Nine is Fine

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This past year MJ decided to try field hockey.

Johnthan's eyes went wide and a smile spread across his face as wide as a field hockey stick.

Thus far sports in this house has consisted of two failed pee-wee soccer seasons and dance recitals.  The soccer involved far more snacking on the sidelines than playing on the field and the dance recitals for my sports loving husband are, well, slightly painful. 

He was thrilled to have a child in an activity where he could holler and yell on the sidelines.  He whistled as he packed his foldable chair and coffee to attend the first practice.  His excitement far overshadowed hers.  

Turns out, she's a fairly good field hockey player.  She loved it and is excited to continue playing.   

I'm so proud of her for stepping into a new challenge and exploring new adventures.

She is growing up. She doesn't play with her baby dolls much anymore, but isn't quite ready to put them away.

School is still fun, but not as exciting as before because it's work.

Choosing clothes without her approval is impossible.

Friendships become more complicated as they negotiate growing up.

She's as tall as Eva.  I keep waiting for the moment she will overtake her.

But what hasn't changed in it all is her heart, her gentle spirit.

We are amazed as each birthday passes how she continues to grow and change.  We pray that she continues to take on new challenges like she tackled the field hockey turf, boldly weaving her way around obstacles toward the goal.  

We strive to encourage her to negotiate changing friendships and school with courage and grace.

  We pray that she will always use her heart for others in an amazing way, but that her roots stay firm in her faith and family.  

Happy Birthday Madeline!

P.S. Pray for Johnathan as he negotiates upcoming dance recital season, patiently awaiting field hockey to return.