YOU ARE GOOD ENOUGH

A safe place to be happy, healthy, cared for, and looked after, one where kindness, compassion, and understanding help us all become our brightest, softest, and littlest selves. A littler world is a happier world, but any world at all is far better with you in it, exactly as you are. You are always welcome here! ♡

[littlespacefriends]

Soft Beginnings

Hi there everyone!

It’s wonderful to be here, and I’m incredibly excited to get to know you all and become a part of this fantastic little space community. My name is Hartley, I use he/him pronouns, and I’m 24 years old, but beyond that, my own story, particularly with respect to age regression, is a little bit more complicated. You see, I’ve reached the point where I feel it’s to become an important part of not just my healing, but of self-discovery.

For a long time now, I’ve struggled with this heaviness and the feeling that the happiest, safest parts of life were already well behind me, but lately I’ve started to realize as well that this grief, what it was, wasn’t even for the childhood I lived in and experienced for myself, but the idea of one. Something more idealized, a vision filled with safety, comfort, peace, and the freedom to simply be happy and accepted as I was.

I don’t believe I ever truly got to experience that, not in the way I needed to, but as sad as it may be, I don’t see it as purely tragic, because that feeling, the want of it, is what brought me here and to you all, and now I have the opportunity to create that safety and happiness for myself, rather than just mourning what I didn’t have before, neglecting in that my present needs.

I love this place, and all the regressors, the littles, the caregivers, and everyone who’s been a part of creating and shaping it in any way, great or small, and that’s been what’s given me the courage to take this step. To see you all embrace joy, healing, and self-expression as you have is a beautiful thing, and has genuinely meant so much to me.

It’s helped me to realize that’s something I want to be a part of, because happiness, comfort, and softness are things I myself deserve, and things I wish to give back to others, to be a part of something so good, pure, and light.

I’m still figuring out where exactly I fit and situate in that design, but I’m excited to learn more about myself along the way of doing so, and know this blog may grow and change throughout the process of that. What will, however, never change is my hope for this to be a safe, welcoming, and positive space for as many as possible, one I help facilitate both to and for myself and any of those who require it.

You’ll probably see a lot of stories, scenarios, affirmations, thoughts, and general exploration here in the days ahead as I love to write, and have often found it the best way for me to explore what it is I feel, and hopefully connect with others, with you, by means of doing so.

For so long, I’ve felt isolated and trapped within the prison of my own struggle, and I never want for others to feel alone like that, not if there’s anything I can do to alleviate that pain even ever so slightly. One of the best things about age regression, at least that I’ve witnessed, has been the kindness and understanding so many are so eager and willing to share with one another, and my greatest hope is to be a positive contributor in that same direction.

This blog will always be exclusively SFW, and that’s done without judgement, but to keep things as open and accessible to as many as possible. To that end, if there’s ever anything at all I could be doing better, that I’ve overlooked, or that I could be more mindful of, please reach out and let me know.

This is still the beginning of a brand new journey for me, and I’m trying to approach it with a ready mind, an open heart, and a genuine desire to grow.

Thank you for reading this far, reading my story, and for welcoming me with such patience.

Remember that you deserve gentleness, happiness, and care, so please be kind to yourselves. You’re wanted, valued, and matter more than you know.

I see you! ♡

[littlespacefriends]

My Hands

Little: B-big feels huwt…

CG: Whoa, hey! They do sometimes, but that’s why we don’t hold them in all by ourselves. Let’s slow down for a second, okay? Come over here. Want to try telling me what’s on your mind? What’s making you this upset?

Little: Why peoples cwy? Why bad fings happen?

CG: Those are big questions to be grappling with, especially for one so small.

Little: Littles not s’posed ta know dem… but I fink ‘bout dem anyway.

CG: Right, you can’t help it! That’s okay, it doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong. Being little doesn’t stop you from wondering, does it? But we can talk through some of that stuff together, try and make it a little less scary. Would you like that?

Little: …Does eberybody hurt?

CG: Yeah, they do. At some point or other, it’s just something that can’t be helped. I know you know this, but sometimes that hurt can come in lots of different shapes and sizes. It doesn’t always look the same for everyone, which can make it difficult to spot. But still, that doesn’t mean it’s not there.

Little: Dat’s… sad.

CG: Yeah, it is. We don’t want to see anybody sad or hurting, do we? Even if we don’t know them, if we’ve never met before, it’s never something that makes us feel very good, does it?

Little: So… why? Why if hurts?

CG: Well, bad stuff like that, I don’t think it always has a reason. Sometimes what’s hardest about it, is when it just happens all of a sudden and out of the blue. Sometimes people get sick, or they lose someone they love. Sometimes hearts break. And all of that can just make life feel really unfair. It’s sad, but it’s true. It’s honest.

Little: Dass weakly yucky…

CG: Mhm, I wholeheartedly agree. It is indeed.

Little: I don’ wike peoples bein’ lonely!

CG: I don’t either. You know why that is? Because both of us, we know how it feels, how it hurts, so we push ahead and do what we can to make sure that pain can never come again. We try to do our best, wherever it’s possible. That’s who we are!

Little: Can I fix it?

CG: It’s good of you to ask, darling. To want to do your part. Again, that makes a real difference, and does so much more than you realize! But there’s also a lot of hurt out there, and you’d never be able to fix all of it by yourself. None of us can.

Little: lip wobbles …I wanted to…

CG: Oh, I know. That’s because you have a great big heart, no matter the size you are! People with big hearts can never stand the ache that comes when those around them struggle. It feels that much worse, like it’s happening to them directly. They’d do anything to make that pain go away.

Little: Den… what good am I?

CG: Sweetheart. hushes and rubs back softly, tenderly Try thinking of it more like this. Do you remember the other night, when you had that terrible dream? The one that really scared you?

Little: nods Mhm…

CG: You held onto me so tightly then, I thought you were going to squeeze all the air right out of me. I wasn’t prepared for all your little strength!

Little: ‘M sowwy…

CG: No, it’s okay. There was absolutely nothing to be sorry for. You were hurt and afraid, and so you reached for comfort from someone you trusted. You did exactly what you should’ve, understand?

Little: …Oh.

CG: And I suppose how it works is that someone else’s heart can feel just like your nightmare for you in that moment. Which means it’s not always going to be something you can make go away. No matter how much you want to, you can’t erase every hurt.

Little: sniffles …No…

CG: But sometimes that’s not the point, or what’s really needed. You can hold out a hand, can’t you? Just like you did with me?

Little: I can hold hands.

CG: And you’re a very good listener, too. I can vouch for that.

Little: I lissen!

CG: You can even share your blanket, if you’d like! Though that’d be going above and beyond, really.

Little: ‘N Mister Bunbun?

CG: Of course, that’d be a very kind gesture on your part! Mister Bunbun is, after all, a certified cuddling expert, isn’t he?

Little: tiny giggle Mhm. Him da bestest!

CG: I believe it. Second only to you, of course. gently squeezes

Little: So… if peoples huwt… I don’t gotta know why?

CG: Nope. Like I said, everyone will have their reasons, because there are so many different kinds of them out there. Some of people might even want to keep theirs to themselves, but still feel sad from them. Like their brains don’t trust their mouths to say the right words, to find them. Like they’re just too heavy, or too much.

Little: What do I hafta do den?

CG: You love them anyway, and that’s all. In those moments especially, that’s what they need most. Even if they don’t realize it, or can’t feel like they can admit it to anyone else. Or to themselves. But you have a lot of love to give, don’t you? So much heart stored in that itty-bitty baby body. I, for one, don’t foresee that causing you very much trouble!

Little: …Dat sounds easier.

CG: It can be. If you’ve got tools, they help a lot. But it still means there’ll be work to do, though.

Little: …Still hard.

CG: Sometimes. But we stick with it and we don’t give up. Because we wouldn’t on the people we love, and we wouldn’t want them to give up on us, isn’t that right? So we stay close, whether they’re happy or sad, and that way, however it is they’re feeling, they still know that we care, and that we’ll be with them through all of it, no matter what!

Little: Can still cwy when I fink ‘bout sad peoples?

CG: Of course. Just be sure to remember to smile and laugh when you think about the happy ones. And know that when you’re doing all that you do, when you go about each day, whether little or big, you’re contributing to that happiness, that light. That can be what leads sad people back around. The feeling they don’t have to be alone anymore.

Little: Can I ask questions?

CG: Yes, and if I’m able to answer them, I will, and without unnecessarily upsetting you. I’ll be honest and tell the truth, but that doesn’t need to make someone feel worse to know what’s what. We’re honest because we love, just as we love because we’re honest. Does that make sense enough you?

Little: …Can I be little an’ still care?

CG: That’s right. In fact, I think little hearts notice suffering even better than grownups do because they’re brave enough to be worn out upon their sleeves. To show how fiercely and passionately they care, without pretending they don’t.

Little: snuggles closer

CG: I know. It’s a lot, isn’t it? This is really heavy stuff, and I can see that thoughtful head working through it all. If there’s anything I can help clear up, let me know. Otherwise we just stay in it for now. Take as much time as you need. I’m here.

