Normal. And thankful.

Days like today make me very grateful. Structure is beginning to resume.  Last night I made a meal plan for the next two weeks!  And today I went to all three stores required to pull that meal plan off, and keep us on budget. I cannot tell you how this thrills my heart. And, it is worth noting, that I didn't make it into work until noon. Another gentle reminder that this parenting thing is no joke, that balance is always just outside of reach, and that I am the mother of eight (even though I often try to operate as if I am not).
I asked Ray to start the rice before I got home, and Jessica and Sarah washed and chopped a couple of items needed for dinner. When I did get home from work, the house was clean and dinner was ready to assemble. Izzy worked beside me as we made teriyaki chicken, fried rice, and Asian vegetables. I smiled as we cooked, and I thought, "We actually did this. The idea of adopting six kids presented itself. We prayed about it. And we actually did it."  The decision now feels older than it does new. I hardly think about it any more. But a couple of years ago it was very new. It was on the forefront of every decision we made. It was scary. And exciting. And now it's life.
We ate dinner and the kids behaved like humans. No bickering (except over who got to pray).  No unpleasant table talk. Normal, pleasant conversation. Most of them can help their own plates now. I don't have to cut anyone's food into small bites. When I sit down to eat my food is still hot. Well...warm:) Dinner is enjoyable....finally!
When dinner was over everyone cleared his or her own place. And (this part is really good) they immediately began getting ready for bed.  Teeth brushed. Showers. Jammies. Yes!!!!
Now normal pre-bedtime activities are taking place and I am holed up in my bathroom, where I know I won't be bothered (except by Kristina who is standing at the door waiting patiently:)
No, it is not always like this. Yes, last night I wanted to run away. But, nights like tonight give me hope!  I am thankful for how far we have come. I am thankful for happy, healthy kids. I am thankful for a God who redeemed my life and has allowed me to be a part of His redemption of these kids' lives.  I am thankful that, because of my role as Mom, I can understand more fully His role as Heavenly Father. I'm just thankful. And next time I am not, I will reread this and be reminded.