A Great Birthday and Baptism Weekend for Braden

It was a great last weekend as Braden turned 8 on Friday, then got baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

It all started Friday when Braden woke up to his chosen breakfast of Eggs, Bacon, Donuts and Juice. We opened presents (his favorite present was of course the baseball glove that Dad picked out for him, and that is getting worn in as we speak.) Later in the afternoon he took a couple friends to the junior high pool with water slides and stuff, and had a great time. Then when Dad got home, our friends the Palmers came over and joined us for some cake, ice cream, and general merriment.

Here is a picture of Braden before blowing out his birthday candles, including a big #8 candle:

Saturday brought an amazing day. Braden and I had to be down at the Stake Center for his baptism at 9:30. There were 2 other 8-year old kids getting baptized that day. We had a LOT of family there from both sides. Braden had asked Drex to give a scripture on baptism as part of the service, and he did great. Braden also had Amy's dad (Pops) give a talk on baptism. He was very thorough in his preparation and delivery.

I got to baptize Braden. Then we changed out of our wet clothes, and went into the chapel where just our family was to do the Confirmation. It was a very spirtual experience for me personally and many others expressed the same. We were so grateful and appreciative and humbled to have the love and support of so much family and friends. Braden is one lucky fellah!

After the baptism we came back to our church building for a great luncheon. Everyone brought food, which was great. But of course, the centerpeice of it all was the Krazy Subs, particularly the Krazy 8 sub. The Krummenachers always do a fabulous job and we encourage any and all to visit their shops here.

Here are some pics of some (not all) who were in attendance.

Grandma and Grandpa Ras with Brades

Great Grandma Ras with Brades

Grammy and Pops Lange with Brades

Brades with cousins Crew and Noah

Abbie going crazy!

We finished up the night with our family birthday tradition. We take our kids on a 1-on-1 "date" with mom and dad on their birthday. The birthday kid gets to choose where to eat dinner and what movie they want to go to. Braden chose Texas Roadhouse (also a family favorite). He likes that he gets free ice cream and can ride the bull as everyone gives him a big "Yee-Haw". It's shown below. But after a great dinner, Braden chose to see Journey to the Center of the Earth in 3-D. It was a lot of fun.

I know that both Amy and I were exhausted at the end of the day. It had been a crazy 2 days, but all well worth it. We are so proud of Braden and the life he has lived up until now and for his correct choice and worthiness to be baptized. We are very proud of you, Brades!