Morning's Quiet Ritual

Small eyes peer from under tiny, but long, feather-like lashes

Little limbs uncurl, miniature fingers unfold

A roll, a whimper, a glance

"Mama! … Mooommmmieeee!"

In the next room, mommy eases from the warmth of her bed, skips the stretch

Slides feet into worn, flat slippers

Coming, she thinks – not making a sound

She slips into the room (wishing for a bathroom break)

Glances from crib to toddler bed hoping to see just one set of eyes in the dark

Four arms extend, fingers outstretched

Upsy daisy from the crib

Silky, soft, fluffy hair brushes mommy's face as the little girl snuggles into her neck

Arms wrap neck, short legs wrap waist

A plop to the low bed and the little boy crawls into her lap

Competing for space in mommy's arms

Kisses to foreheads, smiles all around as mommy rubs backs and whispers, "Good morning, how did you sleep?"

They snuggle for a minute, enjoying the warmth, the love

Then mommy says, "Time to go to the potty."

"No!!" the little boy yells falling to the bed with face buried among stuffed dogs and bears

Legs kicking

Mommy sighs, ending the morning's quiet ritual