Zack's baptism

[lizzybennet]

This evening we held Zack's baptism. I feel like the whole event went really well. My mom, dad, and sisters Bonnie and Shannon came down from Alabama. Shannon brought her four children, who my own children simply adore. It has been one and half years since we've seen each other. When my kids saw her kids, it was like an explosion of joy. Laughing, chasing, non-stop talking, tag, wrestling, screaming with glee and video game discussions filled the whole next hour as the adults prepared the dinner. A few minutes later, Richard (Chris' older brother) arrived with his three children to join in the fray. It was awesome. My kids were in their idea of heaven on earth, surrounded by the family they love.

Margaret spoke to Zack about baptism, and she also made him a beautiful memory book. My dad spoke to Zack about the Holy Ghost. My mom explained the Faith in God program to him. Chris performed the baptism. We practice full body immersion for baptism. When Chris dunked Zack under the water and brought him back up, Petey exclaimed "That was awesome!" Suddenly now, Petey can't wait until he can get baptized. Zack looked so grown up in his suit and tie. He also was so well behaved. It was clear that he knew this was a momentous occasion in his life, and he wasn't going to be silly about it. I'm very proud of him.

So now, let me share some of the joys of being back in the States with you: public water fountains, wide open spaces not filled with rubble, natural style Christmas trees (it seems all the Christmas trees in China are tacky, silver or purple, very un-natural). I love how diverse this country is. I never before appreciated how unique and amazing it is to live in such a truly diverse country. I love the way everyone dresses here, so casual and stylish at the same time. I love how I haven't run into to any stinky, gag inflicting smells while walking on the street. Wait, I don't have to walk on the street! I can drive myself around again! Dishwashers, clothes dryers, drinkable water from the tap. It's all just wonderful. Wonderful, I tell you!

Comments

[t-jay.livejournal.com]

Belated welcome back to the US! And congratulations to Zack on his baptism!

[mysteena.livejournal.com]

Thanks!

[sunrise0124.livejournal.com]

Sounds like the baptism went great. Congrates to little Zack. :)

[mysteena.livejournal.com]

I'm really happy with how the baptism went. It was quite a relief.
thanks!

[risingpheenix.livejournal.com]

Petey is so awesome. That's really cool that he's getting it too.

I'm so glad you're home! I wish you could stay (I know, I'm selfish) but drink it all in, sister-friend. You should take snapshots of everything American and make a scrapbook page to hang on your wall in China so you can look at it when you get homesick.

[mysteena.livejournal.com]

I wish I could stay too. Right now, we are sitting in the living room (warm and carpeted, a couch that is so comfy to lounge on) watching Deal or No Deal while Petey plays in the backyard. It's so idealistic. Of couse, it's a vacation and not "real life". Still, it's wonderous and I plan to enjoy every single moment.