The Big Baptism Day

Ellery was baptized today, what a GREAT day! It is something you think about for a long time, but once it finally gets there it is just more than you could have imagined. Ellery is such an amazing child and wonderful daughter, words just can't put into words how much I love her. I am so proud of her. She has always been a very obedient girl who truly wants to do what is right. Matt and I are so happy that she has made this big decision and is so willing to obey her Father in Heaven. It was really special that her Birthday fell on a Sunday and such a nice perk out here in "the mission field" that we could baptize her right on her birthday! No waiting for Stake baptism day.

Here she is all ready to go. We have obviously been talking A LOT about baptism in the months leading up to this big day. I asked her recently if she was nervous and I was surprised to hear her say yes. She has just seemed so excited that it never dawned on me that she might be apprehensive. I was worried a little. She quickly explained "I just don't want to do anything wrong." I started to think "deep". Was she worried about making decisions after she is baptized? She hates to disappoint anyone....EVER! I was feeling badly that she was stressing out. But no.

She continued "You know, I just don't want my foot to pop out or my hair to not go all the way under...what if my hand comes up?!?!" How funny, she just wanted to get it right the first time. She HATES to get anything wrong! Matt jumped in and assured her that she was lucky to have a Dad who is one of the best "dunkers" around and he shoved her down to the ground and quickly back up, no worries Elle! It gave me a good laugh because she was reassured instantly!

She did still insist on wearing piggy tails...to help with the hair floating up problem! Crack me up!

What a happy day! She picked out this material and the pattern to go with it. "Long Princess Sleeves" she insisted! What a cutie, glad I got it right.

Papa and Oma were able to make it all the way from Utah. Ellery had asked Papa to confirm her, I thought it was precious. It was extra nice to have Matt's sister Beth and her wonderful husband Jason come with their two kiddos. That was all the family that came so we were small in numbers, but it was great. I think sometimes we used to take for granted living in Utah when so much family would gladly take time to come support us in big events like this. It is a good lesson and I dearly miss the big old Hunter Fam!! But such a wonderful day!! What a blessing the Gospel truly is and how exciting it is to see my little ones slowly and steadily gaining their own testimonies. Life sure is good!

It was definitely a busy day. I found out 3 days earlier that I had to speak in sacrament meeting. Then my Mom and I both spoke at the baptism and Taite and Bailey sang the cutest duet ever! Good job girlies!