On December 14th a terrible tragedy hit our nation, yet again. Twenty 6 and 7 year old children were senselessly taken from families who cherished their every move, mood and giggle. Six adults also died that day.
As God would have it, on December 15th I celebrated the 6th birthday of my daughter Paisley Elizabeth. What a blessing it was to wake up and see her smile another day. We truly never know the last time we will say “I love you” to our children.
I wish I could say that this tragedy has shaken the selfishness out of me. I wish I could say that I have viewed every bad attitude as one to hold dear, one that 20 parents would give anything to be experiencing right now.
The truth is every day, every breath is one to honor regardless of what is happening in the world. However, it takes a shock of great magnitude to wake us up.
We can't let what occurred in Connecticut dominate our every thought. Instead, we must pray for those affected and use this horror to propel us to a higher standard of parenting. It's not easy for me to choose the higher ground when my children are acting like animals at church. I tend to want to act just as childish as them.
But, I must, I will do what God wants me to do… Raise up my children to love and honor Him and those around us.
I share not only cloth diaper information and products with you but also the rawness of who I am. I, like you, am a constant work in progress.
I could not be more grateful to be walking with the Lord than on those days when I seem to be an utter failure or when sin rears its ugly head like it did in Sandy Hook Elementary.
Today, I will continue the My Favorite Things event.
I absolutely LOVE giving things away! Knowing that someone will be jumping with joy at winning these prizes makes me giddy.
Donations today come from Thirsties, Inc, Charlie Banana and CJ's BUTTer!!
Thirsties is a family run, made in the USA company. They are truly a joy to work with. Thirsties has generously donated 5 Duo AIOs and a container of Booty Love.
Thirsties Duo AIOs are one of the easiest, trimmest cloth diapers to use. They're almost a no-brainer if you are looking for a good quality, affordable Made in the USA cloth diaper.
Charlie Banana is one of my favorite pocket cloth diapers. I've referred to them many times over the years. They have donated a one-sized pocket for today's giveaway.
Rounding up today is CJ's BUTTer. The winner will receive 8.5 oz. Apples & Spice Carcass Cleaner, 4 oz. ‘Tis the Season Spritz, 4 oz. Cranberry Balsam BUTTer® Tube, 2 oz. Peppermint Cream Jar, .15 oz. Frosted Pumpkin Lip Balm!
Woohoo!!
I have a CJ's BUTTer product in most rooms of my house. I love the Spritz so much that I bought 6 of them (all in Pixie Pie scent) so that I would always have it handy. In my bathroom I keep a big tub of rash cream in the BUTTer Plus formula.
BUTTer Plus contains shea butter, olive oil, coconut oil, beeswax, cocoa butter, Vitamin E (derived from soy), sesame oil, neem oil, and essential oils. Yes, it stinks. Neem is stinky. But, it heals skin so well!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Don't forget all giveaways are open until December 28th!!
Autumn is a wife, mother, homeschool teacher, friend and most important a follower of Christ.
Kimberlee Fedorko says
My 5 month gives me hugs and her toothless grin makes me smile. I tell her I love her about 20 times a day ????
Krista says
Everyday! the sweetest thing my daughter does is come in and snuggle with me every morning, then my baby boy is just the cutest baby I have ever met and everything he does is sweet!
Tiffany Cardenas says
When he laughs
Haily says
When my daughter smiles and “talks” (coos) at me…my heart melts!
jamie davis says
My daughter is almost a year old and she give the best hugs! I love the feeling of her little arms around my neck. She also signs “more’ wave and says hi/bye and makes friends everywhere she goes. She is my sunshine.
jessica long says
my son is so sweet he is 7 and still likes to cuddle and hug Mommy! I think it is cute when he acts just like me
Megan Borkowski says
Every morning without saying a word my 4 year old Daughter walks downstairs, half asleep and crazy haired, and walks past everyone to come to me and curl up in a ball on my lap for cuddles until she wakes up and gives me my kiss and hugs!!
Jennifer Tippett says
When he smiles and laughs. I know it sounds simple and cliche, but it’s true. That, and when his head bobbles as he walks (13 months). =)
Amelia says
My two year-old loves to get my attention, then just smile. It makes me melt every time.
emily says
I love when they imitate a behavior/saying that my husband or I do/say. Good or bad it is still funny.
Carrie C says
I love it when they share. My 4yr old has been going aroung sharing her Christmas candy. Love it!
Nicole Guterman says
When my daughter dances, spins in circles or tries to “run away” from you when you try to take her out of her crib.
Sara Rodriguez says
My 3 year old tells me “You’re mine favorite mama.” Makes me melt every time :)
Chelsea O. says
Trying on all the shoes she can find
Karianne says
My baby boy just started making this funny face at random times and not on que and it’s making me laugh every time! :-D I love it!!
Lydia says
I love seeing the look of concentration on my 7 month old son’s face when he is trying to figure something out.
Desirea says
When I hear them randomly tell each other “I love you.”
Becky says
my LO is 6 months old and practically everything she does makes me smile!
Brittany Land says
My almost two year old always says “Hi mom mom”when I walk in her room. I love it. :D
Natalie Zohner says
Their perfect, thoroughly sincere laughs. Love it!
Kari says
I think I’d like the spritz for the ease of use, but does it work as well for a rash as the butter? Does it work better than coconut oil?
Hannah VW says
Hearing my oldest son read his very first easy little books brings a smile to my face.
Vasudha Prabhala says
Feeling my baby kick inside me
Laura says
I can’t help but smile each time I pickup my baby girl from her crib.
kelly says
Watching them play with others is adorable.
barnolds says
when my baby sees my face and smiles, it warms my heart
Anne W. says
When she chirps and mumbles to herself :)
Megan K says
My 3yo makes jokes to make me smile. :)
Ashley LIndberg says
Both of my babies are sick so I have been cuddling and loving on them since Friday! I love to hear my kids laugh. It is impossible not to smile when they are enjoying life so much :]
Angela Norman says
I love when my 5 year old daughter talks ans plays with my 5 month old son. Some of my greatest memories.
