Because I always wanted a big family. . .

I love kids. (I'm partial to babies, but I keep loving them even when they grow up.)

I know sometimes I gripe and complain about what a mess they make or how much they eat (because GOOD GRIEF they eat a lot!).

But the honest truth is that I love them. All I ever wanted to do as a little girl was grow up and be a mommy. Didn't really care about a husband, at that point, but somewhere along the way that became a dream, as well (it's a good thing!).

So what I'm saying, I guess, is that I'm living the life I always dreamed of.

In all it's sticky, messy, sleep-deprived, dirt-covered and tear-stained glory. With lots of diapers thrown in.

And I wouldn't trade it.

THIS week, however, I have the special blessing of caring for 10 kids all week. My eight plus two cousins. No, I won't get to keep them forever. But I do love them like my own and we are having FUN so far! Cousins are the best gift for kiddos. Right after bunches of siblings. And we have bunches of both!

Having two extra little ones has given me an excuse to cancel extra activities, cuddle on the couch and eat mac and cheese. Lovely results, don't you think?

It's fun having a one year old, again - makes Little Man seem HUGE. And having Little Man's closest cousin here (they are 10 days apart) has made me realize a few things. Most of which have to do with how much better behaved the cousin is. (sigh) We are doing some great training for learning to be kind, not throwing things, sharing. . . you get the idea. Not to mention the fact that Little Man keeps calling his cousin his "sisser". HA! Poor guy - he's surrounded by little girls! Good thing he has a BOY cousin his age to play with!

The niece and nephew, however, have been the example of good behavior. Unlike Little Man who spent the entire two hours of naptime being put back into his bed while trying to sneak into one of the other napper's rooms. (sigh, again)

The fun part? Having the high chair occupied, again. Having a baby to hold and feed and cuddle with (and watching the kids do the same). Watching the older kids play with the little ones and help out. I love it.

I guess if we can't always have a baby at the troops, at least we can borrow cousins for a few days at a time!

Happy Monday!