Bedtime

Putting William to bed tonight I paid attention a little more closely.

I watched his fingers trace the letters as I read Curious George.

I feel his hair against my cheek - silky and smooth.

How he snuggles into my arm, close to my side. I hug him a little tighter.

He twirls my hair while I read. His button nose scrunches and he yawns from his toes. He has always fought sleep.

I turn off the light and he falls asleep.

I try to push this moment deep into my heart. I wish my eyes were cameras so I will never forget what he looks like when he sleeps.

Because the day will come when he reads on his own.

When he won't want snuggles and won't twirl my hair.

When his button nose will grow away.

When he won't want me to hold him when he sleeps.

So I hold him a little longer than I should, listen to him breathe for a little too long.

Because I love him and that's all I can do.