Hush-A-Bye

As a parent, there are countless little pleasures we partake in owing to our children. One particular pleasure I enjoy is sitting with my kids until they fall asleep. My son in particular likes for me to sit with him at bedtime and naptime. My children are much like their daddy in that they are quick to fall asleep, so I only need sit there for a few minutes before the deep breathing and dreaming commence. But watching over them, like the momma watchdog that I am, gives me not only satisfaction in knowing my kids feel safe because I am there, but the gift they are allowing me to give them by letting me be there for them gives me fulfillment as a mother.

My oldest daughter no longer “needs” me to sit by her side as she falls asleep, but I still take pleasure in sitting on her bedside after she is asleep and just enjoying her peaceful presence. From the moment she was born I have been captivated at how beautiful she is, and though she sleeps sprawled across her bed with her long, flailing limbs going every which way (i.e. she isn’t a very elegant sleeper), I look at her sleeping, tranquil face and fall in love with her all over again.

My son never hesitates to ask for me to sit by him as he falls asleep. Within moments he is deep in dreamland, but watching as he quickly falls from wildly awake to serenely asleep just melts my heart.

My youngest daughter is only five-months-old and is still breastfeeding, and she seems most fond of falling asleep while feeding in the reclining position, which means more cuddling. Getting to be close and provide nourishment is always a bonus when it comes to breastfeeding, and I definitely delight in it.

I want always to be there for my children, and I believe that the simple act of being there while they are falling asleep can be such a blessing for both parent and child. Not only are they about to put themselves into your safekeeping as they make themselves the most vulnerable by going to sleep, but it’s always good to see our kids peaceful, pleasant, and passive after a long day of craziness and stress.