They’re a pretty simple thing, naps. Part way through the day the child takes a break, closes their eyes, and rests for an hour or two. Generally they wake up refreshed, ready for the rest of what the day has in store. For the parents, naps are a needed relief from the constant attention the child rightfully craves.

This weekend we had two days with no naps. Yikes. He was surprisingly great both days without a nap. I think we, the parents, missed the nap more than he did. One positive, he went to bed earlier. We missed our welcome relief, but to be honest at least the one of the two days I was home, the relief didn’t seem like it was needed. He was pleasant without a nap, as pleasant as a toddler can be.

The lack of naps actually made me a bit sad. Not because of missing the relief period, but because he’s becoming stronger and more indepedent. Those are great things, it just means he’s growing up, and I’m going to miss this, as challenging as some days are. A week or so ago I got to enjoy a nap with him on my chest. That’s a rare thing these days. I know the number of naps I get with him are numbered so I’m going to enjoy them while I can. Such a peaceful time of simple bonding. I will truly miss it.

Really, it was a great weekend with him, but there’s a little sad mixed in knowing he’s growing up.