Today
Let me go on the record and say that I think having two young(er) women in the family is perfectly wonderful. I always knew it would be, because we determined to raise our children in such a way that we would not have typical teenager problems. With God's help, of course, and by his grace. Not that we don't have hormones, mind you, and it's not like we get along perfectly all the time.
The word "teenager" is a recent addition to our English language. See here for a brief explanation. I don't have a problem with people age 13-19, just with the connotation of "teenager". When we play Apples to Apples, my family has to have a discard pile for all the cards with people's names that our kids (and us old fogies) aren't familiar with. Like Brad Pitt. Who's Brad Pitt?? Maybe that's one of the reasons I still like my kids? I think that means we aren't bowing to the popular culture mentioned in this Way of Life article.
I now have two between 13 and 19. It has been such a joy to see them pursue their interests for God's glory, develop the talents he has given them, and grow in character. Amy washed all the supper dishes last night without being asked (there were a ton of them), and without even sighing within my hearing. On her birthday! I'd say that's a good start into the teen years.
I'm so blessed to have my terrific teenagers! |  |  |
Funny!!! I hope Amy isn't to much trouble :P
ReplyDeleteI probly more trouble than her!!!! Give her a hug for me plz!!!
Amen. We did not buy into the terrible twos either and I don't plan to buy into the terrible teens either. Good post. Have a wonderful weekend.
ReplyDeleteJenn
Happy birthday dear Amy! You are such a beautiful young lady inside and out. I'm sure you are a blessing and a joy to your mom and dad!
ReplyDeleteSally, your daughters are a reflection of parents that love the Lord and are obedient to Him. Your family is an inspiration and testimony of what God can do when He is Lord of the household.
Blessings to you and yours, Julie
Yeah! Thank you for this. We didn't 'do' the terrible twos, or any of the other negative stereotypes either. That isn't to say we haven't had difficult times, but I believe as you do that with God's help the negative labels do not have to apply to my children (or anyone else's for that matter). I have watched so many children 'go off the rails' when they became teenagers and it is such a joy to read your post and know that we are right to have faith in God to help us bring up our children to fear Him and honour their parents.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you and your girls!
Sarah
When a child lives up to the expectations of a family that offers them grace, hope, love, direction, example -- all the things God brings into our lives. All we have to do is follow His planning. The results are awesome!
ReplyDeleteSo agree! Your daughters are such a delight and your good parenting reflects that. But that's such a shame Sally, you making your daughter wash the dishes on her birthday. Just kidding. I agree, raise the bar and our children will rise to the occasion.
ReplyDeleteBrad Pitt who? Actually I've heard of him & even seen pictures of him, but still have no idea what he is famous for. I suppose we could look it up online, but who cares?
Sad when people assign these kinds of labels. We have heard the same curses..... "Just you wait until...."
ReplyDeleteOn another note, where have you been? Or is it me that has been gone?
Blessings
xx
Awww Happy (be-lated) birthday to her!
ReplyDeleteI'm not looking forward to the teen years - but only because it means my kids are one step farther away from being babes in arms. They just grow up so fast. :-(
But...each stage has delights of it's own, and I cherish them all. (well...maybe not the overtired 4yr old stage...THAT one was a bit ddifficult) ;-)
Blessings,
Michelle