End of an era

It's the end of an era. I knew it had to happen one day. It happens to everyone eventually and there's really no avoiding it. Sure, some defensive steps can be taken, but it only prolongs the sad, inevitible reality. Sooner or later, we're all affected by this, and parenthood is never the same.

Matthew learned how to climb out of his crib. (Moment of silence, please.)

After lunch today, we did our usual nap-time routine, and I sat down with Mark to watch a bit of TV on his lunch break. Matthew was his usual noisy self in his room. We ignored him, thinking he'd settle down and sleep as he usually does. After about 30 minutes of listening to him chattering to himself, I noticed that the light was on in his bedroom. A moment later I heard the door click shut. Getting up to investigate, I found the little monkey, butt naked on his toybox, reading a book. Upon seeing me, he gleefully announced, "Mommy, Maffew wake up!"

It was then that I knew, life as we know it is over.

I plopped him back in his crib, hoping--praying--that he'd remain. Moments later, I again saw the light shining under his door, and my worst fears were confirmed: It's Big-Boy-Bed Time for my baby boy.

And so I lovingly dedicate this blog to our Sweet Crib... (insert some tender, melancholy music here.)

My dearest crib, I am so grateful for your time of service.You held the first of my babies six years ago, and lovingly contained the second child for three and a half years, even after enduring what must have been a lonely year in storage. You've always contained my children gently, allowing me to safely trap them, sometimes for hours at a time. You've never asked for a thing in return, aside from sheets free of baby pee and vomit. Now you will live out your twilight years, without your fourth rail, as a toddler bed, for the last time. (music swells) Thank you my dear crib. I hope you enjoy your new Thomas the Tank Engine Toddler bed set. I hope that the near future brings an end to being peed on. And I hope that your final year or so is peaceful. And restful. And quiet.

Really, really quiet.