The meaning of the name was a significant factor to me. Many people suggested "Grace" but I wanted something not so obvious...though perhaps with that in the meaning. I began to search and found that ANNALISE not only meant "graced with God's favor" but it also had special ties to her two sisters, Joanna Claire and Emilie Alyse. (click on their names to read the meanings behind their names) I didn't think it'd be too creepy or too forced, though I really pondered whether it was the right choice...nope, this was indeed a unique AND special name - with a very special meaning to me...and I liked that we could shorten it to Anna as a cute little nickname.
It was at Mike's prompting that we go with her middle name...JOY. It not only happens to be my middle name, but I thought it would be a wonderful reminder of the choice we have each day. What do I want to be "known" for...what characteristics do I want my little girl to embrace and radiate as she lives her life? YEP, Joy about sums it up!
I've been reading a book throughout this pregnancy that has helped me to be more aware of HIS gifts of Grace each day, to be Thankful for them - recording them or speaking them out load in praise and worship of His love for me...and oh, what Joy that can bring to my heart - no matter my circumstances!! After all I agree with Joseph Campbell who says, "We cannot cure the world of sorrows but we can choose to live in joy."
I also came across this verse several times in the last few weeks...it is an encouragement to me as we seek to raise her up to know and love the Lord we have CLUNG to these last 5 years with all our hearts!
Annalise Joy remember that:
"The Lord your God is with you. He is mighty to save. He will take delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing." -Zephaniah 3:16-17
11 comments:
Kristen, I am reJOYcing with you today! And love her name! Joy is my middle name, too. :) Our God truly is abounding in love...I can only imagine how you are soaking in that little one right now.
Brittany (Williams) Drury
Love the name, it is perfect! The verse you wrote at the end is my favorite Bible verse (has been for several years) and is one I go to time and again. Congratulations, Konings!
I am SOOOOOOO SOOOOOOOO happy for you, Kristin! :) What a perfect choice of a name for such a wonderful gift from God! I too LOVE 1000 Gifts. It changes the ordinary to extraordinary so often for me!
hi kristin! SO EXCITED for you!!! can we see pictures???
Kris & family.... I am soooo thrilled for you! Love the name, love how God has granted you the desire of your heart, love how He makes Himself known. Congrats and praising God with you! Krista & fam in Austria!
Yay!!! Praise the Lord!!! What a Joyous answer to many prayers!
Tell Becky I did a happy dance around my coffee table. :)
Mary Lynn
Cedarville
We are praising God today for His grace in giving you a beautiful baby girl!! We are SO happy for you!!!
Love,
Dana and Kim
Thrilled, excited, rejoicing,joyful, delighted, thankful--there aren't enough synonyms for "happy" to cover it! Congratulations, Koning family!I can't wait to meet Annalise! So glad God has given you joy!
SOOOO happy for you...I cried when I read your most JOYful news...and then I too took a happy dance around my coffee table! Her name is lovely...and I enjoyed the meaning and connections! CONGRATULATIONS!
My family is all sleeping right now and I can't wait until tomorrow morning when i can share the news with them. I might even take a video so you can see their reaction to the very happy news! I just knew you were going to come up with the perfect name for her, indeed you did! I love her middle name too! I can't wait to see pictures or her! Congratulations Koning Family!!
Your H.H.B.C. Friend,
Sara
Absolutely beautiful name! I am so happy for all FIVE of you! My prayers continue as always. May you always feel as much joy as He intends us to. Love you! Meg
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