And yet another tradition in the Kosey family continues with the baptism of Henrik Peter Sylvester. Henrik will wear a christening gown that was first worn 82 years ago when worn by Joseph Glimco Jr., my brother, for his baptism in 1935.

Over the years, the gown has been worn by yours truly and my two children, Michael and Tina. Moving on to another generation, Michael's two children, Parker and McKenna, have worn the gown, as have Tina's three children, Stephanie, Elena, and Max Duve. 

Henrik, the son of Stephanie (Duve) and Tyler Sylvester is the 10th family member to wear the gown. 

Other members of the Glimco family decided to start their own traditions and did not use the gown, through it would have been in regular use, since my brother's family grew to eight children, 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. I don't know if the gown would have made it all the way to Henrik.

The gown is made of cotton and is typically old-fashioned -- long and white with simple stitching. Though lovingly cared for, the gown has lost its brightness and the fabric is thinner, but it is still beautiful.

Babies who have worn the gown have looked adorable, of course, whether male or female. They kept the gown on long enough for the baptismal ceremony and for us to take pictures, after which they were able to trade it in for something more comfortable -- a more practical onesie. 

Luckily the gown has withstood any "wardrobe" emergencies, such as babies spitting up and other "happenings."

What little I know about the dress is that it was purchased by my brother's godmother, which itself was a tradition at one time. Not sure what people do now. I do remember going to a baptism where the baby was submerged, wearing no gown, in the baptismal font. He was the last baby baptized that day (and you don't have to think about that too long).

Each time the gown is used, it is amazing to look at those who have worn it before and remember how small they once were. Up until this week, when my brother passed away, all previous wearers are living. 

So, when Henrik is baptized we will see another beautiful baby, a beautiful gown and think of those who have worn it in the past, another generation, another tradition continued.