Eleanora says
My son is 4 months and everything he does makes me smile, he’s the reason I fall in love a thousand times a day :)
Erin B. says
Giggles instantly make me smile and I tell her every day that I love her :)
Nancy T says
During this latest tragedy I am reminded how blessed I am that my children are safe today. I tell them daily that I love them and hope that they understand how special they are to me. The one thing that always brings a smile to my face is when my son kisses me goodnight and tells me one thing that he found beautiful in the world that day. Sometimes it’s about a nice thing that someone did for him or his friends and sometimes it’s about a toad or something he finds outside.
Diane says
I am a grandmother. Yes, I tell my grandchildren every day how precious they are to me. Every moment makes me smile, even the tantrums. Its easy, as a grandparent, to step back and see the bigger picture. Much easier than it was when I was a young mother.
Alessandra Peterson says
I haven’t told her directly because she hasn’t graced us with her presence yet! But as soon as she’s here (and even now I tell her we love her all the time) she won’t hear the end of it from her adoring parents. Right now, her movement inside is what makes me smile. There were a few days I couldn’t feel her and so now every time she moves I am so grateful and relieved.
Annie Barber says
I love watching them play together and love each other. It is especially sweet to watch my older kids (who are 13,12, 10, and 8) play with and dote on their 3 y.o. brother and 6 m.o.brother.
Jennifer N says
Hug your leg. Its adorable!
Kayla says
he isn’t born to yet… but i love to feel him move around.
Mandy says
She smiles just to get me to smile back at her.
Heather B says
My daughter brings a smile to me every morning. She is always in a good mood and with crazy hair.
Catherine W says
My girl is asleep in my lap, the best!
Pamela says
I love when they smile!
regina p says
Their smiles make me smile! I tell them I love them every day
Julia says
When he says “I love you mommy”
May says
When his eyes lights up when daddy comes home
Mandi McGonagle says
When my little guy dances.
Kendall says
I can’t help but laugh when my daughter makes her “silly face”…it is kind of like the Home Alone aftershave face.
Mel gil says
When my 10 month old crawls over to me just for a kiss.
Rachel R says
Yes. I love the way he lights up and does a happy dance when he sees his daddy!
Lanae Trevino says
When they give me hugs and kisses
Beth R says
Most things make me smile. But I love his little laugh
Melissa says
I haven’t seen my boy yet today, but I love it when he reaches up for me!
Journeekapri says
Lovely
Theresa says
Yes, the sweetest thing they did lately was to fall asleep in the car while holding hands.
emily r says
I love my babies smile and laugh
Erin K says
Yes! Every time he smiles, I smile!
Franchesca P says
Yes. She woke before I had to leave for work and I hugged her with gusto! She leaned her head to me for her kiss.
Talia says
One thing that makes me smile and laugh is when my son “dances” (shuffling his feel around with a big grin). Melts my grinchy heart!
Candace T says
I tell them both how precious they are and how much I adore them. What I find really cute is that they’re both old enough now to ask if I’m being sarcastic!
Rebecca M. says
Yes, I tell them several times a day and it melts my heart every time they say it back to me!
Janet says
I definitely told my boys that I love them today. I hugged and snuggled my 4 year old and did the same with my 6 month old as well. I love it when my big boy asks me for a snuggle and I toss him to the side counting, “One…two…potato!” and we laugh really hard! My baby brings me joy when he finishes nursing, looks up at me and smiles his biggest gummy grin as if to thank me for the meal.
Samantha says
My son is only 13 months old but I love it when he comes and gives me kisses without me asking for one! It always brings a smile!
Jodi J says
I can’t help but smile when my kids get excited when I come home or enter a room (it feels good to be so important to them).
Michelle Tompkins says
That is the first thing I tell them each morning and the last thing I tell them each night. My children are 2.5 years & 10 months watching the dynamic of their relationship evolve is amazing. It melts my heart when my 2.5yo will stop playing just to run over and give my 10mo a hug or kiss and then go back to whatever it was he was doing. I have been blessed.
Franchesca P says
My favorite is the Thirsties Duo AIO! Easy to explain!
Nicole B says
I have told her I love her today. My favorite part of the day is when she comes into my room in the morning and says “Hi!” She’s 18 months old and such a morning person. We don’t know where she gets the morning person part :)
valerie says
Yep. when the littlest one talks i smile. he has some delays and is just starting to talk at 4.
sus vandil says
yes, it’s the first thing they hear from me when they wake up and also the last thing when they go to bed
Joanne Gregory says
I tell them that I love them every time I see them.
Melanie says
My daughter is too little to understand but my favorite time is when she’s just woken up all cheery!
Danielle says
I tell the kids frequently that I love them, but especially when I leave.
I smile when they are genuinely kind or polite.
Lauren Simms says
My kids hold hands when they are riding in the car. Melts my heart every time!
tarin says
Since my babies were born there hasn’t been a day that I don’t Te’ll them I love them. My heart goes out to those families
Hannah says
I always tell her she is a special gift from God.
sara russell says
I tell them everyday :). I smile when they smile.
Katie Fender says
When my Son wakes up, it instantly puts a smile on my face. As long as he’s had a good nights rest, he’s always happy and smiling the next morning. Some mornings he wakes up and just says “Mom” over and over. It melts my heart!
Bekah Kuczenski says
I tell my daughter many many times through out the day how much I love her and I kiss her as much as I can :) I tell her everyday she gets a million kisses. She immediately brings a smile to my face when she dances to any sort of music she hears!
