what four means

here is what four means.  four rhymes with more for a reason.  there is a lot more of most thing- more mess- more noise- more opinions- more laundry- more fighting- more crumbs- more spills.  there is also more singing, more laughing, and more 'i love you's'- and those are worth much more.

i've come to realize that whenever there are more of somethings- there are less of others.  it's a bit of a closed system.  so now there is less quiet- less organization-less toilet paper- less alone time. actually maybe no alone time-for now.

we are all in equilibrium as we adjust to four.  i'm working on being okay with more mess- in whatever form that is- crumbs, forts, spills, toys, paper, clutter.  i'm remembering to dissect the noise- to listen to what is hidden- what is being said- or shouted- or sung- those little clues into my children and their process.  i'm trying to help with what is behind the fighting and yelling- because often it's someone hugging someone too hard- or giving an unrequested kiss- because learning to share is really important- and knowing that someone is there to hear you or defend your cause is important- because knowing that the rules don't change when you add another player, and that the rules are the same for everyone is essential.

and i'm learning to SAVOR the few quiet moments when lunch is over, rose has finally gone down for a nap- and the other three are off playing elsewhere and the dishes are done and the brownies are out of the oven- and i can just be still.  take a breath.  and be thankful for four and all their more.