As a mom, I often feel like I only get what’s left over.

When the family’s work, school, activity and event schedule is set for the month . . . the time I get for me is whatever time is left over.

When little bodies climb into bed in the middle of the night scared about a thunderstorm, I sleep in whatever part of the bed is left over.

When I only have a couple of pieces of chicken to feed the entire family, I fill everyone else’s plates to make sure they will be filled before putting on mine whatever is left over.

When everyone else’s clothes are packed in our three-suitcase limit for vacation, I fit my things in whatever part of the bag is left over.

But . . . 

I take what’s left over, because I love what is right under.

Right under my chin . . . is a toddler who cuddles into her favorite place to fall asleep.

Right under my shoulder . . . is a little girl who still wraps her arms around my waist for a no-reason, middle-of-the-day hug.

Right under my kiss . . . is a little boy’s smiling face as I thank him for his random “I love you.”

Right under my heart . . . is a husband’s love whose mission it is to lift me up with everything he does.

So while some days I may only get the leftover minute, inch, bite or space . . . I get ALL of the cuddles, hugs, smiles and love . . . 

Giving me just enough of everything I need.

This post originally appeared on The Thinking Branch

 

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