Thursday, October 27, 2016

Dear Havana

Oh child... tomorrow you will be 8! I can't believe it. You are so bright, beautiful, creative, fun, and sweet. I love your heart, your knowledge of the Word, your questions about God, and all the fun you see in life.

You love to organize things. You are always helping me put things away or set up new systems. I also somethings think of you as a little squirrel because you put random things in strange places, but you have a reason and a purpose... storing it for later. It makes me smile when I find an old juice box that you hid in your bathroom drawer because you liked the picture. Don't get me wrong, I still threw it away, but I did so with a smile on my face. :)

This past year you finished up first grade with a bang! Enjoyed a hectic summer where we MOVED, and started 2nd grade. You might have a discouraging moment or two, but most of the time you are upbeat and excited about any and everything. You LOVE all things music (worship, dance, classical, and show tunes) and art. You were in "hip hop" dance this year, where I had to have the teacher change the songs because of the lyrics, but I don't think you were too embarrassed of me. :)

My heart is so emotional right now. How can my little girl be getting big so fast? Your daddy and I often speak about how big you are getting. You are growing into quite a beautiful and kind lady.

It's fun to talk to you. We talk friends, politics, and God. You love baby Einstein, classical music, dancing, singing, and playing games. You get bored kind of easily if an adult is not around. You are expressive and fun.

We were talking politics recently and God used you to convict me... I had mentioned to you (several times) that I'm not excited about Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton. You said that if they name a bridge after either of them we won't say the name but call it the "nothing bridge" -- I realized I wasn't setting a respectful tone. So we have talked about no matter who wins, we will pray for them. You said you hope they listen to Jesus... I do too. Thanks for challenging me on that. I'm looking forward to growing in our relationship!

Here's the message I want you to know right now:
You are fearfully and wonderfully made. God made no mistakes on how He has wired you. You are smart and funny... kind and pretty. But none of those are the most important things. Your heart that beats for God and is other centered is what will keep you on the right path. Your creativity is a way to point others to the Lord, and I pray that you will learn to worship Him in the midst of your music and crafting. Be a light for him, don't worry about the opinion of others. Be a good friend to all and don't worry if you don't have someone you can call a "best friend." Trust God no matter what, He is the only thing you can put your hope in.

I don't know what this year will have in store for you, but I know that with prayer and Jesus we will make it through it all. I love you so much... I'm so lucky to be your mom-mom. Thanks for being my snuggly girl.