Dagny Gets Her Name

A few Fridays ago, Grandpa Murray and Aunt Caitlin drove up from NY to help us celebrate Dagny getting her Hebrew name at temple.  Dagny couldn't wait to get her hands on her Grandpa!  

They played ball together, too.

Caitlin was entertaining Finley elsewhere in the basement.  We shared a delicious pizza dinner and Caitlin's friend Maggie arrived, too.  Dagny took a later afternoon catnap and then it was time to get changed and ready for the big event.

We arrived and were thrilled to see our dearest friends, Davey, Gabi, Joey, and Charlotte.  Dagny was still a little groggy from her nap, but I think she was pretty excited :)

Charlotte complimented Dagny's dress and shoes (maybe I'm getting a hang of this dressing-a-girl thing!).

The Shabbat service began and we tried to keep all the kids calm and collected.  Thank you to Aunt Caitlin, one of the two gentiles in attendance, who snapped some secret footage.  We were called up to the bimah about halfway through the service and gave Dagny her hebrew name, Dafna.  She was welcomed into the Jewish community and blessed to do good for her family and her faith.

Finley was a great big brother and got a lift from Dan near the end of the ceremony.  Dagny and the Rabbi really "had a moment" during his blessing to her and it's something I will always remember as she grows through other milestones there at the temple.

Near the end of the service, the Rabbi invited up any children who would like to sing.  Finley jumped at the chance and soon Charlotte joined them.

Then, the future prom dates had their first dance much to the joy of all those watching (lots of awwws and laughs).  I'm sure both Gabi and I will be showing this video at our kids bar and bat mitzvahs in the future. So adorable.

Everyone proceeded into the room next door and Dagny's beautiful cake was there just waiting to be cut!

We all ate challah and dessert and got lots of congratulatory compliments from other temple members.  It was certainly a proud parent moment - proud to welcome Dagny into the fold and proud of Finley for being such a great big brother.  Thank you Caitlin, Maggie, and Murray for coming on such short notice to share this special day for our family.  We love you, Dafna!