The end of the nee nees.

So this week represents a transition for Marieka and I, and Rob by default. I needed to stop nursing...it was getting me down, it wasn't fun anymore and I was feeling a bit "used" by my persistent little girl. So, the gum and band-aids have begun.
What?
Yes, licking gum and band-aids have been the solution, and we are 4.5 days in. Nee nee? You want to lick gum instead? Nee nee? Nope...have band-aids on them. Dr. Steve says I need band aids.
Poor Dr. Steve, getting sucked into the lie without any involvement at all. He would actually like it!

Its working so far. She has sneaked some gum IN her mouth (meaning, in her stomach) and she keeps waking up but overall, we are surviving. I am trying not to think of all the sweet times we had, sitting on the couch, in the car, anywhere, snuggling and nursing, and those months where I was her source of food and solace. We both need to move forward. Now, I thought this would mean more sleep for her, but whatever, not yet, still every couple of hours, but she asks less, and asks if the band-aids are still there, more out of concern than interest it seems. She is one persistent girl, and I know one day soon, I will love that about her. Wait, I really already do because I know that so well.
A friend expressed concern that the band-aids were a lie. I say "no way." They aren't exactly a lie...I was starting to be in a bit of pain...and band-aids are something kids understand. She wasn't getting the "you don't need me for nutrition anymore and you need to learn ways to comfort yourself." She hasn't quite learned the self-comfort way yet. But these things take time. I am just glad we are there, I am not in tears, and either is she.