Allen's Baptism

WOW! One moment, you are giving birth to your first child, and the next you are getting ready to have him baptized! Eight years has surely flown by quickly. The baptism would be held at the West Bountiful Stake Center. Bruce's sister Julia graciously let us use her home to hold a gathering for our family and friends after the baptism. Much thanks to Bruce's brother Joe for cleaning it!

Before heading up to Bountiful, we stopped in Rose Park to spend some time with the boys' great-grandparents. They would be unable to come up and join us for the baptism, and we wanted to share it with them. Glad to see you Grandma!

Bruce put together an amazingly great looking program and we enjoyed a lot of family participation. My sister Madeline played the piano, my sister Emilee said a prayer, Bruce' brother Joe said another prayer, all the cousins sang the Baptism song, and Allen's grandparents gave the talks on Baptism (Barnum Grandparents) and the Holy Ghost (Hoggan Grandparents). Unfortunately, Grandma Hoggan got really sick and was unable to join us. I was ready and prepared to cry, watching Allen take upon him Jesus' name, but instead, I just radiated with joy.

Afterward at the Ahlstrom Home we gathered for an ice cream buffet and many wonderful family and friends gave Allen gifts to celebrate with him. Bruce and I had a special present for Allen.

He looks excited to get it, doesn't he?

We bought him a quad and had his name engraved on it (thanks Mad!). "Elder Allen McKay Hoggan" to help him remember the direction he should be heading! Thank you to everyone who came to celebrate with us. We enjoyed being able to share this moment of our lives with you.