It was books that started some of our early bedtime rituals. Snuggling after the evening bath with heavenly shampoo scented, semi-wet hair and fresh pj's, we were a pair. Early books were solely read by Mom with commentary from the little guy. His comments sometimes squeals and gibberish were accompanied by a miniature pointing finger and preschool recognition of familiar figures.
Oh so cute, oh so lovely.
Bedtime snuggle moments continued as we read together, most actual words and some from memory, thanks to the repetition. My stars, sometimes hundreds of repititions, same books, same bed, same wonderful kid choosing each book with the same unbridled joy as if it were our maiden voyage. We read some, repeated some and giggled as much as time allowed.
It was during the word recognition discovery that we found an imaginative work called "Good Night Stinky Face". We quickly fell in love, not just with the pages, but with the message. No matter the silly circumstance or the fantasy antics of the main character, the Momma loved him without a blink. And we adopted their slumber sign-off as our own.
He is inhaling chapter books one grade level above his own now. Tells me about each character and their imaginative adventures. Describes their superpowers, enemies and unrelenting circumstance. Just this year he is identifying with story lines involving learning a new sport. A mind at work. A story sponge. An avid reader in training.
So proud I could "splode".
It's my 3rd grade guy that reminds me now, as we head for 8 hours of rest, "good night stinky face" he says. He pauses for my reply, "good night stinky face" I say and hug him a zillion times.
