Give Me A Hug

While we were in Russia and for at least 6 weeks after we arrived home, Anzhela would not hug or kiss us. We would tell her we love her often and attempt to hug her but she would pull away. We did not push it but we continued to tell her that it is important to tell your family you love them and to hug them. We would then hug and kiss each other and say, "I love you Papa" or "I love you Moma". She would just watch us.
While in Russia, bedtime was difficult but once home we've been able to get into a routine. Don and I put her to bed together. We say prayers, read a book, and then we tuck her in. She pulls the covers up over her head so we can't kiss her or hug her. At first, we would just say "goodnight Anzhela, we love you." And we would leave her room. After a few nights, we decided to hug and kiss her anyway. So, when she pulled the covers up over her head, Don would get on one side of her bed and I would get on the other and we began hugging her and kissing her through the covers. She would just laugh and giggle, eventually pull the covers off her head, and say goodnight to us.
One thing about Anzhela is that she demands our attention. When she wants something, she calls us and expects us to come to her. A few weeks ago, she was calling me to come to her bedroom. I was folding laundry and told her I would be there in a minute. She kept calling, "Mom, Mom" so I went to her room. She was standing in the doorway with her arms stretched out and she said, "Give me a hug!" Then she hugged me like there was no tomorrow. I was really caught off guard but once she pulled away I said, "Wow, that was the best hug ever! Thank you Anzhela, I can't wait for more!" She beamed.

Since that day, she is very free with her hugs for both Don and me. She will not kiss us but she gives us hugs frequently throughout the day. I love it and so does Don. Bedtime has changed a bit. Now, once we are finished with our story, she has to hug each of us and then we tuck her in. Bedtime has become a very special time for us.

Thanks for stopping by.
Blessings,
Elizabeth





Visit My Website