It is hard to put into words what this day means to me. Not only was it Mother's Day but it was also the day we dedicated our precious baby girls back to the Lord. These two days are something I used to dream about, while still despising it at the same time. It is hard for me to admit that, but it is true. I can remember actually leaving the sanctuary, claiming I had to use the restroom, as all the parents came out in a single file line holding their adorable little babies. I can remember my heart aching to be amongst those parents, loving on their children as they promised to raise them in God's light and truth. Now, I am a part of that group. And while I, like any other parent on this special day, relish in the joy of being a mother, my heart still breaks for all those women out there who are still living in a dream; a dream that they just aren't sure will ever become a reality for them. I still pray that the Lord will never let me forget that pain. I don't want to forget where I have come from. I don't want to forget what it took to get here. And I most certainly don't want to forget those that are still hurting. So yes, this was an extremely special day for me but even still, my prayers were for the women (and men) out there who long to have their arms filled with the love and joy we so often take for granted.
I can't think of a more special Mother's Day than to be able to dedicate our girls back to the One who blessed our life with them. My mom came into town the night before and the rest of the crew met us at church the following morning. Before we were able to participate in this ceremony, we had to take a class that explained to us what baby dedication actually is and provided helpful information to equip us for the life to come. I was a little disappointed that Pastor Alex, our lead pastor, was on sabbatical and unable to lead the ceremony. However, Paul Cockrell did an amazing job validating that it's not about who leads the ceremony, or even the event itself, but about the commitment we were making.
At the 9:30 service on May 11th, we made a commitment to raise our girls with the bible as our guide and the Lord as the head of our family. It was truly a beautiful morning and I am so thankful that we had our blood family, church family, and friends their to witness and celebrate this special time with us.
Trying on our dress the night before....had to make sure we picked the right one ;)
A mini photo shoot before heading to the church.
We were waiting for our turn!
Still waiting, but getting closer!
My baby girls are getting dedicated! You should have heard the reaction from the congregation. I am not sure if it was the adorable picture of the girls displayed on the big screen (thanks Melanie!) or the fact that we have twins...we tend to get that a lot :)
The associate pastor introduced our girls, gave the meaning of their names (they told us they have to get creative with some of the unique names), and then quoted a special bible verse for each child.
Avari Hope~A Good Counselor
"Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out."
--Proverbs 20:5
Emeri Faith~Industrious Leader
"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"
--Psalm 27:1
At this point, we were making the actual commitment. Not only did the parents make a commitment that day, but so did the church. It is so comforting to know that we are surrounded by people who are going to help us on this crazy journey!
Then, they had our husbands hand the babies to their wives, and get down on one knee as they prayed for our families. I think they thought I couldn't hold both girls but I've got this ;)
It is complete and we are now heading off stage. The actual ceremony only lasted about 5 minutes but the commitment we made today will last a life time!
Afterwards, we went out to the garden area where they hold baptisms. I wanted to get pictures of everyone that took part in our special day and I thought this wold be the best spot with the pretty scenery all around.
LOVE my family!!
So thankful that the Nannie and the Nana came to witness this special day!
So thankful that our best friends were by our sides...just like they always are!
Happy First Mother's Day
2012
Heather+Sophia+Lilah=LOVE
After church we decided to go out for lunch. Unfortunately but not surprisingly, every place in town was super crowed...except for Spring Creek Barbecue. Yay! If you know me, then you know I'm being sarcastic. I.Hate.Barbecue. Regardless, this was the best of the options. With three kids in tow, we knew we wouldn't be able to sit through a lengthy wait anywhere. So, barbecue it was! After lunch and naps, James' family came over for a pool party! I was so excited because this was the girls first time in the pool!! They didn't seem overly enthusiastic but were definitely content (they love to be outside!). We swam, grilled out (again, not my favorite), took a walk, and most importantly, spent sweet time with family!
My Mother's Day Flowers & Chocolates
Not Pictured~A Gift Card to Cinco Ranch Spa :)
The girls having fun with Nannie~LOVE this!
Right before the girls first swim ever~aren't they adorable in their little tutu swimsuits?! We actually have matching hats but so far I have only found one...it can be hard to find matching things at times.
We're diving in...or rather being placed in gently ;)
Hmmm....this might not be so bad after all! Plus, mom has already told us that we ARE water babies, whether we like it or not ;)
Love my girls!
Dad & his little angels!
Miss Avari
Miss Emeri
Sisters!
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