Blessing Day

On June 3, 2012, a little over forty people gathered at our home to witness Aiden's baby blessing.  Blessings at our home have become a little tradition, taking the place of the traditional Sacrament Meeting blessing at church squeezed in between Ward Business and the Sacrament Hymn.  I just love the intimacy and celebration that can be had by relocating it to the home...totally special.  Aiden was given an official name and blessed with strength and health, two things with which he did not come into this world initially equipped.  Wes gave a beautiful prayer, interrupted momentarily by Beethoven's 5th on the stereo (I ran to turn the iPod off and missed a few seconds.)  My sweet boy slept through the first half hour of his party, but awoke feeling refreshed and content.  He didn't make a peep during the blessing, just like his brother.  I imagine the twelve priesthood holders bouncing him had a calming effect.  I am grateful to all of those who came to show their love and support to my second-born.  He is a treasure. 

Mamma made some de-yii-cious hors d'oeuvres.  

Aiden was surrounded by friends and family.  He is a lucky boy to have so much love around him from the very start.  

Below are our ward friends, Jared and Erika Martin, who were recently blessed to be able to adopt an adorable two year old blond sweetie-pie named Dempsey.  We love these people.  They own a company called Christening Day, and are responsible for Aiden's ridiculously cute blessing outfit.  Thank you, Martins!  

Bret didn't want his picture taken while eating dessert because he said it would make him look "chubby."  My mom is trying to cheer him up, but he's not having it...

I know, I know.  No pictures during prayers...but this was BEFORE it started.  I promise.  

Left to right: Steven Rawson, David Blake, John Carlson, Neil Hatch, Kevin Charles, Weston Charles, (Aiden Charles), Rex Hardy, John Charles, Jared Martin, Bishop Kennard Clark, Bret Rawson, Mike Wilton

My dear friend whom I went to high school with in Stuttgart, Germany, Catt King, was able to attend.  She has a new job with Nestle in Human Resources and was in the area for a few days for training.  SO incredibly wonderful to see her.  

These may be our only family pictures of the four of us in existence.  We can do better than this, can't we, guys?  One day.  

Love/chaos.