Clayton's Baptism

This past weekend, on Saturday June 25th, we baptized Clayton and he began his life as a child of God! We were so blessed to have had Father Francis baptize Clayton at our home parish, St. Lawrence Catholic Church. This is the church where Darren's parents were married, Darren and myself were both baptized, and where we were married. It meant so much to us to have Father Francis do the baptism because I was his first St. Lawrence baptism, and Clayton was his last St. Lawrence baptism. Isn't that awesome?! We are sad to see Father Francis leave us to start his new work in Brownwood. We hope that he'll enjoy his parish there, but he will always be a part of our hearts!

We were so happy that both of my parents were able to come in for the celebration. Out of 5 great grandparents, 3 of them were able to be there! We also had a bunch of other great family members come, and that meant a lot to us! Of course, Trey and Leslie, Clayton's godparents, were there and he was happy to see them!

Clayton was an excellent baby during mass and during his baptism. He slept almost the whole time. Right after Father finished baptizing him, he opened his eyes and I promise you he smiled! It was as if he knew that he was cleansed of original sin! Most babies fuss or cry during the baptism - I mean, wouldn't you if super cold water was poured over your head? But not Clayton! Not our sweet baby boy! He was an angel! =)

After the baptism we went back to our house for a celebration! Scotty (Pop) had cooked some great barbeque chickens, and everyone else pitched in and brought sides and dessert. The meal was excellent! We enjoyed hanging out and talking, and we were treated with a performance from the Hillger band - aka, Mike, Scotty, Darren and Brian! Trey even played and sang a song! It was so fun! Clayton LOVED the music. My dad (Opa) was holding Clayton during the music and as long as the music was going Clayton was a happy camper, but dad said when the music stopped Clayton would fuss a little. Hehe.. he's already a music fan!

We couldn't have asked for a better weekend to celebrate this great and wonderful time in our son's life. Welcome to the Christian family, Clayton! You won't remember this day, but it will be an important part of your life and we wanted you to know all about it!

Now for some pictures! Enjoy, and God Bless!

Daddy and Clayton, with the afghan that was knit for Darren's baptism!

Clayton's godparents, Uncle Trey & Aunt Leslie, and us!

Clayton with his godparents

Us with Father Francis!

Oma & Opa, Us, and Nana!

Pop & Gia, and Us!

With the great-grandparents!