Talia's Baptism

Yesterday morning at 10am we had Talia's baptism.  I didn't sleep all night long...I kept waking up after dreams of things going wrong.  Finally at 6:30 Svend and I got out of bed and laid on the couch together to talk.  Our baby was taking her first big step in the Gospel. I couldn't believe it was already here.  How grateful we both were that this day had come and she had chosen to be baptized as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.  One by one the kids came down stairs to cuddle with us on the couch. How did we get so lucky? I was already crying and Svend wondered if I'd make it through the day.

Everything was wonderful at her baptism. She was so excited and nervous but happy.  It was freezing in the chapel and she was glad to get into the 80 degree font.  Svend had practiced with her a few times so she knew what to do. It was great seeing her brother and sister, Tabitha, watching closely as her daddy said the prayer and baptized her.  When she came out she said she was glad it was done but that now she was cold again. Haha.  I got her dressed and we went back to the chapel, which was full by the way... and Grandpa Hopewell spoke on the Holy Ghost. I really love how my dad gives this talk and then gives the kids a compass as a reminder. That's why we chose him to speak on it.  She was confirmed by Svend and received a blessing of guidance and love from her Heavenly Father. He loves her so much. He has so much planned for her and with the promise of the Holy Ghost to watch over and protect her throughout her life, we are excited to see what our Father in Heaven has in store for her. She said she was nervous and a little embarrassed about the blessing.

Talia, Bergen, Tabitha, Montana (who also got baptized), and Montana's little sisters all sang "If the Savior Stood Beside Me."  It was beautiful. I love hearing my children sing.  Talia has a beautiful voice and Heavenly Father helped each of the children sing it beautifully.

I cried during the opening song about Jesus being baptized by John the Baptist. I am so grateful for yesterday. I'm grateful for my beautiful and loving daughter. I'm grateful she was sent to us. I hope and pray we can get along better these next years and that she will know how much I love her by my actions and words.  She is a special spirit in our home and her brother and sisters look up to her so much.

I'm grateful Svend was worthy and able to both baptize and confirm her. I'm grateful to the Priesthood. I'm grateful to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The one TRUE church on the earth. I pray I can be a better member, now, as I strive to teach my children to love the gospel and to love our Father in Heaven as I know He loves us.