Wednesday, January 24, 2007

Baptism and Blessings

My little girl MJ was baptized a few days ago. It was wonderful to see her touched by the spirit and feeling the love of her Heavenly Father. I am so proud of her and the lovely young lady she is becoming. We had family and friends come from all around to be a part of MJ's big day, and we are so grateful for the support and love they give to her.


MJ has spunk, energy and attitude, and I like her that way. No one could ever say she wasn't fun. She can be appropriately reverent and serious, and does well in school. And she is athletic (which is amazing to me- I never willingly participate in anything sporty) and involved in so many great things. I am happy to say she is one well-rounded kid.

I remember when I was younger, I imagined that my kids would be perfectly gentle, well behaved and brilliant. Do we all imagine that before we have kids? Well- now that I have mom experience and see the wide variety of personalities out there- I am glad to say my kids are not what I thought I wanted all those years ago. I am much more suited to outgoing, kinda loud, fun little people. We laugh our heads off, sing obnoxiously loud, tell slightly rude jokes, and enjoy hanging out together.

And MJ and TJ have an added attribute that I really, really love. They are kind. They have a brother with autism, and it has opened up their minds to accepting and loving all types of people. I see them performing amazing acts of service for him without a second thought. Teachers tell me they can count on MJ and TJ to befriend the kids who struggle to fit in. One of the great blessing of having a child with a disability is how it has affected our hearts so much. I can't wait to see what kind of teenagers and grown ups they turn out to be.

Catch me if you can-
~AJ

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Yes, your children are definitely kind. That was one of the first things we noticed about TJ and one of the reasons we were so eager for our boy to play with him--because he is a great example. After his happy victory at the Pinewood Derby last week, he came running after me, wondering what had become of I., and concerned about him. I do not know any other boy his age who would let concern for his friend overshadow the excitement of winning so quickly. We think he's terrific. All your kids are.

(BTW, when do you want to go fabric shopping?)

Melissa said...

Another thing we have in common.... my oldest boy was baptized on the 19th of this month! :)

Dixie Chic said...

Congratulations, MJ! Wow- you are one BEAUTIFUL girl! Anyone ever tell you that you're a spitting image of your mommy? (Just what I've seen from pictures, anyway) Amazing! :)

Congrats again on the baptism!

tharker said...

What an exciting day for your daughter! My little girl turns 8 at the end of this year, and cannot wait to be baptized. Your daughter looks absolutely beautiful in her white dress!