First Sleepover

You would think that when you finally decide to let your kids spend the night away from you (or the grandparents who don't really count because they are just an extension of you, right?), you would pick close friends who have kids around the same age. Given that I never do anything the easy way, our boys' first sleepover is at a wildlife preserve 14 miles past the last town with no cell service...and with people we don't really know. Yikes.

I had initially said no way, no how, not happening. But over the course of the week, I talked to the camp leaders; I had Jake talk to the camp leaders; my mom even emailed people she knew within this organization; we talked about it ad nauseum at the dinner table, reiterating that they are a brother-team and need to look out for each other. And we all agreed that the boys would be fine. Green light, go.

So, last night I packed up sleeping bags, pillows, mess kits, toiletries, change of clothes, change of shoes, and one stuffed animal each. And this morning, I delivered them - with all their stuff - to my parents on my way to work and the Nonni delivered them to the camp. The boys were vibrating with excitement.

I'll report back on how it goes, but I think that, truly, the uncertainty made us ask and get answered all of our concerns. The boys feel as if their need (to go and participate) was accommodated and - best yet - Jake and I get to go on a date. I'll be having an extra beer to calm my mommy nerves.