GARE BEAR READS TO CICI

The day is winding down and I’m sitting in a rocking chair in a room lit only with a night light and soft music playing in the background. In the attempt to bring routine, open dialogue and give a sense of belonging to our newly adopted 13 month old son, Garrett’s life, we begin to create a night time prayer. To avoid the inevitable though, my tired toddler is snuggled on my lap asking for one more book. So, the prayer needs to be concise and special. Become his creation and way to say goodnight. With tangential recollections of the day intertwined with lessons of gratitude, counted blessings and the occasional need to say I’m sorry, verses began to come together. Adding a whimsical flare each night, a melody was discovered and after weeks of rehearsal and song emerged! Proud of his creation, Garrett’s little voice could be heard reciting it to his crib toys, imaginary friend Cici and even the family dog, Luna. Over time his reputation for hugging everyone and singing his prayer each night without fail, earned him the nickname Garebear by the family cousins.