Brad and Zach get baptized...

Once again I am lamenting the milestones my children reach. So fast? They couldn't possibly be 8. But they are. Brad and Zach were so excited for this special day.

The boys were baptized members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and received the Gift of the Holy Ghost through the holy priesthood which their father holds.

Of course, everyone was thrilled to support them in their decision. The grandparents flew in from Utah. Mommer and Grandpa Lund arrived and gave the boys a bank to start saving for their missions and a baptism pillowcase to design. Grandma and Grandpa Bender came with a triple combination scripture set that was also from Grandpa Mac. They also gave them their new Cub Scout shirts!

Zach was actually quite sick that day. He kept trying to smile because he was so excited but felt miserable. Because they were the only two being baptized that day, we were in charge of the program- which I loved. The talks were given by Grandma Bender and Grandpa Lund, and the prayers were given by Grandpa Bender and Aunt Jen. Mommer led the music. We were so grateful to have so many family members there.

Lauren and I sang "I Am A Child of God." Just before we were supposed to sing she started panicking, saying, "I'm too shy. Everyone will laugh." I rolled my eyes and told her I'd pay her a dollar if she did her best. She jumped right out of her seat and belted it out.

Abby was supposed to sing with us but she just clung to my leg and I ended up holding her throughout the song.

OK, these pictures are supposed to have water in them. I thought for sure I could Photoshop a font full of water. I finally gave up. If anyone knows how to do it, let me know. We went back a week later for these shots (that's why there's no water) because Zach was too sick the day of for great pics.

When Zach got out of the water and stood there wrapped in a towel shivering, he smiled and said, "Oh, I feel so warm and happy!"

Thank you to the many primary teachers, classmates, friends, and family who came. The boys felt loved and supported. Thank you!