Ode to Nighttime Routines

I am amazed whenever I see your sweet face,

Whether smiling or scrunched up to cry;

Either way your skin is peachy and soft,

Without ever needing to try.

*

My mother's voice echoes in my head,

With sage advice I recite to the letter,

"Why not try putting him in a warm bath?

It will make him feel so much better."

*

Your cheeks are chubby and round, my son

As large as a ripe nectarine;

You splish and splash and laugh so loud,

Tears are gone, bath is done; all clean!

*

The lotion we use is the lavender kind,

It is calming and it will help soothe,

You rub tired eyes and I rub ticklish sides,

To keep your skin all nice and smooth.

*

You smile and giggle while half asleep,

When you feel gentle kisses abound,

One for each cheek, your forehead, your nose,

To my ear it's the sweetest sound.

*

Alas it is time that I lay you down,

I hope you rest well through the night;

If not, I will rock you and rub silky cheeks,

Then we both can greet Suns morning light.