Lucas' Christening Day

Last weekend we celebrated one of Lucas' first rites of passage in this world - his baptism in the Catholic faith. His christening was held at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in Vallejo. This is the same parish where I received my first Confession, first Communion, Confirmation and where Randy and I were married.The weather had been cold and rainy all week with more rain forecasted for the day of his baptism, but by a stroke of luck the day remained dry until after our reception.

Lucas wore the most adorable little christening outfit that reminded me of little French school children from the olden days.

Because it was still cold we didn't change him into his outfit until we got to the church. Here he is with Ate Gabby wearing a sweater and snazzy pin-striped pants.

Randy and I put a lot of thought into who we choose as godparents for our children. We are not the type to choose anyone out of obligation, nor do we choose very many. Both Cruz and Lucas have two sets of godparents each. For both children my sister and brother-in-law are godparents, and for Lucas we asked our good friends Josh and Christine Kroll. My sister and Kuya Maynard were obvious choices because they are like second parents to my kids - always happily taking care of them anytime we ask and truly love them like their own.

We became friends with the Krolls through my former college roommate and hit it off instantly. We met in 2000 and have been friends ever since, growing closer over the years. They have 3 awesome children, with their 2nd and 3rd kids being the same age as Cruz and Lucas. They have been big supporters of Randy and I as individuals and of our family as a whole. More importantly I believe they share our perspective on faith and family values. I know in my heart that if something untimely were ever to happen to Randy or I, they would do whatever they could to make sure our children were cared for. We are so lucky to have them as friends/family.

Lucas was the first child to be baptized that day. Randy held him over the fount and Father Jess Soriano baptized him in the name of the Father,

and of the Son,

and of the Holy Spirit - AMEN!

Lucas was calm the entire time and even smiled at the people he could see!

After the ceremony we invited all of our guests to a lunch reception at Zio Fraedo's restaurant at the Vallejo Waterfront. We have had two other events there in the past because the food and service are top notch every time. We had a hearty spread that had something for everyone.

To make things a little more special I created my own dessert table. In keeping with the "purity" and baptism theme I went with an all-white motif. I thought it looked clean and polished. The desserts included vanilla bean marshmallows, yogurt raisins, yogurt pretzels, meringues, powdered donuts, s'more cupcakes (ok not totally white but I couldn't resist the yummy flavor) and double vanilla cupcakes.

My sister made these adorable favors. She individually wrapped small Hershey bars and bundled them together with ribbon. Tiny clothespins finished the look - how cute are they?

Lucas' christening day was a special event that we kept on the smaller side, choosing mostly family to celebrate with us. I have peace in my heart knowing that my son has been officially dedicated to the Lord and has claimed his own birthright as a child of God.

I will end with this simple bible verse: "Whoever welcomes a child in My name, welcomes Me" - Luke 9:46-48.