Tonight, after Kayla had been tucked gently into bed, I went to put some laundry away and get ready to work out.

I heard Kayla open her door and say the words, ever so familiar: "Mom, I can't thleep."

As always, I asked her why.

She responded: "I really want to thleep on your shoulder mommy."

I picked her up in my arms and sat in a chair with her, holding her tightly.

She fell right to sleep.

Funny thing is, this is the second night in a row this has happened.

Tonight, the thought crossed my mind that this may become a habit. Then I thought about it more. If my sweet little girl, forever fighting for her independence, needs me to really hold her tight for five minutes every evening, I am in.

These moments will too soon be but a memory.