Shaunie says
My daughter runs to the door when she hears the garage door opening and knows that I have come home. :)
Lucy L says
My LO greets me every morning with a big smile…no matter how early it is!
TaraLucida says
My daughter cracks me up when she says something so matter of fact and does this funny hand flip, like, of course mom!
Lois C says
I try to tell my children daily what they mean to me. They are four years apart and I always smile when I see them playing with a toy together. I also like when they both go around asking for goodnight kisses and kissing each other goodnight.
tracy montgomery says
My 7 y/o always tries to make his family smile. He’s the comedian and I love that no matter what he sees the good in everything. My 4 months old giggles whenever I change his diaper or change his clothes and I can’t help but giggle back.
Ashleigh says
My favorite thing is feeling her move inside my belly! I tell her that I love her every day. =)
Christine M says
I tell my little one that he is a big boy, to which he smiles and replies, no I’m your baby.
Kami says
My favorite thing right now is when she practices her clapping and waving while going to sleep while breastfeeding…I have to try not to laugh, and it’s just so stinkin cute.
Caitlin M. says
I tell my daughter every single day multiple times that I love her. I love when she walks up to me and wraps her little arms around my neck. :’)
Alexis Schrantz says
All I have to do it tell my 6 month old that I love him!
Jessica O says
My daughter has got lots of snuggles already today, my son is still sleeping. Every time I see their smiles it just melts my heart!
shannon says
I have a 6 mo old that day I just rushed home and hugged him and sit there and cried….before i became a parent stuff like this made me sad and i wondered how can someone do that? Now that I have Dakota it puts everything in a diffrent light. It infuriates me and makes me made that someone can hurt a child.
Shani says
I love the giant wrap around hugs of my almost 2 year old daughter and the enthusiasm my 4 year old shows for learning anything and everything!! And the kicks of the baby due in March. :)
Andie says
I hug my little man and tell him I love him often, every day. He is precious! I love how he gets so excited to nurse when I ask & sign if he wants milkies. It makes me smile every time.
Samantha says
I have told her that mommy loves her though she dosent understand what im saying yet lol and i love whenever daddy gets home and shes been fighting a nap all day the minute he picks her up and holds her foe five mins she passes out as if that was what she was waiting for all day
Kristi says
Love the hugs my LO gives, and how he comes running up grinning to greet me when I come home from work.
Lily Ivey says
I have two girls: 6 and 15 months. I tell them I love them all the time. One of my favorite things is watching them play and laugh together. It’s absolutely precious.
Alexis Bertch says
I tell my children everyday how much I live them! I have a 6 yr old, 3 yr old, and a 2 month old. They are precious.
Stephanie says
I love to see my son dance. It makes me smile every time. I tell him I love him every time I lay him down for nap time or bedtime, at a minimum.
Britni Bradford says
Definitely! My 13 month old just started learning how to cluck like a chicken. It’s the cutest thing on the planet.
Christel says
The little things make me smile. Him telling me he loves me, saying “Look it’s Daddy’s job!!” When a train goes by. I cherish every moment.
Lacey Junell says
My children are 1 and 5, I tell them every day that they’re special and so very loved. My oldest has Aspergers, and has just recently started telling me and his Daddy “I love you” without us saying it first. My baby just started calling me mommy instead of mama. We have so many little things every day, my children are a constant blessing and I am so, so heartbroken for all of the families in CT.
Jen says
I’m constantly telling them how much I love them. I always smile when he cuddles a non-traditional cuddly toy. Like his trucks or trains.
Michelle J. says
My 6 month old little man just needs to smile or laugh and I forget all of my worries. Cliche as it may sound, he really is the best part of my life. My heart aches for those families who will not hear their LOs sweet laughter again on Earth.
Terri Moore says
When they are excited about something and especially when they laugh ..it just warms my heart.
Devon says
When my 22 month old tells me I’m her “best mom” and hugs me… it brings such joy to my heart!!
Kimberlie says
Yes I do tell them every night before bed that I love them. Even if my boys have been crazy and difficult and I’m not liking their behavior of that day, I still tell them at bed time how much I care. My 9 year old makes me smile when he is eager to help with the baby, my 6 year old when he always needs one more hug and kiss when he leaves me (whether it be for school, bed, church, etc.) my 2 year old when he acts just like a mini-me with his responses “I do” or “I don’t” instead of yes and no, and the baby (3.5 mo) when he smiles at anyone who simply makes eye contact with him.
Julie says
She’s almost 3 months so still very young =) I love it when she smiles. It melts my heart
Jenna says
Yes I have and when she smiles or giggles is the best!! (She is 9 weeks old)
Amy says
Although my sweet little girl is still in my tummy, I tell her I love her and that I can’t wait to meet her!
Hannah Avery says
Some of the things my son says are so cute! I told him I love him today!
Renae says
He makes me smile alot but what will bring tears to my eyes is when I ask him if he’s ready to meet his baby brother he will say YES!
Aubree Faunce says
I have lost a child already and know the pain…God how I never wish that on anyone. Robbie Parker (Emilie Parker’s father) was actually the PA that helped save my twins that came 7 weeks early and took care of them for 5 weeks in the NICU. This has hit me HARD. My children are an incredible blessing and every laugh and every cry bring a smile to my face because I know they are here with me and they are alive and healthy!!!
Ashley H says
I tell my son so often how much I love him. When he insists on acting like a ‘big person.’
Lilliana Gonzalez says
My girls can make me smile anytime they bust out the dance moves. Even the 15 month old one can wiggle with the best of them.
Bekah says
My daughter told me that she was upset when her friend got hurt at school yesterday, and wanted to give her a hug, but was not allowed to. I told her that I needed to give her extra hugs, and thanked her for caring about her friends. Then I kissed her face and hugged her!
