About Me

Hey there! I’m so glad you chose to visit my website!

My name is Lyla Marie Santo, and here you can learn a little about me and my life! I am a homeschool senior who loves my family, volleyball, violin, reading, baking, hanging out with friends, going to church, and my Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Growing Up

I was born in Omaha, Nebraska, and lived there for seven years with my parents, my three younger brothers—Wesley, Levi, and Ezra—and our dog, Theo. I have so many fond memories in that house, and it’s always so nostalgic driving past it.

Growing up, I never really knew what “my thing” was. I tried lots of different sports and activities, from soccer to softball to basketball to dance, but I never really found anything I absolutely loved. I liked to draw and be creative, but I would always get bored after a while and usually come up with some absurd idea that, at the time, I thought was great—and then pull all my younger siblings along with me. These ideas made lots of good memories, but also taught me a lot of lessons.

In September of 2015, we moved out to Bennington, Nebraska, where we live now on about 10 acres of land. Having all that space to run free and spend time outside with my siblings is something I’m so grateful for! While living in Bennington, I was also blessed with two little sisters (finally!!). Nora and Hazel are the perfect little duo and the best sisters I could have asked for!

After lots of convincing, I started playing volleyball in eighth grade for the Omaha Metro Warriors. It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Volleyball was the first sport I truly loved—not just the game, but the people too. It taught me valuable lessons about being content, working hard, and trusting the Lord in His plans.

My senior year, I played middle on varsity, and my team went on to place fifth overall at the Homeschool National Volleyball Tournament. I’m so thankful for my coaches and teammates who made this sport so special.

Picture this: seven-year-old me, lying in bed one night, decides I want to play the violin at my church. So naturally, as any seven-year-old would do, I tell my dad that if he gets me a violin, I’ll be the happiest person in the world and never ask for anything again… (seven-year-olds…)

My parents must have thought it was a good idea because for my birthday, they got me a little violin. I was so excited to start lessons and wanted to practice every day so I could reach my goal…for about a week.

I quickly realized how hard learning an instrument is—and finding the motivation to keep going is even harder. With continued help (and some pestering from my mom), I eventually started to enjoy it. I also joined the homeschool orchestra and, three years ago, accomplished my goal of accompanying our pianist at church.

What started as a simple dream became so much more. The violin is now a part of who I am and something I love deeply.

I couldn’t be more thankful for my amazing parents. They have poured so much time and energy into me, always helping me pursue my dreams. They’ve helped grow my faith in the Lord and are continuing to guide me and my walk with Him.

Galatians 6:9-10 NKJV “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.”

Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”