For those who could join us, and especially those who could not... Leiah's baptism

Just like her big sister Yaminah before her, Leiah was baptized at Concordia Lutheran Church in my hometown of Fertile, MN. We couldn't have asked for a better day--November 15--the weather was so warm and sunny that we were able to take pictures outside in the afternoon, and Leiah didn't mind one bit, even though she was wearing a short-sleeved gown.

All of our American siblings were home for the event, which made for a crazy/fun weekend, and Leiah's Swedish grandfather, Farfar, honored everyone by coming from Sweden.

Pastor Phil Larsen did an excellent job (even though Leiah tried to grab his folder during the service) and when she was baptized he even carried her out to face the congregation as he sang a baptism blessing to the tune of Edelweiss.

We had the reception in the church's fellowship hall, and it turned out to be a very nice, relaxed luncheon. Tomas had made quiches (10!), salmon and ham; we had buns, pumpkin muffins, punch, salads, and snacks.

Here are some photos from our wonderful day. Special thanks to my awesome stepbrother Josh Ring for taking most of the indoor photos from the baptism and reception. Thanks to everyone who came, everyone who sent well-wishes, and everyone who continues to keep Leiah in their thoughts and prayers!

~~~~
"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."  Matthew 19:14

~~ Leiah Emelina Mariann ~~ 

 

Leiah's baptism with Pastor Phil and her American godparents, Danell & Paul and David. In Sweden she also has Maria & Magnus. She's one lucky girl...

Proud big sister Yaminah holding the baptismal candle 

With Pastor Phil, who has a beautiful singing voice.

The grandparents: Elisabeth & Bruce, Mark, and John. Farmor Mariann--after whom Leiah is named--was with us in our hearts.

From Barbados to Fertile, Uncle Dave/Godfather Dave is already there for Leiah.

Our forever friends, Paul & Danell, with whom we are now bound on both sides as we are godparents of their handsome Erik.

Thank goodness for neighbors and parents, including our Belinda, who not only played for my solo song (I sang "Children of the Heavenly Father"/Tryggare kan ingen vara), she also manages to be there for us whenever we have an important occasion (our wedding in Sweden, and both our daughters' baptisms).



Tomas is the chef in the family and made the quiches that everyone seemed to swoon over, but I must admit, my pumpkin apple muffins weren't too bad, either... :)

 

 

At Bruce's request, Pastor Phil and I sang an impromptu duet, "Day by Day." I hope we get a chance to sing together again in the future!

The man behind the camera (and most of these photos!): stepbrother Josh. Thanks to Scott for snapping more photos as well and especially for taking a video of the baptism!

Yaminah with her friend BreElla and Kiera. Like all the other kids at the reception, they ran and had a good time in the church basement.

Some of the happy guests: Beth and boyfriend Billy; Rachel and Colin, Josh and Bruce, and Darin and David.

This is why we decided not to have the reception at Mom and Bruce's house... :)
Here we all are having supper the night before.

How many people can fit into one room at the same time? :)  The night before the baptism and the whole gang is together.