Annie is 13!!

My second-born turned 13 on October 19.  It is hard for me to believe this spunky, freckled face, smiley child is 13.  It is funny to think back to when she was little, she was a challenge.  She would say unfiltered things, be sassy (aka disrespectful), and sneak and disobey.  I clearly remember praying for her and asking the Lord, "Why can't she be more like Grace?"  And the Lord clearly spoke to my heart and said, "Because I didn't make her to be like Grace!!"  OH MY!!  It was one of those moments in my life that I will never forget.  He made her to be spunky, quick thinking, and yes, at times to push the envelope.  It was a moment when I realized I was all wrong, I wanted her to be what seemed best to me, not what God wanted her to be.  After that realization I began to understand her better.  I began to embrace those things about her that were different and give her the space to be different.

I am so thankful the Lord spoke to me because today I get to enjoy this wonderful, fun, and creative teenager.