Security

A blanket. A simple piece of cloth that will barely cover your feet to keep them warm. To a child it can be an important article that helps them maintain a sense of security. I can not remember if I had a "blankie" growing up.

Both of my boys do have blankets. It is interesting to Beth Ann and I that both Riley and Owen each have a blanket that has become a part of them. Their blankets soothe, bring smiles, and make life happy when they have them.

Riley sleeps with his blanket every night. When he was younger it went everywhere we went. He needed that security at all times. He now keeps it on his bed during the day and sleeps with it at night. He still smiles when he gets in bed with it each night. I love to see that. I love to know when he feels good.

Owen sleeps with his blanket each night as well. He will carry it around with him some during the day. Owen especially likes his blanket when he is not feeling well. He likes to hold it and suck his thumb. There will be times that he will toddle back to his room and pull it out of his crib and shriek with excitement. It brings joy and happiness to him.

What is neat about these blankets is that they both were given to my boys from my sister. She gave Riley this white blanket (that is now a rag and shades of gray and brown) when he was born. He was instantly attached to it and has been for 5 years. Stacy also gave Owen a western blanket that is the softest material that I have ever felt. There will always be a connection between Stacy, the boys and their blankets. That is something that my family will never forget.