Back to School Pictures 2012-2013

We’re on our fourth “official” week of school (with some breaks in between – no, we didn’t need the breaks yet – but we were just so excited to start even knowing we’d be traveling to visit Grandma and Grandpa’s, and then to Family Camp for a long weekend), and we finally got some “back to school” pictures of our precious kids. {Our kind neighbors must find it hilarious to watch as I jump and squeal and talk about “stinky toes” while making funny faces on “picture day!” :)} These six incredible kids have grown SO much since last year, and I find myself in a mixture of tears as the time slips through my fingers, and joy as I have the honor of watching as God works in their little minds and hearts, continually growing them to be the young ladies and the handsome man that He has designed them to be.

Let me tell you a little about these beautiful children…
(Our Family for His Glory “Class” of 2012-2013)

(Elliana, Ariya, Isaiah, Kayla, Annabella, Alyssa)

Alyssa

Alyssa is 7 and in Second Grade. She is truly beautiful on the inside and out. She loves to read and to write her own stories (especially about brides and grooms and newborn babies), is incredibly creative, and finds beauty around her. Most of all, she loves Jesus and has a deep passion to tell others about Him.

Elliana

Elliana is 7 and in Second Grade (just like her twin sister… can you tell them apart yet?).  She is breathtaking. Her beauty from the inside truly shines through, for she has a very big heart for others. She’s always willing to help out and to show love to the hurting. I love her smiles and her hugs, how she loves to read her Bible, and how she longs to be a mommy someday.

Kayla

Kayla is 6 and in First Grade (& loving it!). She is such a bright girl, that loves Jesus, and hopes to use her talents to be an artist/illustrator some day. Her blue eyes sparkle as her smile and compassion lights up the room. And she loves, loves, loves animals and to help take care of her baby sister.

Isaiah

Isaiah is 4 and in Preschool. He is my handsome hero, that loves to save the day, but always has time to give his mom a hug. I love his energy and his desire to be just like his daddy some day. And I really love that he wants to be a warrior for Jesus, as he often reminds me (usually while disciplining) that he has committed his life to Jesus (big sisters make great missionaries).

Annabella

Annabella is 3 and also in Preschool. She melts my heart with her big beautiful eyes and her sweet spirit. She loves baby dolls and teddy bears and doggies and lots of snuggles. And I can’t forget her favorite-thing-ever-to-wear, her monkey jammies. Oh, and you should hear her sweet voice when she starts singing along at church… it’s the most beautiful sound I’ve ever heard.

Ariya

Ariya is 1 and is my little “tag-along.” She loves to be a part of the action at our house, and can be found eating crayons, climbing on bunk beds, and taking a sip from everybody else’s water bottle. Her smiles warm my heart every time. And her sweet kisses and hugs are a blessing beyond words.

I’m so thankful for these precious children that God has placed in our family. None of us are perfect. We have days that are tiring and long and hard- days where I feel like giving up as a Mommy and teacher to these wandering hearts. No we’re not perfect- we’re truly a handful of sinners, striving to live and love and learn together for the glory of God. But, I will hold onto each and every one of these moments, before they too- are gone.