Guess who is turning two?

Yep, you've guessed it. Lydia is turning two this Friday. She has blessed my life in so many ways. She's more of a determined task oriented girl. She loves trying to figure things out-- mostly how to get at things she is not allowed to reach. Her stubborn streak has been a source of few tears- for the both of us, but I see her changing. I see her learning to obey despite how much she wants to do the things she wants to do. I see her quick to stroke Karis' arm in apology after pinching her out anger or a fit of jealousy. I see a sinful (cute as she is!!) little person slowly but surely transforming into the likeness of her Maker. In the process, her mom is changing too. She is humbled into deeper dependence and prayers to the only One that can grow in this child a heart that is set apart and loves God. What an exciting ministry parenthood is. Sometimes I wonder who this is really for. Lord, is it really for the girls? Or are you using this as a way to change me? I can truly say that parenthood has changed me. It's helped me to understand the heart of the Father a little better. It gives me more opportunities (or more opportunities that I can not escape :P) to die to myself and to live for God, to practice unconditional love, to be stretched and think and see beyond myself. It really is hardest thing I have ever done, but I love what it is about, what it does. Happy birthday, our cute little monster. We love you more than you could know.