Little: …If somebody hurts… I’ll hold dey hand.

CG: Very good. And if you hurt? What then?

Little: …I… I can ask somebody ta hold mine?

CG: Exactly. What a big lesson you’ve learned!

Little: hugs Mister Bunbun tight …Dat makes da sad feel… less lonely.

CG: You’re so right about that, sweetheart. None of us might be able to carry every hurt that’s in this world, but the very least we can do is make certain no one else has to carry theirs all alone. ♡

[littlespacefriends]

The Quiet Between

Little: …Mhm.

CG: Ah, here we are. I’ve been wondering when sleepy baby was going to make an appearance!

Little: N-not sweepy…

CG: No? And that’s all evidence to the contrary, then? Your eyes are barely staying open, darling.

Little: …Maybe li’l bit.

CG: Is that so? Well, in that case, I think this little bit of a baby could use a little bit of relaxing after such a long day. Does that sound good to you?

Little: …Nuh-uh. No wanna.

CG: But why not? You don’t want to unwind a bit?

Little: But relaxin’ means I hafta stop doin’ fings!

CG: It does, again, think about how much you’ve done today already. What else is there you think you still have to do?

Little: …I still got… um…

CG: That’s a lot of thinking. Are you stumped?

Little: …Stuff.

CG: I see. And what kind of stuff would that be?

Little: I… I f’got.

CG: chuckles You know, somehow, I thought that might be the case.

Little: D’at not nice! pouts

CG: Hey, I wasn’t teasing! Not really. I genuinely do think your brain has been firing on full throttle so long today, going so hard, it hasn’t quite had a chance to let up on the throttle yet. Which means that it worries, only to forget what it was worrying itself about to begin with! Isn’t that wild?

Little: …Brain silly.

CG: It certainly can be. But it’s also been hard at work today, putting in some long hours for you. And with you too! Which is why I think you, both in body and in brain, could benefit from a little downtime. That making sense enough?

Little: But how’s baby s’posed to relax? Dunno…

CG: Well, I think an excellent place to start could be by settling those shoulders, like this. See, do you feel all the tension in them against my hands?

Little: My shoulders?

CG: Yeah, they’re just about touching your ears!

Little: Dey are? Oopsies…

CG: It’s alright, you can actually help take care of them. You wanna do that together?

Little: Mhm!

CG: Great, just breathe deep for me. Nice and big, okay? All the way from the top of your head to the tips of your toes. We’ll need the kind of breath you can feel run all the way through you!

Little: takes a huge breath Squeeeee…

CG: That’s good, very impressive. Careful not to knock yourself out, though! Now we let it all out.

Little: Pffffffffff…

CG: You’re so silly, baby. You sound just like a tire, or a balloon! And there we go. Just like that, your shoulders are back to normal again. Nice going!

Little: Did good?

CG: Very much so.

Little: Yaaay! wiggles Dey down! Hehe.

CG: They certainly are! And I’ll bet it feels much better on you now, doesn’t it? Now where else do you feel that tightness? Can you point me to it?

Little: My forehead.

CG: Yeah, is that right?

Little: I fink I been frownin’.

CG: Without realizing it? Yeah, you might be onto something. Here, I know just the trick for helping with that too. Close your eyes, okay? I promise, I’ll be very gentle. smooths their forehead There we go, how’s that feel? All better?

Little: …Mhm.

CG: And what about your hands? Anything funny about them?

Little: looks down Oh…

CG: You’ve got them balled up pretty tightly there. Think you’re safe to let up a bit?

Little: I din’t know!

CG: I know you didn’t. And that’s okay! That’s why we check, right? Once we see something’s wrong or might not be feeling like it should be, that’s one step closer to being able to change it. Things are changing already, aren’t they? Take a look at this!

Little: slowly uncurls fingers Fingies all fwoppy now. Fwoppy fingies!

CG: chuckles That the official medical term, is it? I didn’t know we had a little doctor in the house!

Little: giggles Hehehehehe.

CG: There it is! That beautiful sound, it’s what I’ve been waiting for.

Little: Wha’? Giggles?

CG: Mhm. Because they mean my baby is finally starting to melt again, even if it’s just a little bit.

Little: I’s ice cweam?

CG: Better be careful, or I’ll gobble you right up!

Little: Ahhh! snuggles against …M’sof’.

CG: That’s right. But more than what you are, I think where you are’s finally back in a place that’s more comfortable for you, wouldn’t you agree?

Little: …Warm.

CG: Indeed. You’re a regular portable heater! And doing me a favor, keeping me nice and toasty too.

Little: Safe?

CG: Your heart should be starting to tell you that. And from there, it’ll just be making sure the rest of your body feels and believes it. But it’ll come.

Little: lets out a long sigh

CG: Whoa, that’s a lot of breath to keep in a baby body like yours! Where’ve you been keeping it all?

Little: I dunno.

CG: I think that may be the relaxing finally settling in, taking its effect. And not a moment too soon!

Little: My body did it by itse’f?

CG: Yeah, it’s like I said before, sometimes bodies and brains are on different tracks to one another, and it takes them time to talk things through. But once they do, it leads to moments like this! Where everything turns clearer, a little easier, and there’s space that’s made enough for us to rest. To relax!

Little: Dat’s pretty smart. yawns …M’eyes gettin’ sweepy.

CG: Speaking of overdue, I think that’s more than allowed. Here, don’t worry, I’ve got you. Just stay close to me. Can you do that?

Little: No gotta stay ‘wake?

CG: Not at all. You’re good to rest, so try and let it happen. You don’t have to worry about anything else, I promise.

Little: No jobs? No thinky?

CG: Nope, there’ll be plenty of time for that later. Trust me. For now, it’s time for babies to rest and recharge their batteries again. You up for that?

Little: So no be big?

CG: Not right now. Not unless you want to. But the sleep will still come, I think, either way. It’s all about what makes you feel better, you know?

Little: …Jus’ be baby. nods

CG: Okay, I think that’s a very good choice.

Little: Tank oo…

CG: For what, sweetheart?

Little: Makey brain be quiet.

CG: It was already learning how! It only needed another brain to help teach, to show the way. Two heads are better than one, that’s especially true when they’re the two of ours. kisses forehead

Little: …Night-night.

CG: Night-night, little one. Let’s keep that head of yours filled with only the very sweetest of dreams! ♡

[littlespacefriends]

One of my favorite things to write in my stories, something I try to include whenever I can, is a very simple phrase:

“I’m proud of you.”

It’s something I never heard very often growing up, so I know how much those words can mean. Everyone deserves to hear them, especially the little ones who are trying so hard every day, even when no one else sees it.

Whether it’s getting through a difficult day, taking care of yourself, being kind, or simply moving forward, know that your efforts do matter. They aren’t invisible, and you don’t have to be perfect to deserve encouragement and praise.

So, whether you’re little or big, kiddo or caregiver, if you’re reading this, please remember:

I’m glad you’re here. And I’m so very proud of you, for being you and everything you do. Keep going, even on the days you don’t feel like you’re enough. And know that whenever you need to hear it, these words will always be here waiting for you. ♡

[littlespacefriends]

Everything Gets Easier

Little: I bwushed my teef.

CG: You certainly did. Look how clean they are!

Little: An’… I gots my jammies.

CG: You did that by yourself, too! I’m impressed.

Little: I’s big.

CG: Maybe in a particularly self-sufficient mood, but you can be that at any size.

Little: goes quiet

CG: Hey, whatcha thinking about? Is something about that troubling you?

Little: …Nuffin’.

CG: You can tell me, you know? You can tell me anything, I promise I won’t mind. Or get mad! Plus you have that little wrinkle between your eyebrows, it’s kind of a giveaway. See? Just here! boops

Little: I no!

CG: No, I really think you do. Here, get on up, you little goofball! Let me hold you awhile.

Little: I jus’… finkin’.

CG: Oh, yeah? Concentrating pretty hard as well, by the look of things. What about?

Little: shrugs

CG: …Can I ask, are you working very hard to try and stay bigger than you feel you are right now?

Little: Nuh-uh…

CG: No?

Little: …Maybe.

CG: Yeah, I thought so. But why? That seems like it must be really tough and tiring on you. No fun.

Little: I can do it!

CG: Of course, I know that. You can do so many things! I hope I’ve not made you feel you can’t? Like you’re incapable? Because that wouldn’t and would never be what I’d want, please know that.

Little: I not babby.

CG: Well, not all the time, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy being one sometimes, does it?

Little: I talk normal. I can!

CG: But forcing it like this doesn’t feel very good, right? Good for you, on the inside?

Little: …Issa hard. I wanna be big.

CG: It just doesn’t always come, not when you might want it to. But sometimes what you want and need are seperate things entirely. Here, can I tell you something? It’s a secret, so hush-hush!

Little: Mhm.

CG: There’s really only ever just one moment. One tiny moment, that’s all it takes.

Little: Wha’ moment?

CG: The one where you to stop trying so hard to figure out and control how you should be, and just be instead. As you are, perfect.

Little: But I don’…

CG: It’s the moment when your shoulders finally start to relax, when you stop checking every word you say before you say it. When you let yourself be as little as you feel, and then after that… everything gets easier. Because it is. It’s just us, people, that complicate it in our own heads!

