Sweet Slumber

Slowly in delicate slumber,

Whispered breaths dance sleepily from her lips,

Little knees pulled to her chest,

While tiny feet lay tucked gently between my legs,

Her arms folded ever so softly,

With hands gently clasped,

She’s nestled trustingly in quiet rest,

My arms encircled about her,

Pulling her protectively into me,

As closely as I can,

A mother’s enduring embrace,

I rest my head,

With my cheek pressed to hers,

For every moment I’m able,

I do my very best to treasure,

Even this,

As she slips into deeper slumber,

I try to hold on tightly to every second passing,

As I know in melancholy feelings,

She won’t be my tiny forever,

Her babeish giggles,

Our silly inside jokes and nightly traditions,

My eyes too,

Begin to drift to close,

Dainty braids holding her hair in place,

Still lingering of perfume,

Her favorite shampoo,

She lovingly insists on using,

Hints of watermelon and rose fill my senses,

Holding on tightly,

A sigh escaping,

For thoughts innocently resenting,

The days inevitably to come,

When she’s too grown for long-lasting cuddles,

Though evening continues to deepen,

For now I’ll stay awake,

Just a while longer as I'm able,

And etch these perfect moments in my remembrance forever...