Rewind - Tia's Baptism

On November 12 2005, we had Tia baptised. It was an amazing time. I never expected it to be such a significant occasion. Some of our friends were surprised that we baptised her, expecting us to have her dedicated instead. In truth, we were as suprised as anyone else, but when she was born we knew it was the right thing for us to do. For us it was a symbol of the beginning of a new family, recognising that not only do we have a great extended family around us (see earlier postings) but we are also part of another family, God's family. It was like a declaration of intent in some ways, saying this is how we want to raise Tia. We want her to be aware of her physical and spiritual heritage, and experience God's love surrounding her all the days of her life.

The baptism was short and sweet, with friends gathered around us, praying God's blessing on Tia and on us as a family. I sobbed my face off, for all kinds of reasons...

That said - Tia was none too impressed with how our good intentions were expressed - the whole cold water thing. She gave the pastor Walt a glare as he started pouring water on her and then screamed her best scream (She's got a great pair of lungs, our daughter!). I guess it didn't help that Walt invited Chris and I to pour water on her too. The girl was drenched!

Soon she was back in my arms getting dry and our friends came back to the house and we had a party to celebrate. But for the guest of honour it had been a long day, so she was tucked up in bed and went straight to sleep.