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.