Best Christmas Gift Ever

We had a very busy holiday this year. Part of this was because Seth turned six months old on the 15th of this month, which is a big date when adopting. On December 21 at 8:30 in the morning, we appeared before a judge and finalized the adoption, which means Seth is legally ours as if he were born to us. Though it doesn't change how we feel about him, it is wonderful to know it's actually done now.

What a perfect Christmas gift.

Cute little gift, huh? And what a chunk! At his six month appointment, he was 19.5 pounds! And perfectly healthy in every way.

After we finalized, we were able to give him a name and blessing. We did this on December 27th. Dan gave such a nice blessing, speaking of how much he is loved, and how much his birth mom loves him. He also blessed him with strength, not just physically but of spirit and mind to be able to make good choices. He also blessed him to serve a mission one day. And to know that even though he may feel different at times, to know that he is a unique child of God.

He was so happy during his blessing. We could hear him babbling as Dan gave it. My dad later said that he was trying to sit up the whole time to get a good look at everyone around him. As they walked back to our seat, he looked out at everyone and just kept saying "da da da da."

The highlight of everything was, of course, the chance we had to take him to the temple to be sealed. We did this on December 31. It was a wonderful morning. Emma didn't need to participate in the ceremony, as she is sealed to us already, but she was able to come and watch. We took the kids to the children's center, and they let me change and meditate in the bride's room. I was able to enjoy it a bit more than on my wedding day! After that, we went upstairs and our family was waiting for us. Then, the kids came in - Emma all in smiles, and Seth immediately reached for me. The ceremony lasted all of 30 seconds, but I know it is the most significant thing we've done as his parents. Finally, he is ours in every way. I always knew that he would be mine forever, but now it is official in every way.

Sonnie took some pictures of us the next day in our white clothing. These are just snapshots my mom took - Sonnie would be horrified with these, but I still love them!

Little Princess Emma.

Mama and baby.

And the amazing "da da."

Oh my! And the little nudy patootey.

Is he going to hate these when he gets older? Yes! Can you see why I love them? Yes!

FAMILY

Of course, the greatest Christmas Gift ever is the gift of our Savior, Jesus Christ. If not for Him, none of the blessings in my life would have the lasting, eternal meaning they do. It is because of Him, and the atonement, that I feel deep, true happiness when things are good in my life, and comfort and peace when they aren't. I know that He loves us, and He gave His life so that we can live with Him and those we love forever.