Eli turns 8!

Eli turned 8 on April 30 and his baptism was on May 1! As a missionary, I remember realizing that Satan must know that someone was preparing to make a sacred covenant because so many things would come up in that person's life right before making a covenant. There was a lot of details to work through with Eli's baptism because Micheal was also coming out here from Utah to be baptized, but Micheal wanted to be baptized in the pond at Grammy and Grandpa Volk's property. Anyway, I felt overwhelmed and confused and cried and realized that I was losing focus on what really mattered. 

Eli said he would like to be baptized at the church font because he didn't want to be washed clean in dirty water! We're grateful two of our neighbors attended the baptism as well as ward friends and family in person and over zoom. 

A year ago during the pandemic, I remember wondering what Eli's baptism would be like. It turned out better than I imaged. 

Eli is a bright light and strives to do what's right. He is quick to raise his hand to give an answer and is a great singer. I cried thinking about the day he was born and how Aaron and I thought about his baptism in 2021. 

My parents flew in and we enjoyed a few days with them before the baptism. 

Eli woke up early on his birthday and couldn't wait to open his presents. 

Mary Beth and Spencer arrived as well as Mary Beth's twin sister and parents. 

We had a pizza party with cake and a fire outside. The evening was lovely!

Aaron baptized and confirmed Eli a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Grandpa Volk gave a talk and beautifully talked about the plan of salvation. He also said that when he was a boy, his mother would have them clean and have a spotless house for company so they would feel welcomed and comfortable in their home. He compared a clean home to our bodies and how we must to our part to keep them clean so the Holy Ghost will want to dwell with us always. 

Eli, Austin, Eleanor and their cousins sang, "I Will Walk with Jesus." It was powerful and I pray they will always remember the words to that song. 

After the baptism, we rushed home so the boys could prepare for their last football game. They each improved so much and had a blast playing this year. 

We then drove up to Grammy and Grandpa Volk's house where Micheal had his baptism. It was peaceful and simple. 

And now Eli is baptized! I've noticed a difference about his. He seems confident and mature and I love watching him grow into who he's suppose to be.