Dear Jack,
Here’s a little message I wrote to you on Sunday morning:
“I’ve been looking forward to today for as long as I’ve known we were going to have you. Today is the day of your baptism. This is a very important day for everyone in our family. You’re already part of the family of God, because God already loves you, and today is a celebration of that. During the service, Daddy and I will promise to raise you to know that you will always be loved because you aren’t just our child, you’re God’s child. Grandpa Charles and Grandma Mary made the same promise about me when I was a baby–and in the same church, too. In addition to what we’ll promise in church today, I promise to raise you in a house that believes in the love of Christ. Everyone is equal. I promise to always try to be open with you and for you.”
And, Jack, we had a beautiful day! The service was wonderful and you woke up just before it was time for us to go to the altar with you. Pastor Ken performed your baptism with water he got in the Jordan River, where Jesus was baptized. You cried out a bit when he put the water on your head, but then you calmed down. Colton and Charlie lit a candle on the altar that we can light every year to remember your place in God’s family.

After church, we went to Grandma and Grandpa Phy’s house for a party. So many people were there to show how much they love you and our family.

Remember how I mentioned that I was baptized in the same church? Look at these pictures:

Then

Now
The next day, we went to the Carnton Plantation in Franklin with your great uncle Fred and great aunt Patricia, who are visiting from Montana. Daddy carried you around in your papoose all day!

Grandma Mickey knows a lot about the Civil War, so maybe someday we can go back with her when you’re old enough to do more than just look cute in hats.
We’ve had a great couple of days–times I know I’ll always remember.
Love, Mommy
(More pictures of the baptism and party are here. More pictures at Carnton Plantation are here.)





















