Ben's Baptism

I think it's best said through the pages of his own book
(given to Ben by the Primary Presidency)

A few things that aren't mentioned (because Ben wasn't really aware how CRAZY the morning actually was.)

* We had a big blueberry pancake breakfast at our house before the baptism. That was probably a mistake. Cereal is best when you're in a rush. I also decided last minute to do food at the church instead of bringing everyone to our home afterward. A good decision, I believe... but it made things crazy. I made 4 dozen cupcakes for Ben's traditional flag cake, but because there was no time, I asked my sis in law frost them and bring the strawberries/blueberries to the church.

* We arrived at the church 2 minutes before it started. Ben hadn't changed, Aaron's white pants were too tight so he had to wear a jumpsuit (he's really put on the pounds since we got married :) Aaron tried to remain calm while changing in the bathroom with Ben. He really didn't want to make him more nervous than he already was.

* As soon as Cody and Jake arrived with the cupcakes- bless her heart- I sent her BACK to my house to retrieve the baptismal certificate that we left on our mantle. Talk about spacing it.

* Ben and Aaron had changed, my mom and sister arrived with her four little girls, Cody and Jake were on an important errand-- and the baptism had started. But WHERE were Aaron's parents? I ran out into the foyer to call them.

* Aaron's mom who was the first speaker on the program didn't realize it started at 10:00 am. She was at a copy shop making copies for her talk. When I told her it was starting NOW and they had just announced her name to speak, they rushed to the church. I went back to sit by my kids in the chapel.

* Opening prayer was said, opening song was sung-- and it was Brandy's turn to speak. Aaron turned around to look at me and I told him I would go up and bear my testimony... excusing her from being late. Luckily, as I went to stand up, she walked into the chapel. She asked me when it was her turn and I said- "NOW!" She walked up the the pulpit and gave an excellent talk. It was a mini-miracle she walked in when she did.

* As the crowd was heading from the chapel to the baptismal font, I grabbed Ben and Aaron for the quickest photo ever. Then handed off the camera to Cody (who had just returned with the recommend) and asked her to take a quick photo of the family. Those were the only shots we took at the church. Too bad. My little neices looked so cute in their dresses... and we didn't get any of Ben with his grandparents.

* While Ben and Aaron are in the font about to perform the ordinance, everyone is looking at ME asking me where their towels are. Why are you asking me? Am I the MOM or something? I shrugged my shoulders and said out loud- "I didn't bring any towels."

* While Ben and Aaron were changing from their wet clothes, drying off with a swim towel my sister happened to have in her car, I was in the kitchen getting the food ready. I had lots of helpers. We decorated the flag cake and set up everything as quickly as we could.

* Aaron gave a wonderful confirmation. He said (and strongly felt) that there were many people who had passed on who were looking down on Ben, feeling just as proud of him as we were.

* I was so happy to have so many people show (there were at least 50) but I think I was uptight because we had invited non-member friends. Two families in particular who had never stepped inside an LDS church. I wanted them to feel comfortable and spent ALL my time talking with them.. so I didn't get to say THANKS to everyone else who came.

* It was a great day, so fortunate to have it on Indepedence day AND his birthday. It was totally an odd experience for me. I didn't cry... didn't feel the least bit emotional. It was as if I was having an out-of-body experience. I was watching myself watch MY son get baptized. I wasn't old enough for this, and obviously not mature enough. I just sat back and wondered how I got lucky enough to be his mother. He seemed so old. Not 8 years old, but really old, like a miniature man. I knew he was making the right choice and that he was old enough to make that decision for himself. This was just one of the steps he will take in his life and I feel privelaged enough to witness it. I love Ben and look up to him in so many ways. How crazy is that to say about someone who is half my size?

We have lots of pictures from the rest of the day.. cousins, great food, fireworks, apple pie, Ben's new bike... but those will have to wait until I have recovered. Happy baptism, Ben! We are so proud of you!!