Sweet reward for time well spent..maybe

After a long day of census work, 4 kids at 4 different places and no hubby coming home it was finally bedtime. You moms out there know what I mean. We all love our children dearly but the peace that blankets my house when the children are tucked in their beds, fast asleep makes for an elation rivaled few places.

I made me rounds patterned and heavy with #4 already in her sister's room. #3 was winded this day with stories of broken trucks, and toys he would fix. One sounded like a chicken, making the sound cluck cluck, another a much louder unnatural sound. At last I was free, turning the light out and heading downstairs. Number 1 was next, of course I had to wait until he finished the page he was on. Then there was a process of locating an appropriate bookmark which could be the obvious, an actual bookmark. No it had to be one of the 100 (no I am not exaggerating with that number) stuffed animals better thought of as beloved friends. Finally, much trial and error later he gave up on getting a wing to stick and said he would just remember his place.

Last but not least I sighed as I headed to #2, well until I opened the door quickly reminded I was not finished because instead of one there still were 2.

"Hi Mommy" with a big smile #4 announced. "I go nigh nigt sissy!" She was snuggled under the covers being read a book by #2. I smile, nod and began our prayer ignoring the now bouncy, movement opposite me. Once finished, #2 requested her little sister to sleep in her room. I remind of her age and all that comes with it. Besides, her bed is about 10ft off the ground:) She insists and I no longer want to fight and say fine go ahead and try. As I leave, turning the light off hear them whisper a bit.

Upstairs I begin my own bedtime ritual, sure enough interrupted by the girls. I kiss #2 on the top of her head and take little miss off to bed. She serenades me with We will rock you courtesy of her sister's cheerleader attempts. Stories of AA (her beau whom she spent the day with) ring out of her mouth. We hug, we kiss and I lay her down now a bigger sigh of relief since this routine is complete.

Back in my room, the peace last only a moment or two before #2 pops in. She needs her tummy medicine, ok you had it already twice today but fine. Another kiss and another goodnight. Back to the glorious ho hum. Nope the dust barely settled before #1 followed closely by #3 appear. There is a sssss sound downstairs not letting one sleep, and can you believe something shocked him when he got into bed like an hour ago:) Goodnight AGAIN no more to bed and #3 is off. But #1 simply must have me escort him and discern the sound. All is well, the music which is turned way down is all that the noise is, a smirk of feeling silly appears on his face, a simple oh yeah drawn out then into bed he climbs. I say I love you and goodnight again. Whew!

Once again I walk to my room, this time not too quick to assume I truly am free. 5 minutes go by, 10 more, 15 more.

Hallelujah I can hear the choir singing. I peek into the hallway...listen. I walk from room to room and listen. No noise, no sound. Here it is, my sweet reward.