First Day of 6th Grade - Finding The Key Verse

I was in need of a key verse for our school year.   I found one that hit home for us this year.

 “And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father." (Colossians 3:17)

I love that this version says, "do it as a representative".  So just what is a representative?  To act, or speak on behalf.  Elected.  Chosen.  Ambassador.  Isn't that just what we are - chosen and elected ambassadors to speak on behalf of what we know about God and His great and unfathomable love.  Aren't we the ones that are to act with love, patience and seek goodness?  I'm so honored that this is my position in the great scheme of things.  Pertaining to home school - EVERYTHING we do as parents needs to reflect this calling.  And EVERYDAY we need to teach our children through speech and deed that we are always representing Christ - no matter if we are speaking to the masses or to each other. This year, we are determined to love like Christ, speak the truth, help the helpless and be holy representatives.

Our first day of 6th grade was excellent.  I stood on the back patio with my best friend last night - retelling the story of how nervous I was right before we began our first year of homeschooling.  That the eve of our first day was filled with anxiety and the need for perfection.  Thankfully, this year was completely different.   I sat back with ease, knowing that we CAN actually do this and to GREAT success.  I stopped sweating the little things (the fact that we are moving soon and we are surrounded by half packed boxes and mess).  I focused more on having enjoyable moments with my growing-too-fast daughter.  It worked beautifully...and we are so incredibly blessed with a man (Honey, Daddy) that makes this all possible.  We woke to white calla lilies and a note that said, "Lacey and Lauryl - Have the best first day of school, to my best girls."  So, if you are sacrificing not only your time today but your money to stay home and educate your children, hug your man when he gets home.  Let him know that all the hard work he is doing for you is greatly appreciated.

Some of today's highlights:

• Lauryl begging for science not to be over, because in her mind, science isn't learning, it's doing.  Bet she wears a lab coat as an adult. 
• Watching her try to paint like Joni Eareckson Tada, to understand that with art comes frustration.  But your efforts far outweigh your annoyance with lack of natural talent.  
• Learning about how this little blood sponge in a giraffe's brain keeps it from dying when it takes a drink.  LOVE when creation defies evolution. 
• Watching Lauryl clutch her heart during the prologue of Robin Hood.  Total hopeless romantic.  She's definitely going to require a wooing husband. 
• Listening to her recount where we left off in Bible history.  Realizing that we are in Shem's family tree is eye-opening and special.  

How was your first day?