The Look of Love . . .

Last night Elijah slept well until about 10:00, when something started bothering him and he wanted to be cuddled back to sleep. I held him on my chest, reclining in our glider, and before falling back asleep he had his head on my shoulder looking at me, with the most adoring and peaceful little smile as he studied my face. It reminded me of the times when he was little and would finish breastfeeding and would lay, snug and secure, in my arms with a completely satisfied little grin on his face. But this time he was looking at me – with a smile and gaze that, as I reflect on it, can best be described as pure love. And I realized, as I was holding him and seeing that perfect little face, that’s the way I was looking at him too – with a completely contented and joyful little smile of pure love for my son.

After just a minute or two of studying me, Elijah went to sleep, but right into REM sleep though, which I don’t think I’ve ever seen him do. His breathing would be erratic – first fast and then slow and then fast again – and his hands and legs would twitch a little occasionally. I could see his eyes moving back and forth and all around, and could tell he was dreaming. He had his head on my shoulder and I could see him get the cutest smiles on his face. Sometimes he’d grin really big, and look like a little angel, and then other times he’d have fast little smiles and then go back to normal. Occasionally he’d get a scowl on his face too. It was precious I just wanted to hold him all night and watch my little angel sleep. Another memory to hold on to in my heart!