Perfectly Imperfect: Back. to. School

The first day of school was last Thursday (August 9th) for the kids. It is still strange to me that the kids go back to school at the beginning of August. I guess growing up in Montana and then us living in Washington, we always started at the end of August (the last few days) or after Labor Day weekend. However, we were ALL more prepared since there was no moving across country this summer, like we did last year.

Rande and I decided that it was best for the kids to be in the same school. As you know, Christian was removed from his previous school, home schooled (in the interim) and then put into a local private school here in town after winter break. We love the new school and the small class sizes are great for him. Ashlee was excited to attend this year, but a little nervous. Thanks to her big brother the first day was a huge success! They both like their teachers and classes. Christian only has a total of 4 students in his class and Ashlee 11.

The only drawback to the whole situation is the finances. With me in school, trying to pursue my degree, Rande is the only one bringing in income, and the Army isn't exactly the highest paying job. Some how last year God provided miraculously for us. I look back and add the numbers, questioning how in the world we were able to survive? But we did and the tuition was paid every month on time. This year it is a bit more unnerving, but we believe God will be faithful in providing. I just need to stop worrying and trust in him. Your prayers are needed this year and next - that provisions will be made for us. This school has been a huge help for Christian. At the end of the year last year Christian and I had a conversation in which he told me that he felt like "dirt" before he moved to Westminster, but now he feel like "rich soil". That's a pretty big analogy for a 9/10 year old. God brought us through a storm and we finally saw the light at the end of last year. That doesn't mean that there won't be more storms ahead, but I know now, more than ever, that he is faithful and will continue to guide and provide for us.

Anyways, now that I've ruined my keyboard with my salty tears, here are the infamous "1st day of school pictures".