Bouncing away
Always a good sleeper, Avery has never really needed a routine – but we’ve still always included a book, a song and a good bounce at bedtime or naptime. It occurred to me recently, though, that our bouncing days are fast approaching their end. Avery is on the cusp of being too big to fit comfortably in my arms as I sit on the ball; her legs spill over my lap, and her head and chest take up as much space as her entire (newborn) body once did. It’s just a matter of time before she squirms away or my arms give out.
I know bedtime with a bigger child is also special and sweet – no ball required – but nonetheless I’ve found myself singing an extra song, bouncing a few extra minutes, and just lingering a bit longer when putting Avery to bed lately. I’m about to say good-bye to yet another phase (one that’s lasted her whole life), and I want to drink in those sweet moments – with Avery’s big eyes gazing up to me before slowly glossing over and closing – as long as I still can.
-M