One of the things that I'm trying to do more is to stop when my kids need me. Often, I get so fixated on things like making dinner or cleaning the house that I ignore/block out the hints my girls are giving through their body language or their words. Kelly and I are both learning that most meltdowns really require a hug. Not always DURING the meltdown, but after the time out and when the wailing is reduced to occasional sobs. There was probably a time when I imagined that I would be spending less time sitting on the floor with my babies, but in the last month, I've had all four of my babies on my lap on the floor, reassuring them that things will get better. Most surprising to me, though, is how much I love that time. Sure, dinner might be late, and the house may continue to look like a disaster area, but I am finally discovering that a happy home isn't necessarily a clean one.

And kids are sometimes going to look like this:
And, I'm pretty sure she ate the M&M's.