The most important hour of my day

I spend at least 60 minutes each day putting my children to bed. Some quick math reveals:

• 365 hours a year
• 1825 hours over 5 years
• 3650 hours over 10 years

There is a strict routine that we follow every night. If we deviate at all from this routine, the likely hood of the kids sleeping through the night undisturbed is around 46%. Follow the routine and it’s about 89%.

We follow the routine every night.

• Snack
• Juice
• Pajamas
• Read
• Family Prayer
• Hugs and Kisses for Mom
• Brush Teeth
• Enter Bed
• Songs
• Hugs and Kisses
• Sleep

Many nights, the transition from songs to sleep can last 30 minutes. Sometimes I’m anxious. Most nights, I’m not.

I consider the to be some of my most important time awake. My children need to know that I will be there for them every day. I want them to feel safe and secure.

This time investment will pay dividends in the future of my children’s lives. I think that it’s worth every minute.