Monday, August 18, 2014

eight


Eight Months Old

Sweet angel of mine, you are growing so fast. Another month has flown by, and I can't wrap my head around it. Each day I'm reminded how short life really is and how tomorrow is not promised. I've come up with a list of 8 simple rules I pray you live by as you grow up. (Yes, there are so many more rules I'm sure I will give you as you get older, but these are simple truths I want you to live by.)Your daddy and I will do our best to be living examples of these rules to you so that our words are followed by actions. However, I am certain we will make mistakes along the way. May your life declare the praises of our amazing Father who called us out of darkness and into light.


8 Simple Rules for my Baby Daughter...

1. Love God. (Matthew 22:36-37)
You are His special possession. So precious to Him, that He was willing to put all our sins on His only Son. He desires a deep relationship with you. I pray that you will give Him more every day (more time, more energy, more of everything). Don't settle for anything less. 

2. Love Others. (Matthew 22:38-39)
I pray that you will have a deep passion for others, and that you will seek their needs above your own. I'm sure this will come back to haunt me one day, but I trust His will for your life. May your love for others be evident in all you do and turn the world to Him.

3. Be Joyful & Savor Every Moment. (I Thessalonians 5:16)
Your big smile has brought so much joy to our lives and to the lives of strangers you meet. May you always radiate joy and make the most of every opportunity given to you. Find the positive in what appears negative and let that smile shine from the inside out.

4. Be Kind. (Ephesians 4:31-32)
There will be times when it's easier to say a hurtful word, treat someone unkind, or do nothing just to fit in. Be different. Don't be afraid to stand up and be kind. Your actions speak louder than words. May you always show kindness to everyone you meet.

5. Be Respectful. (Philippians 2:3-4)
This doesn't just apply to your parents and adults. Treat others the way you would like to be treated. Remember to use your manners and to think about how your actions & words will impact others. If you want people to respect you, you must first show respect.

6. Always Give Thanks. (I Thessalonians 5:18)
Be appreciative of all the blessings you've been given and be sure to verbalize your gratefulness to others. Say thank you for the big things, small things, hard things, and good things. Start each day by thanking God for waking you up and continue your praises to Him throughout the day.

7. Never Give Up. (Philippians 4:12-13)
Fact: You won't be good at everything. Some things will be hard and you will try and fail. That's okay. Pick yourself up and try again. It may take multiple times, but keep trying. Don't ever think you can't do it or that you aren't good enough.

8. Pray Without Ceasing. (Philippians 4:6)
Remember God desires a deep, intimate relationship with you. You can tell Him anything (he already knows)! He wants to hear about your accomplishments, your fears, your struggles, your friends, and everything else in between. Talk to Him like you would your best friend.


At eight months old, you...
weigh 16 pounds & 8 ounces
measure 27 1/2 inches
wave to everyone
love to pet Tucker Bear
roll around or scoot to get places
eat three meals a day & still nurse