Matthew's First Holy Communion

The priest said it best.

"Today is the day that you will be closer to Jesus than you have ever been in your whole life."

What an exciting thing for an 8 year old to hear.  Matthew was indeed excited for his big day.  Everything went well.  He looked handsome, he smiled and played, and he was surrounded by love all afternoon. 

It was a crazy morning before church, so I had asked Mary to snap some pictures of Matthew in his suit while I ran to the store to pick up balloons.  Here are the ones she took. 

Hilarious!

Now, let's get serious.

That face!

Grandpop and Gran and Gramps

Godparents Aunt Jenny and Uncle John

We are so grateful to have shared this day with our extended families.  They were there, yet I neglected to get pictures back home at our gathering.  There was so much goodness in the day, from the big cousins playing with the little cousins, "jam" sessions with musical instruments, and great conversations with loved ones.  Best family ever!

I am filled with such gratitude for the gifts of faith and family.  My two favorite things.