safe and sound

I look at this picture and see so many things. I see the fact that Maddox NEVER wants to wear anything but underwear, I see my kids' personalities in how Ashtyn is cuddled in and Maddox keeps his distance and I see Brandon in a rare moment without any technology attached to him whatsoever! Obviously, I see the men in my life whom I love dearly. I see a bedtime routine. I see memories being made. Above it all, though, I see something that I'm so proud Brandon and I can provide for our children. It's not monetary, it's not a possession, it's not something you can even touch, hold or feel. It's something too few children have these days and yet those that do aren't even aware they have it. It's safety. When I look at this picture, I see safety. My kids have two loving parents who not only love them more then life itself but love each other as well. My kids have a warm home full of laughter, faith and memories. We're not perfect and you most certainly won't see this peaceful picture in our home each and every night...that's right, sometimes Maddox throws himself onto the hallway floor kicking and screaming over brushing his teeth and, yes, Ashtyn bursts into tears if he can't find the exact stuffed animal he wants...but when these moments do present themselves I want to preserve them for a lifetime. It's a crazy world out there but THIS home WILL be a safe and soft place for my children to land, for us each to grow and a place where we can learn from our mistakes. This is home.