While I sit and watch my children play, words run through my mind. There is such a mess some days. My 18-month-old clings to my neck and needs constant attention.  My 4-year-old is running rampant on overtired energy that only young children seem to possess. My older two are finishing their homework, and dinner simmers on the stove.

There is laughter and tears galore but also so much more. There is love. 

Love grows here. 

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The nights are long and the days are short. The burden is heavy and the love is steady. Weary are the parents and courageous are the kids.

Love grows here. 

Their weight on your chest and their tiny hands in yours. Drying their tears while your heart begins to mend itself again. Long is the night, yet short is the day.

Love grows here.

Messes are made and put back to right. Laughter is rampant and tears come too. Time flies but so long is the night.

Love grows here. 

Laundry and dishes always appear just when the sink or basket is clear. Food and conversations and games flow steady. Long of night and short of day.

Love grows here. 

Butterfly kisses and dragon wars. Dinosaur trains and outdoor games. Long night and shorter day.

Love grows here.

Makeup and boys. Cars and sports. Long nights and short days.

Love grows here.

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The years slip by like sand. From newborn to toddler to preschooler to school age and more. Long nights and short, short days.

Love grows here.

Originally published on the author’s Facebook page