Brandi Diekmann says
I tell my children EVERY day what they mean to me! There is so much that they do that makes me love them even more. My 9 month old babbling away makes me smile. My 2 year old dancing and singing and my 7 year old showing how smart and brilliant she is!!
Karen Chaffin says
I have told my children how precious they are to me & I just love to hear their laughter. It brings a smile to my face & makes my day!!
Amanda Logan says
When my baby smiles at me, nestles his head against me, and when I feed him and he stares at me. He is only 2 mos. old :)
Heather Heslep Morrissey says
Basically everything she does, but when I say “I love you” and she says “I lo” and then gives me a hug and a kiss, it melts my heart.
Dana says
Hugs from my boy
Jenny says
Anytime my little guy giggles it melts my heart. Even though he doesn’t quite understand it yet, I tell him all the time how much I love him.
Chris Mattatall says
there is just so many things my lil guy does to make me smile but the one thing i really love it this look of surprise he gets it adorable it makes me melt every time…also prayers and love to all those suffering. it was a horrible act :-(
elizabeth dickson says
Every morning when they wake up, they smile and say “I love you mommy”
Charity Brooks says
I can’t imagine what those parents are going through.
Melissa Henry says
It always brings a smile to my face when my son says…”maaaaaa” because he always says it so sweetly.
Brandi Powell says
I tell my 7 month old multiple times a day I love her, she is the most amazing thing to ever happen to me and I cherish her dearly. She always has a big grin in the morning when I go in to get her up, and this always make me smile right back at her!!
Jen says
I love it when my kids catch me off guard and say something funny that I wasn’t expecting. I also love it when they sing in the store.
Regan says
My little one puts a smile on my face when he sings the Elmo song
Kerrigan says
There are so many things that all of my kids do everyday to make me smile. My heart breaks for the parents.
Amanda says
When my 15 month old gives me kisses over and over!
Jen L says
I tell my children multiple times a day that I love them and give them hugs and kisses. What brings a smile to my face is when they are chasing eachother and giggling as they do it!
Ashley P. says
I enjoy watching my older son love on his little brother… sometimes the hugs are too tight and the kisses a bit smothering, but I know he truly loves “his baby” and it’s precious to see.
Michelle says
I love how my baby boy gives kisses!
Jay says
I tell them I love them often. Seeing them smile makes me x smile
Rose Stading says
When I hear my kids giggle, it puts an instant smile on my face! :)
patience says
I tell my daughter everyday, multiple times a day how precious she is to me and how blessed I am to have her as my daughter. When she tries to give me kissed and just blows on my cheek it melts my heart!
judi says
My 20 yr. old is often at work and her excitement at picking out just the right gifts for her younger siblings makes me happy. My 2nd one just turned 18 and is such a man! He lets me hug him and always says “I love you” when he leaves the house. That makes me smile. #3 is 14 and frequently moody. She’s sometimes tough to love but she’s also a hard worker. When it’s her turn to clean the kitchen she gets in there and does it without dawdling. She’s so creative! #4 is my stubborn child but he’s also very loving. He dotes on his baby sister and it’s so sweet! #5 is my sensitive child. She loves to help me with the baby and tries to get along with everyone. #6 is a snuggler. He loves to cuddle and he loves to read books. #7 is the baby and she thinks she’s the center of the universe. She’s such a sweet baby and she adores all of her older siblings.
Katy Emanuel says
We tell our daughter every day how wonderful and smart she is. The one thing that always brings a smile to our faces is the hugs she loves to give and the cuddles we get all the time from her.
Faith says
Oh yes I have told him:) And pretty much everything he does brings a smile to my face:) It is such a blessing to be his mommy. I sometimes think I couldn’t love him any more and then I wake up and realize my heart has grown a little bigger:) Oh how great God is.
Elizabeth says
My oldest has been sick these last few days and she’s been really huggy. I’ve enjoyed them a little more than normal I think.
On a CD note. I just received some Thirsties from a friend. I can’t wait til little guy gets here and I can use them!!!
Melissa says
Lots of hugs and kisses! And tell him he’s getting to be such a big boy (almost 6 months!). His laugh is the best!!
Michelle Ferguson says
I’ve hugged my babies a little more often and a little longer since Friday. Both my boys are ssweethearts and their little smiles just light up my world.
beth c says
i tell my son all the time!! & pretty much everything he does warms my heart- i really love snuggling with him when we first wake up in the morning, & when he tries to tickle me :) i also love the sound effects that i have made when doing things in the past that signify that act.. like the ‘bllmbllmbllm’ sound i have made when giving him a piggyback ride that he now makes when he wants a piggyback ride!! :D kids are awesome!!!
Nicole N. says
I hugged both of my girls, as I do every day, and sang our “I love you so much” song. My 2 1/2 year-old makes me smile every time she pretends to be asleep and does a silly fake snore!
Erica says
My almost 3yo is so smart & sassy! His vocabulary & memory is growing daily! I love that he is able to express his feelings verbally ( I’m sad, happy,mad). My 3 mo makes me happy when she smiles & laughs. They are gifts from God & I’m so thankful for every minute i am with them
Kasie says
I love to hear my daughter sing. She sang her first solo in her preschool Christmas program on the 13th and it was such a blessing. We absolutely say “I love you” multiple times every day.
Elizabeth Volker says
I have! Right now they make me smile by singing Christmas songs they only have a line or two memorized :)
Bethany McKinley says
Yes! And my baby’s giggle brings a big smile to my face!
Claire says
It makes me smile when they run to their daddy to hug and kiss him. Just melts my heart.
Rebecca Rushton says
I am a SAHM to a 3 yr old and 6 month old. So when I found out about the shootings, I hugged my boys real tight and told them I loved them. They both make me smile when they learn new things, and smile and give me kisses/hugs.
