Elisabeth's Baptism

We had been making cookies for days.....when finally July 11th came! We loaded up the van with food, sunscreen and towels and headed for Ain Sohkna, on the Red Sea. Our caravan included about 25 people (I know--we were surprised that many people came as well!) and we arrived at the "baptism spot" in about 2 hours. Elisabeth changed into her white dress, with frills and all, and we headed down to the rocky shore. The water was warm and beautiful, which kept us from dwelling on the amount of trash on the beach. We had a short program that had Josh leading the music, Rebekah and Emma saying prayers and Mom giving a talk. Brent and Elisabeth waded out, through the rocky coral and spiny sea urchins (yes, water shoes were a requirement!) with the 2 elders who agreed to be witnesses. The waves made them a little tippy at first, but once they got their balance and made sure the billowy white dress was tucked tightly around Elisabeth's legs, the baptism proceeded and went smoothly. Elisabeth was smiling when she came out of the water:) She was confirmed right there on the beach, soaking wet and still smiling. It was great and after the baptism, we all ate lunch together, complete with a little sand. Then....we swam, played, and had a blast in the salty Red Sea. What a good day! Thanks Elisabeth.