Little: I don’ know…

CG: You don’t need it figured out right now. It can be hard feeling thrown into something all at once.

Little: I’s scared.

CG: Scared of what, baby?

Little: …Dat if I stop…

CG: You don’t know if you’ll be able to start again. Find your way, whichever way that may be. Right?

Little: tiny nod Mhm…

CG: I get it. A moment feels like a lot, and can do even more than that. But remember, a moment is actually very small. It’s teeny-tiny. It’s kind of like you, both at once! And we can let both things be as they are in the same way as well. Big and small.

Little: Huh?

CG: You don’t have to jump in all at once. It’s not the ocean! Let’s treat the moment instead more like it’s a puddle. A whisper, a breath. It doesn’t have to be something that promises to much, but smaller, like you can hold inside your hands. It’s easier that way, and you’d be surprised how often the biggest things, the most important, come in the smallest of packages. And vice versa. winks

Little: …I twy.

CG: So we start with one breath, okay? That’s all, then we figure the rest out from there. You think you can do that for me?

Little: takes slow breath

CG: Very good, just like that.

Little: takes another breath

CG: And that’s all you have to do! Sooner or later, it’ll always lead you to find your way again, and that’s the best way to be. I’m so proud of you!

Little: Can… can hol’ hand?

CG: You can squeeze it, if you’d like! Feel me here with you right now, know you’re not alone in this.

Little: holds hand …Up?

CG: You want uppies? Think they might be nice?

Little: Uh-huh…

CG: If that’s the case, then certainly! Just hold on tight! picks up and holds close You know, I think we may have just found it.

Little: Wha’?

CG: That moment, the one I was telling you about before. The one where you let go. How does it feel? Nicer now that you’re not forcing anything?

Little: …I tawk funny.

CG: Maybe a little. But I understand, and I listen. That’s what counts, isn’t it? What matters most?

Little: …I twied.

CG: I know. You tried very, very hard, didn’t you? So hard, you were scared to stop?

Little: Mhm…

CG: But you don’t have to anymore. The moment, it gives permission for you to be at peace. As do I.

Little: buries face against …I smol.

CG: You are, perfectly so. And I’m here to take care. The moment’s found us where it should once again. All’s well.

Little: You still love me?

CG: nods That’s one thing that’s never going to change moment to moment. I loved you before, during, and will continue to do so long after this, or any other moment’s ended. That’s something that’ll just be too. Like you, me, all of us. It’s the forever thing. You get what I mean? You’re safe.

Little: Otay.

CG: Feeling a bit better now after all that? Those nice, deep breaths help you find yourself again?

Little: tiny nod Mhm…

CG: And you feel what’s changed? On the inside?

Little: thinks hard …I stopped. An’ den…

CG: What happened?

Little: …I din’t hafta twy no more.

CG: No, you could just be. Because just you’s just beautiful.

Little: …Das nice. gives a happy little sigh and snuggles closer

CG: It is. And it’s more than any one moment could ever offer. More than any lifetime. It’s forever. Forever and always. Forever together. ♡

[littlespacefriends]

Not By Yourself

CG: Knock knock! Anybody in there?

Little: No, m’not.

CG: Huh. Well, if that’s the case, who is it that’s talking to me right now? Is it a spooky ghost?

Little: Baby.

CG: I thought that it might be! No ghosts, though, so I guess that’s nice. Hey, is it alright if I come in and join you? There enough room for me in here?

Little: ‘S messy. Baby messy.

CG: I don’t mind. And I don’t want you to be all on your own right now. It makes me happy to be here with you!

Little: …I cry’d.

CG: Yes, I can see that. Luckily I’ve brought some tissues with me! Here, stay still and I’ll clean you up a bit. I’ll be very gentle, I promise! Is that okay?

Little: Too much. I bad baby.

CG: Sweetheart, that’s not true. I don’t think that at all. Why would you say something like that?

Little: I cry an’ cry an’ cry. An’ brain go all loud…

CG: Oh, that sounds terrible. I’m so sorry, lovely.

Little: ‘N can’t make it stop…

CG: Yeah, it can hurt a lot to sit on those heavy feelings, too, all on your own. But you’re not on your own anymore, okay? You don’t have to be.

Little: rubs eyes ‘Sposed be happy baby.

CG: All the time, no matter what? That sounds pretty exhausting, who came up with that rule?

Little: …me.

CG: Oh, I see. Gotcha.

Little: ‘Cause babies ‘sposed smile!

CG: But they cry too, you know? They cry a lot, for all sorts of reasons! That’s nothing bad, either. There’s nothing wrong with it whatsoever.

Little: Nuh-uh?

CG: It’s true! Think about it, when they get scared or overwhelmed, what is it that usually happens?

Little: I got ‘whelmed.

CG: I know, and I can only imagine not great that was for you. How it probably still feels, too, right?

Little: Tummy hurt. Everyfing feel… big.

CG: I know that feeling, how it feels when it hits you from out of nowhere like that. And for one so small, so itty-bitty like you, it must feel it’s hitting you much harder and all at once. You poor thing!

Little: Brain say nobody wanna hear me cry.

CG: That old brain can say a lot sometimes, huh?

Little: Brain fibbin’?

CG: Not necessarily. I think it doesn’t always have the facts and sometimes, because of that, it can tell you scary stories that aren’t always true, but trick you into thinking that they could be.

Little: Mean brain.

CG: It feels that way, doesn’t it? Very mean, even when it’s trying its best to be helpful too!

Little: Don’ like mean brain.

CG: I can’t imagine why you would, not after all this. For what it’s worth, I’m not its biggest fan either at the moment. But it’s not that way all the time, is it? It can change, be louder or more quiet, depending on what we’re doing, what’s going on?

Little: Can it go way?

CG: Not always right away. At least, not as soon as we’d like it to. But that doesn’t mean it gets to have all the power while it stays. Nor does it get to decide whether you deserve to be cared for.

Little: Wha’?

CG: You can have big feelings, bigger than you know what to do with, and be just as accepted and loved for them, not in spite of them. They make you who you are, whether you’re big or small, and they can and will be held by those who love you at the same time, every time. That’s what loving someone is all about, the whole truth of it!

Little: Even if cry all soggy? Sniffles?

CG: Yep. And that’s why I brought these tissues, remember? In fact, here, I think there might be a particular need right now. Blow out for me, okay?

Little: Ugly cry?

CG: No, not an ugly cry. There isn’t one, baby. Not you, or anyone else. Nothing you do’s ever ugly!

Little: Snot?

CG: laughs softly Yes, even if there’s snot. Here, very good nose-blowing. I’ve got the rest of the cleanup from here.

Little: giggles …Ew. I make funny noise.

CG: Okay, maybe a little bit. Little, like you! And still cute, so like you in that as well. There, how’s that? Feeling all better again? Nose good as new?

Little: …Can ask somethin’?

CG: Of course, always. What’s on your mind?

Little: …If I sad… lots…

CG: Yeah?

Little: …You gonna get tired?

CG: Maybe sometimes. But that’s never going to be the same thing as leaving. If I need a break, I’ll tell you about it. But I won’t just disappear on you, and I won’t ever be mad at you feeling whatever it is you happen to be feeling. We both want to do the best we can, be our best for each other, for everyone we care about, don’t we? But we’re still just people, and sometimes the best takes work. But that doesn’t mean we stop trying. I’ll never stop trying for you, no matter how sad or you might be. I can promise you that much, okay?

Little: Brain say peoples leave when baby too much.

CG: I know, and I disagree. I also know that’s easy for me to say, though, and less so for you to feel and to actually believe. So whatever I can say or do to help with convincing you I’m really here, I want to be here, and I’m going to stay as long as you want, I’d hope you can trust me enough to say so. And we can talk about it, understand?

Little: …Hold?

CG: offers both hands Of course, come here. I think we could both use some cuddles right now.

Little: holds hands …Warm.

CG: That’s love you’re feeling, baby. I’m so glad it feels nice for you! Hoping it heats you right back up, and can keep you nice and cozy for a while.

Little: Heart still hurty.

CG: That’s okay. Here, let me keep my hand on your chest like this. It should help steady it better, plus it allows me to keep track of your heartbeat!

Little: …But don’ hafta fix right now?

CG: No, not beyond that. Again, there’s things we can do, small stuff that might help keep the hurt from feeling so bad, but the best thing we can do for now is just sit. Think we can do that together, you and I?

Little: …Can I still be little… if sad?

CG: Absolutely! You don’t have to stop being little just because you’re hurting. In fact, that may be when it’s most important, because it reminds you that bad times, hurt times, they don’t last forever. You can still be cared for, taken care of, cuddled while they’re around and until they’re gone again. This will always be something just yours, as will I.

Little: …Promise?

CG: How about a pinkie promise. The best kind!

Little: …Fank you.

CG: You’re welcome, sweetheart. Thank you for trusting me with all your hurt and heavy feelings today, but also for trusting yourself too. Knowing yourself! That’s the kindest thing you can do for anyone, and it’s a very important lesson to learn.

