Dear Sugarplum Delight,
One of my biggest regrets is that I’m not with you every night to tuck you into bed and tell you how much I love you. Since I can’t do that, I wanted to make our goodnight routine as special as possible when we are together. I think I’ve succeeded by teaching you some of the “goodnight words” my mom shared with me when I was a little boy.
When I was a kid, and my mom tucked me into bed, we always had a little sing-song saying we would do that I’ve done my best to pass down to you. I don’t remember all the words exactly, but I remember how calming it was for me, and it’s one of my favorite nostalgia feelings.
You and I have created our own little goodnight saying with some of the elements of my childhood, and some parts that you’ve sprinkled in yourself.
It goes something like this:
Me: Goodnight!
You: Sleep tight!
Me: Don’t let the bed bugs bite!
You: I won’t!
Me: I love you and I like you!
You: I love you and I like you, too!
Me: Big Smooch! (we share some big kisses on the cheek)
You: Big Hug! (we share a big hug)
Me: I hope you have sweet dreams!
You: I hope you have sweet dreams too!
Me: I’ll see you in the morning!
You: I’ll see you in the morning, too!
Me: I love you!
You: I love you, too!
(And then as many hugs and smooches as you can handle)
We’ve had a few variations on this theme so far, and it’s definitely similar to mine as a kid. I’m hoping I can remember all the changes you make so I can document other variations we do over time.
You really crave this routine. It’s so cute when you won’t let me leave the room without it. “Daddy! We still have to do goodnight words!” Sometimes I start to leave on purpose just so I can hear you ask for them.
These little moments are my favorite part of putting you to bed because you always snuggle up on me like a wiggly burrito when we do it, and you become a sweet little daddy’s girl. It’s a very innocent feeling and leaves me with lots of hope for your future.
And with that – Goodnight sweetheart! I love you and I like you!
Love,
Daddy
P.S. Did you know that your iPad can help you fall asleep? Yep. There’s a nap for that!
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