Bedtime in Seven Steps

(This post is for Grandmas and Grandpas who would love to help put Ricky to bed but had to delay their visits.)

First, bathtime. Lots of toys, but the watering can is a current favorite. Practice kicking and blowing bubbles (for swimming lessons).

Second, dry off with the doggie towel and "woof" at the hall mirror. (Third, not pictured: thorough lotioning to the tune of Hokie-Pokie and then dressing in pajamas. Ricky zips them himself.)

Fourth, brush teeth. Standing on his stepstool, Ricky can just reach the faucet.

Fifth, make sure all of the appropriate snuggly toys are in bed. At a friend's house, we discovered that Ricky is perfectly capable of staying in a toddler bed, but he likes the security of his crib still (and since he can't/won't climb out, we're in no rush to move him up).

Sixth, choosing books to read--usually three. Current favorites: Hush Little Baby, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Rainbow Rob, The Little Seeds that Grew, My Goodnight Book, and any Boz book.

Seventh, turn out the lights, sing a few songs--hymns with Mommy and praise songs with Daddy, pray and go to bed. Ricky usually falls asleep after 20 minutes of singing to himself in bed. (Yes, he still loves his paci, but only in bed. The doc says it's okay and we're such big softies that we haven't had the heart to take it away...yet.)