The Old Woman In The Shoe

"There was an old woman
Who lived in a shoe.
She had so many children
she didn't know what to do.
She gave them some broth
without any bread.
She kissed them all gently
and sent them to bed."

When I was growing up we lived across the street from a family with 12 children. I always dreamed that one day I would be the one with a house full of children. Happy sounds and joyous reveling inside and out. When the twins were born I wanted to do everything in my power to stay with them 24/7. With the help of my husband and family I opened a daycare. Now I could raise my children and still be a teacher. I could stay home and not miss a single "first". Four and a half years later my daycare enrollment has nearly doubled. On any given day there are 8-10 children here under my watch. Although some days feel long and most nights too short, I love my job!

And now my house is the one with all the children. With the exception of winter, our yard is filled to the brim with children running, climbing and having a great time. One can hear the echoes of laughter from a block away. There is never a dull moment. There is always someone doing something for the first time. Today the sun is out and the warmth of spring is in the air. I can't wait!