For several before Carson and Vanessa turned 8, I would ask them about baptism, quizzing them on primary and family home evening lessons. I wanted to make sure they were choosing baptism, not just following the crowd of friends, neighbors, and relatives that have made that choice. If the Lord has said that at 8-years-old you are accountable for your choices, then I know they are able. But they still need to make an educated decision.
Every time I asked why they wanted to be baptized, the answer was simple. They wanted to be like Jesus. In a brief meeting with the Bishop, I was in awe of their innocence and understanding, and of their strong desire to be baptized. They just wanted to do what they felt was right.
Just like when Karleah and Nathanael were baptized, I felt so anxious about everything. Had I really taught them enough? Did they really understand what a big choice this would be? To follow Jesus throughout the rest of their lives? 8 years is so little time, and I know that I could have done more to prepare them. As with every major event in a child's life, I become overly aware of all my failures and shortcomings. I question the way I handle things, what I have made my priorities, and what I have failed to teach them. Then, as I hear the simple testimony of my tiny, 8-year-olds (all 4 that I have watched reach that age...) I know I am not doing it all wrong. I still fail, but there are primary teachers, family members, friends, and neighbors that help fill those gaps.
The big day was April 9th. We got up early and got everybody ready. Vanessa had a beautiful dress my mom made, and Carson had a brand new tie and tie-tack I chose for him. They were both ecstatic and I tried to focus on that as the chaos of getting 10 kids (and my husband) ready and out the door on time sometimes overwhelmed me.
The twins had asked Grandma Stout to say the opening prayer, Grandma White to give a talk, Grandpa Stout to give a talk and Grandma Stucky to say the closing prayer. It really touched me to see all those grandparents there for them.
Their dad (Aaron) baptized them. Vanessa went first, Carson said she needed to, "Ladies first!" I watched Vanessa, then we stood right outside the font to watch Carson. When it was time to be confirmed as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Vanessa said it was Carson's turn to be first "I had to go first last time!"
Jason confirmed them and gave them the gift of the holy ghost. In the circle was their dad, their stepdad, 3 uncles, and some men in the ward. I nearly cried when I saw Aaron and Jason in the circle together, hands on each other's shoulders as they focused on the event. There were no hard feelings between any of them, there was no contention. The twins could feel pure joy. It was such a blessing for all involved.
To finish off, the Bishop asked Carson and Vanessa to stand on a chair so they could see all the people that came to show their love and support. Vanessa smiled as she teared up a little (no denying she's mine.) Carson grinned from ear to ear, and they both just glowed with peace and joy.
All in all, everything was wonderful. I am so proud to be their mommy, and I am grateful for men that honor the priesthood above all else, making a day like this possible.
