Joey IV's First Communion

It was with much anticipation that Joey was looking forward to First Communion....which kind of surprised me. He took this process so seriously. And, in the weeks leading up to church, he would say "Pretty soon, mom, I will get to take the body and blood of Christ all by myself." They have done weeks and weeks of lessons at school and really make it a special occasion, as it should be.

One lesson we learned is that we definitely should have looked for a suit for Joey BEFORE Easter. Waiting until the weekend before was a big mistake- we went to VonMaur, Dillards, Kohls, JCPenney, Younkers, a different Kohls, a different Younkers....we made the tour of Des Moines with three completely annoyed kids. After a night of zero success we ended up at Men's Wearhouse the next morning, completely willing to shell out any amount of money for a suit that would fit this kid....long legs, skinny waist....doesn't make for a good combo! I have decided I will rent out this suit for future Coppolas!

The day was really nice. And, we were so happy because Joey had a speaking part, too. So, it gave us something special to look forward to- and he nailed his part! Joey's godfather, Kyle, got to come, too- so that was special to Joey.

Here are some photos from the dress rehearsal for the big day. After church, Joey and I visited GG in the hospital, and then we went out on a "date" to Biaggis. I showed Joey how to open the door for me and let me sit down first and he ordered on his own and we talked....it was nice to have him one on one for once.

Here are some photos from the big day. A couple memories of  the big day: Jake Leo sat in front of us and his mom broke his First Communion cup, Joey took some SERIOUS bows in the church. He practically touched his toes. And, a spider came to our pew uninvited. And, we almost forgot Joey's bible verse in the car....Joe had to run out and go get it.

It was a very memorable day for our family!