growing

Maia’s saying a lot of new words now. Among them: “Yes”, a much clearer “Mommy” and “Daddy”, “Bible”, “bubbles”, “ball”, “baby”, “boo-boo” and “Isaiah” (“zay-a”) and “Alec” (the two little boys next door). She also knows how to “neigh” and “roar” (like a bear). Also new? Testing our wills. Maia is busier than ever and, with that busyness, there are too many things to touch, grab and climb on. So, as a part of her initiation into the rites of childhood, she has begun to push her limits. Sometimes she’ll look right at Mommy as she pounds on the sliding door. The one Mommy just told her not to pound on. But at other times she’ll look right at Kelli, listening, while she explains to her why she just got a spanking. She’s learning… and, we pray, growing. As for Kelli and I, we’re learning more about the challenges, struggles and joys of parenting everyday. And we’re very thankful for the community of believers/parents that help us along the way.