By Krystal Sieben 
Today was rainy. Like, all day rainy.
The last three months have been a whirlwind of lacrosse camps, work, horse riding lessons, math tutoring, out-of-town guests, and so many other good things. I didn’t even see how hectic it had been. Until it rained.
Today, the house was quiet. One kid downstairs playing Nintendo with the occasional shout of excitement when he finished a level. A dog curled up in a circle on the couch where she’s usually not allowed, but I let her. My daughter using the iPad next to her. Another child, cozy in the den watching a movie and snuggled up in a blanket.
This day fills my mama heart. Chocolate chip cookies. Quiet. All of us home. All of us immersed in our own thoughts and worlds—but together.
I’m a mom who loves everything that comes with three kids, except sometimes the schedule. It’s overwhelming even when it’s good. It’s too much even when it’s positive.
Some parents will reflect back on sporting events, or a trip to Disneyland, or that huge family BBQ and remember these days as absolute favorites in their memories of parenting. Not me. I will look back on rainy days like this one and have an ache in my heart wishing I could go back.
Back to the chocolate chip cookies. The snuggles. The dog sleeping on the couch. The quiet. The cozy. The togetherness without chaos. The quiet and rainy days of just being home.
by Jessica Swanda 
by Stephanie Kramm 
