Food For Thought

We have a bedtime routine that rarely changes. We do baths, books, a little playtime, and then off to bed. The goal is for everyone to lay down and go right to sleep. The reality is that Bigweld always needs something. He even gets out of bed and flips the light on a few times each night. Herbie would just like a bit of darkness and quiet. The routine usually involves at least two parental visits to the boys' room. Last night, Bigweld gutted one of his stuffed animals and then cried when he couldn't snuggle it.
By the time 7:30 rolls around, I am tired- physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I need bedtime to be smooth and peaceful. I don't have the patience for a singing bear that won't sing, a toy car that needs a tire, or a cold frog.
Tonight, we told the boys that we wanted them to go to bed without crying, getting up, or screaming. And, THEY DID IT! They went to bed perfectly. Did they just need to be told what the expectations are for bedtime? Is life really that easy? Do we simply need to voice our wants/needs/expectations/concerns?
My husband assures me that life is never easy and that the boys are planning something big for tomorrow night when I have to put them to bed by myself...