Mica Holly says
I love my babies so much. My 11 month old dances (sways side to side), every time he does that it melts my heart. My 3 year old has a speech delay, any time he says real words without whining or screaming (lol) it makes me so happy.
Liesal says
Yes! He’s only 7 months, but I’m so scared of the day that I’ll have to explain terrible things like this that happen in our world. He is a screecher and a screamer. He just gets so excited about everything now, and the littlest things get him excited. I love it!
Julie says
I hug my children a little tighter and pray for those grieving families. The one thing that always makes me smile is when my son makes this face where his squints his eyes and smiles weird. It is the funniest face!
Donna Jean says
I love watching my 2 1/2 yr old son and 6 mo old daughter interact with each other. There is just so much love evident between them. I also can’t help but smile when having a conversation with my son – he’s so talkative and imaginative and thoughtful – and when nursing my daughter when just looks up at me and smiles while she nurses and milk dribbles out of the corner of her mouth – melts. my. heart. My heat aches for the families in Newtown, CT. We have friends who live there and their daughter attends Sandy Hook, but not until the afternoon. I pray that the Lord will bring His comfort to all of the families affected – both those who have suffered loss and those who have to help their children understand and cope with what happened.
Emily says
Still reeling from last Friday. I’m 21 weeks pregnant and have a 14 month old…. It makes me so scared to send them out into the world!
Hilary says
Every day I shower my little one with hugs, kisses and loves EVERY DAY. He is the center of my world and I love him more than anything. I love the goofy smile on my his face when he wakes up in the morning and the way he laughs every time I laugh. He is just so happy! :)
Katie L says
My very young kids sit there and just laugh at each other and you justhave to smile at them
Faith Halverson says
When my daughter signs “thank you” after I give her something, it always brings a smile to my face.
Sarah says
I love that whenever music comes on my 2 and a half and 10 month old get up and dance! I am so thankful for my two beautiful children.
Amelia says
Ellie and I play a game: “There it is!! The (insert appropriate body part) that I love!!” and then we tickle or kiss it. Her favorite is when I say “Tummy”. She squeals. I always finish the game with a big hug and a quiet “Here she is. The girl that I love.” Very snuggly time.
She makes me smile most when she is singing. Love. It.
KD says
I love my daughter’s soft, gentle voice and when she laughs with her big smile! :)
Alicia says
I love the kisses he blows me everyday and the snuggles I get. I can’t imagine my world without him.
Michelle says
I love the hugs from my almost one year old! They melt my heart when he wraps his little arms around my neck and squeezes!
Charity says
My 4 month old rolled over today!! He makes me smile because he sleeps through the night!
Beth VB says
Ge is 3 months old… just about everything he does brings a smile, but I love seeing him discover new things that he had never reacted to before
Kara Drovdahl says
we co-sleep, so I pretty much always start my day off right, with a big happy grin from my 10 month old when I perk up and tell her good morning (usually after she’s pulled my hair to wake me up…but I seriously can’t resist that grin)
Therese says
Am i alone? With three children under 5
i never have two hands free to type!
Keara B. says
I tell my little girl that I love her all the time… I’m sure I’ll be doing it even when she rolls her eyes at me as a teenager. I love it when she replies “wee woo” (love you) back to me, or when she says “All better” when she’s sees I’m upset. Makes me smile every time.
mary says
everything he does makes me love him more everyday! I am blessed to be able to watch him grow and change daily!
kali says
What a great post Autumn. For me- telling my kids that I love how awesome they are while smothering them with tickles…that makes their faces light right up.
Julie says
I tell my 11 week old baby every day that I love her. She’s just so squishy and irresistible. Today I told my 5 year old and asked her for a hug. While she’s sweet and funny she’s not a cuddler so she didn’t like the hug very much. My favorite thing she does is she draws little pictures for me on scratch paper and she always makes sure there’s a button on the page for me. I love her button drawings. :D I will make a point of telling my 9, 14 and 19 year olds that I love them tonight.
I haven’t done much in the way of reading up on the CT story because I’m an extremely sensitive person, especially while pregnant or nursing and since I’m nursing my 11 week old baby girl I’m in that more sensitive stage in life. I can’t expose myself too much to things like this or I get too depressed.
I lost my baby boy, Peter, 6 years ago so I have an idea what these parents are feeling. Losing a child changes a person forever and it’s another reason I have to be very careful what I expose myself to.
I also had to move to the valley where I grew up and it’s a very unhealthy area in more ways than one. My husband and I are both feeling the strain of it and so are my children. Add to that the current state of the economy and we’re not the most stable emotionally.
When I think of the tragedy or see some article or mention of them on social media or online I stop and pray for them but I cannot get too deep into the stories or it becomes hard for me to come back out. I need to be present for my children so for the sake of the health of us all I need to keep my distance.
Laura says
Yes, I told my children today how amazing they are and how lucky I am to be their mom. The baby is easy: she is cute, funny, I can stick a boob in her mouth and she is happy, she doesn’t talk back… The almost 6 year old is so very challenging most days, and sometimes I get so frustrated that I forget to tell him just how important he is to me, and how much I adore him. Friday certainly was a wake up call. I have spent so much quality time with my children the past few days, and my house shows it and I just plain do not care.
Janice says
I learned of this tragedy while I was at work. I am a teacher at a middle school. I fought back my tears while I was reading the article during my planning period. I tell my son several times a day that I love him. I love to see him walk on his tippy toes when he is being silly and when he kisses my 37-week-pregnant belly.
Sheena T says
My son’s giggle is so infectious. I love to hear him laugh.
