~ Amanda, Part Three ~

Amanda is the oldest of six children. And is a wonderful big sister (most of the time). She is always considering her brothers and sisters feelings. Once, while she was on a girl scout camping trip, she spent all her money buying gifts for her siblings, because she didn't want them to feel left out. She didn't buy anything for herself. The leaders saw this, and thought it was such an awesome thing to do. They ended up buying her something, because they were so impressed with her generosity.

Even now that Amanda has a little job this summer, she is buying things for her younger siblings. She will ask to stop at the Dairy Queen, so she can buy ice cream cones for them, or Wendy's to buy frosties. How wonderful is that!? It honestly brings tears to my eyes sometimes (and I don't cry very often).

She is very intelligent. She knew her ABC's when she was 2 years old. She could add and subtract by the time she was 3. In elementary school, she was awarded the President's pin for excellent students. She also won the principals 4.0 club award. Her name is on a plaque hanging in the school. In high school, she is a member of the Jr National Honor Society. She is also a member of the Academic League (which is sort of like the game show Jeopardy).

Its funny now, when you think about the fact that Rich said a little blessing for her when she was a newborn. He said she would be blessed with intelligence. And well, that came true. Although there are times, where we find ourselves rather mad at her for doing stupid teenage things. We are very proud of her. She has turned into a beautiful young lady.