Happy 19th Birthday, Hannah!

May 14, 1991


Hannah,

I’ve been thinking a lot over the past few days about what I wanted to write to you in this post. You should know that Cammie asked me about it and without hesitation I said, “YES!”  It’s been a little quiet here on the blog with so much going on lately.  This is a perfect opportunity to jump back in. Not only was it important to Cammie but to me as well.

Over the past months I’ve watched you with Braylon.  I see the protection of a mother bear in your eyes.  And then I go back to when I was a young mom just as I have many times when I’ve watched Cammie with Gavin.  I remember the adjustments to motherhood.  The sometimes overwhelming advice.  Sleep deprivation, endless laundry, tired achy body.  And of course the joy.

Only for a couple of years did I know what it was like to be a single mom.  I can’t imagine what it must be like to be a new mom at 18, single, working and in college.  Yet you keep pressing on.  Not only have you made your education a priority, but more importantly you have kept your eyes on Christ.  I’m blessed by yours and Cammie’s encouragement for one another.  Your friendship is nothing short of God’s handiwork.

You have a wonderful support system with your parents  as well as with Tanya and Derrick.  Yet I wonder what it must be like for you to walk this path of motherhood without your mother.  I’m certain she would be so proud of you.  You are doing an amazing job.

Hannah, never ever settle for anything less than God’s plan for your life.  All too often we choose to do our own thing and go our own way and miss out on great blessings.  It was for freedom that Christ set us free (Galatians 5:1).  Walk in that freedom. Choose to embrace the abundant life that He came to give us.  Only He can turn our problems, obstacles and messes into something beautiful.  You are a testimony of that as you walk out your role as mother day by day with such determination and grace.

In 1 Samuel 1, Hannah prayed unto the Lord for a male child.  The Lord answered her prayer.  Hannah gave Samuel back to the Lord as she had promised Him just as you dedicated Braylon unto the Lord before our church family.  The Lord was faithful to Samuel just as He will be faithful to Braylon.  Remember this as Braylon grows each year.  When challenges arise (and they will) God’s faithfulness will remain. His Word will not fail.

When you’re tired and weary, when you’re lonely and questioning His plans for you, know that others are taking notice of how you keep on keeping on.  So roll out that pizza dough with new zeal!  Keep on posting those songs of praise on facebook!  Push through those finals!  Continue to make the House of God a priority!  And know that your life is a testimony of God’s grace and faithfulness.

I’m so blessed to be a part of yours and Braylon’s lives!

I love you,

Mama Rena

Hannah Marie,

We’ve become so close over this past year. I could not have been blessed with a better friend during this tough time with Trey being gone. You are one of the strongest women I know, you have a huge heart! I see the struggles you go through and although I may not fully understand, I know it has to be very hard to not have your mother here with you. You do, however, have Mrs. Carla, Tanya, Debbie, and even my mom here for you to help you and to give you guidance. You are doing an amazing job at being Braylon’s mom and keeping God close! Thank you for being the person and the friend that you are. HAPPY BIRTHDAY and I love you!

Cammie