Sunday, July 19, 2015

Elizabeth's Baptism

Our sweet Elizabeth Marion was baptized in Geneva's Presbyterian Church in July. It meant the absolute world to us that she was surrounded almost 100 people who love her and who were very excited to meet her!

We asked Mollie, Kenny, Andi, Kyle and Nicki to be Godparents to Bitsy, as well as to Madeline, Charlie and John, who were not designated Godparents during each of their baptisms. I love knowing that they will each help us guide and raise our children in faith; there's a slew of people who they can trust when they need someone other than "mom and dad." I was amazed by how the church welcomed us with open arms, even though we were essentially visitors.
The ceremony was lovely. Pastor Dempsey officiated, giving Madeline, Charlie and John each important jobs during the ceremony. The pews were filled with family members. The church's quilting group even gave Elizabeth a beautiful handmade blanket, which decorated the alter -- it matches her nursery perfectly!
Bitsy with her quilt
After the ceremony, my dad, Ning, Sandie and Tom hosted an absolutely fabulous party! The turnout was incredible -- almost everyone we invited was able to attend! And because so many people were willing to travel from around the area to celebrate with us, we got to see so many of our dearest friends from college, Chicago and Milwaukee during our home leave.
Tom and Sandie worked for weeks to prepare the house for the party -- they even pitched a giant white tent in the backyard. Ning ordered beautiful finger sandwiches and gourmet cupcakes from an upscale caterer, and she had a custom banner made for Elizabeth! Kim and her two daughters created pre-packaged kid meals and created magic behind the scenes -- it allowed us all to truly relax and enjoy our guests. I hired three babysitters to play with the 40 kids who attended -- they ran games and activities in the field across the street! Everytime I saw John John, he was on someone's shoulders laughing.

It was a very special day....one that I'll remember forever.
Jamie and her family drove up from South Carolina!
My dear friend Buffy!
Natalie and Ashley! They're husbands were Rob's frat brothers.
Virginia and baby Agnes!
Charlie and Conrad
The Browns and Harus

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