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Sunday, August 31, 2008

It's not about me!

Birthday Girl!

Well, it's official! I have been a mother for six years today. And I have not seriously injured or maimed any of my children. Don't I get some sort of reward for that?


Seriously though, this day is not at all about me, so I thought I would write a post on the top ten things our sweet girl has accomplished in a year's time (no, I am not bragging, just a proud momma-okay maybe I am bragging a little, but I know you will forgive me!). So here goes:


10. Madison is now reading at a 2nd-3rd grade level. She enjoys books of all sorts. She loves to read to Mommy and her little brothers-when they sit still long enough to listen. Her current favorite books are the Little House series of books. She even made her own homemade butter after being inspired by all the work that Laura and Mary had to do. It has actually been a great learning experience for all of us and we have come to appreciate much more all that we have been blessed with.


9. Madison learned how to write in cursive. This was one of her own personal goals for herself this year. Momma wasn't sure if she was ready, but as always she surprised me.


8. Madison lost five teeth this year, including her top two middle teeth. We can't wait for Chrithmuth!


7. Madison finished Kindergarten. And Mommy cried.


6. Madison became a big sister...again. In preparation for the new baby's arrival she took a sibling education class at the hospital which was great fun. And even though we were sure we were having a girl, and Madison said if it was a boy we should give him back to God and ask for a girl, she has been the best big sister to her sweet baby brother. She is quite the "little mommy".


5. Madison learned how to ride a two-wheeler.


4. Madison donated 14 inches of her hair to locks of love. More tears from Mommy, although I must admit it does make getting ready in the morning a breeze.


3. Madison moved up to Mrs. Kohne's Sunday School class. She loves Mrs. Kohne...and Mrs. Kohne's Starburst.


2. Madison experienced true heart-break this year as her best friend moved away to, as Madison calls it, "misery". Translation: Missouri. We miss you Kate!


1. Madison accepted Jesus into her heart this year. This was, of course, the highlight of our year by far. Being raised in the church, Madison had a foundation for faith but it wasn't until this year that we started talking more seriously about what having Christ as her Savior meant. She asked a lot of tough questions. We had Bible Study every morning, which opened up doors for some great conversations with her and once again, Momma was amazed at how much she really understood.


Huh! Who would have thought? Oh yeah, Jesus did, when He said this and this and this. Oh, ye of little faith! I explained to Madison about how to ask Jesus into her heart, about recognizing her sin and seeking forgiveness and repenting and also that it meant that we live for Jesus too. I asked her if she was ready and she said "no". We talked about it almost daily over the course of a couple of weeks. One night we were in the car and talking about it again, and she said, "But I already did that. I asked Jesus into my heart the other night after we talked about it when I was alone in my room." Can you say "awwww"?


Well, after hearing her say that and then telling us all about it and hearing her excitement, I have to admit, I got a little sad. I so had wanted for Rick and I to share that moment with her, to lead her in the prayer of salvation. But true to her character, she did it in her own way. Thankfully, swiftly, the Holy Spirit brought conviction to my heart and helped me to realize, IT'S NOT ABOUT ME!!!!!!!!!


I have a feeling it is a lesson I am going to have to learn many times through many birthdays. Happy Birthday, baby girl, we love you!

Little Colts Fan!

Daddy's Girl

Madison and Brady

Madison- 3 years old
Madison (2 years old) and Noah
Madison and Brady
Her Royal Highness
Sweet Baby (this is her famous touchdown pose)

3 comments:

E said...

Happy birthday Madison! It has been so much fun to watch you grow up, and it has been just as fun to watch your mommy 'grow up' as a parent with you. :)

My experience with birthdays is bittersweet, too. Sad to see them getting older, but happy they are maturing and excited for each new stage.

Great idea with the top 10 list - #1 is definitely the best. With parents like you two, she will no doubt be a spiritual leader as she grows up.

Sunny Shell said...

Thank you for your prayers sweet sister!

Bless you for your faithfulness!

With much love in Christ,
Sunny

Sunny Shell said...

Hey sister,

I'm figuring you've been awfully busy lately and wanted to include you in a game. I just got "tagged" and have in turn tagged all the sisters in our Bible Study. Here's the link:
Tagged!

I figure we could not only study together, but we could play together as well!

Bless you sister!
Sunny