Ella's Baptism and 8th Birthday

 Well, it was the perfect day. Ella’s birthday was so special and filled with so much love and happiness.

She requested breakfast in bed. So I got up and made her pancakes and eggs and Rayleigh helped make the tray super cute. We sang to her and presented her with her breakfast and she was so happy! Ray then spend the morning helping Ella get ready for church and when I walked in on her buttoning up Ella’s baptism dress, it was like a glimpse into what it’s gonna be like when Ella gets married and Ray is her maid of honor. She’s gonna nail that role. She was amazing. She wanted everything to be perfect for Ella.

As I was getting ready for church Wes from the bishopric texted me and asked to chat. I told him it was a busy day and he replied that it wouldn’t take long. When we got to church (early to be prepared for everything) he pulled me aside, told me thank you for all my hard work in Relief Society and released me from my calling. THEN, he immediately called me to teach Ray’s Sunday School class which I’m done with doing but I let him know I was ready to decline a calling and tell him to give me some time to get Parker off on his mission. But I’m happy to help in Ray’s class.

My parents met us at church and sacrament meeting was really good. Our friend Hyrum is going on a mission to Argentina and it was his farewell. During 2nd hour, we were able to get all set up for Ella’s baptism and fill the font. The only problem was that the water was cold! The water heater isn’t working! Thankfully, it didn’t bother Ella at all and she was happy.

But a ton of people from the ward stayed to attend her baptism which was so sweet! Jon and Cami both rolled in just as the program was starting. Cami led the music and jumped right in. My mom gave a beautiful talk on baptism and gave Ella her baptism bear. I love that she was able to bear her testimony AND present Ella with a beautiful set of PINK scriptures! She’s thrilled and when Ray saw them, her jaw hit the floor.

Ella was baptized by Tanner. Parker and I were witnesses. She was glowing. She was just so happy. It was the sweetest thing. Ray helped me quickly get her changed and she was able to use her special baptism towel that Sister Norris embroidered for her. She then sang “I Will Walk with Jesus” with Ray and her girl cousins. I asked Danja (who was the most amazing pianist for us) to help her practice the song during piano lessons but she was feeling shy to sing in front of everyone. So Kim, Jessi, and Kaela joined her and it was sooooo sweet! So much love! Sister Graves pulled them aside and told them how beautiful and inspiring they were and made them all cry. Sister Graves is a legend. I think gave the talk on the Holy Ghost and wrapped her up in a soft COMFORTING blanket which she appreciated because she was cold from that cold water.

Tanner confirmed her a member of the church and she received the Holy Ghost. My dad, Jon, Cort, Bishop Tolley, and Ricky were in the circle too. Tanner blessed her with the ability to focus on gifts and talents so she can be a leader among her friends and at home. He blessed her with the faith and strength to build up the kingdom of God and to continue being a sweet and happy girl.

The bishop and Erika both gave some kind remarks and we ended with a song and a prayer. The whole event was about 40 minutes.

The family came over after for a big chicken n rice dinner. We feasted and chatted and then did cake and ice cream and sang happy birthday to Ella. Tanner turned on her birth video which totally made Rayleigh cry! Which made ME cry! She is such a tender heart! It was the song “1,000 years” that really touched her. Me too, Ray. Ella opened her special gift from me and Tanner: 3 tickets to see Benson Boone! Woo hoo!

At 5pm, Brother Chubbuck came over as a representative from the stake and Tanner ordained Parker to the office of Elder. He was blessed with power and authority to act in God’s name and to help build up His kingdom here on Earth. It was a beautiful blessing and we all squished together on the couch while we was receiving his blessing.

Everyone left shortly after happy and filled with the spirit. Ricky texted Tanner that he hadn’t felt that strongly in a long time. We cleaned up and collapsed into bed.

Ella, I’m so proud of you. This weekend has been so fun shopping with you and preparing for your baptism. You inspire me and I love that we love the same things. You’re my little bestie. Your faith is so pure and everyone who knows you feels like you truly are their friend. You are no drama and are kind to everyone. I’m proud of you for trying soccer this season and giving it your all. You are doing so well! You were so beautiful on your baptism day and loved getting dressed up and even did your nails. You love to accessorize and you kinda loved the attention on your birthday. This is a big step in your discipleship and I know that if you stay close to the spirit you were just given, you will have peace and joy in your life, despite any hardships or heartaches. I’m always here for you and I will love you forever!!!