Determination is Her Middle Name

Being that Annabell has a mom and a dad who happen to be just a little determined, its no wonder she followed suit. Ever since Annabell was born, Bryan and I could identify in her a spirit of determination. Quiet? Lazy/Low Key? Quitter? Nope, not our Annabell. Even when she was battling some painful stomach issues, through ER visits, Dr. visits galore, Annabell fought through it with a scream and a smile.  It is amazing to me how apparent this quality is in an 11 month old. Knowing this about our curious little peanut, Bryan and I knew child proofing was necessary, perhaps earlier than most parents have to childproof their house. And what do you know, Annabell can even out-smart childproofing measures (and with a proud smile of course!)

Annabell also recently discovered how fun it is to play with the straps on her high chair seat. The horrible mom that I am, I pushed all the chairs in to the table but it didn't matter. Annabell found a way.

I just know, we have a strong willed child on our hands. And I feel like in this culture, that is viewed as a bad thing, I mean honestly...there are books on how to deal with the strong willed child. Now granted, I can see how parenting a strong-willed child can be difficult at times and probably frustrating as well, I'm starting to find the great joy in this character trait developing and blossoming.  

I've been reading a book that was given to me at my baby shower, "Praying the Scriptures for your Children" by Jodie Berndt and in this book the author talks about praying for your children in specific ways (even when they are just babies) that God would use those "not so fabulous" and possibly frustrating character traits to bring Glory to His kingdom. So I have been praying this very thing, that God would use Annabell's intense determination to share the good news of the gospel with others. May she never quit, never be afraid of failing and even when she runs into obstacles may she persevere to accomplish the task Jesus has set before her, to bring the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Thank you, Lord, for my sweet and fiery determined little girl! She is perfect because God made her just the way she is...and I adore EVERY piece of her!DR