AFTERNOON NAP

I have a good book

That I'd really like to read

So I carry you and the book to the bedroom.

We lay on the big bed together

And your mouth opens wide

Searching eagerly for my breast.

Your left arm is tucked in at your side

Your right arm rests on my breast

With your tiny hand curled around my left thumb.

My fingers caress the soft skin

On the back of your hand.

You look up at me with your big blue eyes

And smile

Then drink in the warm, sweet milk

Designed especially for you.

Your eyelids grow heavy

And soon you are sleeping

So quietly and peacefully

That time seems to stand still.

I want to memorize this moment

And hold it in my mind forever.

I stroke the downy hair

On the back of your head

As I watch

The rhythmic rising and falling

Of your little chest.

I am awestruck once again

By the miracle you truly are.

Created by God in His image

You are perfect in every detail...

Delicate eyelashes

Turned up button nose

Sweet pink rosebud mouth

Peaches and cream skin

The tiny curl in the middle of your forehead

Baby toes that like to be kissed and tickled.

I thank the Lord

For entrusting me with your care

And I strive to be worthy of such a high calling.

My heart overflows with love for you

My firstborn daughter

My Megan girl.

Your name means "God's pearl"

And you are a precious part of our family.

I snuggle closer

Content to be here with you.

The book I was so eager to read

Is laid aside for another day

And I too drift off to sleep

As we enjoy our afternoon nap

Together.

By Wendy Jo Minotte

Duluth, Minnesota, USA.