Oh how the years go by...

We are back to school and back into the swing of our hectic schedules! The girls started their first year at Victory Christian School and absolutely love it. Their teachers were definitely purposed by God, and they are thriving in this environment full of grace and love.

Mrs. Christie Waters and Kealyn

Mrs. Marti Malhi and Emalee

Not only were their teachers purposed of God, but Emalee's best friend from Kindergarten and First grade when she attended Grace Christian School, Avery Atkinson, is in her class! She is on cloud nine I tell ya!

As I put them to bed tonight, what is most important to me about their experience and education at VCS became evident. We have two very dear friends of ours, Jackie Wilks and Cheryl Hunter, who are both battling cancer as we speak. As it came time for prayers, both of the girls not only prayed for our friends, but they used scripture and stood firm on their faith that they were healed! It is amazing as a parent to witness this night after night as they talk to God as their best friend. Praise and worship is continually on their lips and they are memorizing scripture like crazy! CAN YOU TELL I AM THRILLED???!!!

Academically, they are doing fantastic! New curriculum has presented its challenges but they are pushing through it and giving it all they have each day. Phonics and language are a new concept for them, but they are doing great.

This week the girls had their annual Kumon awards ceremony. Kealyn received an award for being in Kumon for 3 years and an award for working at 4rd grade level on her math. You are a rock star KK! You make us so proud and thankful for who you are in Jesus!

Emalee received an award for reaching level G before 5th grade. Level G is the beginning of Algebra and Emalee is now working on an 8th grade level in Math. Each year in Kumon, many kids complete the program. This year they gave an honorary award in the name of each completer to a younger Kumon student. Emalee was chosen to receive the award from her favorite Kumon student/teacher in the center. Her name is Mary and little does she know, she is sewing seeds in Emalee's life each and every time she comes in contact with her. This was an amazing award as there are over 730 students in our Kumon center. Congratulations sweet Em! You are so deserving after countless hours of work and dedication to your studies. You are truly amazing.

So here we are, grade 5 and 2. HOW IN THE WORLD! I mean, I remember 5th grade and I know it wasn't that long ago!!!

To my sweet, sweet girls:

My sweet Tinsy Two(A.K.A. KK) You are oh so precious in His sight. He loves you so so much and is making himself real to you each and every day. Your heart is so pure and you have such a willingness to help those around you. God is instilling gifts in you every day and I love to see them come shinin' through. Last week, after school on Tuesday, you and I had a great time in worship together! It was absolutely amazing! The spirit of the Lord is dwelling in you and you are now able to use the gifts you have each and every day. You are learning to share the goodness of God and even when others may overlook your heart, you stand firm. You also are truly amazing! I love you pumpkin!

Noonie...For I know the plans I have for you saith the Lord...You told me two weeks ago, that the Lord has called you to missions. I am totally ecstatic! Oh, how I would have loved to have felt the Lord speak to my heart and know from the age of 10 what my calling was to be! The heart of the nations has pricked your heart and it is truly amazing to see how your heart has been changed. This weekend, we were doing your research paper on Afghanistan, and you stopped on your conclusion and were nearly in tears at the though of 80% of the people in that country being Muslim. It tore you up to think that 80% of those people did not know Jesus personally. How in the world do they live? you said. The Lord has set a fire within you and you are fixin' to do big things for Him! I adore you precious one!

So as I come to a close, I wish to challenge those of you reading this. How are the years going by in your life? Are you taking the time to be still in Him and let Him be God? He is still on his throne and through this time of financial hardship, physical hardship, emotional hardship, He is still there! He is waiting to bring you into His arms and heal all your wounds. Savor these moments with your children for they come and go so fast. Our lives are but a twinkle and then they are gone. I would also ask you...what are you doing for the Kingdom? How are you sewing into lives you come in contact with daily? Just something to think about as we make a difference in the lives of people, positively or negatively, as our years go by....

Blessings,

Amanda