Everett. I slowly became more and more attached to that name as Adam jokingly called him that throughout our pregnancy. Adam loved the name and kept trying to convince me to like the name. Secretly, I enjoyed and laughed when Adam would keep referencing our unborn child as Everett. Although I liked to keep Adam wondering, the name grew on me, but I didn't want to decide on a name for sure until we met our little guy face to face. I mean, what if he didn't look like an Everett?
Then, I won't forget looking up the meaning of his name. Everett: strength of a wild boar. Immediate thought: weird and freaky. The meaning of a name is really important to me and I thought: what am I doing to myself by naming our child this seemingly obnoxious name? I mulled it over and over. I even prayed about it. I mean, this is the name this child will have for life. And then, I remember the moment my thought shifted and I saw the meaning in a positive light.
"Strength of a wild boar." My child could or could not have a dominating personality, but he would be clothed with strength. Strength to love, show compassion, persistence in meeting his goals, an interesting and fun personality. I thought about the strength of Sampson and how he was used by God. Yes, with every strength is a side of weakness too. And it was then, that I realized God would use his strengths and weaknesses to glorify him. That was the moment I knew Everett was his name and I was proud! Little did I know that he would live up to that name.
The more time goes on, the more I realize that Everett was given a very strong personality. You could call him a high needs baby. Very draining but vivacious and full of energy. Without going in to a long story about high needs babies, I am learning lots. Never has been a great sleeper/napper. Never likes to be set down. Makes his demands known. Is either laughing loudly or crying loudly. Mommy only can shower when daddy is watching him. Dinners are prepared during nap times if at all. And the only way I can get anything done is by wearing him in our wrap. Not to mention he is very strong and wiggly. I say this not to complain because my little guy means the world to me and very much depends on me. No one knows him like my husband and I. I also say this not to vent or ask for parenting advice. Truly, no one even understands what I am saying unless you have one.
But I am reading the most fascinating book.
http://www.amazon.com/The-Fussy-Baby-Book-Parenting/dp/0316779164/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1355335893&sr=8-1&keywords=Dr.+Sears+fussy+baby
In the book, Dr. Sears talks about how a strong-willed, high needs baby while draining as a newborn, etc..turn in to the most passionate and compassionate people when they have had parents who foster and channel their personalities. And it hit me, I am blessed to have a child with the "strength as a wild boar." It is so neat how God has used the meaning of Everett's name to teach and encourage me. God gave me Everett and I am the best mother for him. His daddy and I can't wait to see our little guy develop and grow in his strengths and learn from his weaknesses all for the glory of our wonderful Savior. In the meantime, I know this time will go fast so I am determined to enjoy each stage as it comes.
I did not have the time to get Christmas cards together this year, so I will just post some pictures of Everett. He is our greatest gift, joy, and blessing this year!
