Updated: July 30, 2019
Originally Published: Oct. 17, 2015
The phrase “up all night” once conjured images of parties, late-night study sessions, and romantic escapades. However, the arrival of my children shifted that meaning entirely.
Last week, our eldest child, a college student, returned home for a brief visit. His flight was scheduled to arrive at midnight, but a delay turned our night into a nostalgic night shift. My partner and I split the sleep duties: he rested for a few hours while I baked brownies (a spontaneous decision), then woke him when it was time to head to the airport. He drove while I took a nap. By the time they returned at 3:30 a.m., I was wide awake, eager to reconnect and watch our son eat, while my partner caught a few more Zs before work.
As I listened to our son—who is turning 21 soon—share stories of his college life, I realized he had come full circle in keeping us up all night. Instead of bedtime stories to soothe him, he now regaled me with tales of his nocturnal escapades, omitting some of the more risqué details.
The next day, I reminisced through old photographs of my boys when they were toddlers. Like many infants, they rarely slept through the night; our youngest didn’t achieve that milestone until he was two. Those sleepless nights were exhausting, but they filled our lives with love and vibrant experiences. I often found myself struggling to form coherent sentences or remember if I’d eaten breakfast — I even once discovered a bag of dirty diapers in my van while heading to an important meeting. Yet, those chaotic years eventually passed, leading into the teenage phase, where late-night discussions about dreams and concerns became commonplace.
In those dark hours, I would hear, “Mom, I don’t feel well,” or, “Mom, I can’t sleep; will you read to me?” The reasons for our sleepless nights varied from illnesses to excitement over birthdays or snow days. As they entered their teens, there was no longer a specific reason for their late-night energy; they simply thrived in those hours. When the noise kept me awake, I often joined them. One night, after watching a food show, I found myself making biscuits at 2 a.m. with my youngest, driven by a sudden craving.
With age, my desire for sleep grew stronger, but I faced a choice: prioritize sleep or engage in their lives? The decision was clear. I chose to be present, even if I felt half-asleep. Some of our most meaningful conversations happened under the moonlight.
This fall, our youngest will embark on his college journey. I hope that upon his return, he will continue the tradition of keeping me up all night, sharing stories that I can replay in my mind as I drift off to sleep, longing for the days when both boys were home. After all, I have plenty of sleep to make up for, while my sons are drawn to their own late-night adventures.
For those exploring the journey of parenthood, consider reading more about pregnancy and home insemination at Healthline. If you’re interested in the intricacies of self insemination, you can find excellent resources about it at Make a Mom. Also, check out Make a Mom’s 18-piece home insemination kit for a comprehensive guide on the topic.
Summary
The experience of staying up all night evolves from youthful revelry to the challenges and joys of parenting. As children grow, sleepless nights become a time for connection and conversation, highlighting the importance of being present in their lives.
Keyphrase: Staying Up All Night as a Parent
Tags: [“home insemination kit” “home insemination syringe” “self insemination”]