Henry's Blessing

Yesterday we blessed our little baby Henry. It was a very special day: one that I have anticipated whenever there's a baby blessing. I had a full heart all day (and it's lingering today...I hope it lingers forever).

We got ready for the day and dressed Henry in his adorable white outfit (complete with a vest and bow tie). He looked oh, so handsome. Brendon gave him a wonderful blessing and did a great job speaking slowly enough for me to write down all the main points so Henry can read it some day. I have enjoyed reading my baby blessing from time to time and want Henry to be able to do the same. Next time, though, I'll ask a friend or family member to write everything down so I can enjoy the moment. We are so grateful for Brendon and his Priesthood power. It is such a blessing!

I enjoyed sitting in Sacrament meeting and loving the feeling of having our sweet family together. I felt so much love and appreciation for Brendon and our sweet Henry. I also felt so much gratitude for the leadership of the church and for them teaching me so much about my role as a a wife and mother. It is so clear to me, personally, that my responsibility is to love, nurture, and keep the spirit in our home. I'm grateful for my understanding of that role.

No family was able to attend Henry’s blessing. The simple fact that we live over 1,000 miles from both of our families and that it requires, not only a plane ride, but also a three hour car ride on top of that makes it a little less than convenient to be here. We missed them, but are so grateful for our “family” in Kirksville. I felt sadder that Henry’s grandparents didn’t get to witness and participate in his blessing than I did that I didn’t get to see them. Of course I would have loved to see them, but it was a great comfort having so many close, supportive, loving friends here. (I’m going to miss this place, especially the people.) 

We were able to share this special day with our practically blood-related friends, the Fields. We have had a connection with the Fields before moving to Kirksville. Katherine is my sister-in-law’s (Julia) sister. They really are like family to us: not only do we love them like family, but they have also done a lot for us: they welcomed Brendon into their home when he first came to Kirksville to interview, they looked for housing for us, they brought us goodies when we first moved here, they have invited us over for dinner countless times, they visited me in the hospital after having Henry, and they have become our Spades buddies (which is a big deal). Katherine and I even have a winning handshake. Point is: we adore them and their cute family, so it was neat to share this day with them.

                           

Close up of Henry, Claire, & Moms

                           

We finished the day with our monthly “Break the Fast” with more family-friends. It was fun to get together and enjoy each others' company. I am so grateful for all of our friends, especially those who were able to participate in Henry’s blessing. It was a really good day.

Henry in his blessing outfit

                                                   

Brendon wasn’t a fan of the hat, but I had to get a picture

...this kid is pretty darn adorable!

                                                  

I love that he smiles all the time now!