The PERFECT BAPTISM day...

Saturday May 1st was the perfect day for a baptism. I was the first one up and through the shower that early morning. When I walked out of my room to start the ball rolling of everyone else getting ready, Alexis was walking out of her room. She very excitedly exclaimed, "I am getting baptized today. I am sooooo excited!!"

The day was certainly filled with excitement, emotion and love. She is so beautiful and I just hope we prepared her well to understand the real commitment and covenant she has made.

We had so many family and friends around us this day to support us. My in-law's came from St. George, UT. As I had a niece (on Josh's side) also getting baptized this day up in Pleasant Grove. My heart was broken for them that they were not able to be to both. I know the trip isn't always the easiest, but I appreciate their unyielding love and support that they always show my family.
My sister's family came all the way from China for this special day. Words can not begin to describe the love I have for my sister and for her decision to be here and support us. It was so wonderful to be able to spend a few short days with her and her family while they were here.

My sister, Michelle and me

Other than a couple of very short hiccups the day ran very smoothly. Our little man head butted Daddy who was trying to help get him dressed and broke his glasses. At first I thought that might be a precursor for the days events, but gratefully it was not. We got to the church with plenty of time to shoot a few photos beforehand.

Our gorgeous girl getting ready to go be baptized.

I am braving this one by posting my pregnant self for all to see. I still think that I just look tired. Honestly I was, but I wouldn't have been anywhere else in the world.

We tried to capture one of our family. The sun was shining brightly and we were starting to run out of time so this was the best we could do at the time.

I love this picture of my man and his "little girl"!!!!

All grins and giggles. There were actually several people taking pictures at this time and she was never sure as to where to look. She thought it was funny and just kept laughing.

I took Lexi in and got her changed into her baptismal clothes. It was then that I realized that I left the bag with her change of underwear and towel out in the car. I ran out to get it and as I was walking back towards the building my sister came running out telling me I had to go grab Josh's bag with his Temple Clothing. I was confused because I knew he was planning on using one of the churches "Jump Suits". As I was walking back, again, Lexi came running out stating that Daddy looked like Elvis. (Sorry Babe) Here is the proof!!!!!! Needless to say - this is NOT what he wore for the ordinance!!

So, while Daddy was changing, again. We snapped a couple of quick pictures of Lexi all ready and myself. Another BIG pregnancy shot. This one let's you see a little more of my round belly. In fact, in person, You can't tell anywhere that I am pregnant expect for that round belly of mine - it is the perfect basketball!.
We also had a moment to capture this... My sweet Lexi is the first grandchild on my side of the family to be baptized. I am sadden for my brother's two children who haven't been given that choice yet, but grateful that My Lexi has made that choice for herself to make the commitment of baptism. (Sorry Grandma and Grandpa Anderson, I realized when looking through all the pictures, we NEVER got one with you and Lexi together.)

Once those were done, Josh had finished changing and we were able to catch just a quick couple of photos before the program started. Much better Daddy.

The baptism program was beautiful. My friend, Trisha, played the piano for the program. My mother in law gave a fabulous talk about Baptism. I felt the Spirit testifying of the truthfulness of what she said and bore witness of. We had some neighbors and friends who are not of our faith there with us. I was grateful for her testimony and the love of our Heavenly Father and Savior, Jesus Christ that she bore testimony of. I pray that my friends will also come to feel of that in their lives as well.

After the ordinance of Baptism was performed I met Lexi in the dressing area with her warm towel. Other than the fact she said she was cold, she said she felt so good inside and felt cleaned. I loved that tender moment we had just the two of us to briefly talk and for me to bear her my testimony. The confirmation was just as beautiful. I was filled with the Holy Ghost as Josh said, "I say unto you receive the Holy Ghost." I hope Lexi felt the same thing.

Afterward we had a luncheon for our friends and family. It was so good to be surrounded by these people who love us and care so much for us. There were many people who couldn't make it at the last minute for various reasons. We were sad that they were not able to be there. It left us food all week long to feed my family - I must admit it was nice not having to cook all week!! The experience is one that I will always cherish and remember.

I have a testimony of Jesus Christ. I know that I belong to His true church. I have studied and pondered the scriptures. I have then turned to my Heavenly Father in prayer and asked if the things that I had read and learned were true. The Spirit testifying the truth of it to me is undeniable. I know that the Savior came to this world to teach and lead us. It is through His atonement alone that we can be saved and through His resurrection that we can also be resurrected and return to love with our Heavenly Father, through obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel. I know that our Heavenly Father and our Savior have unconditional love for us. I am eternally grateful that I have this in my life. It is the foundation of who I am and what I teach my children. I am also grateful that my husband is worthy to hold the Priesthood and do this for our children.

Lexi I love you. Your example is great. Keep growing your testimony and doing the things you need to be able to remain worthy to keep the Holy Ghost as your constant companion.