I'm writing.

I had the incredible experience of attending the annual Type-A Parent Conference in Atlanta this past weekend. There will be so much more I will say about that but the most important thing I need to share is how absolutely incredible the hands-on session I attended was. Inspired by Just Write, a weekly link-up hosted by Heather of The Extraordinary Ordinary, I listened and learned as she and Vikki of Up Popped a Fox talked writing.

And then they stopped talking. And had US write. And here's mine. I'm linking up with Heather today because it feels right.



Every night at bedtime my daughter wants me to stay with her. Me, my husband, but usually me. We've started a chart recently. Bright green checkmarks if she falls asleep on her own. It's amazing when she does. We get a few extra minutes of our nights back. No shouting up the stairs. No tearing our (my!) hair out. But what he doesn't get is how important these moments before sleep are. To me. To her. Sometimes it's habit. I need water. I have to go potty. But sometimes it's really me that she needs.

To talk about her day. Share secrets and moments with. Release the thoughts that keep her mind awake.

Lately we've been reading. I start, she finishes. Chapters from Heidi. And then we shut the light and she starts in with them. Random math problems. I think they help her sleep.

** This is where I ended when my five minutes were up.

Amazing, isn't it? A few small moments. Minutes. All it took to recall what was and is important.

My baby. Last night I was so happy to see her after being away for a few days (granted, I was also exhausted) I fell asleep in bed with her. Snuggled up tight.

She told me I am the best mommy in the world. Her special girl. She missed me so much but is so very glad I am home. And I watched her drifting. Closing her eyes some. And then I did. And she laughed this morning as we discussed who fell asleep first.

She says it was me. It might have been. And if it was, I imagine her watching me the way I watch her. With love, awe and inspiration. That we belong to one another.

That she's mine.

Thanks, Heather and Vikki. For reminding me what this blogging thing is truly about.

And if you're looking to learn more about the incredible session I attended, check it out here: How to free-write.

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