Adria and I take turns putting Rawley to bed (we team up on Mac). Each of us has our own ritual with the boys after brushing teeth and reading stories. In my case it’s something I was very conscious of for both boys because kids remember these routines. They remain ingrained in our memories forever.

Backtrack a bit. Do you remember the songs your mom or dad sang when you were tired? Have you carried them through? There’s something amazing about those deep memories of being exhausted but wanting to stay awake with the grown-ups. Of snuggling in and listening to the heartbeat and the sound of their voice through their chest. Of feeling warm and safe and comfortable.

Personally I have a few strong memories of this with both my parents. I count myself lucky.

Both boys know that if Dad is putting them to sleep, they’ll be hearing Twenty Froggies. It’s the only song I sing at bedtime. I remember my mom singing it to me. I know it was among other songs, but that one stood out when it was time for me to start singing songs to Mac as a baby and it continues with Rawley.

This was very purposeful. There is something magic in that ritual. The song and the experience are more concrete. Ritual is comforting. Those of us who are blessed enough to have those moments at any point in their lives know comfort. Whether it’s when you were young or old. It’s love. Those moments of deep connection with someone else and an elegant trust that everything is good.

For me, being able to pass that on to my children sure is amazing. This time around it’s my voice and my heartbeat the boys hear. It’s me they will think of when they are humming “Twenty froggies went to school…” and maybe it’s something they will pass on to their kids.

So what are you passing on to the most important people in your life? What songs do you sing?

Ah, yes, and big hearty thanks are due to some more incredible people. I can’t believe how far this Plunge Beard has taken me in raising donations for a great, great cause.

First off – Parins Crew… You crazy, wonderful family of greatness. Thank you! Your effect on the world is already great!

And Jane Dolezal – I’m sending some super thanks down ’round Chi-Town! I’ll be down in May. Hopefully you’re around so you can get a big ol’ overdue hug o’ thanks!

And most recently – Graysley – What a perfect mashup of young names and a great set of parent’s, too. Thanks for being consistently, always awesome!

And for everyone else, a great big heap-o-thanks awaits you if you…

PLEDGE!