Beau’s Baptism: A Sacred Day by the Creek
Our Beautiful Chaos
The days leading up to Beau’s baptism were nothing short of a whirlwind. Between Dave’s official retirement on August 30th, two fully loaded trailers hauled down to Tennessee, and the seemingly endless list of tasks to ready the farm for company, it felt like every minute was spoken for. There was unpacking to do, fields to bush hog, hay to harvest, food to purchase and prepare, tents and tables to set up — all while navigating the ongoing sale of our Pennsylvania home. With every phone call, every mile traveled, and every box unloaded, we wondered how it would all come together in time.
By the grace of God, it did.
On Thursday, September 11th, Dave made the long 9½-hour trip back from Pennsylvania with the second trailer, packed to the brim. That evening was not only about settling back in but also quietly celebrating our 4th wedding anniversary — the very first one in our new Tennessee farm home. After hours of unloading, we managed a late steak dinner and a slow 4-wheeler cruise around the property, breathing in the peace of the land we’ve poured so much into.
Friday dawned with a rush of final preparations. More unpacking, more food prep, more setting up for the celebration to come. By evening, family began arriving — grandparents, siblings, uncles and aunts, children, soon-to-be in-laws, and even Beau’s great-grandparents. Our home was brimming with people and laughter, even if it meant giving up our bedroom and tucking ourselves onto an air mattress in the living room. It was tight, it was hectic, but it was beautiful. That night, with everyone gathered around, we ordered pizza, shared stories, and enjoyed the anticipation of what was to come.
Beau’s Baptism by the Creek
Saturday morning greeted us with sunshine and clear skies — a gift in itself. Dakota had chosen the sweetest little baptism outfit for Beau, ordered all the way from Italy. Down by the creek, we made a special space for the great-grandparents, giving them a comfortable front-row seat to the ceremony. The rest of us gathered along the banks, under the shelter of huge old trees whose shade kept us cool, while songbirds filled the air with music.
It couldn’t have been more perfect!
Beau was the star of the day — calm, content, and radiant as the water touched his little head. Tears welled in many eyes as we stood in awe of the moment. It was simple, it was BEAUtiful, it was sacred… a memory etched forever in our hearts.
Afterward, the celebration continued with great food, games, conversation, and even a little of our Poor Valley Creek wine. The air was filled with laughter and love, people catching up, and family soaking in the beauty of the day.
Closing the Weekend
Sunday came too quickly. Dave’s parents left with his sister Lynore and her husband Mike. Dakota and Taylor helped us clean up before heading home with Beau. Billy and Emily stayed one more night. That extra time with just the two of them was a special gift — quiet, unhurried moments, and the chance to enjoy their company over a delicious dinner followed by a sunset evening cruise around the property and neighborhood.
Looking back, it was equally exhausting and amazingly wonderful. A sacred milestone wrapped in family, love, hard work, and God’s grace. Truly, it was our beautiful chaos. I would wish for nothing more!
A little video reel to help remember the moment: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1GYRr4q1Mh/