Little: Brain still noisy.

CG: I know. That means it’s working, just a bit too hard and doing too much for right now. But that’s why we slow, rest, and do this. kisses forehead

Little: …Not by myself now.

CG: No. You never will be. Not while I’m around. ♡

[littlespacefriends]

Sometimes I scroll through the tags around here and just… my heart aches a little.

Not because of anything anyone’s doing wrong, but because there are so many wonderful littles here who bring so much light. So many who deserve stories that make them feel safe, seen, and cherished.

It honestly makes me wonder if I’m doing enough for them.

Every time I write something, I hope it reaches someone who needs it. I hope it can make them smile, feel understood, or even just a little less alone for a while. But sometimes I worry there are never enough words to express just how special you all are.

I find myself wishing I had better ones. Bigger ones. Kinder ones. The kind that could become stories I could wrap around every good little here like a blanket, reminding them of just how special and important they truly are.

I don’t know if I’ll ever find the perfect way to capture it, to honor all of that fully. Maybe that’s impossible.

But I hope you know that everything I do here comes from a place of genuine care and celebration for you. You all inspire me far more than you’ll probably ever realize, and getting to share in this community is something I’m deeply grateful for.

Thank you for being here. Thank you for letting me have a place here, too.

And if you’re reading this now, I hope you know that you’re safe, you’re valued, and you matter more than you may ever realize.

I love you. ♡

[littlespacefriends]

Floppy Ears

CG: Is there something on your mind, baby? Or are you just having fun with Mister Bunbun over here? If that’s the case, don’t let me interrupt!

Little: …Bunny’s gettin’ ol’.

CG: Oh? What makes you say that, may I ask?

Little: Ear all floppy now… an’ him tummy not so squishy like ‘fore. Dun smell like Bunny no more.

CG: Oh, dear. I suppose it’s hard not to notice things like that, huh?

Little: Useta smell nice! Now smell like nothin’.

CG: I know, sweetheart.

Little: …Don’ wan’ anyfing ta change.

CG: That can be a very scary feeling, I understand it completely. It’s one grownups have to struggle with all the time. It’s not about being big or small, just it feeling like it doesn’t even matter when life decides to do whatever it’s going to do and you’re not ready for it. To be honest, that can be one of the very hardest things there is.

Little: ‘Cause if fings keeps changin’… den dey goes ‘way!

CG: Change isn’t something we’re able to stop, unfortunately. We can try our hardest, but it still happens. To all things, not just our stuffed bunny friends. But this is about more than just Mister Bunbun, isn’t it? It’s about so many things, and how all of them seem to change, no matter what.

Little: Nuh-uh. Dassa mean!

CG: I didn’t come up with the rule, but trust me, baby, I agree with you. At the very least, it sounds like it feels, which is a lot, right? Overwhelming?

Little: My blankie got holes. My jammies too teeny. My cartoons gets new voices. My crayons gets little. So… so everyfing leaves.

CG: I’m not saying you’re wrong. All those things, they do happen, and it’s important you’re able to recognize them happening as they do. But you’re not entirely right either. You’re not seeing things, where we stand in them, completely as they are.

Little: But you said…

CG: I said things change, not that they go away.

Little: …Samesies.

CG: That’s not true. Not always, especially not if they’re important to us and we don’t want them to go. They can still leave traces, you understand? Take our friend Mister Bunbun here, for example!

Little: He ol’. An’ he smooshed. An’ one eye funny.

CG: Very observant, that’s good noticing. But if I were to ask if you’d want to trade for a brand-new Bunny instead, how would you feel about that?

Little: gasps No!

CG: And why not?

Little: ‘Cause dis Bunny my Bunny!

CG: Okay, so he’s special to you. What makes him that way, you think? What makes him just yours?

Little: He know bedtime. An’ sad cries!

CG: Mhm, both true. I figure he knows what to do to help you best take care of yourself. We’re alike in that, him and I. Is there anything else, though?

Little: He know happy cuddles… an’ my secrets.

CG: He’s been with you through a lot, no doubt. A part of the family, wouldn’t you say? Our family?

Little: Yus…

CG: So he’s changed by that, then. He’s different than he was at the start, just as having a kind and loving family around is able to change anyone and anything for the better. Every change comes from that love, it’s a product of it. Like the floppy ear!

Little: …‘Cause lotsa cuddles.

CG: Same with the faded fur, and even his loose stuffing too. You see how it’s all the same cause that’s leading to a similar effect?

Little: Too many squishies and squeezies?

CG: I’m not sure there’s such a thing. No, all it just means is sometimes that difference, that change can only happen, and even especially happens with things that’ve been loved and cherished for a long time. That love becomes a part of them, just as it does for all of us. For you and me too!

Little: Otay.

CG: You still don’t sound convinced. Can I ask, back before, when I brought up the possibility that this was about more than Mister Bunbun, if it was about more things, bigger things changing too? Does maybe size have nothing to do with it, and it’s a very small, very adorable thing much nearer still that you’re actually worried about… are you worried you’ll be what changes, my lovely?

Little: When I gets bigger… little me goes ‘way?

CG: No, sweetheart. You’re a person, and so it works a bit differently for us. People are more complicated than stuffed bunnies, and we’ve got many more sides to ourselves! In your case, your main ones are from when you’re big and little, and when you go from one or the other, you may not be staying the same, but that doesn’t mean the other side’s gone forever, or that it’s never coming back. Nor does it mean, just for the record, that it’s any less loved either. All of you is, always!

Little: But I not stay tiny! I don’ wanna lose little me.

CG: You won’t, not ever, because you want to know where you go when that happens? Where the little you lives? Right here gently taps chest Baby lives inside your heart. They’re safe there.

Little: …Really? Even if I gets taller?

CG: Even then. Little you is welcome and will always belong right here in my arms with you. That’s the one thing that’s not ever changing!

Little: Wha’ if voice gets bigger? An’ hafta do grown-up stuffs?

CG: In that case, you could do worse than having someplace that’s soft and warm for you to land afterward. Through good days and bad. So what do you think, does that sound alright to you too?

Little: …Pwomise?

CG: With all my heart.

Little: You gonna change too? Get ol’?

CG: Like Bunny? Yes, I think so. I hope as much, at least! To be lucky enough to know that kind of love, I’m not sure I can think of anything better.

Little: You gets all wrinkles?

CG: I like to imagine I’ll be able to pull them off nicely.

Little: Hair all silly?

CG: Of a kind, I suppose. Who can actually say, though? And isn’t that exciting to think about?

Little: giggles Fink you look funny!

CG: Well, I suppose looks aren’t everything. winks

Little: …But you still gonna call me your baby?

CG: Every day that you want me to.

Little: …Even if I not always little?

CG: It’s not something you ever truly lose. Not if you care and keep it close, hold it tight. And you know what? You taught me that. And remind me of it every day we’re together. Make sure I never forget.

Little: So… everyfing changes?

CG: Most things do, yes. But not everything, not always. Not love. Not us. kisses forehead

Little: …An’ dat not always mean goodbye?

CG: Exactly. Sometimes change, it’s the love you can see on the surface. With your eyes! But the evidence of it’s all around, it’s deeper than that.

Little: Like Bunny’s floppy ear?

CG: Yeah, you’ve got it. And what it’s worth, I think that looks pretty good on him too.

Little: hugs tight He not broken. Jus’… loved lots.

CG: Very much so. Like you are!

Little: …Maybe floppy ears what love looks like?

CG: That’s a beautiful way of looking at it. Come to think of it, your ears are looking a little floppy right about now! You wouldn’t happen to be part bunny by any chance, are you? Or just all loved?

Little: snuggles …Can we stay dis way for lil’ bit?

CG: Of course, for as long as you’d like. As long as this moment lasts. Then we’ll go ahead and meet the next one together. As it always should be. ♡

[littlespacefriends]

Distracted

CG: Sweetheart, you were supposed to be getting into your pajamas! What is it you’re doing in here?

Little: M’s busy.

CG: I’m not sure about that, but it certainly looks like you’re focused and very deeply concentrated.

Little: Am too! Block work.

CG: Based on that tower, I’d say you may be onto something important after all. I stand corrected!

Little: Is super impawtant.

CG: More important than pajamas? You never did answer my first question. Do you remember what I asked you to come up here for in the first place?

Little: Mhm.

CG: Then is this maybe the best thing we should be doing, do you think? You’re still going to be to needing them, after all. Maybe a helping hand as well, if this is any indicator of the evening ahead!

Little: After dis.

CG: After you finish your tower? Are you sure you mean that?

Little: Mhm.

CG: Alright, then why exactly do you keep looking at that toy dinosaur over there?

Little: Huh?

CG: Come on, don’t give me that. You know the one I mean. Just there, your eyes keep wandering over to it. I’m not that blind, you know! Or old, for that matter.

Little: Oh.

CG: Yeah, there we go.

Little: Ohhh.

CG: Wait, where are you going? What happened to your very important block work?

Little: Dino!

CG: I see. Fair point, should’ve seen it coming.

Little: Rawr.

CG: Sweetie, don’t you remember our deal? You were just getting ready to put your pajamas on?

