The month of October was mostly centered on Christian's baptism and the events surrounding it. Matthew and I were finally able to wrap up some home projects that we have been hoping to get to since we moved in. We were able to update light fixtures, furniture, and area rugs. We also got the yard tidied up. I'd still like to get some curtains and a few pictures hung, but those things will come in due time. The most important preparation came with Christian's gospel learning which has been a life long process. I know that he was excited to be baptized because he wanted to follow Christ and start anew. He has learned much about the gospel, and will continue to grow in his understanding. Also, his comfort with water has increased since we have had a few good summers with frequent swimming.
Due to the pandemic indoor baptisms were not allowed in our area. As they became available later very few people were allowed to attend in person. We opted to have Christian's baptism in our back yard. It turned out very special and lovely, but I will write more about that later in this post.
We were very happy that many family members were able to come visit and attend the baptism.
Cat, Aaron and their 2 cute boys were the first to arrive on Oct 11th.
We had German pancakes with sautéed apples for breakfast the next morning.
Annie and her 2 kids flew in on the 12th. We spent the day talking and letting the kids play. Also, we opted to stay closer to home to help Cat's little ones adjust and get back into their sleep schedule. Driving for 2 days can be tough!
On the 13th we went on a picnic at the playground and hung out around the pool.
The kids had a great time jumping and being crazy on the trampoline
On the 14th we went to the corn maze and out for ice cream afterwards.
On the 15th Scott and my parents flew into town. We enjoyed playing games, baking, and singing around the piano. Eve and Sterling dressed up for a murder mystery as part of a stake youth activity and Cat dressed up her boys. It was fun to catch up with everyone!
On Friday, the 16th Scott and Matt took the kids to get Mexican ice cream and fruit from the local stand. They came home with fun new types of fruit. After that they played games and played in the pool.
Annie helped me immensely by making sugar cookies and frosting them for the baptism. I also really appreciate Louisa Weatherbee for making banana bread and bringing me these great cookie displays.
The baptism was beautiful and we felt surrounded by love and joy!
Matt helped Christian feel secure and I am grateful that he could perform the ordinances
After Christian was baptized, as he was changing he exclaimed "I did it! I did it! It was worth it!" I love his expression of joy! He had been anticipating this ordinance for a long time and was glad that he had accomplished this important step. I am sure that he had some concerns about getting water in his face or very chilly water, but he was brave and put his faith in his dad and in God. What a wonderful moment!
I'm grateful for all the men who hold the priesthood in my family that were able to participate in the confirmation!
Scott did a wonderful job with his talk! He has been such a good friend to Christian. He always goes out of his way to know what Christian is interested in and spends time talking and playing with him.
My mother brought a beautiful spirit of peace with her piano music. I am also glad that she was able to be a witness along with me of Christian's baptism!
We were grateful for all that could attend in person or virtually. I felt over whelmed by love!
We are grateful for technology that allows us to be with those we love despite the pandemic and distance! I wish I had thought to invite more families in our current and previous wards to join via Zoom. I guess you can't think of everything. 😊
After the baptism we had Black and Gold Taco soup, Christian's favorite, and other refreshments. Special thanks to Annie for helping with the table set up and Cat for picking up the pretty blue flowers and last minute items!
One final thank you to my sweet husband who made our back yard a beautiful and serene space for this sacred event! Also, my kids were very helpful and supportive in preparation for this event! I feel so blessed to have my family!
Matt, Sterling, and my parents got to catch the BYU football game after the baptism. :)
The following morning Catherine and Aaron headed home. We are grateful that they went to such great lengths to visit us!
The rest of us headed up to San Francisco. First we drove Lombard Street which is famous for its steep 8 hairpin turns in a one block section. Then we walked the steps next it all the way to the top.
After that we went on a cruise around the bay and Alcatraz. We loved the view of the city and the Golden Gate bridge!
Then we went to Pier 39 and looked at the many fun shops. My favorite was a shell shop.
Then we headed to Rodeo beach.
Then we all went to Muir Woods to see the forests nearby.
What an amazing day with such varied vistas! Thanks to Matt for planning the day.
On Sunday we attended church via Zoom and had sacrament meeting together at home. It was a nice day of rest. We enjoyed our last day together!
I have come to cherish my Mom's piano playing! It is heavenly and makes me want to play more.
Uncle Scott is the best! This was the only pumpkin we carved this year.
We are so grateful for all who came to visit! We can't wait to see them again!
The rest of October flew by. Here are a few final pictures.
Our passion fruit vine.
The Young Women's corn maze activity.
A few cat photos.
And finally, Halloween!
What an awesome month!
