The storm

We have all laid in bed at one time or another watching the flashes of lightning and counting...one Mississippi...two Mississippi...and waiting, three Mississippi for that big clap of thunder.  It tells us how far away the storm is.  As a parent I no longer count for the storm, I count for the kids.  If I'm lucky enough to be awaken by a clap of thunder I begin my count, one Mississippi...two Mississippi...and listen...three Mississippi, for the patter of little feet, the timid voice next to my bed "Mommy the thunder scared me" and then the warm little body that climbs in as close as he or she can get just to feel secure.  I have to admit, it's one of my favorite mommy moments.