First Day of American Folk Dance & Clogging

Today was our very first day of American folk dance and clogging — a free community event — and what a joyful surprise it was!

I honestly didn’t know how many children would come, especially since I had never even heard of clogging before. But to my amazement, the room was completely full!

The children arrived with their clogging shoes on and smiles from ear to ear, ready to dance their hearts out. The energy in the room was contagious — laughter, rhythm, and joy filled every corner. We even joked that we might need a bigger space soon to hold all our enthusiastic cloggers!

I’m so thankful for Shane, who brought this beautiful program to Little Light Academy. Whether through singing, dancing, or simply being together, unity is growing, love is deepening, and God’s light is guiding His children closer to Him.

☘️ First Day of Irish Dance

Today was our very first day of Irish dancing at Little Light, and it felt like such a full-circle moment.

Last year, Lyla went to a children’s fair and came home with her eyes sparkling. She said, “Mom, I want to become an Irish dancer!” I didn’t know then how or where that dream would take root, but I promised her we’d find a way.

Over the past year, she’s taken classes with a few different groups and absolutely loved it. When one of those groups had to move out of state, they began searching for a new home — for over a month and a half. Then, by what I can only call divine timing, I found out they were still looking for a space.

When I reached out and learned that Little Light could be their new home, I was overjoyed. Watching them dance here for the first time today was such a gift — the sound of Irish music echoing through our building, the joy and focus on each child’s face, and the sense of community and purpose that filled the room.

It’s a beautiful group of devoted children who love what they do, dancing together with unity, joy, and heart. I’m so grateful for this blessing and excited for all the memories to come.

Barn Days – Day 1: Opening the Barn Doors

Today was such a special day for so many of our kids — eager to meet the animals, play together, and learn outdoors in the beauty of God’s creation.

We started the morning with a fun team-building game to help the children get to know one another, and then we read Victor the Victorious Hog — the true story of a Yorkshire pig who made a miraculous recovery after a powerful prayer and was lovingly nicknamed Victor (short for “Victorious”).

For our handicraft, we created mini barn doors and handmade nature journals using popsicle sticks and natural materials found outdoors. The barn doors felt deeply symbolic to me — they represent the doors of our hearts.

This year, the children will have many opportunities to choose whether they will open their hearts to love, challenges, forgiveness, and growth. And today, I believe they accepted that challenge.Each week, we feature something called Discovery Spotlight — a special time for each child to share something they’ve learned, discovered, or love. It’s one of my favorite parts of Barn Days because it gives the children a chance to express their curiosity and creativity.During stewardship, we had a very special surprise — we welcomed brand new baby bunnies, only two days old! The students were thrilled to brush and halter the goats and to help care for the animals.It’s been such a joy watching the children explore, create, and take responsibility in caring for God’s creatures. Their excitement and tenderness remind me daily why this program is so meaningful.

🌿 Day 2: Building with Courage

Today was our second day of school in our beautiful new building — what an incredible blessing to see this dream come to life! Our theme for the month is Courage, and the scripture we read during assembly set the tone for the day “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”— Joshua 1:9

This schoolhouse exists today because we listened to God’s word and followed His promptings. It has taken faith, sacrifice, and the work of many hands, but we believe He called us to build this place for a purpose. We also believe that each child here has been led to this community for a reason — that they are part of something truly special.

During class, we gave the students a unique challenge:✨ Create Your Own Village. They imagined a place of their own — a dream school, a village, a community — and designed everything from the rules and slogans to the culture and values that would shape it. This activity helped them see that they have the power to build the kind of community they want to live in, one rooted in courage, kindness, and forgiveness.As we watched their creativity unfold, we were reminded again why we are here: to guide, to nurture, and to walk alongside these children as they grow into who God designed them to be.We are so grateful to be on this journey with each of them. 💛

Day 1: Let There Be Light

Today marked our very first day at Little Light Academy, and what a beautiful beginning it was!

Each morning before class, our community gathers together in unity — to pray, say the pledge, share our affirmation, and begin with a short devotion. These moments center us and remind us of our purpose:

Our mission is simple — to nurture the light inside each person.
We believe that God created every individual with purpose, with potential, and with a light that can shine brightly in the world.

The scripture that continues to guide our journey is Psalm 119:105:

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

This verse reminds us that even when we can’t see the full path ahead, God’s word — through scripture, prayer, or quiet promptings — lights each step along the way.

Our first day was filled with laughter, teamwork, and creativity. We began with team-building games to help everyone get to know one another, followed by a special project:

“My Best Self Shield” — a reflection of each child’s unique gifts and heart.
Students filled their shields with:

Things I love, What I’m good at, What helps me learn How I can help others

It was a day full of excitement, nerves, and joy — a beautiful blend of new beginnings and growing friendships. We ended our first day together sharing homemade popcorn, a simple treat that brought smiles to every face.

The light here is already shining so bright. ✨