An Extra Pair of Hands

Tonight I had an extra pair of hands to help me put down the kids.  Normally my husband is getting ready for work and leaves at 8pm Monday through Friday.  Tonight sickness has descended upon our family and he called in sick (didn't want to get anyone else sick).  I needed the extra pair of hands.  Chase's temperature was about 101 degrees and he was ready for bed.  Dad went into the room and turned off the lights.  "No, Daddy!  You have to read a book first."  Mommy was prepared, I came in behind him carrying The Biggest Snowman Ever by Stephen Kroll.  Emma follwed with her Tinkerbear, Raggedy Ann and Raggedy Andy.  Raggedy Andy belongs to Chase, and he immediately requested (okay, demanded) that she hand him over.  For a second I saw her mulish expression and thought we would have war, but nope!  She spied a gigantic bunny rabbit and insisted on holding that instead.  So here I am trying to read a book to the kids.  My hubby has Chase in his arms and Emma is just all over the place.  She just would not settle down.  I finally had the best idea ever!  I handed my husband the book.  I grabbed our little princess, her Tinkerbear, the huge bunny, and her Raggedy Ann.  I took her to her bedroom and picked up Mr. Brown Can Moo, Can You? by Dr. Seuss.  Interestingly enough she settled right down.  She even wanted me to read it to her again.  After I finished she took the book, crawled into bed and settled down.  Both of our kids got cuddle time, a book, and loves!  I'm so grateful for that extra pair of hands!