March 12

For today's Forward Day by Day readings, Click Here.

Sleep is a precious commodity, and also a Hairy Monster. I remember the days when there was so little of it...when our babies would wake up throughout the night, for months even years on end. I remember the early wakeup calls from toddlers with full diapers and empty tummies. It sometimes felt like I would never sleep again with any consistency. But sure enough, the kids got older and now I sleep on my own terms for the most part. I'm the one who decides to wake up early for a run or sleep in on the off-chance of a free morning. No one's breathing in my face from my bedside willing me to wakeup and make them an Eggo waffle at 4 a.m. Thank God!

Until last night. Poor Marley stayed home yesterday with a fever and sore throat. After a day of boredom that produced THREE pulled teeth and lots of television, I thought she was cured. But the 1 a.m. "I'm so hot" wakeup call proved otherwise.

Sleep can be a bigger gatekeeper sometimes than the Caddy. I had to practically punch Sleep in the face so I could hear what my Caddy was offering me early this morning. He tossed me Gentleness and Kindness. I used my kid gloves to administer Advil and share a snuggle. Before Sleep attacked me again, Kindness prevailed with an invitation to sleep next to me for a bit until her fever subsided.

What are you going to punch in the face today to clear the path for some heavenly help?