Primetime

I had plans for the blog tonight.  Plans that did not include the above photo.  Sometimes, though, plans change. 

As I closed the last page of our bedtime book and said a final “Amen” following prayers, Charlie and Chanelle asked if I would stay awhile and rest. It’s a request that is made often, but more than not, unfinished dishes, unanswered emails, or, let’s be honest. . . “me time” beckons.  Tonight was different.  Tonight, I couldn’t imagine anything more important than being right there with them as the sun dipped low behind the horizon.

I climbed up to Charlie’s loft and was sandwiched on either side by two exhausted little ones.  I noticed Charlie’s dimpled smile and Chanelle’s excited breath and I could almost hear their thoughts. . . she’s actually going to lay with us!  The three of us laid on our back looking outward while we played several games of “I Spy”.  After we’d all had a few chances to “spy” I told them it was time for bed and the request was made again. . . will you snuggle for awhile?  I think they’ve got my number. . . use the word “snuggle” and I can’t deny.

As the room began to darken and I lay listening to the chatter of my little one’s, I realized how important these moments are. I listened as my usually reserved and flighty four and six year old began to open up about their days, their friends, their questions, and their confusions.  Maybe it is the darkness, maybe it is the silence, maybe it’s the lack of distractions.  Whatever the case, it truly is “Primetime”.

Tonight, there was a bonding that is more difficult to obtain during the day.  A connecting that gets lost in the chaos of the day.  A relating that goes beyond that which I get during the day. 

Forty-five minutes later I left two sleepy children in their darkened room and vowed that I will make a better effort of slowing down with them at night.  I walked away knowing that the benefits of these quiet moments far outweigh the costs of a little time on my part.  Put simply, I walked away knowing my kids better.

Just try to put a price on that. 

I also walked away more tired than normal. . . More tomorrow. . .