A staple of many wedding toasts is the wish for the new marriage to bring together families and for the union to bear much happiness, love, and most importantly children. In this way, baby Marlowe’s baptism is an expression of her parents and family making good on both requests.

Before I worked with these families, I knew over first few e-mails with Marlowe’s then-prospective godmother, Monica, that this was going to be a good one. My work would be one of the gifts to her new god daughter, something that I was honored to be a part of, and a gift that I thought to be incredibly thoughtful. This thoughtfulness proved to be a trait shared by both sides of Marlowe’s family, as I was quickly made to feel like part of them; it was hard to pass a family member without being offered food, a drink, or be chatted up as one of them.

The baptismal ceremony was held in the old Mission Church of San Jose, in Fremont, CA. Its weathered wood and stucco interior, punctuated by chandeliers and ornate alter made for a beautiful backdrop to Marlowe’s special day. After a few family photos on premises, the delegation who attended the church ceremony joined even more guests at the home of Marlowe’s grandparents. This was a beautiful home with a large, multi-tiered backyard complete with deck, patio, terrace steps, and half basketball court.

It was watching this reception that I realized how rich Marlowe was with family and friends who truly love her. There was a strong air of celebration through the afternoon, aided no doubt by the fresh catered tacos, homemade chicharonnes, and just-fried churros. Yes. Those. Churros. Honestly, the best churros that I have ever had, bar none. I discovered the source of the churros next to the basketball court on which I witnessed a few thunderous dunks [though, to be honest, the rim had to have been lowered to about 8 feet, unless half the guys at the reception had 42” verticals]. Despite the Sports Center worthy highlights being put up on the basketball court, Marlowe was still the star this day, bringing smiles to the faces of all who saw her. How could they not love that face and those piercing blue eyes?

I was lucky to be made part of this family, even if just for an afternoon. Congratulations Marlowe and family!

-Joseph