Love

Yesterday was Valentine's Day. It is a day that gets sort of swept away in this house. It all starts in November with the kid's birthdays, Christmas in December, our anniversary in January, and finally Matt's birthday at the beginning of February. We're almost tired of celebrating by the time this strange little day rolls around.

Don't get me wrong, I can always find little trinkets that the kids love and who doesn't enjoy an old fashioned box of chocolates (to go with all the girl scout cookies we're eating)? Matt and I usually find a card for each other and sometimes I'm lucky enough to get a beautiful bouquet of flowers. If I have the energy I like to make heart shaped food and turn everything I can pink so the kids will get a kick out of the day.

Yesterday was an extra special Valentine's Day for me. It started with the kids enjoying the little gifts I got them. Gracie had a preschool party and Evan was just happy to be home from our trip to Texas so we were all in good spirits. Matt worked from home and, although he had planned to make it to the store for a card and some flowers, he apologized that the day just got away from him and he wasn't able to. Sometimes it really is the thought that counts. He decided to take me and the kids out for a date instead so we all loaded up and had our lovely dinner at Chick Fil A. There were balloons and the kids got to play and I could not help but feel so blessed to have all of my valentines with me, smiling and healthy.

I just love my family.

I love how Evan's feet dance a little when he gets excited. How he side steps and bobs back and forth just because he's a little boy with everything to be happy about. I love how he is starting to say his sister's name and how he melts hearts by reaching his arms up for a hug. I love that he is energetic and so curious.

I love Gracie's silly side. I love that she sings through life and dances in the airport as we wait for a flight. I love that she prefers to wear skirts because they just spin better. I love that during her extra 15 minutes after Evan goes to bed she wants to play games with me and her daddy and that she says,  "Great job cleaning up the living room so we can play a game mommy." She's my little encourager.

I love Matt's thoughtfulness. I love that he knew I would rather eat Chick Fil A with my family than spend time cooking and cleaning. I love that he is raising our kids with patience and takes the time to really be with them and teach them the things they want to know. He's actually better than I am at those things. I love that he extends grace when I need it.

I pray daily that I can show my family the kind of love God calls me to. The kind that extends grace in moments when it is very hard to love. The kind that takes a deep breath and remembers that these children are imperfect as I am and still learning as I am and deserve hugs and kisses and encouragement and correction without losing my cool. The kind that sees through a wrong done or a mistake made and realizes that I am not without sin. The kind that smiles and laughs and says, "I love you to the moon and back." and means it.