Crazy Greene Love: Anna Claire

The other day at church, one of our close friends was giving a talk. This happened to be our young women's president, who was also Anna's fourth grade teacher, a co-worker and dear friend of mine, and the mother of one of Anna's best friends. As she talked, she went through and spoke about each of the young women and what characteristics she loved most about them. Listening to her describe each girl, it was obvious she loves each of them very much. I waited to hear what she would say about my Anna girl. She explained that as she had gotten to know Anna, she felt like she had such a sweet spirit that her body almost couldn't contain it. This was one of the sweetest things I've ever heard about one of my children.

Anna is so sweet. That being said, she is my daughter, and is more like me than my other kids. In fact, my mom likes to refer to her as Jen Jr. My mom once referred to me as being like an M & M. Hard on the outside but sweet in the middle. That's my Anna too.

Anna is 12 and going in to the 7th grade. She's excited about moving up to the intermediate school. She's in the band and shuffles up and down from 2nd to 4th chair most all the time. Although she claims to not be any good, I can assure you she plays the flute very well. Her piano skills have continued to improve as well. This spring she decided to play soccer. I'm sad to say she didn't enjoy it very much, but I certainly enjoyed watching her play. It's fun to see her interact with other girls her age. Up until December of this past year, Anna wasn't much of a reader. She read only when it was forced upon her. This is not to say she's not a good reader though. For Christmas, she received a Kindle. Since then, she's become a reading fiend. I didn't know how expensive that little gift was going to be! Now reading is one of her favorite things to do.

Anna is happy as a clam hanging out with friends or sitting in her room, listening to music, drawing or reading on her Kindle while eating Dove chocolate.