The Beginning of a New Life...

The trip to Chicago... After a canceled flight, a dead car battery, leaving my apartment 20 minutes before my flight was supposed to take off, and some generous TSA security guards who pushed me right to the front (thank you!), I met up with the husband and Michael (they were already there after a trip to NYC) at the O'Hare airport almost 6 hours later than originally planned. But it felt good to finally just be there.

Dave looks totally different. His eyes are bright, he talks with an up-lilt in his voice, and even his skin looks healthier. But what's the most different is his countenance. He is one happy man.

The night I arrived, Dave showed us around the hotel he works at in Morris, Illinois. We enjoyed a pleasant few minutes together; Dave even pulled out some photos he has kept of the kids. (I had never seen baby photos of the husband before!)

At lunch, we heard Dave humbly pray for the first time. The tenderness in the room was unspoken, but felt deeply. After a very relaxing morning and afternoon, we readied for the evening's great event.

Leaving for the baptismal service - August 1.

Filling out the the Church records paperwork with the sister missionaries.

Dave Crowe with the sister missionaries who have been preparing him for baptism.

Michael Crowe, Dave Crowe and Steve Crowe.

The whole Crowe clan, plus Kelly & Betty Swartz. (left)
Dave's brother Joe and his family made the overnight trip to celebrate this occasion too. (middle & right)

The husband and dad - all ready for the baptismal service.

I think this says it all...