A few weeks ago I was introduced to a song by Andrew Peterson, Planting Trees, in which he compares raising children to the process of planting a tree.

We chose the spot, we dug the hole
We laid the maples in the ground to have and hold
As Autumn falls to Winters sleep
We pray that somehow in the Spring
The roots grow deep

And many years from now
Long after we are gone
These trees will spread their branches out
And bless the dawn

At 15 months, we are in the very early stages of planting our sweet little tree. Even in this early stage when cultivation may not seem as important, we still want the ways we interact with Becca to provide her a lifelong pattern of loving Jesus. I’ll admit, as a mom, I worry about being a Christ-like example for Becca with my words, actions, and attitudes. I desire her to see Christ in me and don’t want my sin to be a stumbling block to her.

My prayer is that I will continue to grow in Christ, so I can show Becca Christ in my life.You might wonder, how can a 15-month-old see Christ in her mommy? Here’s just a few ways I’ve come up with: the ways I interact with Josh, the ways I consistently enforce the expectations we have for Becca, the ways I praise Becca for doing good, the ways I show patience toward Becca, and the ways I speak to Becca. It is my prayer that we will be faithful in planting our little tree so she grow to bless others with the love of Christ.

Of course, trees grow in stature. Becca had a great doctor’s appointment this week (see previous blog post for stats). Though she eats a lot (evidenced by how much food I make and freeze for her every week), she is our cute petite girl. She fits into a set of 3-month Carter onesies her Aunt Ashleigh just sent her, and she’s getting good use out of all her 6-month clothing.

We’ve been enjoying the weather. Becca and I usually go outside for about an hour each day. Becca’s new favorite outside activity is throwing things into the little creek that runs near our apartments. She is very eager to pick up sticks, leaves, tennis balls, etc and then “run” down to the creek to throw them in. When we’re inside, Becca enjoys discovering new things in our little home.

Becca started using her potty this week. I thought we would just practice sitting on it, but Becca knows exactly what to do. Though we’re not officially potty-training yet, we’re having fun using the potty multiple times a day. And it saves me from cleaning up messy diapers.

Two weeks from tomorrow I defend my research. I appreciate your prayers as I prepare for my defense.