Family Dedication for Eli Bennett ...

J How informed us - on the way to church - that he was a rock and roll star. He was a tad upset that I didn't bring his guitar with us but was quickly distracted when he saw my cell phone. He had an entire pretend conversation with my mom. "I call Bella. Hello, Bella. What you doing, Bella? Go church Bella. Play friends. Go church. Bye Bella." He closed the phone, handed it back to me and told us that Bella - indeed - was coming to church. Phew! Good thing he confirmed that for us!

The crew with Pastor Cal. Eli is looking pretty excited about the whole event! Actually, there were two security guards sitting in a golf cart right in front of us ... Eli was just giving them a bit of an "evil glare" to make sure they didn't get in the picture.

Pastor Cal prayed and all J How was concerned with was that there were two guitars on the stage behind him. This is me - trying to explain to him - in hushed tones to FOCUS on something other than a guitar :)

We committed to raise Eli in a home that is Christ-centered, teach him Scripture, pray for him daily and to show him through our life, our commitment to Christ and the Church. The church then committed to partner with us in our desire to raise godly children, to assist us and support us as we seek to grow and mature in Christ.

Me (wearing ovals - as J How pointed out), GiGi (my grandma), How How (my grandpa), Pap Pap (Ben's dad), Cake (Ben's mom), Eli, Ben (holding Eli's newest friend, Blue), J How (holding Mook) and Bella.

Our first attempt at a Mother's Day photo when we got home. This is me trying my hand at "discipline with a smile" ... okay ... you could also call it bribing ... it didn't work so well.

This is my attempt at "You'll sit here for ONE more photo or else!" More effective!!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!