The Importance of Bedtime

Tonight a thunderstorm rolled through our neighborhood right around bedtime. The boys got to stay up a little later than usual watching a movie and then the thunder began. Aaron wasn’t scared at all when I put him to bed, even though the thunder and lightning were intense. Our power flickered a few times, so I got out the flashlights after I left his room. About 5 minutes later, the power did go out. I came upstairs to check on Aaron and the lights were back on before I got up the stairs. He was looking at me when I peeked in his room, so I went in and rocked him for 10 minutes or so.

Aaron and I have spent a lot of time together rocking in that lovely Pottery Barn rocker that Matt gave me for my birthday 6 years ago. As we were rocking, I was reminded of all those times and the bond that we share because of our middle of the night time together. I was thinking about what a special time that is to share together, even when you’re sleep-deprived and begging God to just please let this baby sleep through the night.

We still do bedtime with our boys. They are still young, but I have found it to be such a special time that I plan to continue it as they grow. Maybe we won’t be rocking and singing lullabies, but it’s a great time to just share about the day and see what’s on their minds. Family mealtimes seem to be all the rage these days, and they certainly are important. But bedtime is also a really important part of our day. It’s rarely peaceful. Sometimes chaotic. Occasionally maddening. The pajamas, the teeth brushing, the potty time, did I mention the teeth brushing? But then, after they are herded into their rooms (finally!), it’s storytime, and Bible time, and prayer time. Aaron still likes lullabies. Elliott likes to snuggle. And in case you haven’t noticed, my boys are rarely still and quiet – which is what makes bedtime so nice. They are calm, quiet, snuggly. I ask Elliott if he has any problems or questions. Did he have a fun day? Aaron wants to sing our new silly version of “All the Pretty Little Horses” over and over again. And then they are asleep, and the house is finally quiet, and I get to spend some time with my sweet husband. And we get ready to do it all over again the next day. And I wouldn’t change a thing.