The livin's easy.

I have two words to say.

Summer. Rocks.

I love all things involving the summer. Such as, but not limited to...time at the pool, reading books, reading books AT the pool, hot weather, lazy mornings with coffee, and watching Disney movies as I babysit.

Tonight I persuaded the kids to watch the movie Up purely for selfish reasons (whoops). Tears well up in my eyes almost every time I watch this movie and tonight was no exception. I love the sweet little man and his sweet little wife. They love each other with a love that is unending and pure. I also love Russell, the boyscout who kills me every time I see his picture. Try to look at the picture below without laughing or smiling. You can't.

Russell is all boy and determined to get that last badge on his scout uniform. He is hilarious and carefree and tonight he reminded me of my little people from school.

The more I thought about those little people, the more I missed them. I have enjoyed the peaceful, carefree atmosphere of summer yet I found myself wondering what our students were doing and if they were also enjoying their summer. 

A couple of our students mentioned not wanting to have summer break because they would have nothing to do. Many families travel during the summer or visit family. I knew this probably wouldn't be the case for many of my friends. Many of their parents, if they live with both mom and dad, are working and just trying to make ends meet. So, for them, summer meant staying at home because their parents or guardians are at work. Are they having fun? Are they getting the positive attention they need at ages 5, 6, and 7? 

I wish I could scoop them up and take them all to the beach. I wish I could squeeze them and tell them I miss them. I hope they are enjoying summer as a 5, 6, and 7 year old should and aren't being forced to live grown up lives. I hope they know their teachers love them, care for them, and miss them. Most of all, I hope they come to know a Man who gave the greatest gift there ever was to give. I hope they learn to call on His Name, to praise Him, and to give their lives to the One who gave His life to them. 

Father, thank you for my students. I pray their summers are filled with joy, rest, and fun. Ultimately, I pray they come to know You as their Father in Heaven. Use us, as teachers, to spread Your fragrance on Your beloved children. Thank you that You are sovereign, compassionate, and faithful. 

Bring Your children home to You.

Amen.