Neenee - Thanks that is a great tip ... thing is that dd does not yet "understand" us completely. She is only 21 months and although she is starting to chat up a storm, she does not get it all yet, kwim?? But I'll try!!

Bec - I was hoping you'll come and tell me again!! Thanks for the advice ... I'll try and establish a better routine. ATM we don't do stories in bed, it might be a good idea. And I'll try and get her to understand what bedtime means.
About the spanking ... I do agree with you. I told DH over the weekend that it feels sooooooo bad to let her go to sleep after I spanked her. (ok, spanking is such a bad word, I really only lightly pat her on the bottom ... it can't possibly hurt through the diper) But I believe in spanking, was brought up that way and feel that spanking should be done properly ... with love and an explanation. It's the last bit that I feel bad about, because dd can't fully understand yet. That is why I need these tips ... to help me get her to bed happy and fuzzy feeling, kwim??

Astrolady - My perserverance depends on my mood ... and if I felt anything like I did last night, Oh man, I just want to pop her back in the cot and let her stay there till she is like 16 or something.

It did go better last night, it only took about 30 minutes And she actually slept through!!