Annabelle's first ND game and Baptism

So I have to start off with saying that the awesome time that was had this past weekend is obviously excluding the outcome of the game. Even with all of us sticking it out through two rain delays and a six hour game, the Irish still couldn't pull it off..........at least we had a lot of other things to celebrate.

First, family and friends were celebrated the whole weekend. Both James' and I's immediate family were present except for Annabelle's Uncle Chriff who had to work and was missed dearly. In addition to our family, lots of our wonderful friends joined us for ND/Baptism weekend. For most of our friends it was the first time they got to meet Annabelle, so it was very special.  Our family rented a house two blocks from ND campus and our friends rented another house not far from us. Saturday was a day of tailgaiting that included lots of food and drinks. It was very hot outside so Annabelle only came for several hours. She was dressed to kill though (of course!). Grandmom Wenck volunteered to stay back with Annabelle at the house while the rest of us went into the stadium for the game. It was a very good decision considering the heat and then the severe thunderstorms that hit and caused the rain delays and a very, very long game. Nana Waechter joined Grandmom after the first rain delay, so Annabelle was able to watch the game in great company.



On Sunday, the next occasion was celebrated, Annabelle's Baptism. She wore James' dress that he wore during his Christening and the mass was celebrated in the Log Chapel on Notre Dame campus. Our friends and family were the only one's in attendance, it was a very intimate and special celebration. For most of the mass Annabelle loved being the center of attention and was in a great mood. She got a little itchy when she realized she had to stay seated for a little while and not be allowed to roll around on the floor (her new favorite thing), but over all was content most of the time. Uncle Ryan and Aunt Kate are the Godparents and did an awesome job at the ceremony. It was obvious both were very proud and loving Godparents. Looking at my daughter, my husband, and my wonderful family and friends that I love so much, all in one special place like the Log Chapel and surrounded by the Notre Dame tradition, definitely made me feel very blessed.

After the Baptism a picnic was held back at our house. The rest of the weekend continued like the beginning: friends and family having an awesome time enjoying each others' company and sharing in lots of memories, and of course enjoying more food and drinks. Did I mention how lucky James and I feel with such an awesome family and wonderful friends?! Annabelle will be hearing about this weekend forever, as it was one that will never be forgotten.