sleep.
it's not something we're used to in this household.
it's not something we get much of.
it's not how we make best use of our time.
As a child, I was what you would call a "night owl". My mom's favorite story to tell is that she would find me up at all hours rearranging my bedroom furniture. I remember staying up late, but I also remember waking early. My motto on sleep was "I don't want to waste my day!". Whether it was Saturday morning cartoons or a chance to watch the sunrise as a child, which developed into an early morning run and coffee and quiet time in the Bama Chi-O house kitchen...I've never required much sleep (and/or enjoyed it). In nursing school, I would stay up studying until wee hours, get in bed for 3-4 hours sleep, then get up and head to the Rec to never miss a workout around 5am.
I'm not sure how healthy my sleep patterns were in my entire child and young adult life...
Fast forward to married life with kids....
I always knew I'd be fine with newborns in my life because sleep is a rare thing for them and I didn't need much sleep to get by.
Michael and I are both early risers by nature, but one huge change for me after marriage was an early bedtime as well. Before kids even, we'd be in bed as early as possible knowing that we both would be waking early to start our days. Michael as a gym owner and coach and me as a nurse- our days start much earlier than most.
Sleep is essential. There are countless reasons. I was reading something during quiet time recently that pointed out how as humans, we cannot function without sleep in our lives. Think about it...there are A LOT of things we CAN live without, but sleep isn't one of them. Michael blog's on sleep and the importance of it often. Here is one post he wrote.
I know that I'm a momma of young littles. I know that this phase will come and go before I want it to. I know that one day, I'll see a few extra hours of sleep again....
I also know that I'm blessed with healthy babies. I'm thankful for these sleep-less creatures that I've been given to rear and raise. I'm thankful for loud cries and snotty noses. I'm thankful for little voices and gentle touches that wake us in the middle of the night.
so for now...
I'll open another box of tissues and wipe that nose.
I'll rock them no matter how big they are.
I'll tie that shoe for the twentieth time.
I'll answer to "why" and "momma, watch a trick" over and over again.
I'll hold you because you are tired of the high chair.
I'll scratch your back and tuck you and your puppy in a second time.
I'll keep you safe from crawling and grabbing things you shouldn't.
I'll read "just one more" bedtime story.
I'll relinquish my OCD tendencies and let you help me wrap the presents.
I'll pour another bowl of cheerios even though you haven't finished the first.
I'll sing another silly song and dance a little longer.
I'll share my snacks with you because "your tummy growled".
I'll wipe up another pile of spit up and wash unending loads of laundry.
I'll make silly faces and sing for you to see that gummy smiles again.
I'll pick up the toys and repack the blocks a thousand times.
I'll wipe up the milk you spilled while trying to "do it myself".
I won't ever stop.
Not ever.
Never.
I can't say I'll be well-rested or dressed-up or without black rings under my eyes....
But I can say I loved them well and hard. I've prayed for them and with them.
I will always show up.
I will always be present.
And this gracious momma will always be your biggest fan, baby.
sleep-who????,
reagan
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