Britney Ballash says
Heard of this terrible tragedy on the radio while coming home from a doc appt with my 3 day old baby. It brought tears to my eyes and I had to say a quiet little prayer thanking my Father for my new little one as well as my other children. I pray that he blesses those families who are suffering with comfort and peace. Onto a happier note, I would love to try some Thirsties Duo AIOs!! And CJs butter?! Love that stuff!!
Olivia L says
My babies and I have cuddle time every morning, though I have been holding them a little tighter since Friday. It always make me smile when I see the two of them hugging.
Sarah says
I gave my 7mo old a kiss tonight before I laid her in bed and she smiled. Melted my heart!!
Kristi Cartwright says
I can’t say that I have, but I have talked to my little one–he is still in my tummy! He’ll be here in about 6 weeks!! :)
I love when he is moving around in there…especially when he starts moving b/c his daddy is reading to him <3
Monique Eckert says
Every morning when I go into hos room and he smiles up at me I just melt- that and about a million other times a day! And I tell him how much mommy and daddy love him all the time. And I give him a ton of kisses :)
Lori says
My 18 month old raising his hand and saying “me” in response to questions these days never fails to bring a smile to my face!
Beth says
When he gives a big smile to me, I smile it right back at him. I have a silly little 7 mo old boy who is learning to walk and always amazes me!
Jennifer Lyden says
It always makes me smile when my 18 month old daughter comes up and pats me on the back. She will do it randomly then give me a hug. :)
Krista C. says
When my 1-year-old is about to get into something he shouldn’t, he first yells, “Eh!” to make sure I’m paying attention. This makes me laugh!
Jessica Stratton says
We have a new baby in our house. My older four children are 2,4,6 and 12. I love to see them show their new brother how much he is loved. They kiss him and hold him (with my help) and it just melts my heart. They talk to him and tell him how far they love him. Like “mason I love you all the way to the cabin and back!” I guess you can tell we read the book Guess How Much I Love You often!!
Robyn says
my 5MO brings a smile to my face when I peek into his crib in the morning and he immediately recognizes me by SMILING AT ME! As my first child, I could not be more blessed. And also, thanks for the goodies!
Julie Ghrist says
Yes I have and when he says I love you or makes a silly face I instantly smile! He makes me smile everyday
Jamie says
I was told that I could not have children and then survived an abusive marriage, only to follow into what God had for me. A wonderful husband and the most wonderful gift God could ever have given me, my perfect daughter. Everything she does is a treasure to me, because she is my miracle God used to show me that He was always with me.
KellyK says
my almost 3 month old has been an absolute joy. Even in those late-night/early-morning feedings, I will remember how blessed we are.
Lindsay says
My little man brushes my hair and doozies me up, I love it!
Rachael says
I tell doctor destructo often that I love him. And it makes me smile when I hear him singing along with Daddy when he’s being put down to bed. He will really belt out “jesus loves me”
Katie says
I can’t help but smile when my little Wright tries to whistle! He is 14 months old and the biggest blessing!! Any time I start to cry (many times on Friday) he comes over and gives me a big snuggle. He is such a sweet little lover!
Mandy Foster says
Yes!
My oldest has been playing Tiny Village. When the critters need food they open their mouths and point. Now the older kids have the baby doing it, especially when they were all ready for lunch. It’s hilarious!
Kristina says
My daughter has her first birthday today. She woke me up with smiles and kisses again this morning. She doesn’t really understand yet, but I tell her often how much I love being her mommy.
Jill says
My nearly 16 month old just gave me huge hugs and kisses unbidden. wonderful feeling!
Tara says
When they smile….even if I know they are being mischievous, I can’t help but smile.
Anna P says
Yes! My favorite thing is to hear my one year old an husband giggling together! It gets me every time!
Rachel N says
I make sure the first thing I say to my boys in the morning and the last thing I say to them at night is that I love them and they are special. I love it when my 18 month old asks for a hug. He gives really great hugs!
janie vezina says
i have 9 kids- so they each have their own thing that makes me and my husband smile. my favorite thing together would be the way they play together, and interact.
Heather C says
When my 3 year old daughter gives me a big hug and tells me I’m her best friend and when my 1 year old runs up and kisses me over and over again!
Denae says
I love when my little one (9 months) gets excited- his whole face lights up and he bounces up and down
Kelli Darter says
I love it when my five year old tries to take care of or help her little sister who will be 2 on Friday.
Karen C. says
My children are all so different from each other and yet make me smile in so many ways. I just can’t get enough of my smile-y happy 6 month old…I am constantly smooching and squeezing that one. My 5 year old is just too cute. When I feel down and I look at him he comes back with this silly little expression and says “what?, why are you looking at me?” and I just have to give him a hug. My 9 year old melts my heart when he comes up to me and just says ” I want to cuddle with you mommy.”, yes he is saying in a “baby voice”, but I am relishing it because I know that the days are numbered that he will come snuggle up with me. My 12 year old is a mismatched fashionista diva and the different outfits that she put together and her funny poses that she strikes or when she starts to break out into a dance (when we really want her doing something else) just gets me smiling (usually on the inside since I am trying to get her to do something else). I am so very blessed.
Katie K. says
My 6 and 2 year old have the most infectious giggles. I can’t not smile when they laugh!
Jennifer says
Their smile makes me smile!
Suzanne says
My 15 mo old daughter loves to give out kisses! Any time of day, no rhyme or reason, she could be in the middle of playing by herself and she’ll turn around look at you and pucker up her lips until you give her a kiss. It’s the best :)
Stacy says
My 10-month-old has recently started giving really good hugs. Pretty much everything he does makes me smile, but hugs from him are certainly at the top of my list.
Adria says
Watching my 3 year old and 5 month old interact makes me smile. DD loves her baby brother so much, and he smiles whenever she looks at him.
Angie H says
Yes I have! When they ask to snuggle with me! :)
Kara says
My daughter always make me smile when she wrinkles her nose up in a big smile!
