The Best Part

We've settled into a nice bedtime routine, Sarah Beth and I.  After dinner and bathtime, we put on our jammies, have a nice warm bottle, read a book, and slow dance to the Baby Mix on her iPod.  Then I sit in her dark room, rocking her to sleep and saying my prayers.  (Goes something like - thank you God for this sweet angel baby please keep her safe and healthy and happy and give us the wisdom, patience and strength not to screw up this perfect little person You entrusted to us.)  Hands down the best part of my day is when she rests her sweet-smelling head on my shoulder, sucks her thumb and drifts off to sleep.  Having that warm little bundle peacefully resting in my arms makes all seem right and good with the world.  I forget about my frustrating day at work.  The things that drove me bananas all day as I stomped around the office turn into distant memories as baby does her little sighing noise as she sleeps.  Today was a particularly hellacious day, and I found myself holding on extra tight and rocking her long after she had fallen asleep because it was even more soothing for me, I think, than for her.  I just didn't want to let go.  I have a feeling that will be a recurring theme over the next 5, 10, 20, 30 years.  So for now I will indulge myself while I can and snuggle that sweet baby until my heart is full.  Sweet dreams, baby girl!