Have Faith, Have Hope.

Just ignore how tired I look and check out my offspring's gorgeous eyes.  Photo by Welda Jolley 

Aidan was baptized yesterday.  He has been talking about this day since attending his friend Jacob's baptism and we were so grateful to have so many friends and family members there to support him. 

The day began in a really rough way.   Colin struggled with jealousy and acted out by not doing what we asked and not listening all morning and through church.  He was out for three timeouts during the first hour of church.  I was struggling with keeping a good attitude about the day, wanting to bring positive feelings into it.  I had decided to do my best to fake it, but the closing hymn had begun.  Nine years ago, I was leading a congregation in singing the same song.  The last verse begins with these lyrics:

"I believe in Christ; he stands supreme!
From him I’ll gain my fondest dream;
And while I strive through grief and pain,
His voice is heard: 'Ye shall obtain.' " 


At the time, we'd just started fertility meds, and I was more scared than I was hopeful.  These words struck a chord, if you'll pardon the pun, and these words were comforting to me.  Three months later, Aidan was on his way.  Now here we were, passing this milestone with that fondest dream- and two more. 

We were humbled by how many people came to see him be baptized- some driving hours to be there.  It was what you expect at an LDS baptism- until he came out of the water and declared "That was fun!"  Later, he asked Chris if they could "do it again sometime."    We asked those in attendance to write Aidan notes to remember the day, and I didn't have a chance to then- so I'll add it here. 

Aidan, I am so proud of who you are.  Your kind and open heart inspires me everyday. The way you want to do the right thing is a trait that your dad and I are so grateful for.  I'm so grateful you were our first born- you've been so patient and forgiving of me as I learn how to be a mom in each stage of your growing up.  Your aunt and uncle sang at your baptism, and some of the words they sang are exactly what I want you to continue to do as you continue to grow: 

"Have faith, have hope.  Live like His son.  Help others on their way. "