"It just is, honey." I say as I mix the hot chocolate in their mugs and search for the marshmallows.
They look like angels, swimming in their Daddy's tee-shirts as they stare at Tom and Jerry and look away only for a moment to spot their mug on the table in front of them. Yes, they're having hot chocolate in the living room. They're not even allowed to have water in the living room! They are happy! There is a huge list of reasons I could give for such a sweet ending to the day.
- Their rashes are about 85% gone
- Anika figured out how to pedal her new bike and she took off fast today
- Malkiah amazed me and counted out 12 objects (only 12, because I ran out), proving he is certainly ready to start some preschool curriculum!
- Alohi got caught stand unassisted several times today
- Anika excelled in her lessons today and pushed through a couple stumbling blocks
- Malkiah actually cleaned up his room today
- We found gluten-free pizza crusts at the commissary and they were actually quite yummy
- I got my fridge as clean as the day it was delivered..... actually, cleaner, because it was not covered in packaging dust! Borax is my new best friend!
- Alohi signed like crazy, letting me know each time she was hungry or thirsty or all done or wanting more.
- We didn't need to call the Fire Department
- From how it sounds, Matthew is doing an amazing job at academy, standing out above the rest, and even mocked by his peers for his motivation (this is a good thing, for a motivated Marine that is)
Truth is, there are TONS of reasons why I could say we're having Friday-night fun on a Wednesday, but that would not be the truth. And I have a tough time telling lies, especially to my children. So, because it just is! That's the best I can do without telling them more or making up a lie.
Between you and me, I just need to see some smiles! We've had so many bumps and bruises today, small defeats, spills, lonely moments, frustration, and misbehavior..... I've seen too many frowns today. I easily can count way more frowns than eyebrow-raised smiles today. I just can't handle going to bed tonight with that kind of tally in my mind. We've had so many good things happen, but Anika and Malkiah have done so much frowning today, it makes me cry. I just needed to see some smiles! No, they didn't earn this. Am I spoiling them? I don't really care if I am. Alohi still went to bed on time. They ate very well at dinner. Lo and Ki had baths, and Ani had a shower..... not just to get wet; they all have clean hair and clean bodies. As I announced that we'd be watching a movie, I got that eyebrow-powered ear to ear grin from BOTH of them! And on the way to the living room to get them situated, Anika stopped and said "Mommy, I love your heart". Kiddo, you have no clue how bad I needed to hear that. It was such a good day, but Mommy is just so stressed, and smiles have been hard to produce today. She doesn't need to know. "Thank you, Anika. Your gratitude encourages me."
I'm headed to go steal some snuggle time on the couch. As soon as this movie is over, it's teeth, potty, and bed! And I will fall asleep tonight praying that tomorrow brings the kind of joy that erupts from our hearts, out our mouths..... with the kind of countenance that screams "I AM BLESSED".... because I am!
3 comments:
This made me cry..and smile!! I have so been there myself! Way to turn it around and not let that sour mood win!!
Have you read "One Thousand Gifts"? Basically it's about viewing everything as a blessing and being grateful even for the things that go wrong or all the little things that we normally wouldn't notice as either good or bad. This entry would be a great example!!
There are alot of good reasons to have a special Wednesday night... One you missed is beacuse my kiddos have an awesome mommy. Keep up to good job :)
BABE!!!!!! Crying again! How can I possibly have anymore tears to shed today? I love you!
Post a Comment