first day of school and leo's birthday

 the first day of school!!!

(Benjamin is in 4th grade, Leo is in 3rd grade, and Ruth is in 1st grade)

 this was last year's first day of school - look how much they've all grown!

 i love this shot, don't you?!!

 and Joseph started preschool this year!!

here he is in the hallway, about to go into his class! 

you can see the door to his class - there is a big tree with all the kids' names on it. 

Joseph calls his preschool "tree school" now. Isn't that the cutest?!

Leo's 8th birthday was also on the first day of school! 

I had a little family party waiting for him in the kitchen when Clint brought the kids home that afternoon. It was really fun!

 8!!

 one of his favorite gifts, from Grandma and Papa

Benjamin has been working for weeks now on a special birthday present for Leo. After Leo had unwrapped all the presents, Benjamin ran upstairs and got a huge cardboard box. Inside was a humongous LEGO creation that he had made for Leo including all his favorite superheros! 

Leo reading Benjamin's little card. :) 

Leo was so happy, and I was so proud of Benjamin. 

He came up with that idea all on his own. He loves his brother!

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It's been a week since the school started, and I am still trying to find my "new normal". Life is very busy right now, and I've got lots and lots of work to do! Etsy orders, exercise, time alone with the Lord, cleaning house, taking care of the kiddos, cooking, laundry, etc etc... Not to mention, Harvest Fest in 2 1/2 weeks! Yikes! I am NOT ready! So much jewelry to make! But, God is faithful and He will see me through it and show me how to do everything He's called me to do.