the habit

Yesterday we went to the dentist and Luke was told that he had to quit sucking his thumb. This was super sad to him, as the hygenist explained that we can paint yucky tasting stuff on his thumb to get him to stop. Eventually, if that doesn't work we can get something inserted into his mouth that will poke him every time he tries to suck his thumb. I watched him as he started to hold back his tears. Such a big boy. I had to hold back a few tears myself. So on our way home, we discussed our options, and I suggested maybe putting a sock over his hand (someone from church had done this with her child). He felt that this would be the best option.

He was such a big boy to want to try and stop. He understood that this was a habit which needed to be broken. He cried for 1 1/2 hours last night, until finally daddy went and laid down with him, when he quickly fell asleep.

Tonight was easier as we just got Rafael (one of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) from some friends. But it was very sad for me that he threw his blanky on the floor, saying, "I don't need my blanky anymore now that I don't suck my thumb. I will just use Rafael, and he will poke me if I try to suck my thumb". So I said (wanting for my little boy to not grow up too fast) "are you SURE you don't want your blanky anymore? .. . is it too hard to not suck your thumb when you have your blanky?" This is his special blanky that he has not been able to sleep without since he was born!! My sweet little boy rolled over and tried to go to sleep.

After about 10 minutes, I couldn't resist. I went into his room again and could tell that he was still sad to not be able to suck his thumb and was having trouble falling asleep. I laid down with him and he quickly went to sleep (because he didn't have a nap today). I treasure this special memory, and although it is so sad to watch him grow up, it is a part of life and we must enjoy each and every phase.