The Power of the Middle Name

I think most individuals with a middle name have experienced the "power" of the middle name. As a child, when my parents called "Kirsten," I knew I needed to respond in a normal, obedient time frame. However, when I heard, "Kirsten Erica!" - watch out! The middle name holds a certain power that creates a sense of urgency and often times, a fear, knowing you've really done it now.

Obed (middle name - Elijah) has recently become mobile. He is crawling, rolling and scooting anywhere - and quickly! We call him "Obed the Tornado" because for some reason, when he demolishes anything the boys are playing with, if we call him the tornado, it makes it okay with them.

Today, I was unpacking suitcases and I went into the boys room to quickly put their clothes away. Ezra and Asher (middle name - Tobias) were playing trains in the living room, and all of a sudden, I heard Asher yelling "Obed Tobias, stop!" I guess Asher has learned the power of the middle name... and really, when trying to make a point, any middle name will do.