...and their off!

Aubrey's first day of 4th grade....
Ashlyn's first day of MIDDLE school.....

The first day of school is here again. I have to say I really enjoyed summer with the kids this year. I know that each 'first day of school' means they are another year older and are experiencing new aspects of life each year.

This summer they enjoyed having some time off, sleeping in, sleep over, staying in their pajamas all day, staying up late, being totally off schedule, playing on the computer for several hours at a time (it was summer after all), talking on the phone for HOURS, swimming anytime of the day, and just being lazy!

But, I am a person who thrives on routine and I have to say I look forward to getting back in the swing of things. Going to bed early (my favorite), getting up early (not my favorite) and doing all the crazy afternoon activities.

One more goodbye for Layla.....Several friends sent me this prayer and I thought it fit perfectly for what I was feeling.....I know they are out of my hands when they are at school but I know that I can pray for them often....what peace that gives me.

A Mom's Prayer On the First Day (and every day) of School

Here we are again, Lord. Their backpacks are loaded and their faces are scrubbed and their lunch accounts are full. And I know you'll walk with them, Lord. You always do.

But a mom still has to ask.

Will You walk with them?

Will You whisper to them what they need to hear, when I'm not there to whisper it?

Will You please, oh please, cover their school with the protection only You can give, and will You keep harm far away?

Will You make their minds strong and ready to learn?

Will You help them understand that hard work honors the One who created them?

Will You guide their teachers, giving them patience and wisdom and creativity and more patience?

Will You bless them for their efforts?

Will You love all those children there, the ones whose lunch accounts aren't full, the ones who feel alone?

Will You teach my children to be kind and unselfish and to love those who are different from them?

Will You point them back toward home just as soon as you can?

Lord, I give them to You today and everyday, trusting them to Your care. Amen.