Funny Things Happen at Church

Today was Fast Sunday at Church -- and today I felt especially grateful for my herd of children, wonderful husband, and journey that God has us on.  So, I decided to bear my testimony.  I made my way up to the front and sat quietly waiting for a very nice gentleman to finish.  That was probably a bad idea.  From a few rows back, I could see my toddler's eyes lock on my position and start to squirm in his dad's lap.  Worse idea.  I wiggled my finger at him and up he came to sit on my lap.  Worst idea.

When my turn came, I quietly stood and picked the toddler up.  I took him to the microphone and encouraged him to repeat after me.  He however, thought it was more funny to practice his heavy breathing over the sound system. I gently pulled him back and started to bear my testimony.  He squirmed some more and after thirty seconds or so, my husband came up to grab him which caused more squirming and I'm pretty sure some screaming about "mommy".  I continued to bear my testimony and apologized for the interruption only to look down and see that my other preschooler was at my feet, who starts to engage with the other in pushing and gentle fighting about who could hug my right leg. 

This is comical by this point and I begin to notice a lot of broad grins and chuckles spreading across the chapel in front of me.  I start to cry -- not because I am totally crazy and overwhelmed by these two now fighting preschoolers at my feet -- but because I am so grateful that my Heavenly Father loves me so much to send these beautiful creatures to me and that I get to be their mommy forever.  And even in the midst of their little squabble, I am grateful for the gift of patience, love, and grace to manage the many moments of motherhood that could turn south quickly if I didn't have these gifts.

Atleast a dozen people thanked me today for my testimony, which is funny, because I was sure they only saw the circus at Church today.   :)