Elli's Baby Blessing

Last Sunday, we were blessed to have so much family be able to join us for Elli's baby blessing. For those who don't know, in the LDS Church, after a child is born, a father who holds the priesthood has the opportunity to give the baby a blessing in a prayer asking God to protect and bless the child with strength and faith and other attributes as the Lord sees fit. It is a truly wonderful and spiritual event, and one that we have really anticipated.

Heather's parents and sister Jenny along with my parents, Alyson and Nate, and Tys and Diana and kids were all able to make it. I know it wasn't easy arranging schedules to make it happen, but thank you to everyone who could come; it made the event even more special.

As a first-time dad, it was a pretty special feeling to take my daughter in my arms and give her a blessing. She is such a sweet little girl, and I feel blessed that I had the chance to use my faith and priesthood to offer her a little extra strength and protection as she grows up.

Here are a few pics from the day. I also want to note that Chris, Meagan, and Wendy came to the blessing, as well. We didn't get any pics of them since they had to leave right after sacrament meeting, but we were grateful that they came, too.

You probably noticed in the pics above that Elli is starting to smile a lot more, although sadly she was not quite as smily right after church. Heather and I are loving this! We love to hold her and smile at her, and she is definitely responding with some big smiles for us.

Here are a few more pics of Elliana smiling while sitting in her favorite swing with the blanket that her Great Grandmother Betty made for her. Thanks, Grandmother Betty!