Evenings are a rush 
Of time
Of patience 
Of love 

Brush your teeth, put on your jammies
Settle so I can tuck you in 
sudden bursts of energy of children not ready for bed 

You want a story, a podcast, music 
Mommy needs quiet, peace, sleep 

Mommy loves you 
But she is tired
Her ears are ringing from the noise of childhood 
Her head is throbbing from the chaos 
Your joy is overwhelming 
Especially at the last minute 
How can such a tiny person make so much noise 

Finally silence 
The rush of sleep falls over you 
Your tiny body gives in to weary 
A sudden realization of exhaustion 

And I will sit here silently 
Until you fall asleep 
You need me 
I need you 

I need your chaos
Your laughter 
Your joy