Grace was baptized on Saturday, August 7th, 2010 in Northborough, MA. Grace's friend, Josh was baptized that evening as well, and it was truly a blessed event. Ama traveled from UT, Aunt Sherry, Michael & Kathryn drove from KY, Uncle Matt, Aunt Heather & their kids flew in from FL. Friends came from the Arlington Ward, and my heart was FULL to overflowing to have my father there. He and Grandma Ilene flew from CA to be there for Grace. Schedules were altered & sacrifices were made by many in order to attend, and loving, helping hands were there in abundance to make the baptism a beautiful experience. Grace was so happy to have so many friends and family at her baptism.
Early that day, as I thought of my mom and of her promise to be there at special events such as this, I felt her overwhelming pride and joy for me as her daughter, and for fulfilling my stewardship as a mother in helping Grace be ready for baptism. I'll never forget that priceless feeling. I know loved ones who have passed on who are looking out for us were there to celebrate Grace & Josh's baptisms.
Grace was so happy to be baptized. Her already joyful disposition was absolutely beaming when she came out of the water. She has thought a lot about her confirmation; her many "missions to fulfill" & "glorious opportunities" that will come through her obedience and ability to follow the Spirit. We've talked about Grandpa Ellsworth's talk on baptism- how we can say we believe, but we make covenants like baptism to show we truly believe, and to show our love for Heavenly Father and our Savior, Jesus Christ. The yellow blanket that Grace's former primary teacher, Sister Hutchins made for Grace will always remind her of the blessing of the Gift of the Holy Ghost. I feel so honored to be Grace's mother---one of my greatest joys is helping Grace recognize the Spirit in her life.
Each baptism gift, tangible or not, meant so much to Grace. This birthday really was set apart and made special by Grace's dear family and friends who support her in her eternal progression.
I fasted and prayed that Grace's baptism would be an experience she would always treasure; that the Spirit would be there in abundance....my prayers were answered as our little corner of the Vineyard in Massachusetts felt like heaven on earth.
Aunt Sherry, Grace & mom just after Grace's baptism....JOY!
There WILL be fun in heaven!
Mixed in with our family- To the left: cousins Michael & Kathryn & Aunt Sherrill Moody, Center: Ama
Right of center: Grandpa Ellsworth & Grandma Ilene
To the right: Uncle Matt, Aunt Heather, cousins Mattie (left of Grace) & Reddin Menzie
....more pics to come!
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5 comments:
I wish I could have been there but Camp Joseph was a good alternative (it was a fun ward campout!). It sounds like it was a wonderful event!
I heard so much about these two special kids that were baptized... well done, mom!
So sweet. I love that your mom promised to be there for these special events. What a neat day!
and YES, I believe there will be fun in heaven :) cute.
So did she do a handstand in the font like she told Ama she was going to?:):) I love those coming out of the water moments and hearing the feelings these sweet little 8 year olds have and seeing them be filled with the spirit and JOY. Some of the best mommy moments for sure!
LOVE the "There Will be Fun in Heaven" pic....so CLASSIC Ellsworth!!! Just like your mom
:-)
I'm sure she was indeed there--I was just thinking of her today and remembering that I felt such a powerful spirit when Julie's girls were baptized after the adoption and thinking it must be your mom's presence I was feeling--along with the Holy Ghost :-)
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