I will never understand the workings of a three year old’s mind. For example, take this poor, bedraggled, much loved bear. Bought when my son was just a baby, this bear has been his constant companion. Known simply as “Bear”, he has been dragged on many adventures and somehow always manages to turn up when lost. When he gets a little ripe, Bear makes a trip to the washing machine and is greeted with open arms and smiles upon his return.
Yet within the last 2 weeks, Bear has gained a new ability. One that is very unwelcome at 2 am. Bear turns into a monster. The once lovable stuffed toy now strikes terror into my little guy and sends him crying to Daddy (not Mommy) in the wee hours of the morning. Bear is no longer welcome to sleep in my son’s bedroom and has to stay out in the hall.
Luckily, this has stopped the nightmares and monster sightings. But I look forward to the day when Bear will stay Bear and can move from his lonely spot outside the bedroom door back to my son’s bed.
