"Moi et ma chaussette!"

Montana had her second dental appointment today. Well, technically it was her third, because I took her when she was a toddler, but being the horrible mother that I am, she didn't go again until she turned seven. I was unsure of coverage, and I am the queen of procrastination. Or perhaps it is my Junior Alzheimer's acting up again. Whatever the case, this was her third time seeing a dentist.

My little toothless fairy did well, although she did pick a fight with the fluoride, and lost. The poor dear gagged so much the pretty hygienist took out the trays and gave her the suction straw. Little M was in tears from the ordeal!

Once the dentist came in--who, I might add, reminds me of a dark skinned Maxwell Sheffield--we had the long-dreaded thumb talk. Dr. Sheffield has decided that if Little M cannot quit on her own, she will need a metal plate to deter her from putting her thumb against her top palate. Okay, so it has caused a noticeable gap between Montana's top and bottom teeth. Yes, it is a habit best left in babyhood and yes, it will create a buck-toothed appearance if kept up much longer. I understand, but this is my baby we're talking about here. I have always been against forcing her to quit against her will. I wanted her to make the decision on her own.

So much to my surprise, and glee, Montana announced to me upon our departure from the office that she would like to try the sock trick. (This was something suggested by the dentist that he tried with his own daughter; she wore a sock over her hand at night, and within 3 weeks had ceased sucking her thumb completely.) School will be starting in 27 days, so what better time to try it out?

I am pleased to announce that my daughter, who has been sucking her thumb for 7 years and 5 1/2 months, wore a sock to bed for the first time! I had my doubts, but after checking on her a couple times, I was pleasantly surprised to see her fast asleep, sock on hand.

It is bittersweet, I have to admit. I am immensely proud of Little M for making this mature decision on her own, but I also realize this is the beginning of the end. She is no longer a baby, which I am reminded of every day, but at night when I peered in on her, she looked like a little mullet-headed toddler sleeping in her big girl bed. A year from now, I will be grateful that she was able to quit, and as a result she will have beautiful adult teeth.

This is just Night #1 however, and I do not want to get ahead of myself! Baby steps Mama Kee!