Jackson's Dedication Weekend

We had a great time and a lot of people last weekend for Jackson's dedication, which we hosted at our house. Both the Forman and Gottschalk parents flew in to lend a hand, while 30+ local friends arrived on Saturday morning to help us celebrate.

Earlier in the week, the weather was predicted to include thunderstorms. Thankfully, Saturday dawned bright and clear, with unseasonably low temperatures in the 70s. It was a bit windier than usual, but sunny and comfortable. We had the majority of activity outside in the courtyard. The balloons on the tables had to be moved, as they were going to be beating people in the head thanks to the wind. Each table still featured a framed picture of Jackson.

After the dedication itself, Franz threw some burgers and hot dogs on the grill and we set out a spread of casual cookout-type foods.

We were really happy with the cake we ordered from Costco. It had a strawberry filling and was delicious. Actually, we still have some around. It doubled for Franz' birthday cake this year, which he didn't mind. I couldn't imagine having another cake sitting here.

Half-way through the party, being cute seemed to wear out the guest of honor so he took a power nap of about 30 minutes.

The girls were so happy to reconnect with their favorite nanny, Ms. Tara, whom they haven't seen since last summer.

Rick Efird and his wife Emily head the church we first attended when we moved to Phoenix. They also led our first small group. As the kids came along and got older, we decided to move to a church closer than 20 miles to our home and so do not attend Desert Springs Bible Church any longer. However, we are still very close with Rick and Emily, and were thrilled that he was able to do our dedication for us. (He dedicated both of the girls, as well.)

Almost always a pleasant little fellow, Jackson thrilled his admirers with plenty of smiles and bids for attention, which he prefers to toys of any kind.