Bed Mime

In peace I will both lie down and sleep. – Psalm 4:8 (RSVCE)

I didn’t know Mom was a stomach sleeper until the last year of her life.  At bedtime, I would walk with her to the bathroom sink and hand her a warm, wet washcloth with which she dutifully scrubbed her face. Next, I would load the toothbrush with toothpaste and give it to her. She diligently and vigorously gave her teeth a thorough brushing. Although she taught me how to brush my teeth as a child, I realized now my current toothbrushing pattern was cursory compared to hers.

Next, I’d assist Mom with her nightgown. A nightgown – not pajamas. In winter, it was a flannel nightie – usually white with a delicate floral blue pattern. In summer, it was a sheer, short-sleeved shift in pastel pink or green.

Once Mom was ready for bed, I would pull back the covers and watch as she climbed in, listening to her express how good it felt to get into bed. I would adjust the pillow and watch her turn and get settled on her stomach. There was a specific way she placed her right hand up near her face and slid her left arm down alongside her body. Once Mom positioned herself that way, I knew sleep would soon follow.

There’s an intimacy in knowing whether someone is a stomach sleeper, side sleeper, or back sleeper. These were things I’m sure Dad knew well, but now I was learning them about Mom.

Thank You, Lord, that You know our ways completely.

Reflect: What special things have you learned about your loved one while caregiving?  Cherish the intimacy and thank the Lord for the privilege of knowing.

The above selection is Entry #26 in Part III: Eternal Spring of Minding Mom: A Caregiver’s Devotional Story by Lisa Livezey (© 2024, En Route Books and Media)

Minding Mom: A Caregiver’s Devotional Story by Lisa Livezey | En Route Books and Media

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