Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Black and White Wednesday ~ Blessed




Honestly, these pictures turned out better than I expected. As soon as I took them I know that no matter how they turned out they were going to be my Black and White Wednesday contributions. I know this sounds terrible but this is the first picture I think I have taken of all six of my kids, together at one time. Who knew it would be so hard to get 6 kids together to sit still long enough for a quick picture.



I love these pictures. I love that there are 12 feet dangling from the pier. I love that Mylee is practically sitting on Jaxon's lap with her hand in his lap. I love that both Drew and Gabe are not even looking at the camera, but instead looking as though they could either one jump (or fall) at any time. I love that Blake and Emma have the same smile (I don't think I have ever noticed that before). I love knowing that each and everyone of those faces were meant to call me "mom," or "momma," or "mommy." I love that each and everyone of those arms were meant to give and receive hugs from me. I love knowing that when I look at those faces, I know without a doubt I am doing exactly what I was called to do; be a mom. Mostly I love the feeling of absolute, unconditional love I feel for each and every one of these faces.



When I look at this picture I see 6 smiles. I see 12 pair of arms and legs. I see 60 little (and not so little) fingers and toes. I see round eyes and almond eyes. I see brown hair and hair as black as the night sky. But what I see more than anything are 6 very different yet very similar kids who are in every sense of the word my children. I could not be happier, prouder, or more blessed to call these my children.

And what makes me even happier, prouder, and blessed is to hear someone else say it. Matt's mom and I were sitting on the deck watching the kids play. Mylee was right in front of us playing with some blocks (I am not exactly sure what she did) when my mother in-law chuckled and said "she may not be your biological daughter, but she is definitely your daughter." She certainly is.

18 comments:

Chasing Dreams Photography said...

what a beautiful picture of your children : ) It's not very often that I get my six children together for a picture...: )

Kayce said...

Those are perfect pictures! Perfectly beautiful of your children!

Formerly known as Frau said...

Great pictures...love them!

TanyaLea said...

Oh how wonderful to be back and see these beautiful photos of your family together! I love these pics of ALL of your kids... yes, you are indeed SO blessed, as are they! I feel your heart to the core, Mandi!!... I feel the same way about my children. God is GOOD! <><

Blessing and Hugs,
~ Tanya

Sarah Andrews said...

Love this pics! I can only imagine what a task it is to get everyone together happy and complient! Love your capture!

Tara Anderson said...

What a beautiful family!!! You are blessed beyond measure...

Love Letters To China said...

What great pictures! I have a hard time getting my two little ones together, I can't even imagine adding 4 more to the mix. ;-) Congrats to you!!! You are one blessed mommy.

Happy Wednesday!

Donna said...

Six beautiful blessings for sure! You're one lucky momma!

Donna
Our Blog: Double Happiness!

Wanda said...

I'm sure you're thinking - well worth the wait. These shots are smashing. I'm sure they'll be framed somewhere in your house.

Love the back and front concept too.

Unknown said...

This was so beautiful. The pictures. The smiles. Your words. It made me cry a little. Seriously. LOVE it. Love that you get the honor of being their Mama : )

Lisa said...

I LOVE THEM!!!!!!

I do the same thing :)

Unknown said...

Wow...beautiful pictures! Isn't it amazing to see them all lined up together...talk about blessed!

Mrs. Winn said...

Just an amazing picture of God's goodness- six blessings all together! Love it!
~Kelly

The Mommy said...

How cute is that! And creative too.
Hope you get a chance to stop by my blog too

Tara said...

mandi, love those pics. i'm thinking one of them would make a great blog header. you are needing an updated one...

Anonymous said...

What great pictures and what a lovely family you have!

Zeb said...

beautiful shots mA! :) and your blogs template is cooollll!!! :)

Jean said...

What a wonderful post- and what beautiful blessings you have!

Love the photos! Thanks for sharing them!!