The Last Time

November 15 2023 Day 15

The other day, you were a little under the weather; a cough, some sniffles. As we waited for momma to get home, we went through the process of such times - some warm tea, cough syrup, off to cuddle in bed.

We talked of the day, of homework and friends and the puppy, who cuddled there beside you. But your throat was sore, so we protected your voice and slowly you began to drift off, burrowing into the covers and pillows.

I reached over to pat your back and we stayed like that for a while. How many days, how many times, when you were a baby did I do this? How many times did you fall asleep in my arms? When was the last time. Will this be the last time?

After a while, you gently lifted my hand away and said “It’s ok, daddy.” Soon your mom cames in to replace me. And as I was leaving, I saw you lift her hand to pat your back. A momma’s comfort is unlike any other, even a dad’s. That’s ok, I just want you to be well.

And for a few minutes you let me go back, you gifted me with those memories. We move forward. We grow. I’ll always be there to pat your back whenever you need me to.

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Housekeeping: And so we made it half way through November with our daily musings. We may go back to a normal schedule now as we move forward into the holidays. I hope you’ve been enjoying Day By Day, and I hope you can cantinue to help this page find subscribers.

Looking ahead, we’ll announce the winners of our Name The Rocks contest, and soon our second volume in the NH Rocks field guide will be published. We’ll announce that as it happens!

Till then, be kind, stay frosty and do good things!