The Little Things

I was just watching Elijah play today, just studying his face, and I started thinking about all those little things that I love about my family.

I love the way Bella twirls my hair.  She loves to sit next to me on the couch and twirl my hair while we watch an episode of 'Curious George' together.  In the morning, she climbs into bed with me and lays next to me twirling my hair until we get up and make breakfast.  When she's tired, she comes and sits on my lap and twirls my hair while we snuggle.  When we read stories, she sits next to me and twirls my hair.  She often requests, "Mommy, twirl your hair?"  It is a little thing that seems so simple, but I absolutely love our special cuddle time together. 

I love the way Elijah lays his head on my shoulder and snuggles with me.  He is definitely a cuddle bug, and it is so sweet the way he wants to snuggle, hug, kiss, and squeeze us.  It's one of those things that I hope he never grows out of.

I love the way Matt calls me Cass.  Although my full name is Cassandra, most people call me Cassie.  Matt usually calls me Cass though.  It's not so much the name itself, but that it represents the fact that he knows me so well.  The way he says my name makes me feel so loved. 

I love the way Bella will spontaneously say or do something so sweet.  She has such a kind heart, and I loves seeing that shine through in her words and actions.  A random hug and kiss is always so wonderful to receive.  And a simple, "love you" is so precious when it comes from your child. 

I love the way Elijah's smile lights up the room.  He has the most amazing smile-it is completely contagious too!  He is one of the sweetest babies I have ever known, and such a happy little guy. 

I love the way Matt plays with our children.  He loves to be around them, and it shows.  As soon as he comes home, the kids are so excited to see him.  He picks them up, gives them hugs and kisses, then throws them in the air and catches them.  They adore him so much-and with good reason.  He continually shows them that he cares for them and about them.  He gives them a precious gift-his time and attention.  They know that they are loved and safe.  He is an amazing father. 

I love the way Bella prays.  There is nothing sweeter than hearing a child praying.  Bella loves to say her prayers.  They are simple and sweet.  She names all the people in her life that she loves and cares for-her family, her friends, and her pets.  She usually repeats names several times, and she is so sincere. 

I love the way Elijah plays with his sister.  He just adores Bella, and it is so fun to see them play together.  He will follow her around the house, play catch with her, help her build block towers (or maybe just helps with demolition).  Hearing them laughing and playing together is so fun.

I love the way Matt jokes.  When we first met, he was always making me laugh.  And I am so blessed to say that he is still making me laugh today.  He is the funniest man I know, and I love his sense of humor. 

I love my family so much!  Thank you Matt, Bella and Elijah.  The three of you continue to show me how wonderful it is to love and be loved. 

I am so very blessed.