The Security Mommy

So most kids have a security blanket. All our kids had attached to one by the time they were one year old. All except Caroline. She always had her paci, and they did too, but she never attached to any specific blanket or stuffed animal. She liked to snuggle with something, it just didn't matter what it was. I was never really upset by this fact, because hauling a blanket everywhere you go gets incredibly tiring and makes for that much more to hold/carry. They get dirty and stinky and the kids refuse to let go so you can wash it. So it really didn't bother me. I have always thought it funny though that she never had a security blanket. But tonight I had a realization. Caroline, for the past couple of years (since the paci Fairy came), has rubbed my arms while I lay by her at night. She says "snuggle with me Mommy" and she wants me to wrap at least one of my arms around her. At this point, she very softly and randomly will rub my arms. Now, I'm soft- don't get me wrong! (Thank you, Aloette!) But for a long time I thought she was doing it to try to stay awake. Then I finally realized it wasn't to stay awake- it helps her fall asleep. I am her security blanket. And I think it's really sweet. But most kids get to cut their blanket into a smaller version or just keep the same tattered rag until they're well into their older years. I have a grown friend who still sleeps with hers every night. So this plan isn't going to be a good one for Caroline when she's older. I suppose she'll either get attached to something when she's older or she'll just have to learn to live without my arms. I'd cut off my arm for her life, but not for her to snuggle with! Ha! So for now I'll just enjoy the snuggles with my sweet girl and be happy to be her security Mommy.