Isabelle is twelve years old today. Of all of my kids, she is the one who most wants to be doing something all the time. And by “doing something”, I don’t mean schoolwork, or any other seated task. She wants to be baking, or fixing, or cleaning, or going to the post office, or doing any other random task that might arise.

She regularly bemoans her math schwork, but got a perfect score on the math portion of her standardized test.

She is not the fastest or the strongest among her siblings, but she is like the little engine that could and is great at sticking with a task – even an exhausting one – until it is completed.

Isabelle is unafraid to try new things, even if odds are against her success, and approaches most things with determination and optimism.

She continues to be very interested in hair styling and fashion and baking, and has become more interested in drawing, painting and crafts recently. Isabelle is a great student in these areas and regularly researches materials and techniques to improve her skills.

Isabelle is also an encourager, to me in particular. She gives me hugs whenever I’m having a bad day, and reminds me of what is true when my faith wavers in hard moments. She is compassionate and servant-hearted and nurturing, and does a great job of taking care of everyone around her.

Isabelle is a bright light on dark days. She is witty and smart and strong. Our family is blessed by her and it is a joy to be her mom. I’m so thankful for the chance to celebrate her twelve years today.