Riley's Words

Riley's constant chatter makes us laugh all day. When Daddy comes home, she recounts every part of the day. It's so funny to hear the random details she recalls. While she does indeed make us laugh, more than anything, her sweet sweet voice speaks truth and encouragement into my life. Daily I'm amazed at how God is using her to teach me new things and spur me on.

Like the other day I started to get angry and raise my voice at the kids. Riley said, "Oh Mommy! You're not speaking gently. It's ok. I forgive you!" Amazing accountability, huh?!

Or the time when I made rice & beans for dinner & she said, "Thank you for making us dinner. I really appreciate it, Mommy!" Rice & beans, y'all! I wasn't even happy about making it. So I said with a convicted spirit, "Oh sweet girl, thank you for thanking me. It really touches my heart." And she smiled up at me and said, "My pleasure, Mommy!"

Or I'll never forget the time last Spring (she was 2.5 yrs old) when I went to deposit Josh's check. Because he had started his job in January, he would get half of the teacher's salary but it would be spread out over two additional months (June & July). Sounds simple enough but in reality, it was really complicated to figure out & we had miscalculated his take-home income for the Spring. So as I was headed to the bank I just kept thinking there was no way we could make it on this check and I was majorly complaining in my head. When we pulled into the bank, Riley said, "Oh Mommy! We need to tank God fo' pwoviding (thank God for providing)!" Wow, I was moved to tears at that point. So we all prayed together in the car & sure enough, God provided for all of our needs and there was nothing to worry about!

Yes, I fully realize that Riley is simply regurgitating what she's seen/heard me say/do, but she always "regurgitates" it when I've completely forgotten it and I need the reminder!

It is such a dear thing to have a daughter who speaks so sweetly and so truthfully. I really don't think I could describe what a precious gift it is. I thank God for her words every day!