When my kids were young and my husband left home for his 6am-2pm shift, at work, I
would drift off back to sleep. One of my sons would then come into the bedroom. I tried
to open my eyes, push back the covers and speak to him, but I was unable. My eyes
refused to fully open, all actions were in slow motion and I couldn't utter a word. Then I would think
'Don't worry, you are dreaming, you will wake up soon.' After a while I did and it was such a relief.
I can't remember exactly how long this went on for but it did eventually stop. Not a pleasant experience
and it still scares me now, when I think about it.