to be a better person each day than I was the day before

The girls woke up extra early this morning. Our day started at 6:10, which may not be early for some, but for us, is much, much too early. They were cranky and demanding and moody all day. I chalked it up to not enough sleep, but even after a nap, Mia continued her crankiness. I had plans to accomplish some things, putting baby clothes away, doing some organizing and cleaning, but every effort at progress was interrupted by a girl who wasn't getting along with her toys, or who wanted more milk, or who needed a snuggle. I spent most of the day being frustrated with my clinging children when what I should have done was just stop and read the signs a little better.

I was sitting with Laci after her bath and she felt a little warm. I took her temperature. Low grade fever of 100. I should have known. She just wasn't herself all day, although she didn't show any other symptoms. I gave her some Tylenol and she went right to sleep. No fever for Mia, but she wouldn't settle to bed as easily as usual. I gave her some Tylenol and rocked her for half an hour before she finally relaxed and went to sleep. 

As for me, I feel fine physically but not feeling like such a great momma. I shouldn't have pushed them so hard to behave today. I should have just sat on the couch and read books and watched movies. I should have known they didn't feel good and just needed extra love today. I did try...we read at least a dozen books and watched The Lion King three times, but I could have been more patient, more gentle in response to their requests. 

I often find myself reminding other mothers that kids are very forgiving and resilient. They recover from pain (physical and emotional) quickly and they want to give more love than they receive. I can only hope that advice I've been giving holds true for my own babies. I'm hoping for a fresh start with them in the morning. Hoping to feel nothing but patience and love for them, especially if they are still not feeling well.

Each day I have the same goal: To be a better person than I was the day before. This holds especially true for tomorrow. 

And because this isn't an exceptionally happy post, some pictures of a few of the people I love on a late summer evening, wrapped in the warmth of a setting sun. If I were to try to take a picture of love, these might be the best I can do.