The Last of the Baptism Pictures, I Promise

Flashback Friday

William's baptism made me wistful for my other baby. How is she 3 and a half years old already? We've had so much fun sharing pictures, videos, and memories with Caroline of her special moments as William hits his milestones, but it makes me want to have baby Caroline back, just for a few moments. Don't know how I'll stand it when there is no longer a baby around. Here are some shots of Caroline in her baptism gown.

These pictures bring back some of my happiest memories in Colorado. I remember this day so clearly - Erin and Sarah came over to play. Caroline had just learned how to sit up, and Sarah was almost there. Erin pulled out her camera (this was in her amateur days - who knew then what would evolve?) and we were having so much fun taking pictures of Caroline, she ran home and got Sarah's dress, as well. We have a HILARIOUS video of the two girls rolling around in their diapers. Sometimes it is hard to believe there was really a time when Erin and Sarah were just a few blocks away, always ready for a play date or an adventure. We love you, girls.

Also, I love my babies. How lucky am I? Sometimes I just can't believe I am getting to live the life I always dreamed about.

Naps

I'm afraid to even put this in writing, but I need some advice. Caroline is starting to show a lot of nap resistance. Some days she just doesn't seem tired, and will play in her room for an hour or so. Other days, if we are running a little late and miss her "sleepy window" she catches a second wind and just can't settle down. So far she is still sleeping, eventually, every single day. Now I don't want any advice about how kids this age just stop taking naps and to do quiet time. I'M NOT READY for the end of the nap. I'd just like lots of great stories about how your kids started resisting the nap around this age but it was just a phase and they continued to take naps until they were 10. Thanks. :)

William's Baptism

William checking out my Uncle John's beard (it was a hit!):

Three generations of Clark men:

I adore this picture:

William's baptism was lovely. The service was beautiful, and William was at his sweet, happy best. He loved the whole thing. :)

When I look back at William's baptism, here is the story that I will remember: About a month ago during our pre-baptism classes, our pastor was talking about how when someone is baptized, they aren't just joining our congregation or the Methodist church, they are joining God's Universal Church. As she explained that God's whole family will be present during the baptism, I just fell apart. Those of you who know me well know that I don't usually get emotional about my Dad (who passed away when I was 15), but for some reason the thought of him being in that room with us just really got to me. My father was a devout Christian and it would have pleased him so much that we are raising our children in the faith. Anyway, at the beginning of our service this weekend, the choir walked to the front of the sanctuary and sang "At the River." This was my Dad's favorite hymn, and I have a clear memory of him telling me, long before he was sick, that he loved it and wanted it played at his funeral. When my Dad died, our church's entire choir came and sang it for him - it was a powerfully emotional moment. I literally couldn't believe it was being sung this Sunday. I looked over at my Uncle (my Dad's identical twin brother) and saw the tears streaming down his cheeks. I know that this was my Dad's way of telling me that he was there. He wanted to be a part of his Grandson's special day. William, I know your Grandpa Jim would have loved you dearly - just as the rest of us do. Welcome to Christ's family, little one.

Men at Work

We're busy enjoying our visit from Steve's parents, Nana and Papa - they are here to help us celebrate William's baptism. Lots of details and pictures from his special day later this week!

For the Record. . .

1. You can no longer refer to my baby as a chunk. He has dropped more than 25 percentiles and gained less than a pound in the past 3 months. He is weighing in at 19 pounds, 6 ounces (just above the 25th percentile) at 9 months, 1 week.

2. He got his bottom two teeth.

3. I officially have a crush on Dr. Oz. Can I get an amen, ladies????

4. As for the hair, Uncle Jay is a little immature.

We're Back!

I feel like I title a lot of posts this way. Makes me think we do to much travelling with these kiddos. :) Anyway, we're home after a wonderful two-week trip to Chicago. We spent a lot of time with both of our families, celebrated the holidays, and met our newest niece. It was a great trip (despite being thrown-up on BOTH flights)! Here are some of the highlights. . .

Icing cookies with Nana. . .

Decorating a gingerbread house with Papa. . .

Visiting Two Toots, a cool new restaurant where a train delivers your meal (we SO need one of these in Boston!). . .

Having fun with Quentin at the DuPage Children's Museum. . .

Lots of great cousin time. . .