A Perfect Moment

Every once in a while you catch yourself savoring a perfect moment. I experienced one such moment earlier today. My parents and my brother had come over to help with yard work in the backyard. Quin and Ammon had been playing nicely and sharing candy from the Strawberry Festival Parade while we worked. I paused from digging up a Rhododendron to hold a fussy Ruby. She calmed the instant I embraced her. As I sat down on the grass, Quin ran over to me with a smile as bright as the sun. He sat next to me and told me how much he loved Ruby. Then Ammon bounded over on his little preschooler legs, cheeks jiggling slightly with each enthusiastic step. He sat so close to me it was almost as if he was trying to sit on the half of my lap that wasn't occupied by Ruby. I sat there with my three beautiful children, feeling the gentle breeze, the warm pressure of my children lovingly leaning against me, the delicious smell and feeling of June wafting over us. Sitting in the back of the yard I was able to fully view the tree that is situated near the garage. I wish I knew what kind of tree it was. It is taller than the house with thousands of narrow green leaves that give a satisfying rustle in the wind. I love that tree. I'm so grateful to the people who planted it many years ago. I appreciate the shade it gives the yard and the enjoyment it brings us. I savored the thought of my kids having memories of that tree and this very backyard where they played when they were little. I want it to stay like this forever. Quin: 5years old, very helpful, empathetic, thoughtful, and overflowing with love. Ammon: almost 3, sweet as honey, thankful, articulate, creative, and loving. And Ruby: nearly 4 months old, calm, easily delighted, intelligent, enraptured by Quin, fascinated by busy little Ammon, with cheeks as smooth as silk and soft hair that smells of honeysuckle. You melt so perfectly into my lap. I love the feeling of my children near me, wanting to be with me and needing me. I love being a mom. There is nothing I would rather do. I am so proud of the wonderful people that my children are, and are becoming.