Goodnight
Mum, I’ll bring back a kiss for you,
Once I’ve brushed my teeth till they’re sharp and new.
Then off to the toilet, goodnight to Ted
And a bedtime story from Dad.
A glass of water, one last play with my toys
What’s that on tele? – it’s my favourite ad.
I’m feeling hungry, can I have a snack?
Oops better brush my teeth once more.
Look I fell over today and hurt my knee,
Can I have a band-aid for the sore?
Is that the lot? Is there something I missed?
Is there something I haven’t done?
Hey wait a minute I can’t go to bed yet,
I need a cuddle with my Mum!
“Being at home can be fun, insulating, relaxed, boring or isolating ... depending on how the day is going.”*
School holidays are almost over in my part of the world – six long weeks of noise and squabbling balanced by hot, lazy days at the beach or the pool with lots of daring exploits and laughter. Many of our days were spent at home, basking in simple pleasures like baking, playing games or outdoor pursuits – trying to relax the everyday routines of school-morning bustle and ‘having to be somewhere on time’. However pleasant, I must admit to being relieved that life gets back to normal next week, and I can reclaim some of my own time for writing again!
* From Being Mummy by Anne‑marie Taplin published April 2007