3 A.M. Again.

Each night I clock in:
3 A.M. without fail.
Thanks to a cry,
A cough or a wail.

Up changing bed sheets,
Or making night feeds.
World’s most patient hostess,
Of V.I.P needs.

Cold air cramps my neck,
Bum numb on the floor,
Eyes shutting, head drooping,
“Please sleep” I implore.

Now expert at back rubs,
Patting and “hush”
Reminding myself,
This will pass soon enough.

One day they will sleep,
There’ll be no pitch-black cuddles.
No mopping of brows,
No cleaning up puddles.

No reaching for Calpol,
And Neurofen too.
No surprise vomits,
Or exploding poos.

Weirdly I’ll miss this,
Once home’s filled with snores.
I won’t be so needed.
And then I’ll want more!

Away in a Manger for Sleep-Deprived Mums

Away (like a stranger),
From my comfy bed.
The sweet rebel baby,
Won’t lay down her head.

I glance at the night sky,
Look down with dismay.
Seems sleep is for losers,
You just want to play.

Your Daddy is snoring,
Yet you’re still awake.
When I say “sleep tight”,
Smiles and laughter you make.

I love you, so cheeky,
But please close your eyes.
I’ll lay on your floor,
Till insanity’s nigh.

Let’s rest now, I beg you,
Awake all the day.
I could sleep forever,
I’d love to, I pray.

Bless all the tired parents,
In depths of despair.
Gin awaits us in heaven,
To glug when we’re there.