Not SWAK, I hope
November 22, 2011
Every night, we take turns lying next to Owen at bed time, reading our requisite 2 books, saying prayers, and settling down. I love these quiet moments, because no matter how many times I ask what has happened at school during the evening, all the important stuff spills out in these bedtime sessions. Sometimes we have long talks about the state of the world, the differences between boys and girls (who underappreciate bugs, according to Owen), and what would happen if trees were made of chocolate. Important things. It sounds idyllic as I write it, and though it often is, it certainly doesn’t always go down that nicely. Some days are hard and full of hassles, and sometimes bedtime seems more like a welcome reprieve than a moment for bonding. But even then, Owen never ceases to surprise me.
We’ve been reading The Swiss Family Robinson at bedtime, and if you’ve read it, you might remember that there are some dry swaths–long natural histories of penguins, etc, etc. On just such a night, after just such a day, I was struggling to get through the chapter. Owen was wriggling about, and when I turned to scold him for not paying attention, he was looking up at me with a mischievous grin.
“What?” I said.
“Did you get it?” he giggled.
“No, what?”
“My stink letter. I just sent it.” And sure enough he did, his very own creation (aptly described, by the way).
The tension of the day slipped away, dissolved in laughter–and stink. Hallmark may want to reconsider their slogan. If so, I suggest “when you care to scent the very best…”
I have been privileged a few times to share those bedtime moments with Owen. The most precious time was when you were in the hospital earlier this year. He wanted to talk to you, so I texted you. His daddy called and explained that Mama was asleep, but that he would sing “Jesus” to him, if he wanted. So, I put the phone on speaker, and we listened to the sweetest version of Jesus Loves Me. Precious moment, indeed.
| Posted 3 months ago