highlights: my kids make me smile

even when we've had rough days or weeks like this one, with sickies and grumpy spirits, at the end of the day, my kiddos always make me smile. I'll confess, there are times when its so crazy and the older two are arguing and Lucas is crying, that running away sounds mighty tempting! But, even in those moments, I cannot imagine life without my  crazy kids. And they are crazy! I'm just so incredibly thankful for their lives and how they are shaping and molding mine as I try so hard to do that to theirs.

My kids have spunk. They have attitude and have the most contagious laughter. I love them. Even in the ugly moments when I cannot believe I'm witnessing the behavior coming out of their little bodies, I'm so crazy about them. Without fail, if I'm having a bad day or feeling lonely, when I think about them, immediately I have a smile on my face. I think they are pretty incredible (even when they decide to pee on the rug in their room right after taking a bath!!)

They are mine (mine and hubby's of course) and I'm so thankful that God lent them to us for this time. My life is richer and fuller because they are in it.

And when the house is quiet and I'm by myself, these three pictures, stuck in my head, bring a huge smile to my face.

My silly silly girl. I love it when you wrinkle up your nose like that. We'd just had a really rough moment right before this, but we both were laughing by the time I took this picture. I love you sweetie! I love your spirit and independence, even though they are both culprits when we butt heads. You're such a strong little lady with such a sweet heart. I'm so incredibly thankful for your life! You're my best girl!

oh my Nico Rico...you are irresistible! Even when I need to be stern with you, my heart is inwardly melting. Your eyes hold such spark and mischief and you always have something hilarious to share. Yesterday, you were silly and invited mami to be silly with you. Thank you buddy for putting a smile on my face! I'm so grateful that you keep life exciting and always have a hug for me when you know I need one! As we often say to each other "You're the best Nico in the whole wide world!"

And my Little Lucas. I'm having so much fun getting to know you as more and more each day, we learn more about who you are. You are pure silly too! You love to make silly noises and wait in eager expectation for us to turn, look at you and smile or giggle with you. You are starting to imitate sounds we make and that is just pure adorable! You have such a curiosity for the world around you and want to be right in the mix of playtime with your brother and sister. Your whole face lights up when one of the people you love comes into view and being with you brings such a peace to my heart, especially on hectic, crazy days. I couldn't imagine life without you and your sweet little hugs.

My heart is full of gratitude. More and more these days, as I am constantly reminded of how fleeting life is and how quickly it passes us by, I want to take these little moments and store them up in my heart. 

I hope I never take them for granted. 

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