Awake at 3 a.m.
You know how you go to bed determined to get a good night’s sleep. Here’s what it’s like when I find myself awake at 3 a.m.
Oh, it’s only 3, I’ve got a few more hours.
That’s plenty of time before the alarm goes off.
[Sheets ruffling]
It’s only 3:10 now, maybe I’ll get a drink of water.
[Water pouring sound]
Ah, yes, perfect. Now I can sleep.
It’s cold in here. I need another blanket. That will help.
[Footsteps]
What now? My back is itching. Why for no reason does my back start itching.
I’m still cold. One more blanket will help. Okay, maybe 2 so I don’t have to get up again.
[Footsteps]
That’s better. I’ll be warm in a minute and I can fall right back to sleep.
Ugh my back hurts. I’ve been laying in this position too long. I’ll just turn over.
[Sheets rustling]
So tomorrow when I get to work I’m going to ask about that new policy…stop!
I’ll ask for a written copy? Stop, no more scripting!
I need more water. I’m too thirsty to sleep.
[Footsteps]
[Water pouring sound]
I’m all hydrated now. On to dreamland.
What time is it? Don’t look at the clock, don’t look at the clock.
[Clock ticking]
Maybe ear plugs will help.
I think I’ll talk to Bob when I get to work tomorrow…stop!
What if I don’t hear the alarm with these ear plugs in? I’ll turn it up.
Meditating works, right? Listen to your breathing. In, out.
[Deep breathing]
It’s only been about 5 minutes, right? I have plenty of time to get to sleep.
My nose is stuffy. I’ll get up and get a tissue.
Ah yes, that’s better.
I don’t think I’ll hear the alarm. I’ve got to take these ear plugs out.
My right knee hurts when I lay this way. I need to change sides again.
[Ruffling sheets]
That’s not helping. I’ll get up and put on that knee brace.
[Footsteps]
Now my feet are cold. I need socks.
What? It’s 4:15!
Why is this song stuck in my head?
What time is it now? Don’t think about the time.
There’s no way I’ll stay awake until the alarm goes off. I have to fall asleep right?
What’s wrong with this pillow? Can’t they make a comfortable pillow?
[Pillow fluffing]
I went to bed at 10, woke up at 3, that’s enough, 5 hours is enough right?
I have to get up and go to the bathroom.
[Footsteps]
Ah, yes, so I’ve taken care of everything that could keep me awake and now I’ll fall asleep.
Maybe if I lay on my back.
[Sheets ruffling]
My back hurts. It’s this mattress. It’s got to be. What else would keep me awake.
[Car door close]
I think I heard the front door. No that was a car door. Who is driving around at this time of night? Can’t they be a little quieter?
It’s been an hour, right? Ugh.
It’s too bright in here. I’m getting my sleep mask.
[Footsteps]
That’s better. Now where was I? Meditating.
[MEOW.]
I’m sleeping. MEOW. You’re not coming into this room when I’m sleeping.
Maybe just resting is good enough, right?
I’ve heard that you can actually be asleep and think you’re awake.
What am I supposed to take to work tomorrow?
Hush!
I’m going to feel tired today. I need sleep!
I’m about to fall asleep I just know I am.
[Alarm rings]
