The Power Nap

“Sleep when the baby sleeps,” was the first instruction we received as new parents.  Those directions haunted us as we felt our chores increase and the time to complete them evaporate.  A few months into having our first son, I realized that without naps, I could not make it through the evening to care for our child.  I would put him down in his crib and enjoy an afternoon nap myself.

 In college, we stayed up too late and had to power through morning classes the next day.  An afternoon nap was key to our survival.  On the day of a party, we would power-nap in preparation of our late-night shenanigans. 

When our boys were toddlers, we would watch cartoons with them and sneak in a power nap.  The boys were so engrossed in the excitement over watching a show that they didn’t notice my eyes were closed.  These little hidden snoozes allowed me to keep up with their energy.

 Growing up, my parents had very active social lives, and they were big fans of the afternoon power nap.  My Dad would pack multiple activities into his weekend, and a short nap while watching golf on TV was his signature move.  My mother preferred the after-dinner-mouth-agape-nap, which allowed her to chat with any night owls passing through the kitchen.  This came in handy the summer Tyler spent with her on Nantucket, since she would meet him in the kitchen to catch up about his restaurant night shift.  

 Today a nap is a luxury.  A nap is my favorite part of a day at the beach, with the ocean, or nearby music lulling me to sleep.  My circadian rhythm is set to wake up early, even on the weekends, and a nap is a great way to catch up on my depleted sleep. 

 I have learned a lot about myself and energy in the last year, and what brings me joy.  The power nap makes that list, and I am going to care for myself this year as I have for our babies.  I plan to read myself a story, cover myself with a weighted blanket,  and enjoy more long-winter naps.