<p>Dear Baby Boy,</p>

<p>I am sorry.  I am starting to think that in the brief time that you have been in this world, I have failed you.  You see, you cannot sleep through the night.  And I cannot let you cry it out.  And your father and I are at wit’s end about it.  Right now, you are crying yourself to sleep for your morning nap.  Right now, it is 11:30 am.  And my heart is breaking.  As hard as it is for me, I am determined to be strict, for your own good.  I do think that children, even those who are only 9 months old, need and want boundaries.  I know that children need consistency, and I am not a “routine” person.  But I will change for you.  The truth is, I need more structure in my life as well.</p>

<p>I think I have been lazy in letting you set the pace of our days.  I can tell myself that I have been in charge, but it is not completely true.  It is too easy for me to say “he knows what he wants” or “he&#39;s too smart to be told what to do”.  I promise to put more structure in your day.  I promise to be the adult, and make all the tough decisions.</p>

<p>I want to give you the freedom to enjoy your childhood.  With freedom, there are responsibilities.  Responsibilities are for adults.  You will grow into your freedom, at your own pace.</p>

<p>Our family deserves no less.  YOU deserve no less.</p>

<p>Love,</p>

<p>Mama</p>

<p>PS - It’s quiet now.  I hope you are enjoying your nap.  I still feel terrible for letting you cry.  </p>

<p><br />
<a href="http://technorati.com/tag/sleep" rel="tag">sleep</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/baby" rel="tag">baby</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/parenthood" rel="tag">parenthood</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/crying" rel="tag">crying</a></p>
