Ivy's Baptism, Elysse's Birthday - Grandma and Grandpa Hicken's visit Day #4

 

 Birthday Brownies made by Kezia, 

along with a picture with Elysse's favorite things:  a zebra, a dolphin, a flower, and a girl.

 Pancakes with a Berry on top --Birthday Breakfast Request

Elysse generously shared her birthday celebration with Ivy's baptism.  I was feeling stressed about possibly feeding the ward refreshments afterward, realizing we had planned her baptism on a fast Sunday, but happily last minute I realized we could do a pot luck at our house and take the burden off my shoulders.  It was fantastic.  I loved the support of our friends, especially our friends who are not members of the church but came to support Ivy, including the Clarks, Durrazzos, and Lynn, Kaimana, and Promise, And Kelly (Wanda's owner) came to the party afterward, and even brought her violin to show the kids how to play.

 Elysse in her dress up gift from Grandma and Grandpa Hicken

 Ivy in her baptism dress from Grandma Burgoyne

 Soul in his Mud Face after going face first down the slide

Being baptized was definitely a choice Ivy made; it wasn't something forced upon her or something she "had to do" because she was now eight.  Before, she was a bit hesitant, but later decided she wanted to.  After she was baptized, she jumped on her daddy and gave him a big hug.  Then when she came into the dressing room, she said to me, "I'm so happy I am baptized!"

Grandma Burgoyne made Elysse's cake, of course.  Elysse requested a "winter cake", and here's what she came up with.    (oops!  I'll post the photo when I can find it!)