Little C's Baptism 01/08/2011

The baptism of your 8 year old child is a little bitter-sweet. Not that I would choose any other route it's just that fleeting thought,
Oh shoot, he's accountable.

I hope he's prepared.

The world can be a scary place. 

I think you probably feel that way your whole life as a parent. Worrying about whether or not you've taught them enough, hoping they know where to turn for the right answers, and praying that they seek for forgiveness and know that their Heavenly Father loves them when things may go a little off path. 

I realize he's only 8 and there will be many more teaching opportunities and wonderful memories to be had, but WOW, he's 8.

How did that happen?

My little kid.

My little kid who chose to follow the commandment of baptism. What a wonderful young man.

I couldn't be prouder.

I was up at the window, sitting amongst the little kids, trying to contain my excited one year old when Little C was baptized.

Lou was yelling out, "Hi Daddy! Hi Little C." And the baby was knocking on the window wondering what in the heck was going on.  

I loved watching the smiles on both Little C's and The Beloved's faces as they were walking toward one another to meet in the middle of the baptismal font. I think Little C swam a bit. :)

To take upon you the name of Jesus Christ is a great responsibility but nothing in this world can make you happier.

I am so excited for Little C to feel that happiness, to have the gift of the Holy Ghost, and to watch him grow in the gospel throughout his life.

Before the baptism we had a short program at our house to help personalize things a little bit.

The Grandfathers spoke and delivered some awesome messages.

My dad, Papa, spoke on baptism and The Beloved's father, Grandpa, spoke on the Holy Ghost.

Little C received some great instruction and his grandpa used a build-a-bear doll as a visual aid to help Little C understand how the Holy Ghost helps you.

We had a little extra time so the grandmas bore their testimonies as well.

I can't think of four better teachers for my son. What valiant, upstanding people to have as grandparents!

The Beloved's mom pulled a quick one on us :) and requested that The Beloved and I bare our testimonies as well.

Man, she's good :).

But, I am glad she did.

A testimony is probably something you cannot share with your child enough and it made a sweet ending to a wonderful program.

I love this picture.

I imagine heaven is something like this, well without the folding chairs and the classic plastic divider, but who knows?

Being surrounded by your loving family.

Those who supported you during this life and helped you along the way and who are there to meet you in the next life to say,

job well done.

We love you Little C.

You have taken the first step.

Job well done.