Ah! So THAT'S Why I Do What I Do

I get a lot of looks when I go out in public with my four children and protruding tummy. Lots of people just shake their heads and make some kind of comment like "You must be so tired." or "I could never do it." or "Don't you know what causes that?". (For the record I do know what causes it. I also know that we've been commanded by God to use our talents. Can I help it if my talent leads me to chronic pregnancy?)The comment I get the most frequently, though is "Are you nuts?". Yep, I am nuts. I'm nuts about all of these little people, and there's nothing anyone can say or do that would change that for me.

Yesterday, Pretty reminded me why I do what I do all the time. She reminded me what could possibly make me crazy enough to endure the sleepless nights, the empty bank accounts, the frustrations with school, and all the other joys that come with parenting.

I had been out and about running a bunch of errands. I think the King stayed home with her while I was gone. I came home, unloaded everything from the van, and was going about my business when she came in to see me. "Mama!!!!" She came running to me with open arms as she crashed into me. Then, she stopped and looked at me with her wild hair all over the place. While she looked me square in the eye with that goofy little smile, she said clearly "Hug!" and threw her arms around my neck. She stayed that way for a good minute and a half, just not wanting to let go. It was just a happy hug for her. She loves her mama. And her mama loves her.

So, next time someone asks me how crazy I am to have all these kids, I may not have some swift answer to give them. BUT, in my heart I'll know exactly why I do what I do everyday. And I wouldn't trade it for anything else in the world.