Thomas' Baptism

Today we were honored to baptize our sweet Thomas. Growing up Baptist it's no secret that I've struggled with infant baptism, but this is such a sweet blessing to share with our family. I love that I have made a covenant with God to bring Thomas up in a way that is pleasing to Him and to teach and instruct him about his Heavenly Father. Here are some pictures of the baptism and the luncheon afterwards.

This is more like it...

This gown is an antique. I originally wore it when I graduated from high school, then my mom re-made it for Whit to wear when he was baptized. Thomas got to wear it too. Hopefully one day Hayley's kids can wear it too :)

The kids eating lunch

Uncle Jim came in just for the baptism

We had talked to Whit for a few days about the baptism- mainly to make sure he would stand still up front. Tonight, after he and John had said his prayers he said "no Daddy, say 'thank you for this day and thank you for Thomas being baptized." I know he doesn't know exactly what it means but it was so sweet to hear! And by the way... Whit was fabulous during the baptism! I was so proud of him. Sandy Wilson also said Thomas was going to be a preacher because he kept reaching for the microphone.

You never outgrow your mama

Just recently I've realized how much I still rely upon my mom. I think I'm a better mom because of how much she helps me. I don't tell her this enough, but my mom is the best. You might say that your mom is, but I'll argue with you and then be right. She is awesome- always full of energy- always willing to help- always willing to take care of my boys- always willing to do anything I need. If I'm sick, I call my mom. If my kids are sick, I call my mom. If John is sick, I still call my mom. If I haven't slept much, I call my mom. If I just need affirmation, I call my mom. In short, I will never, ever outgrow my mama and what she does for me! She is currently almost half way through radiation treatment and man is it taking a toll on her. It's kind of scary to see this vibrant woman be as worn out and tired as she is. I'm very thankful to know this will only last a matter of weeks and not be the rest of her life, but I'm currently realizing how much I rely upon her when she isn't able to help anymore and how much I need to help her for the countless number of things I'll never be able to thank her for. So mom, I love you and I'm proud of you. I'm sorry for not telling you this enough. You are a godly woman, wife, mother and grandmother and I'm always honored when people say I remind them of you.

On the other hand, I am doubly blessed in that my mother-in-law is a wonderful woman of God as well. Even though she's working full time she is still helping me take care of my boys- especially for Thomas' baptism this weekend. Glenda- I love you too and am sorry not saying that enough! I'm so thankful and blessed to have a mother-in-law as wonderful as you!

This is quite possibly the funniest picture of John- ever. I had to find a way to put it in somewhere.

Just pictures

Here are some pictures from recently...

Big feet

Happy birthday, Papa!

We have a tooth!

Not to be outdone by his brother, Thomas decided to pop out some teeth at 4.5 months as well! So today, September 14, Thomas got his first 2 teeth! You can barely see one here, but there are 2 there.

So thankful

I tell you what, I've had some friends go through hell and back. My best friend gave birth to a beautiful, precious baby boy 4 years ago today, but he passed away 55 days later. Another dear friend lost one of her twin girls 3 years later. I've had friends who have had miscarriages throughout every phase of their pregnancies, I've had friends who have had trouble even getting pregnant, and here I am, complaining about how Whit disobeys or doesn't do what I want. How ungrateful am I? I have known that Forrest's birthday was approaching this week, and then yesterday another best friend from college gave birth to a sweet boy early and he is now in the NICU. I've been at tears the last 24 hours thinking about these friends but also realizing how truly blessed and grateful I am for my 2 precious, beautiful, and above all HEALTHY boys! Thank you, God, for the two miracles who bring me such joy, and for entrusting me to be their mother. What a huge job I have to teach them of God's love for us and for His ultimate sacrifice. He knows what it's like to lose a child. He is right there with these friends who have experienced a loss that I hope and pray I never have to experience. I'm so thankful for a God who comforts those who mourn because He too mourned.

Heavenly Father, thank you for Whit and Thomas and for each and every precious moment I get to spend with them! I pray I never take them for granted.

My Fair Man

The fair came to town and we went... twice! Whit had a ball. We went first with our cousins and then back with Aunt Hayley.

Driving a car

Dumbo!

This was Whit's favorite ride... red car like Lightening!

Llama, llama!

Swings!

Fishing for a prize

Woohoo!

As soon as we get in the car- this is the ball he won for fishing...

Mmmm... Carrots!

Uh, mom, I don't know if I like carrots...

Oh never mind! I like them!