A new smile

Last night Ace came up to me while I was getting the last of the dinner on the table and said, very excitedly (no surprise there) and seriously "Mom, mom! How do you like my new smile?...Chubby cheeks!"

In the short pause between his initial question and the "chubby cheeks," he showed me this "new smile." The pride and seriousness of this crafted and practiced new smile that (in his mind) showed off his cheeks, was oozing from his face. So I knew, however difficult it was, I had to contain my laughter!

A Good Day

A Good day on all counts...
An early morning walk up to the zoo with a new fun friend.
Volunteering in Isaac's classroom.
Christian Mom's Fellowship.
Confirming a "mother's helper" for my summer work days.
A visit from Megs and Mahlia.
Fun reading to and from Elyse.
A great in-person chat with Ali, with time to just "be," and not worry about all that needed to be done.
A REAL nap for Elyse.
A new yummy, healthy dinner made with leftovers and quinoa.

All clearly part of a great day, but the best part was giggles and kisses with Elyse. Happy times, enjoying one another, no whining, no "consequences," no exasperating (from either one of us) - just fun, mama/daughter time. Several moments. Intentional moments, throughout the day!

I think she enjoyed it as much as I did.

After uncontrollable giggling from my kissing her on the neck repeatedly, and after debating who loves who more, (think little Nutbrown Hare) she looked up and said, "when I grow up I want to marry you, mommy!"

Coming from a three-year-old that see's marriage as a "fairytale princess story," and "happily ever after," I would say that was a pretty loving comment from my often not-so complimentary, not-so easy little girl! Intentional one-on-one time. That's what she needs from her mommy!

The greatest ending to a very good day!