Night Time

We have this little night time routine...it involves reading a story from Zay's Bible. Sometimes reading another story of Zay's choice. And then prayers. Both Mom and Dad have to say a prayer. We usually ask Zay what and who he'd like to pray for. If we forget to mention Bailey and Bongo in our prayer we re-open the prayer and PRAY for those doggies of ours! Then we give lots of hugs and kisses...specifically "roar hugs"...known by some people as bear hugs, but in our house they are "roar hugs". And we not only squeeze tight...we actually roar when we give them. Daddy and Zay can be heard for miles when exchanging a roar hug! Finally it's lights out, noise-machine on, nightlight on, and door left open. Door must be left open. If any part of this routine is missed we back-the-train-up and fix it per Zay's request! 

And this all happens after bath, potty, drink, teeth, etc.................

I admittedly sometimes wish that our nightly routine was a bit shorter and only involved one parent and was a tad less complex. 

But looking at these pictures I just melt. Because I know that one day this phase of our life will be over. Zay won't want to be read to or prayed with or need us quite so much. I pray that he will continue to read his Bible before bed. And say prayers...even remembering the littlest things he's thankful for...like his dogs. And I hope so much that hugs will always be freely given in our home. Zay's roar hugs are THE BEST. 

And what a blessing when little Miss Ellie gets older and she gets to join in our nightly routine! She currently enjoys snoozing through almost everything.

Oh "Moo-Moo"......if you only knew how much you are loved and prayed for!