Rowan Tree and Red Thread

Last night I put Rowan to bed. This is a big thing. Until now, Rowan has had the twin delights (er, um.) of Sam's full attention and breast milk with every bedtime. Weaning her is the challenge we all now face and I have to do my part in getting Rowan used to going to bed without her mummy.

Sam had explained to Rowan earlier in the day that Dada would be putting her to bed, that Mummy's milk was all gone, and that Dada would read her a story, whatever story she wanted. Rowan understands "all gone" all too well and looked anxious at this, apparently, but took in the information anyway.

I felt some trepidation handling the bedtime alone, but Rowan was a star. She cried a little after her wash when she realised that Sam was not going to accompany us into the bedroom, and fussed a bit when I changed her nappy and dressed her for bed. Once we snuggled down in the duvet on our bed to read her chosen book ("Time for Bed") she relaxed. When we reached the bit where the little girl in the book had her bedtime drink, Rowan had her drink. When we reached the end (on the second time through) with the little girl tucked up safe and warm in her bed, I asked Rowan if she wanted to snuggle down in her bed. She agreed (fierce nods of head) so I placed her gently in her bed with favourite teddy gripped in her hand. Tucked under a couple of blankets she looked up at me a little apprehensively, but accepted my goodnight kiss and quiet reassurances. I slipped out and she was asleep a short time later. What a good kid.

Sam has her own take on this. It's a big thing for both of us, even if a small one on a less personal scale.