As a working mom, there’s one thing more precious than anything. And if you think I’m going to write, “spending time with my children” then, honey, you’re wrong.

That precious commodity? Sleep. Beautiful sleep.

Here are the things that happen when I don’t get enough sleep:

1. I get grouchy.
2. I lose my patience.
3. I get sleepy driving home from work.
4. I can’t focus.
5. I yell.
6. I don’t think my boys’ jokes are funny.
7. The dirty underwear on the bathroom floor suddenly becomes monumentally important.

Basically, it ain’t purty.

I know some working moms who covet the hours of solitude after their kids go to sleep. It’s “their” time to get things done, to watch the television they want to watch, to read a good book. Not me. If I’m not in bed shortly after my youngest. . . well, see above.

When my babies were babies, it was a rough time. Luckily, I have good sleepers and with the exception of a bad stretch here and there, they have allowed me to get the sleep I need. It has taken me a few years, but I’ve discovered that when I’m rested, my whole day goes better. I am a better writer, a better mom and a better wife. Losing sleep to pick up the dirty underwear? Not on your life. It is just not worth it.

Which all brings me to my point: it’s past my bedtime. I’ve got a date with my pillow.