Riley's Baptism

Riley's baptism and the work up to the day were some of the most precious days I have ever had. During the 5 weeks that we had the missionaries come and talk to Riley, about his decision, the Spirit was so strong in our home. The great thing was that Riley pretty much knew the entire plan of Salvation, and all that needed to be known, which was that he has chosen to be a disciple of Christ. The last lesson was the most precious. I got to tell Riley part of my conversion story, and his missionaries, Elder Stafford and Elder Johnson, were so good to him. Especially Elder Stafford, who gave Riley a beautiful wood puzzle about the plan of salvation, that his father had given him.

(The Elders weren't in their suits because they had stopped helping a family move, dashed over for the baptism, and then dashed back to finish their service)

Saturday morning we all were up and getting ready... Riley got a new suit from Grandma, and a towel that was pure white from us, to represent that baptism makes you pure and white, and even though we sin, we can still be washed clean through repentance, just like the towel can get dirty and be washed clean and bright again.

(The baptismal Font after Riley had been baptized, we don't take pictures during as it is too sacred and event)
(Bryn, Victoria Hern, Olivia and Ira, were all so reverent)

It is so hard to put into words how powerful it was and special to watch Josh baptize our child, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. How special it was to have his grandfather give him the gift of the Holy Ghost, and confirm him a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Amazing!! We felt in out pouring of love, from all our family and friends for Riley, and for us. The same time that all of this was going on Josh had been laid off for coming up on two months. I look at that time as such a blessing to us, without it we would not have been able to attend Temple prep classes, have the missionaries over as much, and not have gotten to know each other even better then we did before. The Lord knows the desires of our hearts, and blesses us when we follow what he has asked, that is what I have learned through all of this.

The neat ending to this little snipit is... The next day was Sunday, and Riley usually has a hard time just sitting in Sacrament service, but today he was dressed in his new suit and tie, had his scriptures, and when they blessed the bread and water, Riley bowed his head the entire time, and prayed fervently for his father. I asked him "What was it you prayed for during sacrament?" "I asked Heavenly Father to please give dad a job." That Tuesday Josh received a job offer from HSD in Spokane Valley, and started the following Monday. "...and a little child shall lead them." Isaiah 11:6

We ended the day with a a nice lunch at home featuring all white food, White Bean Chili with monterey jack cheese, white fruit salad, white corn chips, and coconut cake with white frosting. It was so special, thank you everyone that participated and loved us through this time.