Blessing of Elise Hazel

We blessed Elise on June 2nd, making her exactly two months old. The blessing was so beautiful and filled me with such love and peace. I am so grateful each time we have blessed a child to have that additional insight into who they are and who we are to help them become. It is always a powerful reminder to me that they were His before they were ours. The spirit testified to me as I listened to the words of her potential and her innate purity and goodness. I have felt that about her all along. I wish I had taken a picture of all the men in the circle. I have a love and respect for each one of them and it was so touching for me to have them all hold her and assist in the blessing. The power of the priesthood is real. I am grateful to Braden for honoring it  and using it to bless our family. 

Our Eternal Heavenly Father, by the power of the Holy Melchizedek  Priesthood we hold,  we gather around this child to give her a name and a blessing. Father, the name that she will be known by upon the records of the church is Elise Hazel Reynolds.

Elise, at this time we take this opportunity, while surrounded by so many that love you, to bless you with all those things you will need in this life. We bless you with a strong body that will allow you to be of great service to your fellow men. We bless you with a sharp mind. Especially, Elise, we bless you that your spirit will be in tune with that of your Father in Heaven; that you will be an example of good and aware of those around you. Look for opportunities to lift those who are down trodden.

Elise, you come to this world with a kind spirit - one prepared to do great things. Look to your older sisters, as they will be a shining example for you and that your friendship and love for them will be something that is unbreakable.

We bless you with the desire to be obedient; to do that which is pleasing in the eyes of your Heavenly Father. We bless you with a forgiving spirit and that as you grow you will make choices that strengthen those around you that may come under your influence.

We bless you that when the time comes, you will be guided by the Holy Ghost to seek out an eternal companion worthy to take you to the temple of the Lord and honor you as the princess that you are. As children come into your life, they will look to you as an example of what to be.

We bless you with a strong testimony of the Savior and that your relationship will only grow stronger throughout your life.

Elise, you are loved by so many people. Look to them for guidance and pray always. These blessings we leave with you in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

And then I think about 75 people came over for lunch. It was the first time we have blessed one of our kids where our family could be there and it was a really wonderful day that we will cherish always.