So, the "hoggie fairy" is coming tomorrow night...

And I'm so nervous! We decided Friday night is best because it's a weekend, so if she doesn't sleep well we can take turns resting during the day! ;)

She's prepared as she's going to get. She and I wrote a letter to the Hoggie Fairy (she calls the pacifier "hoggie") last weekend, and we made up a story about her which I have told numerous times everyday. She knows what's coming. I just hope it goes okay. If she's not adjusting well by the morning of the 4th day, we're going to give it back to her and try again in a month or so. I hope we don't have to do that, but I don't want to traumatize her either.

I have such mixed feelings on this. It's just SO parent-led. I wouldn't do it except that I can see her bite is already being affected by the pacifier. I feel like I want to support her in her mode of comfort, but I also feel my job as her parent is to take care of her body, especially at this stage when she is unable to make long term decisions. I'm sad that this stage will be over. And of course, she still nurses, so her pathological need to suck can be filled in the appropriate manner!

The hoggie fairy is bringing a book on fairies, a porcelin tea set, and a small silk blanket-lovey. She is also sending a letter (complete with "fairy dust", of course)


Dear Leila,

Thank you for taking such wonderful care of my hoggies all this time. I am so happy to hear that they helped you sleep when you needed to sleep, and helped you feel happy when you are sad. It is very kind of you to pass them on to other little babies who need them.

I am leaving for you three things. The first is a book about me and all my friends in fairy land. I have heard you love books, and this one has beautiful pictures. The second gift is a tea set of your very own. It is very special to have your own tea set; I know you will take care with it so that it does not break. The third is a very soft and silky blanket lovey. I am leaving you this so you will have something to hold on to and snuggle when you are feeling sad or sleepy or missing your hoggies. Rub the edges between your fingers, it is very silky.

Love,
Hoggie Fairy

ah... somethings about parenting are SO HARD! I never wanted her to have the darn things in the first place because I knew I didn't want it to come to this. I'm so sad for my little girl!