The Great Nap Time Dilemma

Each afternoon, after lunch, the boys take naps. Some days, this comes easy. Mommy and/or Daddy read a book, turn on some soft music and they are out. Other days are not so easy. Aden has had a few days where he just can't fall asleep. He actually does well to get some books and read in his bed for awhile until he is told that he can get up. There are still times though, when being out of bed seems a lot more fun than being in bed. Here is a recent story from one of those times:

Aden had been in bed for about thirty minutes but was not falling asleep. Finally, a soft voice could be heard from his bedroom.

Aden: Daddy....Daddy....Daddy....
Daddy: Yes, Aden.
Aden: I need to go potty.

They go to the bathroom and after five minutes, nothing has happened. Aden has a slight smile on his face as they get settled back in bed (as if to say that he has found a naptime 'loophole'). Ten minutes later...

Aden: Daddy...Daddy...Daddy... (in a soft whisper again)
Daddy: Yes, Aden.
Aden: I need to go potty.

Fresh off the potty training, we certainly didn't want to deny him of the need and have him not tell us when he needed to go anymore, so we made our way to the bathroom once again. After five minutes and nothing happening...

Aden: Daddy, my body can't be quiet.
Daddy: Why not?
Aden: It can only be loud, and wants to wake up Wiley.
Daddy: Can you tell your body that it would be good for it to get some rest on your bed? Your body doesn't have to sleep, but just needs to rest.
Aden: (pulling up his shirt and looking down at his belly at this point) Body, can you just rest and not go to sleep? (short pause as if he is listening to the response) Daddy, my body said it could try.

Oh, the mind of a three year old. Watch for a Volume II of the "Kids say the 'darndest' things" coming soon once we can compile them together and get them written down.