Last weekend, I was hanging out with a dear friend, whose daughter, let's call her "R", needed some help with homework. I volunteered to look at 1st grade math problems on a worksheet, which "R" rocked out in a matter of minutes - she's very smart! Once the worksheet was complete, it was time for reading. "R" only needed to read for 10 minutes, but quickly, 10 minutes became 25 minutes, and then mom said it was pajama time.
"R" didn't want to stop reading, but I promised her that if she took a break, and put her jammies on, we could finish reading in her room. She was a little hesitant, but soon she had her jammies on and I was piling heaps of blankets on top of her because she said she was very cold. :)
Once "R" was snuggled under the covers, we picked out a new book to start reading. As I sat alongside her bed, I realized that this was the type of thing I might be doing with Catelyn. It was a bittersweet moment. I found myself sad about what I was missing with my own daughter, but so happy to be having the experience with young, sweet "R".
Within a few minutes, it seemed like it was time for bed. "R" didn't want to stop reading, but I assured her that I would place a bookmark in her spot and she could pick up where she left off the next day. She seemed okay with this plan. I was thinking I would give her a quick squeeze and peck on the forehead, when she said, "Can you lay by me for a while?"
I nearly started to bawl.
What a dear, sweet girl to ask such a thoughtful question. I knew that if I laid down I would surely start crying, so, instead, I told her that I snore & talk in my sleep (both of which are very true - ask my friends!), and didn't want her to be weirded out.
I gave her a hug, and a quick kiss on the forehead, wished her sweet dreams, and said goodnight.
The experience was tough, but well worth it. I am grateful for other people's kids - they help heal my heart.