Paula says
My sweet little 2 year old girl my smart 11 year old son and the flutter in my belly of my unborn son.
Vanessa says
My kids say some goofy things, they can always make me laugh, but the best is when I hear them laugh, a deep down belly laugh!
Audi says
When my 2 boys (4 & 2) play & giggle together, and my cooing 8 week old.
Lisa says
My kids make me smile all the time with the crazy things that they say.
April B says
I talk to my little girl daily and tell her I love her :) I am expecting her arrival into this world on Friday. Every kick, squirm, or roll brings a smile to my face and I can’t wait to see hers shortly.
Mary D says
I love eavesdropping on my 3 “big” kids (6, 4, 2) while they play. They say some really hilarious things and I just enjoy the dynamic they have with each other.
Erica says
Recently my little girl has been kissing pictures of things she loves and since we’ve been getting lots of Christmas card with pictures of other adorable children, she kisses them all the time!
Ameryn says
We are expecting our first, and just got to hear babys heartbeat… I listen to it all the time, and it always makes me smile!
Rachel says
My baby will be 1 month old on Wednesday. His smiles make me smile.
Melissa says
My son has been building with blocks a lot lately and when he finishes a project, he runs up to me and says, “Look what I made!!!” It makes me smile every time!
Stephanie says
No kiddos yet but I enjoy talking to the one still growing!
Whitney says
My son just turned 8 weeks old. I tell him I love him. He started smiling a week ago, and that makes me smile no matter what.
Erica M. says
When my 3 yr old does silly dances and when my 7-week old gives me a beautiful smile :)
Amber says
My first child is due in June and I can only imagine what the parents of those 20 children are feeling my hearts go out to them.
Laura says
I tell my baby I love him every day, as many times as possible. I love the big smile he gives me when I come into a room.
Betsy says
I haven’t, but only because my son is still asleep! He was snuggled next to me until I finally decided to be productive this morning. I do hope he knows that I will ALWAYS be there and ALWAYS love him, no matter what.
Misha says
I tell my kiddos I love them all the time. I have three and one on the way and they make me smile all day long.
Joanna says
There are so many things that my 7 kids do that make me smile. I especially love when they are sweet and tender toward eachother. When the 8 yearold comforts and snuggles the 1 year old, when the 14 year old helps the 4 year old, when they all play together and giggle and have fun… Being a mama is such a blessing!
cora says
I love when my babies sing little songs and laugh and smile.
Krystal says
Yes, I tell my daughter many, many times a day! :) I love when she points to something (wanting to touch it), I let her, and then she gives me a HUGE grin. That always brings a big smile to my face!
Ashley says
Hooray for give aways!
Jenny says
I smile and laugh daily when my 2 yr old does crazy funny things, but lately he’s learning so much so fast and everytime he says a new word or phrase, it makes me smile ;)
Rachel says
I love when my 16 month old little girl blows me kisses at bedtime!
abby morris says
yes, today my youngest looked at his daddy before he left for work and said ” wait you no go, i not kissed you yet! and I wanna hug too.” Every morning my husband leaves (on a motorcycle the kids think is awesome) They have to have hugs and kisses and stand on our fense to wave goodbye. That always makes me smile and reminds me of how much love they need everyday. Must have those hugs and kisses.
Debbie says
I tell my daughter everyday how much i love her. She wakes up with a huge smile on her face every morning which makes me have a better day
Heidi says
At 14 months my son gives me the sweetest smiles and most sincere hugs. I wish I could bottle it so I would always have it on hand when I’m stuck in traffic or sitting in a meeting. Best. Thing. Ever.
Missy says
My LO is still in the womb…but he/she will always know how wonderful they are! :)
Pollyanna Valenzuela says
i really wanted my daughter to tell me she felt sick so that i didnt have to take her to school. we pray every morning today was just a longer prayer with more kisses and i love your!! GOD IS GOOD !! lets continue to pray for those families mourning.
Angie says
Yes, I tell them daily. My toddler brings a smile to my face everyday when she climbs up on my lap and says, “I happy! Are you my best friend?”
Jenny says
My son, Simeon is such a joy to me each day! He is almost 9 months. He’s my ‘little pal’ as I like to refer to him cause I don’t go anywhere without him. He is my companion when my hubby is gone on business trips (so very often). Simeon has the most precious smile and laugh…and I even like his screeching :) I DO love him very much, and even though he doesn’t yet understand it, I tell him that I love him. I thank God for him in my life and mourn for those people in Newtown who have lost dear ones. Our prayers are certainly with them! ~ Bless God!
Amber says
I tell him I love him when he kicks me :)
Peggy Crawford says
Amen! Breaks my heart to have such a tragedy happen, prayers to all the families,friends and entire community. All must be hurting so much and prayers for God’s loving hands to surround them and bring only the peace that He can bring to sucy a horrible thing. Blessing to all Autumn’s followers and give everyone you love a big hug, let them know you love them today!
Jessie T-B says
My baby is 5 months old, and I tell him how much I love him every day. When he smiles it melts my heart. Every time. I snuggle him as much as possible. Someday he won’t want me to do that so much, so I have to take the opportunity now. So much love.
Julie Keyworth says
I’m always telling my kids how precious they are to me! :) One thing my little ones do that instantly brings a smile to my face, is when they hear music (whether it be from the ringtone on my phone, or a commercial) they start dancing! It’s absolutely ADORABLE!!
rachel williams says
I say I love you and give lots of hugs and kisses!!
AlannaB says
I do everyday! I love it that they never fail to look out for each other and constantly hug each other and say I love you…the world definitely needs more of this!
