We spent some wonderful family time in New Orleans last weekend. Me, my sister and mom went down to be with Philip and Lauren and baby Parker for her baptism/dedication at church. And of course, I got some great pics of the baby with all of us holding her. It’s always fun and memorable to spend time with family and watching this little girl grow up is going to be a big part of that from now on.
Warning:Â This post has LOTS of baby pics!!!Â
We usually at least go out to eat once while we are in New Orleans and this time we stayed close to where they live in Bucktown and went to the waterfront restaurant, The Blue Crab.
Right on Lake Ponchartrain, there are plenty of water views and gorgeous sunsets on the lake.
Shrimp is always a fave of mine and these grilled shrimp were delish.
It’s not New Orleans without crawfish and Lauren’s father-in-law ordered a big platter of these little guys. I have had them before and they do taste good, but are way too much work for me to order. I don’t like to have to work for my food!
Most of our time was spent visiting with and holding the baby, sitting by their pool reading a book, and eating. Eating is always a big part of our agenda. Lauren introduced me to snowballs, a New Orleans treat that somehow I’ve missed until now. I don’t know how that happened, but now that has been remedied and I’m an official BIG FAN of snowballs. It’s shaved ice with flavored syrup added and they even add condensed milk on top. YUM, it’s delish!
Little Miss Parker is 4 months old TODAY and looking like a little princess. She has a closet full of cute clothes that she got before she was born and also had plenty handed down to her from Philip’s sister, who had a girl 3 years ago. Parker will never run out of clothes!
Lauren and Parker out by the pool before we went to dinner. Isn’t she a little doll baby?
She’s quite photogenic and I have fun trying to get some good shots of her.
I loved this one when she was playing on her play mat and I was standing over the top looking down at her. Those blue eyes are mesmerizing.
Clean and happy baby out of the bath.
The main reason we went down this weekend was because Parker’s baptism was taking place on Sunday. Lauren and Philip go to an older United Methodist church on St. Charles Ave. in New Orleans, the stately Rayne Methodist church built in 1875.
It’s a gorgeous red brick church and just what you’d expect in New Orleans. That’s our crew coming down the stairs after church was over.
Inside the church were the most amazing stained glass windows.
Little Parker was baptised and did really well, no crying at all. She was an angel the whole time.
They sprinkle babies in the Methodist church (which is not something we grew up with) and it was a sweet moment for all of us, as she was dedicated to the Lord. The Pastor is a woman and Lauren really likes her a lot and I can see why. She was so friendly and I loved hearing her talk.
Mom and daughter after it was over.
We took the time before lunch to get some good shots of all of us with Parker, since we were all dressed up. She did great and then took a big long nap while we all ate lunch. Grandmother Renee and Parker.
Lauren, Renee, and Parker.
Parker and Lauren.
Mom and Parker. I love this pic of them. So glad we are getting all these great photographs of mom and the baby now. You can see how pretty her christening gown was, a gift from a friend at one of her showers.
Baby Parker and Mom.
Me and Parker.
She’s a cute little doll baby for sure. We can’t get enough of her and it’s been so fun to see the changes every month brings.
The proud parents on baby dedication day!
We had a great time and I’m so happy we were there for the festivities. Family time is the best and so important for all of us. We enjoyed every minute of time with them!
Parker is just too cute. Lauren looks great. Love the church, so beautiful. Love all you family pictures, thank you so much for sharing.
She is just precious and must never cry. Not one pic of her fussing or crying. She must be an exceptional baby. Very sweet pics of what a special time to share with her and her family. When she grows up, she will cherish these.
Oh, Debbie, don’t let the pics fool you! The girl does cry and real tears too. Breaks your heart when she does! She has kept her mama and daddy up many nights with crying, but hopefully that is not all the time.
What an adorable little one! She is beautiful! Family time is such a blessing 🙂
Oh, that sweet baby with her little rosebud mouth and big blue eyes!
OMG! Rhoda, she has your lips!
I think little Parker looks like your mother! She’s so cute! My youngest grandson just turned one – let’s introduce them! 😉
Rhoda ~ THank you for sharing. Adorable just Adorable !!:) Babies sure grow out of that infant stage so darn quick ! Its going to be fun to watch her grow .
God Bless
Paula
IN
Parker sure is a doll baby! Wow Rhoda! You got some beautiful portraits of your family. your photography is beautiful and so is your family.
Beautiful photos and Parker is beautiful. You are right she has gorgeous blue eyes. God bless you and your family.
These are great, Rhoda. I was thinking it as I was going along, and then reading the comments it confirms my thoughts – Lauren does favor you in her looks. It’s funny how strong family genes can be. I have adult nieces, along with my daughters who, when they are out and about town, people will randomly stare and then ask them if they are of my family (maiden name). Beautiful family memories made on your weekend – it’s what matters most.
Rhoda, where was your dad? Is he alright?
Parker is gorgeous and I love the picture of your mother.
HI, Mary, he is fine and stayed at home. He doesn’t like to travel that far much anymore, so he was happy to let all of us go down.
Parker has the calmness and inherit peace in her appearance and her eyes speak more than words… they are lovely! What a beautiful child she is 🙂
I wish all the best to you and your family and lots of love to baby Parker.
What a beautiful baby Parker is. The Methodist church is beautiful and a baptism is such a special occasion. It is obvious that baby is just adored!
Gorgeous baby, gorgeous you and gorgeous family. Thanks for sharing such a happy and special event. May God Bless all of you!
Beautiful pictures of the family. That Parker is a doll baby and she sure looks like her Daddy. She couldn’t go wrong with Mama or Daddy. I have already said it, but everybody is right about Lauren looking just like her Aunt Rhoda. Thanks for sharing!