precious

Yesterday, I was sitting on my couch watching the children play and playing with them. Shiloh climbed up on the couch and snuggled in to my side, saying "hug!", which is something she does at least 10 times a day. I gladly put my arm around her, and kissed the top of her gorgeous brown curls, just as the boys came racing back from the kitchen, I think the game was power rangers. I affirmed to them that I was the pink power ranger, and that I was on the side of truth, justice, and the American way, so never fear! They giggled and took off again to get the best of some enemy. About that time, the waist band on my pants became an annoyance to baby girl, and she started kicking at it, making sure I knew that I had infringed on her space.

And, again, as it has a million times lately, an awareness of the blessings in my life washed over me. You might think that, being on baby number four, some of this would be old hat, but nothing is further from the truth. I feel the kicking and rolling of our new little girl, or catch a glimpse of my pregnant silhouette as I go about my day, and I still am in awe that we have been blessed this way. Each of our children has brought this feeling with them, and I struggle to put words to the enormity of it.

Kaleb, my thinker and kind soul. Gabe, my fount of endless energy and cuddle bug. Shiloh, my "little mommy" and giver of unlimited kisses. Who knows about this newest little one? We would not be a complete family without each of them, so, no, it does not get old. If anything, each of them has shown me more possibilities then I dreamed could exist, and I become more excited each day.

I thank God for giving us these precious gifts....may we never take them for granted.