The Bedtime Routine

For some people, the bedtime routine may refer to the innocuous series of events they arrange in order to bring comfort and stability to their nightly encounters with sleep. For us, however (and this may sound very familiar to many of you), the bedtime routine is a matter of survival. We need to somehow get the kids into their beds, and from there, to that blissful state of unconsciousness that ironically calls to us as parents even as we wish it so desperately for our children.

Step 1: Bathe the children.

Aw, you might think to yourself. That looks cute. However, I assure you that this situation is far from "cute".

First of all, there is major conflict in play, as Jesse is irate over his inability to perfect his snorkelling skills. Apparently having two siblings in the same tub with him cramps his style.

Secondly, Robyn is trying to eat a random drain plug she has found, which we recognize as being less than ideal in most situations.

And of course, there is the matter of her being fully immersed with her pajamas on. Yes, Robyn had her bath ten minutes earlier, but decided that one bath simply wasn't enough. At least it gave Janna an opportunity to wash someone's hair (yikes).

Step 2: Calm the children.

Usually we go to great lengths to avoid watching TV before bed, but we had troubles with our DVD player today and I had promised Jess we would at least start Muppets Treasure Island. Wow, what a strangely dark and twisted movie, but somehow, still hilarious. Nevertheless, I'm a little nervous about the psychological effects of watching the "Cabin Fever" song before bed.

Step 3: Put them in bed.

This was strangely quiet tonight after the first few scenes of Muppets Treasure Island. I think the kids were trying to process it. Usually for this step we read a Bible story from the Children's Storybook Bible, pray with them, tuck them in and fill up their drinks. This is one of my favourite parts of the day, even though I'm usually feeling pretty sizzled by that point.

Step 4: Tea time.

This time is sacred. Brew some tea (or in Chrissy's case tonight, iced apple juice), go outside, drink the tea and talk. Note your pregnant wife's amazing ability to balance her drink on her belly (iced apple juice - don't worry!). Sometimes sit back and say nothing. Enjoy the beauty the God has placed in front of you.

And when Jesse comes out to tell you that Janna has had a "big, big, stinky poop," don't be too impatient. Ask if the poop is still in the diaper. If it is, it will wait for awhile.

If not, GO GO GO!!

Wash your hands and come back. Sit down and close your eyes. Life is good.

Serenely yours,
Until next time...