You did what in your pants?

It's been a perfect evening.

After a long, but highly productive day at work, I came home and the kids (having taken an early nap) were excited to see me instead of the usual nap-induced coma-like state which they're usually in.

I rested while my parents (who were baby-sitting) allowed themselves to be dragged by their fingers throughout the house. Once my parents left for the afternoon the kids and I played, reading lots of Brown Bear, Brown Bear and another book about Elmo that's quickly becoming just as careworn.

Steve came home early and the four of us had an enjoyable and relaxing dinner. Steve cleaned up the dishes and the four of us played for quite some time before it was back for bath time and bed. I snuggled with them, their lavender lotion rubbing off on my face, hands and clothes. After kissing each one, I closed the door. Not two seconds later, I heard the door handle jiggle, but then all was quiet.

When I came out, Yo-Yo Ma's Christmas album was playing, the Christmas tree lights were on, and our new Christmas Cookie candle was burning; everything was dim and relaxing.

I'm working on Christmas cards, Steve's reading and the cats are curled up on the floor. There are not many perfect moments in life, but if I could, I would freeze this time and perhaps never move on from here. Each stage the kids grow into is fascinating. While sitting at dinner, Josiah looked at me, quite concerned about something and said, "Poop". "Ok, you pooped?"I said.  He nodded his head vigorously and yelled "Poooooooop!" Lilly, not to be outdone, grabbed her butt and yelled, "Poooop!"

I love these conversations.

I heard once that the bigger kids get, the bigger the problems you're faced with. While that seems hopelessly discouraging, Steve and I can't help but look towards the next several years with giddy anticipation as they learn and grow. They'll probably be a point when I have to stop writing about them on the blog like I do now. A point when they'll outgrow my obnoxious bragging....

But for now, we enjoy their unabashed love, persistence, determination, unceasing joy and constant wonder at even the smallest things.