Little: F’got.

CG: Yeah, I noticed. Here, come on back over and I’ll get you situated. You can bring your friend too!

Little: Otay.

CG: That’s my baby. What a good job of listening!

Little: Oooo.

CG: Oh, no. What now?

Little: Sticker!

CG: And now you’re distracted again, is that it?

Little: Nuh-uh.

CG: Well, you were walking, then you seemed to suddenly stop. It’s very shiny, right? The sticker on the wall? Very pretty, and it caught your eye?

Little: ‘S a good sticker.

CG: I agree, I still think that’s a great spot for it too. If maybe one that works too well sometimes. Commands a bit too much attention. Sweetie?

Little: Hm?

CG: Pajamas now?

Little: Oh.

CG: Okay, here we are. One arm first. That’s it! Seemed like this wasn’t happening for a second.

Little: Ohhh.

CG: What? Not something else now, surely? What could possibly be that distracting you while you’re all tangled up in sleeves and such?

Little: Tiny string!

CG: Yes, I see it. Let’s just leave it alone, alright?

Little: But is tiny, wookit!

CG: Yes, very tiny. Just like you! And only slightly as troublesome when it gets to be near time for bed. kisses forehead

Little: Hehe.

CG: Okay, and second arm through. There, we’re all done! All cuddly, snuggly, and ready for sleeps.

Little: Huh.

CG: What, you didn’t notice you were all bundled up into your pajamas until just now?

Little: Wha’?

CG: chuckles It certainly looks like it from where I’m standing! You look just as adorable as always.

Little: But how do?

CG: Oh, how did the pajamas magically appear? I suppose that must be one of my many fantastical powers and abilities! You’re impressed, I can tell.

Little: giggles You do magic? You a wizard!

CG: Sure, definitely! That’s a logical conclusion to make. Nothing gets past my little darling! winks

Little: Da bestest wizard.

CG: Well, thank you very much for saying so. You know, I think you’re pretty great, too. Even if you do get distracted sometimes. That’s all part of the charm, though. And of how just much I love you.

Little: cuddles close Mm.

CG: Finally sleepy after all that excitement, then? All those distractions?

Little: Lil bit. yawns

CG: Well, they’ll all be waiting, and many others besides, in the morning. Just rest for now, okay?

Little: …But where dino go? No sleepies jus’ yet!

CG: Oh, baby. You’re going to drive me out of my dino-mind! ♡

[littlespacefriends]

Clue Hunt

CG: What’re you thinking about, little one? Or is it another of those really big and loud days today? The ones where you feel especially teeny-tiny?

Little: Dunno.

CG: You look like you’re worried about something, but the worry hasn’t quite reached the rest of you. So I wondered if it was feeling maybe more aware of everything all around you than you might like to be, than feels comfortable to you at the moment.

Little: squirms …Maybe lil’ bit.

CG: That’s okay. You remember what we do when it feels that way? Can you point to where exactly that ickiness is hiding? Where you feel it most?

Little: Tummy feel funny.

CG: Good to know! We’ve located the feeling, but do we know why the feeling feels this way, or how what we’re doing might be causing it, causing us to now feel so different and strange because of it?

Little: Is jus’ funny.

CG: A lot of times that can be our body’s way of telling us things our brains haven’t even realized yet! So really, rather than our tummy feeling sad, or mad, or scared, maybe we have to think really hard about ourselves and feel which of those we may be landing on. Maybe that we’ve been trying hard not to think about. Does that help you a bit?

Little: I fink… scawed.

CG: That’s very good noticing, baby. I’m proud of you! Now I know, as I’m sure you do, that means you’ve probably got something really heavy that’s on your mind right now, and we can unpack that too. But for now, rather than risk it becoming any bigger and harder on you, I think it’s worth for us to acknowledge how important it is that you paid attention to it, rather than just continuing to push it away. That’s how we help ourselves, how we keep from getting sick, and how others can then do the same. That’s what’s called “awareness!”

Little: An’ I jus’ gots ta listen?

CG: To what’s on the inside, yeah! The same way you would to what’s outside, what’s happening all around you. It’s complicated sometimes, but it’s basically the same idea. You’re just feeling, paying attention to yourself. So we’ve already figured out it’s scared you’re feeling. Again, we can determine why that might be later on, but sometimes, and I think you understand this, there isn’t necessarily a reason. Sometimes feelings just are, so the best thing we can do is try solving for what they need, how we can understand them, and try to still take care of ourselves along the way! Got any ideas?

Little: hugs stuffie

CG: Hey, it’s okay if you’re not sure for now. This is tough, particularly when you’re not feeling your best. But that’s why we do it together, and we can keep looking however long as it takes. I promise!

Little: Mm…

CG: What is it, lovely?

Little: My chest feels squishy.

CG: Can you think of anything that might be able to help with that here and now, in this moment?

Little: …Wanna be held.

CG: Then I think awareness has pointed you in a very meaningful direction, and being held is most certainly something that can be arranged! Here, I’m coming over to you, don’t worry.

Little: climbs into lap So I did it?

CG: Yeah! You took notice of your tummy, found the scared feeling that was inside, figured what you could do to help it along, and how someone else around could help give you what you needed as well. I’d say you went above and beyond, really!

Little: giggles I did it!

CG: You sure did, baby. I’m so impressed!

Little: I fink I’s gettin’ good at it.

CG: Absolutely! But what changed, if I might ask? What helped make it make more sense for you?

Little: I din’t say tummy funny an’ stop. I keep lookin’ till I finded it! bounces

CG: That’s right, you did wonderfully! And where did you look, how did you think to go from there?

Little: I finded scawed. An’ den I ask for holdies!

CG: That’s a great deal of awareness, but I’m at least happy to hear it’s all seemed to work out in the end for you!

Little: It kinda hard.

CG: Yeah, it can be. Feelings can change, grow big or small without us realizing right away, and before we know it, it’s like we can’t even catch up and carry them with our own two hands! But no matter how hard it might feel, how we approach them, what we do, it always starts in the same place. You want to know where that place is?

Little: Wha’?

CG: One where we just notice and start with one little thing at a time. That’s where all the very best stuff comes from, wouldn’t you agree? boops

Little: My tummy not funny no more!

CG: Because you knew what was wrong and how to ask for help. What a brilliant baby you are!

Little: snuggles Is kinda like findin’ da clues.

CG: That’s a wonderful way to think about it. And I guess that means it’s a good thing we were able find clues enough to crack this case together! ♡

[littlespacefriends]

Only This Moment

Little: M’awake!

CG: I certainly see that. Good morning, little one!

Little: Noooo.

CG: No? Is it not a good morning, then?

Little: Not mornin’.

CG: I mean, it’s maybe mid-to-late morning, but it’s definitely still morning! What else could it be?

Little: Jus’ now.

CG: Oh, I see. Is that right?

Little: Mhm.

CG: I think I understand now. If I still get it wrong, though, would you mind please letting me know?

Little: Up!

CG: You think you can use your magical words?

Little: Pwease?

CG: Very good. Okay, I’ve got you! scoops up

Little: snuggles Now down?

CG: Already? And weren’t you just sleeping, too? You’ve certainly been high, low, and all over the place morning, haven’t you? Or, sorry, just now!

Little: Yep!

CG: Well, if you say so. Here we go, down again!

Little: takes two tiny steps Now back up?

CG: Okay, I think I might be confused again. Why the back-and-forth, baby? Is there a reason for it?

Little: Need it.

CG: You do, do you?

Little: Mhm.

CG: I don’t suppose there’s much room for me to argue with that, then. You’re lucky that I’m strong, with such big muscles perfect for baby-carrying!

Little: gasps

CG: What is it? What’s wrong?

Little: Dere’s Bunbun!

CG: Oh, yeah. There he is, just over there. You’re going to scare the living daylights out of me one of these days, you know that?

Little: Bunbun was hidin’!

CG: I don’t know, he might’ve been having a rest also. Maybe he was watching you have fun going up and down, up and down! You feeling tired out after all that yet? And so early in the day, no less?

Little: M’hungry.

CG: That works too! I can imagine you worked up quite the rumbly tummy, or at least one of us did. kisses forehead So what’re you in the mood for?

Little: Cweckers. An’ appoo!

CG: Crackers and an apple too, coming up! Why don’t you take Bunbun and follow to the kitchen?

Little: Maybe…

CG: Something else? You seem a bit puzzled now.

Little: …

CG: Did it slip your mind? You forgot what it was?

Little: nods

CG: That’s no trouble! If it happens to come back to you later on, you can let me know. We can even write it down to help ourselves out, make sure our brains don’t end up forgetting about it over again?

Little: points Dat!

CG: Wait, what am I looking for? It’s a big kitchen, baby. Can you at least tell me if I’m warm or cold?

Little: …Jus’ dat.

CG: chuckles Very helpful. Why don’t you focus on your crackers for now, while I cut up some of this apple into slices for you? That sound good?

Little: But I aww done!

CG: Already? It looks to me you’ve only had some small nibbles, though. I thought you said you were hungry! Are they no good after all, the crackers?

