My Funny Valentines

On this Valentine's Day, I'm reminded of how much love we have in this life. These five girls (and their daddy) are my heart, and make the hard days worth it. And, to be honest, the hard days happen often. I'm overwhelmed a lot, barely seem to have the time for the basics when it comes to the house and the kids, my van sports the not-so-faint smell of pee, and most of my "me" time is spent with a nursing baby. Our days begin with a routine that resembles a timed obstacle course (I am a fan of obstacle courses...but every morning?), and end with me wondering how I didn't manage to check anything off my to-do list, like doing something about that pee smell, for starters.

I'm too often stressed by the small things that threaten to keep me from enjoying the big stuff.

The big stuff = my five little valentines who are growing bigger every day, and showing me what's really important.

Like today...

While the other four were napping, this one asked to cuddle with me as she delicately opened each of her valentines, in awe of every scrawled classmate's name, and related every detail of her class party. I'm relishing the extra cuddles from her these days!

This one spent way too long "orzagizing" her valentines, and generously sharing candy with her little sisters. Later, she declared, "Valentine's Day is my favorite day ever! Can tomorrow be Valentine's Day, too?"

This one gave me a kiss on the lips every time I asked for one today. Ever the cuddlebug, she's also the best little kisser. I like that in my valentines!

This one gave me more than her share of frowns, hands on hips and tantrums today, but she made up for it by just being her spunky self. And by, for the 100th time, getting right in her baby sister's face, throwing her voice and saying, "You're the squishiest baby in the whole wide world." (The baby is always amused by this, so I'm inclined to think she hasn't actually been squished for testing of this.). I'm also inclined to believe blanket statements like these from her, since I'm also the "best Mommy in the whole wide world." Somehow, she just knows these things, despite her lack of world travel.

And, last but not least, this one just makes me smile, no matter what is happening. Everyone needs a little baby to love on when things get crazy. I highly recommend it. Definitely pick out a cute, happy, easy one like this one!

Our little valentines enjoyed a candle-lit "Taco Tuesday" dinner, and presents galore from grandparents, aunties and neighbors.

Now, as laundry needs to be folded, taxes need to be filed and a lunch needs to be made, I'm trying hard to focus on the big stuff!