gone baby gone

My baby is gone away at her very first sleepover party.

So many things as a parent come up much sooner than expected.

She has only spent 2 maybe 3 nights away from me ever - and that was when Alex was born.

And so I wonder...

will she remember to brush her teeth ?

when all is quiet and the giggling has settled - will she remember her Father in Heaven and say her prayers?

will she behave?

will she be respectful?

will she eat enough?

will she ask for what she needs?

will she be modest and not rude when changing?

how many things will she forget to put back into her bag?

will she remember to brush her hair?

Will she change her clothes with out being asked?

Is she really ready to be out there in the big bad world with out me?

Have I taught her what she needs to know?

She told me that if she starts to miss me that she will hold it inside her head and not tell anyone.

Which gives me mixed feelings.

Just the night before I found my old game boy and gave it to her to play, only to discover that she is really good at it and would rather stay up all night and play than sleep.

I've always felt comfortable and excited to let her grow in confidence and experience her world. But now, I want to hold on - tight - forever.

One thing that makes me feel better - I know she is tough.

I am sure she is the only girl at the slumber party who brought a 6 foot long stuffed blue boa constrictor to sleep with.
And now, even as I am writing, she has called to have me bring her home.

I had hoped she would last through the night

but am glad that she misses us and that we are all at home together where we belong.