Gracey's Baptism

*In an effort to get more on top of my journaling, I have decided to not allow myself to feel the pressure of writing down every. little. thing. I found that by becoming overwhelmed and feeling like I would never catch up, it prevented me from writing down even the most important things. Here is the beginning of what will hopefully be more consistency. Whether the quality is good or bad, at least it will be something.

On November 23rd, Miss Gracey Mae Whipple was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. This was something that she has been preparing for and anticipating for a while, especially this past year.

A few months ago we gave Gracey the option of doing it in her home ward in Independence, KS, surrounded my her ward family and friends, and whatever extended family would be able to join us. Or she could choose to be baptized in St. George where we knew there would be a greater amount of family in attendance. She thought about it for a few weeks and decided to do it in St. George.

It was a gorgeous day all around. It was a small, intimate setting, and Gracey was surrounded by family and cousins that love her so much.

Grandma Joyce and her Aunt Bailey each gave a little talk on baptism and the Holy Ghost, and Gracey and Emily sang a special hymn, "I Am a Child of God," accompanied by myself.

She was baptized and confirmed by her dad, Corky, while Grandpa Scott, Grandpa Ron, Great-Grandpa Madsen, Uncle Jared, and Uncle Skyler stood in the circle for her confirmation.

It was a special day for everyone, but most importantly for Gracey. She was grinning from ear to ear and on the drive to Grandma's house from the church she told us how good she felt.

We sure do love our Gracey-girl. She has some beautiful things in store for her as she continues to make right choices in her life. She touches so many people and is a kind and loving friend. We are proud of her and hope that she remembers this day forever.

A few weeks before her baptism, Gracey had some portraits taken. Here a few of our favorites from that session.