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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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So God Made a Mother book by Leslie Means

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Brea Schmidt

Brea Schmidt is a writer, speaker and photographer who aims to generate authentic conversation about motherhood and daily life on her blog, The Thinking Branch. Through her work, she aims to empower people to overcome their fears and insecurities and live their truth. She and her husband raise their three children in Pittsburgh, PA.

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