There is a moment, an instant really, when rocking a babe where a transition occurs. A crossover of sorts, when the babe moves from eyes closed, but too close to awake, to deep, sound sleep.

And when you are rocking or walking, without distractions, you can feel it. You can feel that exact moment when his tiny muscles release all the pent up tension. You can see his jaw go slack. You can hear the change in breathing to deep, slow breaths. And his body just sort of melts forming onto mine in a whole different way.

The most amazing thing, perhaps, about this transition is its effect on me. When he releases all of his tension, I can’t help but remind myself to do the same. When his jaw goes slack, I find myself feeling and relaxing my own. When his breathing shifts, I try to do the same. And then, I start to feel just as calm and peaceful as he looks.

As he lets himself succumb to slumber, I find a little more peace for myself. Perhaps it is because it is, sometimes, so hard fought. Perhaps it is knowing that soon, in just a few more minutes, I will also be able to have some rest, whether sleeping or just sitting, as well.

Whatever it is, I love that moment. I relish in it. And I am so glad that sometimes we can just melt together.