The Blessing

 On May 6th, Alan and I arrived at Cheryl's house in Ladera Ranch, California so we could attend the baby blessing that weekend of our newest granddaughter, Wesley Lois Stronk. The blessing didn't take place until that Sunday - May 8th - which also happened to be Mother's Day.

Parker is very shy about giving blessings in public, so they got permission to perform the blessing at Parker's brother Ryan's home. Parker's whole family was in attendance. Alan and I represented the Stott family. 

It was a beautiful spring day, so a decision was made to give her the blessing in Ryan's  beautiful back yard, forgetting about the highway that runs at the back of their house. However, even with the occasional noise of a car or motorcycle whizzing past, the blessing took place and Parker gave Wesley a beautiful blessing.

Wesley has already been such a joy to our family. There is something special about holding this small infant in your arms, knowing that she has recently left her heavenly home. In her new home on earth, she brings peace and joy to her family and the light of God shines in her eyes.

We took pictures after the blessing. Here are a few of them:

(Our beautiful granddaughter Wesley Lois Stronk)

(Got to have at least one spit-up shot, right?)

(Cheryl, Parker, and baby Wesley)

(Everyone who was in attendance - except for the member of their bishopric who witnessed the blessing)

(The boys. Those wearing suits participated in the blessing. From left to right: Ryan Baldwin, Ryan Stronk, Bruce Stronk, Parker holding Wesley, Bro. Albright, Alan, the two boys are Roman and Kessler Stronk)

(The women in attendance left to right: Karla Stronk, Jazz Stronk, Me, Cheryl, baby Wesley, and Sarah Baldwin)

(Cheryl, Wesley, Kessler, and Parker)

We really enjoy every chance we get to hang out with Parker's family. They are fun to be around and Jazz is a good hostess. We were able to share two meals with them, including a nice Mother's Day meal.

It is always such a wonderful experience to see the Priesthood in action. It is only through the power of the Holy Melchizedek Priesthood that these baby blessings can occur. As part of the blessing, she was given the name that will be on the official records of the church - Wesley Lois Stronk. 

I will forever be thankful for the priesthood my father held and used in our home growing up. I'm equally thankful for the priesthood my dear husband holds and has used in behalf of our family throughout our marriage. Since having the priesthood in my home since my birth has been such a blessing to me, I feel sorry for those who do not have that blessings in their home. However, a priesthood blessing is available to anyone who requests one. That, to me, is a great gift. God loves all His children and wants to bless them in any way He can.