The big girl bed

This week, we finally went to get the big girl bed for Jocey.  We converted her 3-in-1 crib to its final stage--a headboard for a full-sized mattress.  Other than having some issues with taking the former crib apart, the transition went fairly fast.  We set it all up with her new sheet, and she has a ball putting nearly every stuffed animal she owns (including "Pinto" the horse who is nearly the size of a real Shetland pony) on her bed with her.  She is happy to say the least.  Formerly, they would have to sleep on the floor next to her bed.

When it came to bedtime, Jocey the routine addict, isn't so sure she is happy anymore.  She tries for more books.  She tries for more milk.  She tells me she is hungry.  She wants to pray some more.  She wants me to snuggle with her just for a little while.  "Please?!", she begs, "please?!"

I am firm, but gentle, with her because I know this is a slipperly slope with a child who thrives on routine.  If I give in to any of these demands too much, it will become the expected norm.  I give extra hugs and kisses, and reassure her it's the same room as before, just a different bed.  I tell her she will be okay.  She tries one last grasp at getting me to stay, "...but I'm scared."  This is the one she knows will tug at me.  How do you leave a child alone in a dark room when she is telling you she is scared? 

I tell her to look around and see all the friends she is surrounded by.  She has two turtles, a seahorse, a snake, an elephant, a monkey, a horse, and a pillow pet ladybug.  I ask her how she could be scared when all her friends are with her.  It seems to calm her, and she's ready for night-night.  I give another hug and kiss and head for the door.

"Mom," I hear her call for me.

"Yes, honey?"

With the most seriousness she can muster, she asks, "do you think I'll make it?"

I want to bust out laughing at my little drama queen, acting like she's about to embark on the most dangerous adventure of a lifetime, but I don't.  "Yes baby, I think you are tough, and you will make it.  Goodnight." 

And with that, I smile and close the door behind me.  And she doesn't make a peep for the rest of the night.