Julia & Elijah | Sand, Jumping, & Backyard Fun | Mandarin, FL

Tonight was the first night we have spent the evening outside in a while. The air was still pretty muggy, but it is Florida. At least it wasn't 100 degrees outside! At first I just snapped a few photos with my iPhone, then I realized it had been a while since I just brought the camera outside to get shots of my kids just being themselves.

These are real life photos of my family - my babies. I find that these simple shots are always my favorite. I love all the little details of the evening. The sand all over their little arms, legs, and faces. We had just finished eating dinner right before, and Eli still had a little bit of spaghetti sauce on his face where I didn't get it all when I wiped him down. This is our life. It's messy, but it is beautiful. God has blessed us richly with two wonderful children. No matter how much they drive my bonkers, I love them more than they will ever know. I could not be more thankful that the Lord chose me to raise them, nurture them, care for them, and love them. Being a Mommy is one of the hardest things I have ever done, but it is so incredibly rewarding, and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

I love the moments when I see they are beginning to understand that Jesus loves them - that Jesus IS love. When they sing the "Jesus loves me" and "B-I-B-L-E" songs, or when they sing the "Blessing" song together before they eat a meal. Every moment is so special, and I can't help but soak it all in. It is even better when I capture it on camera!

I love the moments that you will see in one of these pictures, where Julia is learning what Mommy loves - to take pictures. It's those moments where I see that she wants to be "like Mommy." I only pray I am daily seeking Jesus, so that she sees Him living through me and desires to become more like Him in her own life one day.

I love you my sweets.