Madison's Baptism

Our baby turned eight years old August 31, 2008. She doesn't act like the baby at all, she has the wisdom and calmness of a person 40 years her senior. She definitely was the Ball Family's calming factor, our little peace maker. Everyone came home for her special day and birthday weekend extravaganza. The weekend started off with a hula swim party with all of her closest friends. Everyone got to dress up, learn a hula, get thrown in the pool by papa, the proud lifeguard on duty, then eat a lot of great bar-b-q, prepared by B and Jared (B's beau). Lindsay made a hula cake at Mattie's request, then we all helped her open her presents. That evening we headed down to the Hollywood Bowl, which is one of our favorite family traditions. Mom made her famous chicken croissant sandwiches along with all of our staple treats and snacks. The next day was Sunday and even though the ward has pretty much stopped doing Baptisms on this day, they made an exception since we were all in town just for this short period. Mom and Nicholas gave wonderful talks, the Bishop spoke, Juji bore her testimony, and Brittany sang. Then Landon got to Baptize her, his very first time baptizing anyone, which was so special. Dad then confirmed her and everyone showered her with loves. It was an amazing weekend, it was great to all be together celebrating Madison's life.