Little: shrugs

CG: Alright, but only if you’re sure!

Little: takes another cracker

CG: Oh, baby. You’re making my head spin!

Little: giggles Cweckers is back.

CG: Back again, huh? Once again, your logic is sound, but you’re a little all over the place this morning, aren’t you? More so than usual, even?

Little: Yep!

CG: Things must change fast for you when you’re this small. First you wanted up. Then down. Then up again. Then you were hungry. Then you were done. Then you wanted crackers again. I don’t suppose you might be able to give me a hint of what might be coming next, so I can be ready?

Little: bounces M’little.

CG: Don’t I know it! That’s certainly true, and you know? Maybe what that means is living life a little more moment to moment, learning to appreciate the beauty, the simplicity, of it all, each moment, in full. See, I told you that I’d get there in the end!

Little: Dis moment cweckers.

CG: Even just for baby bites?

Little: Mhm. ‘An dis moment Bunbun!

CG: Of course! Always right here with us, we can’t forget about Bunbun. I’m following, don’t worry!

Little: leans ‘An dis moment cuddles.

CG: I believe this may be my very favorite one yet. I’m not sure I want it to end, but maybe it’s okay, because moments they come and come, and they can come back too. But maybe it’s okay, then, to not worry about the next one. What do you think?

Little: Dunno. Jus’ now.

CG: I think you’ve got it, yeah! Whether it’s this, or any other, I’m always going to be grateful for all of the moments we spend together too, you and me. ♡

[littlespacefriends]

Small Things Count

Little: Y’not happy wif me?

CG: Huh? Where are you getting that idea from, sweetheart? Why would I be unhappy with you?

Little: ‘Cause I did wrong!

CG: We’ve been really busy today, the both of us. Did something happen at some point earlier on, and you’ve been keeping it to yourself until now?

Little: Eberyfing.

CG: So it’s a bit of a muddle for you, then. I think I get it, but that’s definitely a lot of things. Let’s try to see if we can make it all feel smaller, figure out what happened. You up for it together, you and I?

Little: I was s’posed t’color da picture nice. I went outside da lines. I was s’posed t’clean up my toys. I forgotted. I was s’posed t’be good. I wasn’t da bestest!

CG: I see, that’s a whole lot! I’m grateful you were honest and able to get that off your chest, even if it sounds like it was really stressful for you. Let me ask, through all of that, were you still trying your best to do the very best you can do?

Little: Mmhm… but my best wasn’t perfect.

CG: Baby, have I ever made you feel like I expect you to be perfect all the time? I don’t believe that anybody could ask or realistically demand that from another person, let alone people who love and care for each other as much as I do for you.

Little: But aren’t I s’posed to be?

CG: No, sweetheart. It’s nice when we do good or things work out well, but what’s more important than that, always, is how we approach them. The best I ever expect and hope for from you is that you’ll be honest, kind, and ask for help when you need it. That means how you approach, how you show up in life, is always as the best you can be.

Little: Dat’s all?

CG: Yep, exactly. You know what I expected from you today? That you’d be little, be safe, and have fun. That’s all! Doesn’t sound too hard, right? And even by what you told me, you still managed to do just that. So I’m proud of you! kisses forehead

Little: You not mad? But I messed up!

CG: You were little when you messed up, weren’t you? People, humans, we make mistakes all the time! And when you’re little, that can happen even more because you’re allowing yourself to be more open, vulnerable to the idea of not being perfect at everything all the time! That’s how it should be, right? That’s why babies need help, someone who can take care and watch out for them?

Little: …yeah.

CG: So really, you went beyond the expectations, then, because you realized, you recognized about cleaning and coloring and you want to do better. Next time, maybe you will! Either way, that same knowledge and awareness builds and it grows. It doesn’t go away, it has purpose. Just like you do!

Little: pouts No fair.

CG: Why not? Doesn’t it make things feel better, less tough on you?

Little: ‘Cause dere’s s’posed t’be more rules!

CG: There are, though! They just might not be the ones it sounds to me like your brain’s imagining. The ones that’re real, that exist, might be a little gentler, a little simpler, but maybe feel scarier to you because of that. How about if we talk through them, maybe that’ll help wrap our brains around them a little better. Does that sound good to you?

Little: Otay.

CG: Well, to start, we should tell the truth, ask for help when we need it, be kind, gentle, and caring towards others, but also ourselves. That goes for when we make mistakes and get things wrong. It means that even when they happen, we’ll be okay.

Little: Nuh-uh!

CG: chuckles I’m not making that up, it’s true! I promise you, it’s literally one of the rules. Honest!

Little: Nooooo! sulks Worst rule ever.

CG: What makes you say that, though? I happen to think it’s one of the very best. It’s kind, and it teaches us to be kind. I don’t think there’s much of anything that’s better than that!

Little: But makes no sense!

CG: Well, can I tell you something? Something I actually had to learn for myself a long time ago? If you try never making mistakes, you spend all your time scared about everyone and everything. I’m not scared like that anymore, but I don’t want you ever feeling that way, not for any longer than you need to, not a second too much. That’s one of the things that goes into little space! We try, we put that energy out there, and then take it back in for ourselves all over again. It makes us less scared, doesn’t it? And that makes us more ourselves.

Little: Even if I mess up lots?

CG: Of course, especially then. That’ll be when you do the most learning, but also when you’ll need the most love. Both of which I can provide!

Little: wiggles So… don’t need ta be da bestest?

CG: Nope! I don’t need, expect, or even actually want that from you. Not all the time, at least. It’s way too much pressure! I want to learn, to grow, to discover, and to be with you. The you here in front of me, right now. Just my baby. That’s all!

Little: scoots closer Oh.

CG: Yeah? Does that make it easier to wrap your little head around?

Little: An’ you won’t be mad if I mess it up?

CG: I hate to say it, baby, but you will. We all do! The best we can do is just plan for that, and go into it together. Because that’s how we make it right, in the end, isn’t it? Doing it together.

Little: So… I did good today? By just bein’ little?

CG: No, you did it by just being you. And that’s enough. That’s always going to be enough. For today, tomorrow, the day after, and all the days to come. Even ones a gazillion years into the future!

Little: giggles Fank you not bein’ mad.

CG: No, my love. Thank you, for being brave. But more even than that, thank you for being yourself. For trusting me with that. And know I’ll never take it, or you, for granted. ♡

[littlespacefriends]

I Can Help

Little: tugs on sleeve

CG: Hey, what’s up? You need something, baby?

Little: Whassat my job?

CG: Huh? What do you mean, your job?

Little: Eberybody got jobs!

CG: Oh, they do? Is that right?

Little: Uh-huh! Big peoples go works. Puppies do barks. Kitties do naps.

CG: That might be true, but I think you’re a little confused over the difference between something you do and something that’s actually your job.

Little: So whassat my job?

CG: Well, what do you think your job is? Maybe we can piece the answer together all by ourselves!

Little: fidgets …bein’ tiny?

CG: It sounds like that’s a pretty good possibility. Is there anything else, though, besides just that?

Little: An’ cuddles?

CG: Of course, we can’t forget about those. And snuggles! Maybe some nuzzles, too, if you’d like.

Little: But not important!

CG: No? Who told you that’s the way it is, then? Why shouldn’t that stuff be important?

Little: Important jobs is helpin’ jobs.

CG: You’re worried that you don’t help anybody? Is that it, sweetheart?

Little: nods …lil bit.

CG: How come? What’s making you feel that way? You think you might be able to tell me more?

Little: ‘Cause when m’ little, I jus’ color an’ watch cartoons an’ get carried places. An’ sometimes I fink I don’t really do nuffin’.

CG: I don’t think that’s true at all, and besides, even if it was, don’t you still like those things? Don’t they make you feel happy?

Little: shrugs

CG: What about when you run up to show me something you’ve colored? How do I respond, what shape does my face make when I see it?

Little: Happy?

CG: Yes, very! What about when we’re curled up on the couch together after a long day of fun, or when you laugh your little head so hard, you make that silly snorting sound? What is it I do then?

Little: tiny giggle Den you laugh too.

CG: I do, because that’s how happy you make me! Your silly’s my silly. You get how it is that works?

Little: But dat still not helpin’!

CG: I certainly think it is. I find it to be very helpful indeed. Grownups need help like that, you know?

Little: Huh?

CG: When you’re little, you remind me of things it can sometimes be too easy to lose sight of. Little things, just like you, I can’t help but cherish with all my heart! And I owe every one of them to you. boops

Little: Like what?

CG: Well, like stickers, and how exciting they can be. They’re an important something, aren’t they?

Little: Mhm! Dey da most important. serious nod

CG: I agree, and I know that because of you, you showing me the way. Just like I know how nice it feels when somebody tells you how proud of you they are, how important it is to rest when you’re tired. You showed me that, taught it to me, and now I give it right back in return. It’s all a circle!

Little: An’ dat counts as helpin’?

CG: Yes, of course! It absolutely does, and, in fact, people helping people helping people, especially when there’s a lot of love there between them, is the most helpful one person can be for another.

Little: So… m’ job not chores?

