God Bless This Child

Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Over the weekend, surrounded by family, we celebrated C's baptism. He was such a little rockstar the entire day, and we are so proud of him. I had been talking about baptism with him throughout the week, and when Sunday came around and he got all decked out in his little white suit, he knew the day was going to be special.



Under more typical circumstances, we likely would have had C baptized a little sooner, but being transplants to the area, it took us some time to find a church we felt was the right fit for our family.  For us, the choice came down to the simple fact that there is a strong membership of younger families and many children who attend our church, along with a relatively active church community with opportunities to get more involved if we so choose. There is no right or wrong age for a person to be baptized, and after attending the required baptism class  earlier this winter, we had C's special day put on the calendar.




The morning service started just as C would have otherwise been clamoring for a nap. Luckily, we had opted for the 'kids' service for his Baptism, and there were many many kids in attendance, so the little bit of fussing he did do was hardly an issue. More than anything, C enjoyed watching all of the other kiddos as they stood up to speak, sing, and sit in the pews next to us. Distraction from no napping at its finest!




One of our favorite traditions at church happens during baptisms when the pastor invites all kids in attendance to come up and watch. It gives them a chance to be part of the experience since they likely don't remember their own baptisms. Because of it being a cherub choir day, there were many many kids who wanted in on the action. C, of course, took it all in stride, and was perfectly content being the center of attention. I expected nothing less out of our little guy!


Another particular favorite moment - the 'Simba'. After being baptized, our pastor lifted C up above his head and walked up and down the central aisle of the sanctuary. He even popped him into an older woman's arms for a moment in celebration. I happen to know he pumps the iron at the gym, so the fact that C is a bit of a load didn't deter him. When he passed him back, he said 'he's a heavy little guy isn't he!?'. I dare you to take me on in an arm wrestle! C, of course, thought this was all pretty neat, and thoroughly enjoyed all eyes on him...and perhaps more importantly, his eyes on everyone else. Perfect vantage point for the people watching he can't get enough of.



Lord,
We bring this miracle to you so fresh from heaven and ask that you would hear our prayers 
and share our joy this day. Pour your Holy Spirit into this tiny heart and wrap your loving arms
 around this special child. May your grace freely shine into this precious life, 
and in all the days ahead let this heart rejoice in living as your own forgiven child.


Here we are with C's godparents/sponsors Aunt H and Uncle T. Most of the rest of our family was also able to make the trip to join in celebrating C's special day. Such a lucky little guy!




The Lord watches over you -
The Lord is the shade at your right hand;
the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all harm -
He will watch over your life;
The Lord will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.
Psalm 121:5-8



After the church service, everyone reconvened back at our place for a little celebration party to commemorate the Baptism. I had lots of fun planning and getting everything ready for what was technically the first 'planned party' that we have held at our home since moving in. Can't think of a better occasion for celebrating! We dined on lemony chicken & orzo soup, kettle chips, grapes, and a party platter of subs from Jimmy Johns before diving into the most delicious champagne cake for dessert.









An Irish Blessing
May the road rise up to meet you,
May the wind always be at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
and the rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.

Suit // Socks // Shoes
PARTY SOURCES:
Dishes & Serving Pieces // Glassware // Table Runner // Chargers // Drink Dispenser // Banner - Homemade // Glass Cross // Frame // Baptism Saying - Homemade // Flowers - HyVee Floral // Champagne Cake - HyVee Bakery // Baptism Invites/Favor Tags // Favor Bags


One more 'Simba' just for good measure.



God Bless This Child
May the Lord give His angels wings to watch over you and guide you in all your ways.
Psalms 91:11

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Thanks for visiting! Let me know if you have any suggestions of recipes I should try, fun ideas to do with the kiddo, or a suggested adventure to add to our bucket list!

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