{Kalyssa's First Communion}

Before I share all about Kalyssa’s big day, I will warn you that there are A LOT of pictures. I spent the past couple of days going through three different cameras!!!

As I sat in church Thursday evening, I was completely overcome with emotions. Holy Thursday in itself is very meaningful but, for us it also marks a day of new spiritual beginnings. Almost one year ago, Bryanna made her way down the aisle at Holy Trinity in anticipation of receiving communion for the very first time. After weeks of preparation, Kalyssa took similar steps towards the same alter that welcomed her as a child of God.

Over the past few months Jason and I have been able to watch Kalyssa grow spiritually. It has been quite the journey for her. She dedicated her time and made a commitment not only to herself but also to God. I wasn’t sure how exactly she would do with all of the lessons that would eventually come her way. My first thought was her age. After going through the experience with Bryanna, I wasn’t quite sure that Kalyssa would grasp what was being presented to her. I must say, she completely surprised me. She embraced her teachings to the full extent and even taught us a few things in the process.

I shared before that I believe that one of the most beautiful rituals during mass is being able to receive the body and blood of Christ. It is so very powerful and unlike anything else. Kalyssa has been waiting patiently for the day when she too would be able to walk up during mass and receive communion.

This year things were a little different. Last year, we were very fortunate to have Grampy and Grammy sitting with us. This year not only did they join us for Kalyssa's special event but so did Granddad!!! The BEST part was that he wasn’t the only new face smiling as we sat in our family pews because Daddy was with us too!!!

I can’t even begin to explain how much it means to be able to share moments that are so important in our children’s lives with our family and friends. To be able to sit in our church and be surrounded by that much love and support is absolutely incredible. The feelings that ran through me were completely out of this world. As we walked up to receive communion for the first time with Kalyssa, Monsignor took Jason’s hand in his own and said “how wonderful it is to have you here this year as your little girl prepares to receive this sacrament”. It took everything I had to keep it together but once we made it back to our pew, I kneeled down next to my family and cried. I thanked God for blessing me with the life he has given to me. I thanked Him for allowing me to be a part of a family as amazing as mine!!!  

The pictures that I am sharing pretty much tell their own story. Kalyssa was absolutely stunning in her white dress and veil. You might notice that she looks an awful lot like her big sister. The girls decided early on that they wanted to share this occasion in a very special way so, Bryanna passed down her dress and her veil to Kalyssa. We had to make a few alterations but other than that, it was absolutely PERFECT!!!!    

  

Congratulations Kalyssa!!!