First

In the Living Bible Proverbs 3:6 reads "In everything you do, put God first, and he will direct you and crown your efforts with success"
Surely God should be put first in our lives, and we know that when we seek Him with our whole being we will find Him, and He has promised only good for us.  Putting Him first is a way of life that is joyful and vibrant, purposeful and delightful.  As I prayed for my first day of school, I longed for God to direct my steps, my words, and my thoughts.  Five precious children of His were about to enter my life and our tiny classroom.
Here are some pictures from the first day of school, Wednesday, July 30.

My third-grader, Dakota.  She is so excited each day and truly wants to learn and to help.  We just celebrated her birthday on July 19.

 My two first-graders, Julia and Kate.  Full of energy, fun and so sweet.  They are like little sunbeams in the classroom.  They want to know if I will read another story each day, and are ready to take a turn at prayer, holding the flag, etc.

Kate with her younger sister, Hope, choosing a birthday cupcake. 

Julia was the first to arrive on day one. 

                                  Julia and Kate working together on a project.

My youngest two, pre-k, Hope and Lucy.

Hope at her table and cutting out her project. 

                                         Lucy getting ready to cut out her project.

And all of us together ready to begin.  

And I am already staying up late to make flashcards, write out plans, make bingo cards.......the list goes on - but my time with my Savior refreshes me and leads me forward, and He directs our paths.