CG: How about only sometimes, not always. I see what you’re trying to do, though. Sneaky! winks

Little: giggles

CG: Does that make you feel a bit better about it? That you already do much more than you realize?

Little: Mhm. I do help?

CG: You do. You do it by reminding how to rest, and slow down. How to trust other people, how wonderful it is when they give that trust back to you. I don’t just take care of you, I remember how to take care of myself, take care of everyone else, because of you. You show be how to be my best.

Little: By bein’ a tiny bean? An’ wif cuddles too?

CG: Yes, all of that’s good, great! But even more than any of it, you show what happiness actually looks like, that it’s real. Even if it may look a little different sometimes than you might expect, it still exists, and that’s everything. It means so much!

Little: Remindin’ peoples ‘bout happy stuffs?

CG: I think that’s an important job to have indeed. You might be able to get onboard with it, after all?

Little: Awwright, I can do it! beams proudly

CG: I know you can, sweetheart. You already do, and you know, it’s looking to me you might even have enough going on around here right now to prove it. Can you tell me what all this is about?

Little: I start! holds up scribbly coloring page See?

CG: It’s a very pretty picture, but what’s it of?

Little: My job, make peoples smile! bounces

CG: Then it seems to me it’s working perfectly. I love you so much, my little precious. Don’t ever change, okay? You think you can do that for me?

Little: squeaks happily I always be your baby! ♡

[littlespacefriends]

Hold Tight

CG: Hey, baby! What’s with Mister Bunbun there? You’re squeezing him awfully tight, are you afraid he might up and disappear on you or something?

Little: Wook all squishy-faced. No squishy!

CG: chuckles It might end up a nasty headache that sticks around for the poor guy, at this rate.

Little: pouts …maybe lil squishy.

CG: Okay, real talk time. I think the hurt might be going on less with Bunny, and more so with you right now. You wanna maybe try telling me why?

Little: ‘Cause m’head’s full too.

CG: Full of what, sweetheart? Thoughts, feelings?

Little: Jus’ stuffs.

CG: All kinds? Maybe too much for all at once?

Little: shakes head Big people stuffs. An’ finkin’.

CG: Oh, I see. And that must be making it really hard for you to slip all the way. I’m sure you must want too pretty desperately right about now, huh?

Little: Uh-huh. Lots an’ lots an’ lots!

CG: That sounds to me like more than any little one like you should be expected to carry all by themselves. Perhaps you could use a helping hand? Besides Mister Bunbun’s, although I’m certain he’s trying his very best help as he can.

Little: hugs Bunny tighter Keep tryin’ hold eberyfing.

CG: I’m sure you’re doing your best at it too, the very best that you can. But what I’m saying, little lovely, is that it doesn’t have to be that way, not ever again. You’re not alone, do you understand?

Little: whines But if I don’t hold, it might fall!

CG: Hey, come here. I know it’s upsetting, but it’s all going to be alright. I’ve got you, you’re safe, and everything’s going to be just fine. I promise.

Little: climbs into lap

CG: There, that’s a little bit better, isn’t it? kisses forehead Now, do you mind if I tell you a secret? One you might not’ve heard, just between us?

Little: Otay.

CG: Do you want to know what’s so special about when you’re with me? When you’re small like this?

Little: Wha’?

CG: You don’t have to hold anything. Not one bit.

Little: …nuffin’?

CG: That’s right! I don’t care if it’s chores, or any other grownup responsibilities. This is your time to be safe, secure, and small. It’s yours to be just as you want to be, and for as long as you want to be it. I wouldn’t want for anybody else taking that from you, not even yourself! All that other stuff, it can wait until later. I promise it’ll be there for you!

Little: But… squirms Who holds it?

CG: I do! At least for a little while at a time. That’s part of my job, you know? It’s in the description.

Little: Dat sounds heavy!

CG: It can be, but don’t you know I’m really, really strong? Just look! flexes muscles

Little: Den not too heavy?

CG: No, don’t worry. It’s not like it’s everything all at once. And besides, even then, it’s something I want to carry, which makes it a much easier load.

Little: Why?

CG: So you don’t have to. Like I said, it’s my job, and I think it’s the bestest job in the whole world!

Little: goes quiet Oh…

CG: You know what I believe the real issue here is, baby? You’ve been pushing to carry two different worlds and all the worries that come with them at once! And that’s just not possible, not for anyone.

Little: I can’t do it?

CG: No, nobody can. Nor should they!

Little: Oh…

CG: Can I ask, you’re still holding Mister Bunbun really hard, aren’t you? Just like you were before?

Little: Mhmm. looks down …real hard.

CG: I shouldn’t have joked that he’d disappear on you earlier, I’m sorry about that. That’s not gonna happen, not ever, and I believe we should put it to the test to prove it to you. Why don’t you hold my hand and we can loosen up our grip on him a bit?

Little: slowly relaxes hands Bunny stayed!

CG: He did, didn’t he? You think maybe we can try a little bit more?

Little: loosens grip even more Still here! Huh.

CG: Yeah, it has to make you wonder if other things might work the same way, doesn’t it?

Little: Worries do dat?

CG: You read my mind! Sometimes they do, and everything works out nicely and neatly.

Little: An’ da ones dat don’t?

CG: Well, those’ll be the ones I hold, remember? To keep special and safe, because I love you! It’s what I’m made and meant to do. boops

Little: sniffles Oh…

CG: Aw, baby. It’s gonna be okay.

Little: M’sorry.

CG: No, you’ve got nothing to be sorry about. All of this is hard, isn’t it? It can take a lot out of you!

Little: nods

CG: You know what you can do for me? All I want is one thing from you right now, if you think you can manage it. Would you like to hear what it is?

Little: Wha’?

CG: You’re going to stay here and lay with me in my arms like this. Do you think you can do that?

Little: But I gotta…

CG: No, you don’t.

Little: But…

CG: Nope! blows raspberry

Little: giggles

CG: Just be little. Nothing more, nothing less. It’s little time for right now, and that’s all there is to it!

Little: Dat’s all?

CG: Mhm. And look at that, you’re already doing such a great job of it too! I’m really proud of you.

Little: M’not holdin’ anyfing.

CG: I know, sweetheart. It feels nice, doesn’t it? A bit lighter, easier on those cuddly arms of yours?

Little: …I stay?

CG: Yeah, of course. You can stay for as long as you need to. Forever, even! You did a really good job letting go today, even if it was just a little bit.

Little: snuggles closer Fank you for holdin’. I jus’ hold you. ♡

[littlespacefriends]

Watching Bubbles

Little: …

CG: Hey, sweetheart. Listen, I know it’s supposed to be quiet time, but that doesn’t mean you’re not allowed to talk to anyone at all, especially if you’ve got something important to say. Do you think you might have something on your mind like that?

Little: How comes quiet time s’posed ta be quiet?

CG: I guess I’m not sure what you mean by that, you think you can explain it to me a bit more?

Little: ‘Cause when I twy, my head gets all noisy. An’ den I fink about stuff. An’ den I fink about finkin’ about stuff!

CG: I see. Well, that does sound complicated, but you should know that it’s actually very normal. It happens to people all the time, even grownups!

Little: So I doin’ it wrong?

CG: No, I just mean that quiet time’s important at any age, no matter what you might call it. There’s no way to do it right or wrong, as long as you’re making the basic principle of it work in the best way it can for you. That’s all that really matters!

Little: But my bwain keeps wigglin’.

CG: Well, that’s only because the thoughts are in there still! They’re up and awake, even when your mouth is closed and you’re not moving your body all over the place. It’s tricky to keep what’s in your head from moving, but again, there’s nothing bad about that. It’s just we something to pay attention to and notice when it happens.

Little: Jus’… noticin’?

CG: That’s right! Then we just let them float along by us while we stay put and keep still, being nice and calm. That doesn’t sound too hard, does it?

Little: Dey like bubbles?

CG: Yeah, that’s a really great way to think about them! You had a ton of fun chasing and popping those bubbles in the yard, didn’t you? Thoughts may not pop in precisely the same way, but they definitely float about through the air, only these ones you don’t even have to chase. You can just watch them go by! Is that making sense to you?

Little: So if I fink, “I wants cookies,” dat’s a bubble?

CG: Yep! And, if I might say so, not an unexpected one either. boops

Little: An’ if I fink, “I wonder where stuffies go when dey fall off da bed?”

CG: Same thing, really. And we should remember, in that case, they always find our way back to us again, don’t they?

Little: An’ if I fink, “Maybe penguins would like pancakes?”

CG: Why, I think that might be my favorite bubble of yours yet. Has anybody told you lately just how adorable you are?

Little: giggles So quiet time no makin’ bubbles stop?

CG: Nope, we’re just watching them. That’s it! Well, there actually is one thing you’re forgetting about. It’s the most important piece of the puzzle, in this case!

Little: Wha’ dat?

CG: You, of course! You’re the one that’s watching them. They’re your thoughts, your bubbles!

Little: I dun get it.

CG: That’s alright, I know how complicated this all must seem for you. I guess, how about you try to imagine you’re sitting beside a small stream. Like the one we visited, remember? With the froggies?

Little: Mhm! Hop hop!

