Today is a big day. Jessica (11 years old) entered womanhood (she got her period) today. I had planned for this day, but wasn't completely ready emotionally for it to come. My baby is growing up. It seems so be happening so quickly. Soon there will be boyfriends, driving a car, and college. What used to seem so far away, is now just around the corner. It doesn't seem real. I have prepared her for this day with many heart to heart talks (and oh so helpful books). Even so, she wasn't ready either. She told me that she was excited for it to come. When it did, she wasn't ready. She wanted it go away. Don't we all
I bought her a large painted box that holds her necessary items and included a poem and a necklace I made her. It says: Jessica, This necklace was created especially for you by me in celebration of your passage into womanhood. The various semi-precious stones represent the curiosity and joy that sparkles in your eyes. As the months and years pass may you never lose your youthful enthusiasm for life. The moon goddess charm represents the lunar cycle which draws the ocean tides and guides your monthly cycle. Let the moon inspire you to realize your connection to the greater universe and to your own natural rhythms. Garnets represent your menstrual cycle, a monthly reminder of your inherent power, wisdom and strength as a woman. May you always respect yourself by nurturing your mind, spirit and body knowing that within you lies the miracle of creation. Always remember that you are special and you are loved....
She seemed thrilled with the necklace. She is more thrilled that she and I will be going out tomorrow night---just us girls--as a celebration. Maybe it is weird to celebrate but I think it is a big moment in a girls life.
Anyway, I had to share that Jessica is no longer my "little" girl.

By Sandysmom on Sunday, April 16, 2006 - 08:34 pm:

Awww, Yvonne, I know how that feels. My dd entered into womanhood awhile ago and it was a bittersweet moment. She's a tomboy and doesn't even want to discuss that, but I have to respect that too. But my baby is growing up too. (wah) What you did for her was sweet and will help her to truly respect her body.

When I got my period, my mom got on the phone and called everyone, even my great-grandfather. I was horrified. AHHHHH!!!!

By Reds9298 on Sunday, April 16, 2006 - 08:48 pm:

I haven't experienced that with my little one yet, but I *can* relate to how milestones just make the time go so quickly. I think the box, necklace, and card you gave her are BEAUTIFUL, and it's neat that you are going out to celebrate.

My parents made a big deal when I got my period, too. They treated me like such a grown-up, like I really was entering womanhood and I remember that it made me feel really special. Enjoy your girls night out.

By Paulas on Sunday, April 16, 2006 - 09:45 pm:

I know this day is coming sooner, rather than later for me. DD (9) already has pubic hair and breasts and it almsot 5 ft tall.

I would love the name of the books you got for her.

What will you do on your girls night out?

By Dawnk777 on Monday, April 17, 2006 - 12:26 am:

Congratulations to your daughter. Have fun on your night out!

I'm 46 and still waiting for it go away!

By Karen~moderator on Monday, April 17, 2006 - 07:56 am:

Yvonne, what you did was so special! I wish I had thought to do something like that! And....she will ALWAYS be your little girl, no matter what!

By Conni on Monday, April 17, 2006 - 10:59 am:

Wow! That is really something.

By Bellajoe on Monday, April 17, 2006 - 12:22 pm:

Karen, i was just going to say the same thing.

Period or no period, of course she will Always be your little girl!
I will be 29 in a few days and i am still my mom's "baby!"

What you have done for her is very special.
My mom never discussed any aspect of getting my period with me.
I didn't expect any enthusiasum or a girls night out, but a talk would have been nice.

By Tripletmom on Monday, April 17, 2006 - 12:36 pm:

You're a very special mother to make it such a special moment.Have a nice night out with you're baby girl.

By Kiki on Monday, April 17, 2006 - 01:01 pm:

I got mine on my 12th birthday. Happy Birthday to me! lol

I think it's wonderful that you are making a huge deal out of it. It will be a wonderful memory for her. A milestone to cherish and not one to dread. Awesome poem too!

By Yjja123 on Monday, April 17, 2006 - 02:59 pm:

Thanks everyone!
Paula one of the best books (according to her) is "Growing up it's a girl thing".
We are going to a coffee shop and to the bookstore (this is what she has asked to do) beyond that I do not know what we will do.

By Dawnk777 on Monday, April 17, 2006 - 06:19 pm:

My kids loved, Growing Up: It's a Girl Thing, too! I tried to get a book from the library, but they just didn't meet my needs. I ended up going to the bookstore and looking for a book. They both read it over and over and over!

By Hlgmom on Monday, April 17, 2006 - 08:07 pm:

Yvonne- I think the way you handled this is amazing and speaks volumes about the kind of parent you are! I may have to steal that poem when the time comes...very far away!!!

By Yjja123 on Monday, April 17, 2006 - 09:24 pm:

We went to the mall. She got a new bracelet and some American girl products from Bath & Body Works. We went out to dinner at Fridays and then headed to the bookstore. She selected 3 new books and got a coffee cooler. She told me it was the best night ever so I guess I succeeded in making her feel special.

By Yjja123 on Saturday, April 22, 2006 - 11:51 am:

Her period has lasted 6 days now. Is this normal? She spotted the first couple days now it is flowing. I am not one to know what is *normal* as I get it a day or two and not every month.
Advice please! Is this OK or should I take her to the doctor?

By Luvn29 on Saturday, April 22, 2006 - 01:56 pm:

I have no idea what is normal for a first period. But I wanted to bump it up to the top for you...

By Dawnk777 on Saturday, April 22, 2006 - 03:46 pm:

Normal is usually about 3-5 days. I guess I would call the doctor on Monday if it hasn't stopped by then.