20 times a day:
- I wash the highchair tray
- I wash tiny hands
- I close the bathroom door
- I pick the same books up and put them back in the bookcase
- I clean up a puzzle
- I say “not for you” to Francie
- I say “you can’t lay on your sister” to Soren
- I open and close the fridge door
- I clean finger prints off very impractical stainless appliances and a whole lotta windows
- I have to hear about boats/trains/tractors/trucks
- (At least) I fold a piece of clothing
- I remake Soren’s bed
- I say “how do you ask Mom?”
- I pick up mysterious shredded paper
- I pick up blocks
- I take a wet wipe out of Francie’s mouth
- I confiscate a toy
- I find a Matchbox car in the couch cushions
- (I swear) I change a diaper
- I wipe up the kitchen floor
- I take a deep breath
- I think about eating my feelings
- I think my head might explode
- I consider turning on the tv
- I fantasize about Soren still napping
- I look at the clock
- I put the dog’s water bowl out of Francie’s reach so she won’t spill it
- And then back down again so the dogs won’t get dehydrated
- I wonder why we have two dogs
- I talk to Jenni
- I talk to my Mom
- I wonder if I’m damaging them
- I wonder where I am and how I got here
- I think about hurling a noise-making toy across the room
- I can’t wait for their bedtime
- I can’t wait for my bedtime
- I pray for strength and patience
- I think about single moms (like my Mom)
- I think about Moms who would love to stay at home but for whatever reason cannot
- I think about my family with sick children
- I think about my friends who’ve lost children
- I think about my friends who want but haven’t yet had children
And so 20 times a day:
- I hug and kiss my daughter
- I hug and kiss my son
- I marvel at their little bodies
- I marvel at their learning minds
- I thank God for their health
- I go to bed, I get up. I start all.over.again.

Wow!!! I basically want to leave a comment so that you know I read your blog! I enjoy it very much! ❤