Mike and I attended the baptism of Canaan Matthew Dowling this weekend. The Dowlings are our friends and fellow Cavassans (we all live in Cavasso Nuovo). We were happy to attend to show our love and support, but it was also a really neat experience for us. The service was in Cavasso's church here in town. We should have made the 10 minute walk, but since we were running a little late, we drove. However, when we made the walk up the hill to the church from where we parked, I realized that that hike alone would be sufficient as my exercise for the day.
The service was in Italian. Somehow, a child's Catholic baptism seems more authentic if it takes place in Italy, in a small-town church, and in Italian. Kind of like if one were to be baptized in the Jordan river. I'm well aware that there's no fundamental differences, but I just think there's just something special about it. I know, I'm ridiculous.
The first picture is Canaan with Ron and Dorit. Dorit is our (Allison and Dowling) realator and one of our first friends in Italy.
Next is the Priest that performed the ceremony next to the baptismal. Dowling family (Jerry, Shelly, McKenna, Jack, Quinton, and Canann) and the Godmother (Barbara--their Italian babysitter and friend) and her family.
Anyway, we were happy to take part and happy to eat all the great food at the Dowlings afterward.
This is a picture of me and an update on belly status. I know it's dark, but I hope you can also appreciate the bright yellow fall foliage behind me. Fall has officially arrived in Cavasso.

Happy Halloween!

Baby Shower!

We were so blessed by the overwhelming amount of love and support we received at the shower! We are so grateful to have a home church family and so many faithful friends that are celebrating the arrival of our first child with us.
At the very top are all of the wonderful ladies that volunteered to help with the event. (Sorry Laney, the photographer didn't tell me they couldn't see you :(.)
On the top right is me and proud Grandma.
Then you'll see hostesses, Laney, Kimberly and Jennifer in various states of preparation.
I was excited to have Mike's Aunt Carma make the drive all the way from New Braunfels.
And of course, what's a baby shower, with out presents? The big picture was taken as I opened Mike's favorite gift. I Houston Astros (Bagwell) outfit. I'm afraid our son will be born into a family of hard-core Astros fans. (Not that that's a bad thing...)
Barbara Wolfe was kind enough to involve my Mom with an "I love Grandma" bib. Too cute.
We also had 2 trash helpers: our niece Armani and Tobi Gillespie pictured here with the yellow ribbon on her head.
I'm afraid the 13+ hour flight back and forth was very comfortable, but the trip was so worth it. It was great to see everyone (after almost a year of living overseas), and I can't wait to come home this summer so all of you can meet our son. :)