Each day there are little things that make me wish I could freeze time ~ that I could somehow etch certain moments in my mind as to ensure that they might never fade from my memory. Specifically I'm enamored with how my children show me love. While moments like these may be even more amazing as the years go by, I never want to forget the way their affection makes me feel right here, right now.

At 2 1/2 years old, Addison is quite vocal about her feelings. She'll be sitting restfully in my lap then will spontaneously turn towards me to say with conviction and sincerity, "Mom, I LOVE you." Then looking at me with those big brown eyes she likes to cup my face between her little toddler hands right before giving me a gentle kiss on the lips. It's the sweetest thing.

Other times I'll see Addison hugging on JD and Ayden and announcing, "I love my boys!" It makes me want to run over and scoop her up! One of her favorite lines is, "I love you EVERYDAY!"

Ayden has his own unique way of giving hugs. First he'll throw his arms around my neck. Then he'll lay his head on my shoulder. After a short bit he'll move both his arms to his sides and wiggle his little body against mine. Once he stops his wiggle dance, I give him a good squeeze. I love our little routine!

These types of moments are even more special as I realize daily that my squirts are growing up so FAST! We'll celebrate Ayden's first birthday in less than a month! My how time flies. Oh how I wish I could freeze it...if only for a moment.