Meet 5 year old Ellie. Adorable right? She's almost 6 though, in just 3 short months. She is now in Kindergarten and seems to love it. She thrives off of structure and has the blessing of obedience in school situations (home? well we are still working on that). Today was school picture day so what better reason is there for an impromtu photo op?
This smile say's, are we done yet? It's picture #1 actually. That was about the point she was done with these pictures. I like this picture because it shows the observant side of her. She is one to observe a situation and ask questions about it. One pressing thought on her mind these days is about the homeless. They are seeming to be more prominent on the street corners. Although our state has asked us not to give them money but rather donate to their charity, we do try to fill their pockets with whatever snacks we have in the car. Last weekend it was a peanut pack, Snickers bar, and a water. We try to discuss what their situation might be that got them to that place. We emphasize the fact that although they may look different and sometimes scary, they are still our brother and that Jesus loves them. Charity and compassion is one of her strengths, it will undoubtedly take her far.
Here we have a rare moment of solitude from her. This is the secret side of her personality. Inside she is STRONG WILLED, and perhaps a tad bossy. When she is playing with her friends I have a secret sign of touching my nose to remind her to be kind and not so bossy in play. She always smiles when I do it and eases up.
This girl and her bike. She rides her bike everyday, rain or shine. The outfit she has on today is clearly for school. Most the time she is sliding across the grass and putting holes in her knees of her pants. This bike is mismatched with the seat, wheels and bell thanks to a backing out mishap with her dad. She left her bike behind his car tire and learned a good lesson.
Oh Max, her best follower. Wouldn't be a post without him right?
Here is a little taste of her true personality. I'M FREE!!!
Although she is strong willed, her underlying trait is kindness. In the heat of the moment it may not shine through but if she stops and thinks about her choices she always chooses kindness.
My mom says, "Ellie, did you know your eyes smile?" It's true, she has the best true smile.
Okay, now thats the look I see too often. This is her, 'i'm mad at you look'. It's usually followed by some gritted teeth, a growl, and some stomping. This is bad news. It means she's mad. When I see it, it makes me mad too! It's such a mean face (i know it looks cute here, don't be fooled, it's mean). We are working on controlling our tempers, both of us. :)
Sometimes she teaches us that seeing things her way is not wrong, but simply a new perspective. Learning never ends for any of us.
Finally, the free spirited perspective. She teaches us that life is for fun. I love it. I love her. I love my little Ellie bug.
