My Wonderful Mess

 Yesterday the kids were playing in Lillian’s room with the door closed. Apparently they need their privacy. Anyway, I was folding laundry in my room, listening to their laughter pouring through the door, when I wondered, “What could they be doing in there?”

I grabbed the camera, flung the door open and got this shot. Of course, I had just, JUST finished folding and organizing that closet. But I couldn’t be angry, they were too cute!

Jeremiah yelled out, “She’s a clothes monster!” and Lillian squealed in delight.

It wasn’t too long ago, I would have been upset by this. Mostly because I hate housework and children seem to bring an extra helping of it wherever they go. But I am learning something as a mother, having a clean house is important (ugh! I’m working on it. I really do HATE housework) but having a home full of wonderful memories is even more important. With laughter and squeals often comes mess and that is ok.

My mom was visiting the other day and apparently the living room and my son’s room had switched places. At least that’s what it looked like! Anyway, I was super stressed about it, I mean my MOM was there for goodness sakes! Growing up, her house was always immaculate! I waited in agony to see what she was going to say. She looked around and said, “You are so blessed.” I was shocked! She then talked about when we were growing up she would get so stressed out when the house was even a little off kilter. But now, we are grown and there are no more messes to clean up.

“Someday you will miss this mess.” She added.  

Sometimes when Jeremiah comes to visit, she will leave his mess for a few days after he leaves. It is the mark that he was there. So I will enjoy the squeals, and the laughter, and yes, even the mess because it is the mark of my children. And when I look out at the wreckage that is sometimes my house, I will smile knowing I am so blessed.