Little Miss Independent

A couple of weekends ago we ventured to an Air Show, and it was hot! As a treat we stopped at a favorite ice cream “parlor” afterward. We all (Jason, Jack, Samuel and I) got our cones, and I picked up a spoon so that I could share with Lydia. Well, turns out, the girl just isn’t into sharing these days. Nor does she want help. She wants to do it herself. It was really cute … at first. The cuteness wore off when the ice cream started dripping, and she refused to give up “her” cone. This was accompanied by not-so-cute screaming and crying (let me clarify … by Lydia … I was refraining from these behaviors ... this time).

How often am I like that? So independent that I have a hard time accepting the help of others? And, so selfish that I am just worried about myself? Ouch. How many times do I “throw a fit” because I can’t have what I want or do what I want? Too many times to count or to keep track of (and, thankfully so, because who wants all that being kept track of?). Aren’t we blessed that our Father doesn’t keep track? That He loves us despite our selfishness, despite our “I can do it myself” attitudes? And, that He is the ultimate example of selflessness? Jesus’ death has provided life for us. What a gift we have in that.

“For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” James 3:16-17

A New Chapter

When I get into a good book, I have a really hard time putting it down.  I have been known to sacrifice sleep, reading by my little book light into the wee hours of the night.  And, then, as I finish chapters and finally the book, I am disappointed that there's no more.  That's kind of how I feel about this past school year.  It was such a fulfilling and rich year with so much growth and learning, not only for the boys but for us as well.  New relationships with teachers, new life experiences, so much.  I have said it before, and I pray that I will continue to feel this way, but our experiences in this community and with this public school system have been so positive.  We are so blessed.

And, so now, a new chapter begins as we move into summer break and the few months that separate the boys from officially becoming 4th and 1st graders.

The Ceremonial Last Day of School Photos - 2011

And, of course, little sister wanted her picture taken too!

You may remember this post, the 1st day of school, these boys have grown so much (as has this little lady).