Little Guy (Newly Four) and his sister (she’s Much Bigger — Six!) are camped out in our TV/guestroom. They’re staying with us for four days (“Four Days,” he counted off on his fingers, “is a long time. I’m going to miss my Mommy”) while their parents have some couple time in a big city (Mom’s on the way to the airport as I write; Dad’s already been checking out the best restaurants in that city as part of his job. Lucky fellow).
Something woke me at 4:30, not unusual. . . I stayed in bed until 5:30, hoping I might get back to sleep, but it didn’t happen, so I got up, thought I should take advantage of some quiet time to myself, assuming that will be on short rations this week. Brewed my tea, poured a mug, and settled in on the couch to watch the sunrise reflected on the downtown skyline. And just as I was thinking I might do some writing, I heard the Dohm fan’s white noise released (all our grandkids sleep with white noise; seems to be a thing these days), the volume suddenly dialed up as a door opening stealthily. And seconds later, a small pyjama-ed figure whispering something at me.
Of course, I couldn’t hear what he was whispering–even with my hearing aids in, whispering is never audible to me–but I quickly guessed that he “needed to pee.” He didn’t really need an escort, but I walked him to the bathroom, and when he was done, assured him that it was still too early to be up and sent him back to bed.
Soon after, the steady murmur streaming from his bed elicited some serious grumbling from his sister’s, louder and louder until she came out to complain that he wasn’t letting her sleep. Time for me to surrender, then, and Little Guy came out to sit with me on the couch and chatter contentedly away. I learned that he’s had at least one nightmare about Donald Trump (and was a bit alarmed that his parents were visiting the wrong country — some reassurance ensued). I learned something about his favourite daycare activities. I learned a few important facts about Joker and Batman. And I learned that my grandson is observant enough to spot a hummmingbird drinking from the fountain on our terrace, even in the weak light of early dawn. A moment of reverent marvel shared. . .Sweet compensation for the fatigue I know will hit this afternoon.
Little Guy and his Big Sister are gone for the day now — Granddad’s dropping them off at school and daycare, and I’m clearing away cereal bowls and putting away pyjamas and toys. . . So much to get done before we leave next week, but I’ve just caught up on my Online Writing Course, and my next onerous chore is a trip to the Spa for a Facial. I know. Rough, right?
So I’m off now, but I’ll leave you with a link to a post about another early morning with Little Guy, back when he was only Three. . .
Sounds wonderful! The facial too :-))
It was good, and mmmmm, that facial! Why has it been so long since I treated myself to one?!
It is hard to believe that he is that age! Those little ones will wake early. It's a nice time of life to be able to chatter to Nana.
Those four years went so fast!
Oh this chatter sounds blissful to me! There's little I like so much as talking with someone who is still so new at language. Cutie!
Yes! You should hear how carefully he pronounces "Actually."
I love your posts about your Littles….
The make me smile.
Ali
I'm pleased to hear this. Thank you!
What magical predawn secrets. Something of this morning will stay with him. The gift of being listened to.
I hope you get to nap before they come home!
I hope that's true, TofF, and I believe it really might be.. . no nap, but I can't complain as the facial was completely relaxing (what is it about a massage table/aesthetics-treatment table? Zen guaranteed. . .
I'm with Four. I regularly have nightmares about the Trumpet.
Same age as one of my grandsons. And it is a delightful age. When mine repeatedly says to me, "Nanny, I've got a great idea" – it usually involves my undivided attention and assistance. No excuses. Have a lovely visit (and sneak in a nap or two for yourself).
Ha! I guess many of us share those nightmares.
Yes, there is usually work and materials involved in those "great ideas," and no excuses will do đ
What a beautiful little moment, if unbidden đ He seems to have relished the connection and I am guessing the closeness comforted him. Four is still so small. (My adult kids sleep with white noise too. To me it evokes the dentist's.)
Often when we see him it's much later in the day and he can be slightly fractious with hunger or fatigue. That fresh, full energy without his sister's interruptions and management shows such a sweet fellow.
Now you mention it, I think some of my adult kids sleep with the white noise as well. And one of them gave me a Dohm, which I do use now for an afternoon snooze, to shut out the urban clamour. . . .
Dear boy-such a pleasure to have his Nana for himself in the wee hours….
One has to pamper oneself from time to time-enjoy the Spa
Dottoressa
Regarding his nightmare -LOL. I hope it is not recurring! As someone who resides in the "wrong" country, I can understand his concern for his parents.
slf
Hope the facial was lovely. I was going to ask about the white noise machine, but you've answered that. You must miss falling asleep to the sound of waves on your beach… every now and again.
Going to book a facial for myself right now… I keep forgetting. Thanks for reminding me. xo
How lovely to have such company even if a little earlier in the morning than you might have preferred…
That sounds like a lovely morning wake up for both of you. A little time for yourself followed by some one on one with him. Thanks for sharing! Suz from Vancouver