Emma's Special Weekend

Emma was officially baptized on December 6, 2008 by her daddy. She's been anxiously waiting for her baptism for a very long time, so she was thrilled when she finally turned 8 years old in November. She was prepared and ready for her big, special day.

The baptism program was lovely and beautiful. Emma took an active part in planning the program. She loves making choices and being involved. She picked out the speakers, who would say the prayers, hymns, who would be conducting the music and playing the piano, and who would sing the musical number.

My mother and sister flew in from California to be here for Emma's special day. Susie's lovely soprano voice filled the room with a sweet and beautiful spirit when she sang the "The Light Within," by Janice Kapp Perry. Following the number, Brad gave Emma a gorgeous blessing when he confirmed her. Brad always does an amazing job with blessings. He makes me cry every time. Overall, the entire meeting was a wonderful, spiritual event, and Emma loved it.

We had a large birthday party/lunch at our house after Emma's baptism. Emma had a wonderful time opening her presents and blowing out the candles on her birthday cake.

Emma got a Princess watch from her Aunt Susie, a kitchen set from her grandma, a baptism bracelet from McKenna, and her very first scripture case and quad from her daddy and me.

After the party, Scott and Emma went to visit their cousins while Brad and I took my mom and Susie to Wheeler Farm. We loved seeing all of the animals there, and seeing the old farmhouse and barns. After leaving the farm, Brad and I took my mom and sister to SAMPAN's Chinese restaurant for dinner. I was craving Chinese food bad, and the food and service there was wonderful.

I love my little mama! She's such a sweetheart.
Cute piggy bottoms!

After dinner, we drove up to Temple Square to meet up with Scott and Emma and Bruce and Loralee's family. All sixteen of us had a wonderful time looking at all the beautiful lights on Temple Square. The weather was cold, but not nearly as cold as usual for this time of year. It was definitely the best night for us to go, minus the huge crowds and lack of parking spaces.

Overall, we had a wonderful weekend! I loved seeing Emma so happy, and visiting with my mom and sister again. I cried hard when they left, mainly due to the crazy baby hormones I am now experiencing. I hope to see them again soon.

Emma and Susie at the Christmas party on Friday night.

I love you, Mom and Susie!