Sarah V. says
I have no children to speak of yet but I do have one in the oven. This being my first successful pregnancy after four tragic miscarriages I do send my wee one good vibes on a daily basis. I just recently reached viability a couple of weeks ago and I couldn’t be more thankful to have past this milestone. I smile inwardly every time I feel my little girl move and I cannot wait to meet her!
Melissa says
My heart melts every time my 5 month old son smiles!
Gina says
I still love the bonding time I have while nursing my 7 month old
Courtney says
Yes, things like what happened in CT do make many of us stop to cherish what the Lord has blessed us with. I wish I could say I cherish my children everyday like I do when something this horrid happens but unfornatley that is not the case. I too, am a continual work in progress wanting to move ahead in the process faster than I really am but am thankful for what I am learning. I want my children to learn the good from me and not the bad, but I know this is impossible. I’m so thankful for God’s grace on my children and on myself. Without His help where would we all be? On a different not, I love watching my children play together, giggle, having fun and of course always love watching them sleep…it’s something very peaceful! May the Lord help us to have more moments to cherish what he has blessed us with…even THOSE days we all have with our precious blessings!
Laura E. says
I LOVE when my 4 mo old cracks up at me for no apparent reason, we just go round and round making each other laugh for no real reason :). And as for my 20.5 mo daughter, there are so many things she does that make me smile, just one of which is the way she sings to herself when we’ve put her to bed and closed the door. She just sings one note tho, maybe two :).
Julie Cates says
I love it when my son randomly crawls in my lap and want to snuggle! This weekend I have been more than happy to allow him to do that as much as he wanted. :)
Carmen HIghland says
My son is only 3 months but I love it when he smiles and he is just now starting to giggle! It’s so much fun!
Tosia Drew says
Izzy has just started crawling and I love how when she sees me her crawling gets faster and more excited until she gets to me.
Athena says
We hug our children, say our prayers and kiss them goodnight as we anxiously await the fulfillment of his promise ” and he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.”~Revelation 21:4
kate says
when she wakes up snuggling me and tells me she loves me.
Ella says
I have a child on the way, and I smile when he reminds me that all is well with a giant, stomach turning movement from inside!
Melissa says
My son cracks us up with his earnest pursuit of our cats. He crawls after them until they allow him to catch up, then he gently head buts them in the side and rolls over laughing.
Krista says
When my four year old tells me that she loves me and daddy and Jesus but loves Sister most of all.
I want my daughters to grow up as strong Christian women who are each other’s best friend.
On Friday I gave my four year old an extra big hug and I was almost happy when my three month old woke up for two extra feedings that night. I cherished that time as I never had before.
Jessica says
I told them how much I love them when I put them to bed last night…and I went back in their rooms and gave them extra kisses after they fell asleep :) My 3-year old daughter hugs me and says “Aww Mama, you’re so sweet!” and it just melts my heart. My 14-month old son has started coming up to me at random times during the day and holding his arms out to be picked up just for a hug and a cuddle. Those are the sweetest moments :)
MicheleC says
My 6-month-old son’s smiles and laughter can brighten even my darkest days. Seeing his little face each morning as I go to get him up is a wonderful start to every day.
Kirstin says
I always smile when my son says “da-ba-ga-da?” and hands me whatever I told him not to play with (I know I shouldn’t, but I can’t help it).
Trisha W. says
Every day before I send my kids off to the bus (my teens) or when I walk my elementary aged kids to school and drop them off, I give each one a hug and tell them I love them and to have a good day. I’m a bit weepier this morning as I send my first two off. I have a 6 soon to be 7 y.o. who is home sick today and I just hurt inside thinking about last Friday and that it was children his age that were all taken from this world.
My 2 y.o. makes me smile when I tell her I love her and she responds with, “I love you more!” With seven children, there are many other things I could share.
Marie says
Telling my 6 month old “I love you” every chance I get. I don’t want him to grow up in a family that’s afraid to say it like my DH’s family.
Katie says
When my baby girl wakes up and has a sleepy smile it just melts my heart!!! The cutest thing ever!
Ellen B. says
I am one who tells them I love them often- it is always the last thing I say before bed at night or when we are going to be apart for a few hours. It’s important to me that my loved ones know I treasure them. It may be the last time they hear those words from me. This life is so temporary and tomorrow is not promised to any of us. One of my favs is the way the kid’s faces light up when they see me in the morning always melts this Mama’s heart!
Lisa says
I told my 2 yr old I loved him as I tucked him back in bed at 4am. Little stinker keeps getting up at night! I smile when he shares his favorite foods with us without being told to.
Lacee Cobble says
I try to tell my son many times a day that I love him. As much as he can drive me crazy, I would not trade one day with him. I’ve hugged him tighter this weekend and I plan to continue to hug him tighter. My son makes me smile and laugh with his crazy antics and his already apparent humor at only 2 years old!
Jenny Laux says
First thing in the morning when they wake up. My son just smiles and babbles, and my daughter hides under her covers and giggles. They are not awake yet, but when they do wake up I will let them know how much they are loved.
Christina Coyle says
My children always make me smile when they are putting together one of their “productions”. They love to stage plays for us. They will spend hours, and sometimes even days practicing and doing costumes and sets. I am not allowed into the “stage” area until they are ready to preform for us. I love that they are so creative and would rather use that creativity than sit in front of a TV.
Rachel B says
My 10 month old and I blew raspberries together then collapsed into a fit of giggles. It’s then best way to start the day.
Gwen says
When my 2 week old does his milk drunk smile and when my not quite two year old says or signs “love you mama”. :-)
Michelle Fuller says
Making my children smile. They have the most beautiful smile. I can’t imagine the sorrow and pain those families are feeling now. I pray that God will take away the pain and to help them through this in the only way he can. I pray that the children that survived can heal as well. God is great.
shannon says
when my 11-week-old daughter laughs:)