The importance of nesting ...

The birds nest, as do other creatures who settle into their dens, foxholes, and various habitats. Whether they crawl in, climb up or fly to it, there is a special spot they return after a day of hunting, guarding, parenting, feeding and all the other jobs on their daily calendar. After the day's work is over, they go home and settle into the nest.

Last evening I sat down in my favorite spot on the couch and enjoyed a cup of cappuccino and the newspaper. My hubby was reading in his chair while a fire flickered on the hearth. I also had my first uninterrupted night's sleep -- in my own comfy bed -- for the first time in eight days.

Not complaining, mind you. I loved being with our daughter and son-in-law recently to help out with their little newborn. I loved rocking, swaddling and burping Ethan. Every time he looked into my eyes when I sang or talked to him, my heart melted a little bit more. It was a precious time of grandson-and-Nana bonding.

At the same time, it's good to be back with my husband again. This is where we read the paper, visit with neighbors and get our mail. It's where we study, write, balance our checkbooks, put out feed for the birds and plant a small garden. We've done a lot of nest-building and living here.

As parents with children at home, you are still building your nest. As you read together, play board games, do chores and talk with your children, you are strengthening your nest. When you go to work to earn a living and come back home to your family, you are investing in nesting.

Spend time in your nest and build sweet memories there. After a long day away, your nest is the perfect spot to relax and recharge your batteries. It's a place to curl up with a good book or perhaps paint or write. It's the one place where your heart is most at home.

Though our three children have grown and flown the family nest to start their own, this one is still active. I'm in it, my husband is in it, and most of all, our loving Heavenly Father is here with us. He has blessed us beyond measure!