Sunday, August 26th, was a very special day in the life of Evelyn Grace Fretz.  She was baptized, bathed in the love of God and family.  As very aptly put by the Pastor, “Baptism is an outward symbol of the inward grace of God”.  I was most happy to get the phone call several weeks ago from Jared, stating that they were pinning down a date for Evi’s baptism. I remember thinking how joyful Jay must be to have this dialogue taking place.

Christian, Audrey (my sister) and I made the trek to Pittsburgh for this wonderful occassion.  It had been about 1 1/2 months since I’ve seen/held Evi and I was excited to be with her, Jared and Kelly!  I was totally prepared to give Evi any necessary time to get accustomed to me because at 4+ months, she may be getting particular about who gets to hold her.  Much to my wonderment, she immediately came into my outstretched arms and nestled in like we hadn’t missed a beat.  She is such a love, she is definitely LOVE!!!  I “got” to sway with her, feed her, ease her into a nap and tuck her in for the night.  It did my heart so much good to be needed, to feel as though I had a purpose.  (Blog on that to follow!)

Evi is a twin to Jared’s baby pictures.  And Jared’s resemblance of Jay is uncanny. Genes certainly are a peculiar thing!  She is in the 99% in height and 60% in weight.  Her legs and arms seem to go on forever.  Evi has the most lovely hands with long, slender fingers that along with my long, slender fingers,  she and I intertwined and explored for several minutes during the service.  Perhaps the racy red nail polish held her interest but it was a beautiful thing.  It was the best hand holding I’ve had in a log time.  I wish I had a picture of that as I love hands. (Yet another blog in the future!)  So, I’m thinking, who needs toys!

Before the service began, I held Evi and in the midst of God’s house, I suddenly became overcome with emotion. (I’m sure that’s not a surprising fact!)  I knew that Jay was with us but I wanted a sign.  I wanted to feel his spirit wrapped around me and Evi like I have felt his warmth cross my shoulders in the past.  But, unfortunately, I don’t get to demand signs from the heavens.  It just doesn’t work that way.  I just have to be receptive and grateful for when they come.  Jared picked up on my need for a hug and we embraced with unspoken understanding.

Little Miss Evi was a perfect angel.  The Pastor took her in his arms and as he baptized her with water she did not make a peep.  She wore a beautiful white dress embellished with tulle ruffles throughout the skirt compliments of Tia Maya & Uncle Christian.  Not many of us remember their baptism, however, Jay did.  As an infant he was dedicated at an Assembly of God church but at the age of 23 he was baptized with Christian.

Personality wise, Evi is delightful and very happy.  She smiles a lot and is quite content.  She exudes charm even at such an early age and her face is very expressive.  Evi likes to grab at things like jewelry, clothes and sometimes hair.

Jared and Kelly are terrific parents, sharing equally in those duties. I am so proud of them and elated for the life and love they possess!  Life is good for them.

I can’t wait to see them again in about a month!!!  Here’s to the little things that make life special!

Love, Wanda