Mornings with Matthias: Toast, Shaun the Sheep & Bacon Chip Hugs

Most people think of mornings as stressful — alarms buzzing, socks missing, someone crying (hopefully not you). But in our house, mornings are a full-on production… starring Matthias, with a supporting cast of toast, sheep, and snack surprises.

It starts the same way each day: I crawl up to his top bunk and wake him with kisses, a hug, and a song he likes. He hugs me back (yes, my heart melts every time), and that’s our unspoken deal — ‘Okay, Mama. Let’s do this.’

Then we head to the bathroom. He pees (with some convincing), I brush his teeth, clean him up, and get him changed. We’ve got our rhythm down — not always elegant, but effective. We’re like a tiny, early-morning pit crew.

Downstairs, he lands in his favorite chair like royalty. Stepdad’s on toast duty. I’m packing his lunch — either a croissant or a toasted sandwich with cheese — depending on what feels right in the universe that day.

But let’s be honest — the real hero of breakfast time is Shaun the Sheep. The iPad is set up, the theme song kicks in, and balance is restored in the galaxy. Well… for about five minutes.

Because that’s when the Matthias Joy Overload™ begins. Out of nowhere, he jumps up, hops around, lets out a happy squeal, and throws himself into our arms. Hugs. Kisses. Giggles. Repeat every 5–10 minutes. It’s basically a cardio session with snacks.

Speaking of snacks — once it’s time to hop into the transporter car (his favorite, because he can see everything from the window), he’s rewarded with the ultimate treasure: surprise snacks. Will it be Duplo today? Spicy Pringles? Salted crackers? Bacon chips? Who knows. But his smile when he sees it? Chef’s kiss.

And just like that — he’s off to school, beaming, belly full, backpack packed with love (and probably crumbs).

Life with Matthias isn’t always predictable. But it’s full of joy bursts, snack rituals, and love that doesn’t need words. And honestly? I wouldn’t trade our chaotic, toast-scented mornings for anything.

Because when your child hugs you mid-bite, mid-sheep-show, just to say ‘I’m happy’… That’s all the confirmation you need that you’re doing okay.

To every parent dancing through routines and tiny surprises: you’re not alone — and you’re doing better than you think.