Bathtime Works Wonders (Photostory)

Before I headed off to bed last night, I checked on the Taylor family.  

The boys are having a bath.

Rod is keeping a watchful eye on them from the bedroom.

Danielle is in the nursery giving Zoé her bath.

A bath seems to soothe her.

Danielle can hear the boys are getting a little restless.

"Honey, I think it's time for them to get out."  (Danielle)

"Alright."  (Rod)

"Okay guys.  Time to get out."  (Rod)

"But, I need a towel."  (Julian)

"Hold on.  The towels are right here."  (Rod)

"Did you hear your brothers making all that noise?  Don't they know it's too late for all that ruckus?  Yes, we need it quiet for our little sweet pea."  (Danielle)

"Gentlemen, I need you to do one last thing for me."  (Rod)

"What?"  (Julian)

"I need you to put all the dirty clothes in the hamper behind the door."  (Rod)

Back in the nursery, baby Zoé is dressed for bed.

Danielle takes a moment to dote on her little angel.  She feels so blessed to have her.

As Danielle enters the bedroom, she hears Rod talking to the boys.

"You want me to pick up all the clothes?  Even Jacob's?"  (Julian)

"Yes, I do."   (Rod)

"Well hello gents.  My you both smell so clean.  You guys ready to go to bed?"  (Danielle)

"Bed? I thought you said we could play a little?"  (Julian)

"You and Jacob have had more than enough play time today.  It's time to get some rest.  Let's get Daddy to watch Zoé and I'll go up with you."  (Danielle)

Rod appears in the doorway of the bathroom.

"Are you sure you don't want me to take them up?"  (Rod)

"No.  I'm sure they could use a little mommy time."  (Danielle)

"Well then, I guess it's just me and Zoé.  Here.  I'll take her."  (Rod)

"Hopefully she will stay sleep until I get back."  (Danielle)

"Don't worry.  We'll come get you if we need you."  (Rod)

"Let's go boys."  (Danielle)

Danielle and the boys make it upstairs to their bedroom. 

"Alright, let's try to find some pajamas."  (Danielle) 

"That reminds me.  I need to do some laundry tomorrow."  (Danielle)

Rod is making the most of his time with Zoé.

It didn't take Jacob long to fall off to sleep.  That warm bath did the trick.  Danielle didn't even get a chance to read to him.  She ended up telling Julian a quick story because he could barely keep his eyes open.

"Good night, sweetheart.  Sleep tight.  I'll see you in the morning."  (Danielle)

"Night, Mommy.  Love you."  (Julian)

"Love you, too."  (Danielle)

"Awww, how sweet.  I can't believe she's still sleeping."  (Danielle) 

"That was quick."  (Rod)

"The boys were so tired, I didn't have to do much to get them to sleep.  I know exactly how they feel."  (Danielle)

"Come lay down."  (Rod)  

"You don't have to ask me twice.  I just need a few minutes before she wakes up hungry again."  (Danielle)

"I'm going to put her in her crib for now."  (Rod)

"Okay."  (Danielle)

Rod returns and climbs into bed.

"Honey, don't forget the light."  (Danielle)

"That's better.  I don't ever remember my bed feeling this good."  (Danielle)

"You're just tired.  Rest."  (Rod)

"I know we haven't had much time to talk lately, but what's going on with Nicole?"  (Danielle)

"Funny you should mention that.  I got a call from the school today.   Her teacher is concerned and wants a parent conference tomorrow afternoon."  (Rod)

"Oh no.  Is there anything I can do to help?"  (Danielle)

"Afraid not.  And I don't want you worrying about it right now.  I just want to hold you for a few minutes before the crying starts."  (Rod)

"That's better."  (Rod)

Rod kisses her gently on the forehead.

"Now close your eyes and rest."  (Rod)