CG: Yeah, I thought you might. But can you think back what the leaves were doing that day? How they were drifting from the trees to land on the water like they were, floating nice and graceful?

Little: nods Pretty.

CG: I agree. But they’d come and go too, wouldn’t they? Kind of like the thoughts do in your head?

Little: Oooo.

CG: And like we said, you don’t have to chase or catch, you don’t have to do anything with them. You can just watch, like we did!

Little: I don’t gotta yell at dem?

CG: laughs softly No, and I’m not sure why you’d want to, but you definitely don’t have to that. You can sit and breathe and that’s how you find quiet. Both inside and out!

Little: An’ if my head gets noisy again?

CG: You just notice it and stop until the noise gets along its way. It always does, sooner or later. I can promise you that.

Little: Dat sounds too easy.

CG: Sometimes, not always.

Little: Why not?

CG: Remember before, when I told you this was something that grownups struggle with as well? People think they have to grab as many thoughts as they possibly can, every one that passes them by, and lots of them just get used to it. They think there’s no other way, and it can make them sick.

Little: I do dat.

CG: I know, but you’re not sick. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with you. And besides, isn’t that why we work on quiet time? To get better when the thoughts get to be too much for us to handle?

Little: Sometimes I hold dem real tight.

CG: gently squeezes hand But we’re learning. We know we don’t always have to do that, do we? That there can be other ways? Better ways?

Little: ‘Cause dey makes bad thoughts go away?

CG: No, but they teach us that we don’t have to hold onto them all the time. That we can let go.

Little: So da leaves keep floatin’? An da bubbles keep bubblin’?

CG: And no matter what, you’ll be okay as you are. That’s the whole point of it.

Little: Dat’s pretty too.

CG: Just like those leaves on the water were?

Little: Mhm. yawns Bein’ like little quiet time too?

CG: That’s a good question. I guess it can be, at least sometimes. It’s definitely something that can make quiet time easier, help us to remember we don’t have to carry everything all by ourselves. We can ask the people who love us for help!

Little: So I don’t gotta be big for a lil’ while?

CG: No, baby. We’ll take it at your pace, like we always do. But for now, how about we just be?

Little: Jus’ be wif you?

CG: Of course, always.

Little: snuggles closer Dat’s my fav’rite kind.

CG: kisses forehead Mine too, sweetheart. ♡

[littlespacefriends]

Leave Room

Little: M’not gonna like it!

CG: But baby, you haven’t even heard what it is! Aren’t you at least a little curious?

Little: shakes head Don’ matter.

CG: And there’s no way that I can convince you to even give it a chance? That’s the matter closed?

Little: Uh-huh.

CG: Without even knowing just what it is you’re actually deciding about? I suppose, if you’re sure.

Little: Well… squirms

CG: That might’ve changed your mind, huh? What if it’s a new coloring book, or something like that?

Little: Dat way different! Colorin’ books is nice.

CG: But doesn’t knowing still make a difference? Isn’t learning about new things how you find out you even like coloring books in the first place?

Little: Maaaaaybe.

CG: chuckles It seems to me the trick is to keep an open mind to new things and experiences. We never know which could be best, or new favorites, until we discover them for ourselves, now, do we?

Little: I dunno ‘bout dat.

CG: How about we start small, then, and just think about doing something new before we decide one way or the other? No harm in that!

Little: But what if it sounds super-duper silly?

CG: It might, or it could turn out to actually be super-duper fun! But regardless of how it sounds or feels, there’s only one way to find out for sure, and we only have to dip a little baby toe to know for ourselves. Just like we’re going swimming!

Little: Can I practice?

CG: Sure, and I’ll be here to help if you need it.

Little: I open mind!

CG: That’s my cute baby! I’m so proud of you.

Little: So wha’ da thing?

CG: Well, it’s something called an “origami kit.” See, it’s right here! Take a look. slides over box

Little: A what-a-what?

CG: laughs It’s paper folding, baby. Think of it like a new kind of arts and crafts! See, you can make all sorts of things if you follow the instructions.

Little: pouts Dat sounds borin’.

CG: Oh?

Little: …Oooooh. Right. Gotta open mind first!

CG: nods That’s very good! You’ve got it, baby.

Little: Maybe it not borin’. Maybe weird-good!

CG: You know, I can’t say I’ve ever thought about it like that before, but sure, that’s a possibility! And weird-good still means good, right? It’s in the name, and everything! You’re very smart. pats

Little: opens up box Oooh!

CG: Yeah, what do you think? It’s cool, right?

Little: hugs shiny gold paper Is pretty!

CG: rustles hair See, I knew that you’d like it. And all we had to do was give it a chance. Was that so tough?

Little: Open mind very shiny!

CG: I think that just might be the paper, but you know, I really couldn’t have said it better myself either way. This is going to be so much fun! ♡

[littlespacefriends]

There Is No Race

Little: whines

CG: Oh, dear! Somebody’s certainly sounding upset in here. What’s the matter, sweetheart?

Little: I’s not good at bein’ wittle…

CG: What? I don’t think that’s true, not at all! Was there something that happened to make you feel like this, little love?

Little: ‘Cause dem odder littles.

CG: Other littles? Were they not nice to you?

Little: shakes head Dey’s jus’ better…

CG: At what, though? Anything in particular, or is it just at being little in general?

Little: Dey talks cuter. Dey color prettier. Dey gots lotsa stuffies. Deys knows bein’ tiny all da time!

CG: I see. Well, let me ask, who was it that told or convinced there was a test for this sort? For being little? Did anyone? Any of them, the other littles?

Little: A test?

CG: Yeah, a grade. Like you might get at school.

Little: shrugs I dun has one.

CG: Neither do I, and I’m willing to bet that those other littles and the good folks who take care of them don’t have one either. And I think that might just be because there isn’t one. It doesn’t exist!

Little: squirms Dunno…

CG: Here, let’s try thinking about it another way. When you color, and you have all your supplies all spread out, you have tons of fun, don’t you? It’s one of your most favorite things to do, isn’t it?

Little: I get my colors an’ make da pictures!

CG: Yep, that’s true! What about when you cuddle Bunny? He’s your best friend and you love to hold him close and give him cuddles? Isn’t that right?

Little: Uh-huh! Bunbun bestest cuddle buddy.

CG: And when you’re watching your shows, those fun cartoons, and you roll around and laugh your little head off at all the silly parts? That’s another thing you just love doing, huh?

Little: Hehehe, tummy get big giggles! bounces

CG: chuckles Don’t I know it! But you see how, if there are no rules to any of that, and that’s your favorite little stuff, there’s no real way to be doing any of it wrong? Doesn’t it then follow you must be doing it exactly right? Right for you, at least?

Little: But wha’ I dun sound as baby?

CG: You sound like you! Just as you are, at your most comfortable and at peace. That’s the most yourself you can be, and the only thing that ever truly matters. You understand, baby? It’s enough. You’re enough.

Little: Even if I mess up da words aww funny?

CG: Even then. You might just have to help me follow along sometimes to understand, but I’m right there with you. I always will be.

Little: Even if I not tiny every day?

CG: Whether you are or not, big or small, me taking care of you, loving you like this, is never going to change. It might look a little differently depending, but we do a good job, don’t we?

Little: But wha’ if littles got more toys?

CG: You wish you had more toys, huh?

Little: pouts

CG: pulls out new stuffie from behind back Well, I had this special buddy here who was looking for a home. You think you can help out with that one?

Little: gasps YAYAY! Tank you!

CG: You’re welcome. You’ve been very good lately, I thought you could use a new friend to play with. Guess I picked the right time to bring him home!

Little: Mhm! cuddles So… I not losin’?

CG: Oh, sweetheart. It’s not a race, none of this is. In fact, it’s supposed to be the very opposite one. It’s supposed to quiet your mind and soothe your heart, bring it calm. There’s no right or wrong way to go about doing that. Just the best one for you!

Little: No race?

CG: That’s right, none. No winners, no losers, and nothing whatsoever for you to worry yourself over from anybody else at all. Whatever they’re doing, this, right here, is yours. It’s ours. And I think that makes it pretty perfect just as is, don’t you agree?

Little: …Dat way easier.

CG: Well, maybe not always. Most of the time, at least. chuckles But still, it’s definitely better. And that, too, makes it enough for us. kisses forehead

Little: giggles I fink Bunny was worried too!

CG: Oh, really? Was Bunny also comparing themselves to others? Maybe to your new friend here? Or was it to other bunnies, perhaps?

Little: Mhm! He finked dey had fluffier tails!

CG: I can imagine that being very concerning for him. But do you think you might be able to pass on a message, just from me to him? I’d be very grateful to try and help to left his spirits as well!

Little: Otay!

CG: You can tell Bunny he’s already a very good bunny, the best in the whole wide world, just the way he is. He’s safe and loved right here with his family, and family’s forever, no matter what. Can you let him know, just so he understands it too?

Little: whispers Bunny say make happy!

CG: That’s a relief! But what about you, though? What do you say? Make you happy too?

Little: thinks …Maybe I’s already a good little.

CG: I think you are. And more to the point, you’re my good little. I love you very, very much. ♡