".....For Then I'll Be Baptized, You See."

I LOVE being a mom. I absolutely love the three children that were sent to me and the special ways they make my life richer. I love their laughter and their jokes and the way they keep me on my toes. It's fun for me to look through old photo albums and remember times and places and events throughout the years. And as a parent, I recognize that I only get a handful of those really, really special occasions that happen when raising children. Saturday was a special day for us because one of those really, really special occassions happened. Brynn chose to follow in Jesus' footsteps and be baptized. She has been preparing for this day for a while now. She's watched a cousin and a close friend be baptized in the past few months and she was more than ready to turn 8 and get baptized herself.

What a special day for us! There were four children from our ward who got baptized this month and Brynn got to choose someone to give prayers. She chose her grandmothers who each gave sweet and sincere prayers and invited the Spirit in such a wonderful way. I am so thankful for Brook who was able to baptize Brynn. What a blessing the priesthood is in our home and family. Brook and Brynn had their own little moment in the baptismal font and when she was done, she came up the steps to me with the most angelic, giddy smile on her face. As I took her aside to prepare her for her confirmation I couldn't help but tell her how truly proud I was. I was so happy to be her mom at that moment and was so excited for her and her decision.

I think the moment that most touched me that day, however, was before Brook confirmed Brynn and gave her a blessing. The bishopric member asked for all those who were worthy to stand in the circle. As I looked around the room at family and friends, I realized that every man in that room was able to stand up and join in the circle. I feel so blessed that my family doesn't have to look far for good, honorable men in their lives.

Afterwards we had dinner at our home and were able to visit and enjoy one another's company. I'm so touched and humbled that we have such suppportive and dear families and friends. It's truly heaven on earth to be surrounded by such wonderful and selfless individuals. We love every one of them!