precious time

As I lay in bed this morning, the first thing I hear is Gabriel's feet pounding down the hall.  He is running and full of excitment, ready for the day.  As I continue to lay there, I hear other sounds.  Sounds of the morning come in through the window.  Sounds of chirping birds and the wind that rustles the leaves and grass outside.  I set my feet down on the cold floor and begin to think of all the things I am thankful for.

I am thankful for Gabriel, my son full of life and energy in the morning.  For Owen, my sweet 4 year old, who is still asleep in the bed next to me.  His sweet face as he sleeps in perfect peace.  For Eli, my adorable 18 month old who stands up in his play pen and shouts "ow, ow" (which mean out).

I am most thankful for my time.  Time to spend with these three wonderful human beings that have been entrusted to me.  I wake to the sounds of my son's feet, not an alarm clock.   I don't have to hurry and get up so I can get ready for work.  I have been given this day to spend with my children.  To watch them grow and learn and to learn from them.  To spend time together and learn to love each other unconditionally.

I would not have choosen this life for myself. I was foced into it 4 years ago because it didn't make financial sense to put two children into daycare.  Not only was I forced to stay home but, I was terrified to be at home all day with little children.  I had my Master's degree for pete's sake.  Why would I choose to stay home with little children?   I never imagined that I would love and embace it as much as I do today.  I would have never imagined that I would become the person that I am today.

God knew.  He knew what I needed and when I needed it.  He knew the person that he wanted me to become and he knew I wouldn't do it on my own.  I am so thankful that he knows what is better for me then I do.  I am so thankful he has given me this time with three little boys, ages 6,4, and 1.  And, I can't wait until tomorrow when I get to do it again.