Dear Daughters: Summer

Lady loves, It's been a year. A year since we moved from the familiar to the unknown. To be honest, it doesn't hurt as bad as I thought that it would. We have found our groove, the best way for us to function, and often thrive. Daddy has a steady job, our first year of homeschool is over, we are slowly making friends.

I scooped you all up early this morning to watch the sun rise on the beach. You were awestruck and giddy and it made me so happy. Lily, you are dainty and frilly, and want to do good like any first born might. You strive for approval and want to lead your sisters so earnestly, so sincerely. We see Jesus in you more and more each day and gush at the little lady you are becoming. Norah, my little spit fire. You are my curve ball, the one that keeps me on my toes. You are feisty and fiery, loyal, and strong. I can never tell what you are thinking, but what comes out of you takes my breath away. Getting to know who you are as a tiny person pushes me to my limits in every which direction. You love the sea. The sand. The waves. The wind. You were made for this place. Phoebe, my little chub. You are walking and babbling and teething like a little monster. You are just the sweetest, easiest, chubbiest baby I have ever had. I want to coddle you at all times. You love to chase after your sisters, following their lead whenever they provide an opportunity. You are sweet, but often demanding of my attention. I can't believe you are already one.

I don't know how long we will live by the coast my dears, but as long as we are hear, I don't ever want you to forget what a blessing it is. Your daddy is working so hard to make life as beautiful and simple as he can, and I'm trying my hardest to keep up my end of the deal by being present and diligent with the three of you. I fail, often, but you girls show me Grace day after day.

All my love, Mama

Maybe She's a Wildflower

My oldest, the one who made me a mama turns five in less than a month. The young woman that she is growing to be - one that seeks to be obedient to her parents and Lord, one that is kind and girly and full of wonder - makes my heart ache with joy. Oh my little wildflower, I love you so.

Before the Summer Comes

Very, very soon it will start to be very, very hot here in Texas.But for now, I am letting them play tourist every chance they get.

And my sweet, fat, adorable squish will be one year old next Saturday. We are scheduled for family pictures, but I wanted to snap a few of my own tonight, before she hits that magic date that means she's no long a baby anymore.