There is actually sleep at kids’ slumber party

Olivia had a little slumber party again. Those were a big part of my youth, so I want to be able to give this to her.

It’s actually worked out well for everyone, because it makes her happy, and she’s motivated to be on good behavior for the weeks leading up to the event. It’s always contingent upon good behavior.

This time, she had three guests. Last time, she had six friends, and it was a nightmare for me because the kids were up ALL NIGHT. Seriously.

They only slept from 12 – 4 a.m., and naturally, I had to ask them a dozen times to GO TO SLEEP. The floors and walls are really thin so their footsteps and giggling kept me up. Somehow, my husband slept through it.

I was reluctant to sacrifice sleep again, but I really want her to have these, so I suggested a smaller party. I was still nervous, but in the end, it went over so well! It was perfect!

Nine is a great age, and four girls is a good number. I can totally do this again.

On the afternoon they arrived, they gossiped, looked at their tech devices together, played board games, and fooled around with stuffed animals. They are so easy. I love this.

It’s interesting to observe them at this in-between stage of childhood and teenagerhood. They’re a little independent, but a little not.

At night, they insisted on all sleeping together like a little nest. The bedding was arranged thusly: three people would be in one area of the living room. One person would be on the sofa in the other area of the living room at a massive distance of 12 feet away. Because nobody wanted to be the odd girl out, two girls shared one twin bed. Also, one nightlight was not enough.

How age changes a person. I know I’d have been all over the “far away” sofa and loving the darkness.

I cannot believe they quieted down at 11 p.m. as I requested. I actually fell asleep and slept THROUGH THE NIGHT. Where am I? Who are these kids?

In the morning, we had a scavenger hunt around the neighborhood in which everyone won the same prize (a microfiber hair towel, since they’re into preening), though the winning pair got their choice of colors first.

We spent the balance of the day at the beach. I can’t say this enough: I love age nine.

They do what I ask, so they all bus their dishes and line up to hang up their towels and swim suits. It’s amazing.

It’s also really fun to just sit and talk to the girls. They’re sweet and funny. I hope I’m not cramping their style. Yet?