Somebody Smells Like Chrism

This past weekend, we trekked up to Dallas for the day for our nephew’s baptism. For my non-Texan readers, that equals about 7+ hours in the van. It would’ve been less, but some football game between OU and t.u. caused quite a bit of traffic ruckus. It might’ve been easier for the Longhorns to stay home. Too soon? Sorry.

Not only were we going as the official aunt and uncle of said cute nephew, but we were also named his Godparents. What an honor. I mean, look at that face!

We left a chilly, rainy, overcast Austin and arrived in gorgeous, sunny, perfect weather Dallas. When we rolled into town, Scott and I both commented, “Man, what an awesome day to have a baptism!”

The kids were in heaven because they got to play with cousins and we enjoyed watching them tear it up together. After their near-perfect behavior during Mass, my brother-in-law said we must be in God’s house because it was such a miracle. Amen, Cory. Luke didn’t want to sit with anyone except Scott, so we nicknamed him the third Godparent. At this parish, they do baptisms during Mass. The only major downside is they didn’t allow photos or videos during the actual baptism. I thought me, my sister- and mother-in-law might die after hearing that news. They assured us we could “recreate” it after the Mass concluded. Guess who was first to ask the priest to take photos at the conclusion of Mass? To all future priests reading this blog – because I am sure there must be thousands (ha!) – let your parents take photos during the baptism!

As the priest said, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit” there came some tears. I can’t help myself. Fortunately, no tissues were needed. What a beautiful, beautiful moment. It’s always during that time I realize, yet again, the great responsibility placed upon parents and Godparents to bring children up in a faith-filled home. My SIL and I are both converts, as is my brother, and I am SO grateful we all share the same faith. Sacraments bring us closer to God and Sunday did not disappoint.

We managed to snap some photos after Mass and there was only one minor child breakdown that was quickly remedied, not bad with 8 kids. Then, we enjoyed some lunch and cake back at their house. Well, I should say Hudson really enjoyed the cake, Luke and Alex (our other nephew) really enjoyed playing trains and the big, big brothers enjoyed a glass of wine.

On more than one occasion I found myself sniffing Hudson’s sweet head. Man, there is nothing sweeter than a baby that smells like chrism. Hudson, we are so proud of you! Big day, lots of fun memories and a lifetime of faith. I’ll drink to that.