Mommy, are you happy?

I get this question at least once a day from my 2.5-year old--usually when my tone or face clearly express that I am not.

Sometimes it seems he's just trying to charm his way out of any culpability.

Other times, when I'm frustrated and spent and taking audible deep breaths and probably yelling, it's like I literally have a little voice reminding me to stop and think about what I'm doing.

Am I trying to get someone to stay put for a diaper change? Hold my hand in a parking lot? Eat just two more bites?

Or am I living the life of a mom, fulfilling the role I cherish most?

The other day, the three of us were in the car, running late, and I made a wrong turn that set us back further, and fumed at the kids to--hypocritically--stop yelling at each other.

Gunny blew me away when he followed his usual question up with "Do you love your kids?"

I don't think it's quite as profound as it sounds, just that he knows I'm more apt to remind them I love them when I'm in a really good mood, enjoying motherhood to its fullest.

"Yes, Gunny. I love my kids. And I'm very, very happy."