Bee is for BLESSED ...: Zoe's one year baptismal anniversary

When we were taking the baptism class at the Cathedral, Monsignor Kevin emphasized how important a person's baptism day really was ... it was the day that a person officially become an heir or heiress to God's kingdom ... to eternal life. As such, the baptism day is more important than a person's actual birthday. He felt so strongly about it that he encouraged parents to celebrate not only their child's birthdays, but also (and more importantly), their baptism day. Mike and I totally agreed with his perspective and decided that we would do the same for Zoe (and all our future kids). Since Zoe's one year baptismal anniversary fell on a Monday this year, we decided to have a small gathering at the Sunbeam Hotel. We invited family and of course, the godparents. Unfortunately, Monsignor Kevin had a scheduling conflict and could not attend Zoe's special day (he was definitely there in spirit, though!). Despite his absence, it was so nice to spend much needed QT with Fr. Francis and Tasha. We hadn't seen them in a while and it was great to catch up (so much has happened since we last hung out).

Everyone was excited about the occasion since it was all our first "baptismal anniversary party". Fr. Francis admitted that it was his first time to attend such a thing, despite how many times Monsignor Kevin encourages parents to do it. My mom, Tita Bot and Uncle Buddy all prepared their specialties and Ninang Tasha provided a tres leches strawberry cake from Phoenix bakery. What did I contribute? Delicious mangoes and ... ZOE =). The entire evening was so wonderful and it was such a great tradition we started!!! It was nice to reminisce about Zoe's "big day" and to reflect on how much she has grown spiritually in just one year ... she can now do the sign of the cross (most of the time, at least) and whenever she sees a crucifix, she says, "Jeshus?". She also has never missed mass (thank God for keeping her healthy the past 15+ months!) ... she's definitely on her way to becoming quite a good Catholic =).

Sometimes we forget how much of a blessing it is to have our faith ... to be able to say "We Are Catholic" and to truly stand by the teachings of the church. Our spiritual life makes up so much of the rest of our lives and is what colors all of our decisions, thought processes and actions. Tonight's celebration was a great reminder of that and I can't wait to be able to do something special like this every year!