to me later. But it was wonderful. Words cannot describe how I felt, seeing my three kids--a bit older than my others were--get baptized. They knew, and they were ready. What a feeling. My heart swelled and so did my eyes.
God is good!
I did take pictures at our party afterwards, however! Here are a few.
Beautiful kids...
Our family...
Perhaps a more accurate picture of our family!
The kids and I enjoyed putting together decorations for this special day. Here's the banner...
We celebrated with lunch and cake in our Sr High youth area. My heart was a bit sad at the fact that a few people that should have been celebrating with us were not. But it didn't put a damper on the day. So many family and friends rejoiced with us!
Svanna suggested tacos in a bag, and it was a great idea! Sierra really wanted to help out in the kitchen. She was a big help!
My friend, Gretchen--or the "cake lady" to my kiddos--made the cakes. I have to say they were a blessing! I gave her a little insight, with suggestions for what the kids wanted, and each cake fit their personalities so well. I thought it was important for them each to have their own cake. They were baptized together, but it was significant to each individually.
Gabe wanted the colors green, blue and red. And if you know Gabe, he has loads of energy and is quite active. So the movement in his cake was just right. Summer is our princess (and she knows it!) and the pink with the butterfly fit her perfectly. Svanna specifically asked for a brown cross with flowers under it. And the cake was beautiful, just like she is--inside and out.
Some of our friends that joined us in the kids special day...
Baby Naomi, she is just too cute!
Summer and probably her two best friends, Ryan and Emily...
Svanna and Brooke...
Praise the Lord for allowing me to be part of such a blessing!
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