Nic wanted her to be baptised at St Matthew's while they were here - although they attend a Baptist church in Tauranga, where adult, rather than infant baptism is practised, this was something Nicky wanted very much. We were so delighted when our Priest, Peter Gunning, agreed to baptise her and on Easter Sunday, too - when we celebrate the Risen Christ, whose death and resurrection makes it possible for us to receive eternal life.
The whole family was there - immediate and extended - and we were so blessed as little Em was totally angelic, not even whimpering when the water was poured over her little head. Nic chose not to put on the 100 year old Christening robe that was made for my Dad's family by Great Aunt Mar, and dressed her instead in the little embroidered dress I had made for her.
So many memories - the christening robe was worn by my dad and his 6 brothers and sisters - but what did they do when the twins were baptised?Then I know Jen and I wore it as I have pictures - and I assume at least some of the cousins did too - our family is "big" on doing family things. Then Sarah and Nic both wore it - Nic was such a big baby that we had to organise the baptism before she got too big to wear the robe! I think Vonnie might have worn it - but certainly Nadia and Adrian were too big when they were baptised.
When Kev came along, it didn't seem right for a little boy to wear a long white dress in the 1990s, so I embroidered him a little playsuit with a Winnie the Pooh on the bodice. So I felt I had to make something special for Emily. It was a rush - I was still sewing on the last poppers at quarter past 7 this morning. I want a chance to redo bits of it so she can wear it again - Nic says it will become the new "antique" robe and I would really like it to be better made :-)
When Kev was baptised, my Mom gave him my Dad's christening mug as a present, so I decided to give Emily mine - after having it re-silvered. I really do love the sense of continuity having things passed down the generations gives.
I missed my Mom today - I would have loved her to be there, scatty as she was, and I am sure she would have adored Emily. She would probably have knitted a dolly for her - or not! It was good to have her great-Nana here - and Emily is a rejuvenating influence for her. Mom has been so unwell, but when she holds Emily, she is like a new person.
Having the extended family with us - both our daughter's parents in law, Pete's and my sisters, neices and nephews, Laura's future in-laws, all Em's aunties and uncles and friends was just so special. This is when I am so glad to have a big house so we can host them all.
So a wonderful Easter Day - not only a great Church Festival, but a family festival too.
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