In this moment

In this moment:

The house is quiet. Steve has gone to take the boys friends home and the children are in bed. I can actually hear the hum of the refrigerator.

My feet are throbbing. I did almost 100% of my Christmas shopping today, the weeks grocery shopping, and wrapped all the gifts I bought from a standing position because I can't sit and bend over. Now my poor feet are swollen and hurt.

The stockings are hung by the chimney with care, the mantle is draped with garland, and the tree is up and beautiful. It is beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

I can feel baby Kate kicking and rolling up a storm. She is actually tickling my ribs on the right side with her sweet little feet. The baby book says she is "pedaling" her feet, which will play a role in her learning to walk someday. When she is in there, bouncing around all I can think of is that song with the line "I knew I loved you before I met you." I don't know if I buy into that applying to your spouse, but I know it applies to your child. I just can't wait to kiss those tiny toes that are causing all the ripples in my tummy right now!

Luke is tucked into bed beside his brother. Snug, safe, happy. Also, turning the pages of a book. I can hear him in the quiet.

Nicholas is sleeping. He is worn out from playing basketball and playing with his friend. He was asleep about as quickly as his head hit the pillow. I hope he isn't getting sick.

I am content. My home is safe and warm, my children are peaceful and happy, and Steve still seems as smitten by me as he was 16 years ago. Today is a happy day.