The Good Night

One final lullabye

One last kiss

Curious George tucked in tight

I switch on the motorcycle nightlight

And quietly close your door.

I stand for a moment in the hallway as I listen to your hushed giggles

and I contemplate an evening's possibilities:  

read a book

eat a dessert with much, too much sugar for you

call a friend

pray

drink a glass of wine

argue with your dad

pay some bills 

make love to your dad

clean the bathroom

watch a movie with foul language

practice yoga

take a long, hot bath

tidy the house of the very toys that will find their way back underfoot again tomorrow

write

All of these have lurked in the corner all day, watching me

And waiting impatiently for the few and precious hours

when you finally sleep.  

But later, as I pass your room again

I tiptoe inside, adjust your blankets, and lean down to breathe you in.

Almost

just almost

hoping you will wake.