I hear the unfamiliar sounds of pitter pattering feet, and the shaking of a rattle.

Dora the Explorer sings ridiculous songs in the background.

I feel the wet spot on my jeans where the baby spit up on me.

Activity constantly swirls around my kitchen table, where my computer is set up.

Tiny hands play “music” on the ivory keys.

A little face pops up around the screen, asking if she can let the doggie out.

The rattle shakes again, when the baby smacks at it in his bouncy seat. His eyes are getting droopy. Her big blue eyes remain fixed on every move I make. She tells me a story about how she took a nap last night, and knew she would come to Brenda’s house in the morning. I’m curious if she’s making the connection that I’m Brenda.

She loves my tomato pin cushion and I let her move the needles around in it, as long as she’s sitting right next to me. She lets the doggie in again. And out. Then in again.

The doggie looks at her like she’s the best thing since sliced bacon treats. Looks at me like I’m chopped liver for not catering to her every need like the toddler does.

I wonder if we’ll all stay adequately entertained until Mama comes home from work. I also wonder at how caring for little ones is a lot like riding a bike. You may get out of practice, and ride with a bit of a wobble. Or in my case, accidentally try and put a diaper on with the tabs going front to back rather than back to front. But you never really forget how to ride. Or how to care.

And speaking of caring, it time for me to say farewell. Because there are more important things to do around her than pluck away at keyboard. Those big blue eyes are lurking once again, but this time, they have a hint of worry.

Worry that I will do nothing but watch the big white screen. Perhaps she’s wondering why she’s not at my sister-in-law’s house, as is the norm when Mama is at work. And while there’s no telling for sure what’s going on in that noggin of hers, my job is to erase the worry from her eyes and the furrow in her brow …

And replace it with a smile.

God bless you with whatever task the Lord has given you this day. Whatever it is, I hope you season it with love, care, and that you do it to the best of your God-given abilities.