Monday, February 18, 2013

Live in the moment - Slow down and nap

Is there anything better than watching a baby sleep?
Cuddling with that baby while you sleep!

Sometimes I have been known to over schedule, not only myself, but my family. There are so many things I want to get done on the weekend and I want to take advantage of every story time and play group.
When things start to get too crazy, that's usually when my toddler reminds me it's nap time. And as most of you know, that is not a subtle nor quiet reminder. It usually starts with whining or crying and can end in a full out tantrum, if I do not heed the signs and help ease the transition to sleep.

The transition to nap can entail a car ride, after a morning at the zoo or park, or a (hopefully short) walk in the stroller. Last week, I ended up on a 3 mile loop around Lake Merritt because it took him half the trip to calm down enough to sleep.
Then there is the transition from car to bed. If it does not go smoothly, my new tactic is to lie down with him, until he falls back asleep.

During the week my son is in daycare full time. They have him on a strict schedule and he sleeps 2 hours consistently every afternoon. On the weekends, our routine is not as exact, because we are usually trying to fit in a fun regional activity. We schedule in time for nap, but with transit times, it is not always as successful.

Which is why I sometimes lay down with my son to get the nap started. And I found, that I was tired too and in need of some rest. I usually try to do errands around the house while he napped (laundry, bills, menu planning, etc), and not let myself rest. Now I have been letting myself fall asleep. And when I wake up, I am snuggled with a little warm bundle of sweetness.

We need naps too, sometimes. Not just when we are in that first 3-months post partum. And enjoy that moment of opening your eyes, well rested, and watching your baby sleep.

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