We ate lots of Benson's favorite pizza, the kids broke a pinata, they played outside with bubbles and party favors, and we all had lots of chocolate cake and ice cream. After Benson opened his presents, the kids were all charged up to go back to our hotel to top the evening off with swimming in the pool. It was quite the party!
Tricia had prepared a special binder with Benson's geneology in it. That was an awesome birthday gift from their family. The fact that they were willing to drive 12 hours each way to participate in all of the festivities was really awesome too.
The next morning was the highlight of our family activities. Benson was baptized by his father, Jeff. It was a very special meeting and all of us were really touched when the small group of primary kids including Benson and his cousins all came up front and sang "I Am A Child of God." Every child knew every word, including Sadie, and they sang it so sweetly that it brought tears to our eyes.
We also loved hearing Benson's heartfelt testimony.
After the service, Jeff & Libbie hosted a luncheon for about 50 people who came to support Benson and their family at the baptism. Here several of their friends, including Lily, visit with Jeff.
The cousins pose together in their Sunday best. They surely had a terrific time being together. They all got along really well.
Our only family photo taken during the exciting weekend.
After the baptismal activities, we cleaned up the church and headed out to enjoy the fantastic weather at the beach. The water was very chilly but the 82 degree temperature still made it fun. Mostly the kids played in the tide pools. We all loved the warm sunshine, sand and the sound of the waves rolling in.
After the baptismal activities, we cleaned up the church and headed out to enjoy the fantastic weather at the beach. The water was very chilly but the 82 degree temperature still made it fun. Mostly the kids played in the tide pools. We all loved the warm sunshine, sand and the sound of the waves rolling in. 
After the beach, it was back to the hotel and the pool again.
With the sand all washed off, we were ready to head out to one of the locally famous seafood buffets. Our hotel staff recommended Preston's so we gave it a try. Our waiter was very patient and tolerant with the kids. I think that they had a good time.
With the sand all washed off, we were ready to head out to one of the locally famous seafood buffets. Our hotel staff recommended Preston's so we gave it a try. Our waiter was very patient and tolerant with the kids. I think that they had a good time. 
Libbie says goodbye to Tricia and McKay. Their family will leave first thing in the am to drive all the way back to PA.
The kids enjoy breakfast at the hotel before they climb in the car for the long drive home. Tif, Abigail, Steve and I headed to Jeff and Libbie's church. It was fast and furious but oh so fun to be together for those few hours. We love you all. Thanks for your efforts to support Benson and come together with part of the family.
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