First sleep over

You are 7 1/2 and you are determined to have a sleep over with your first childhood friend, Emily.

We tried this before, but you came home.  We all struggle with our first sleepover. Truthfully, Mommy struggled more than you, I just did not want to show it.  But excitedly you packed your Ariel suitcase and could not wait to go. Mommy was glad that is only across the street.  Before you left Daddy and I were given strict instructions that Rainbow, your rainbow colored unicorn pillow pet, was to have her rainbow hay which was in your room. You advised Daddy that Froggy Woggy needed to eat his flies.  We agreed to take care of them. We walked over to the Dunn's you stood on the porch assuring me and Daddy that you would stay this time.  Then you promised yourself . 

Daddy and I went to dinner and then to the book store. I looked for some gifts for you. Daddy and I have a bad habit when we miss you (like on your first day of kindergarten) that we go to the store and want to look for something just for you.  We came home and watched television. It was hard for me to sleep that night.  I hoped you would make the night, it was good for you and I both to go through this, but I missed you terribly. 

I knew, however, this would prepare us both for my upcoming mission trip to Honduras. We have not spent 24 hours apart and I will be away from you for 7 days.  Only for God, would I imagine such a thing at this point in our lives.  I never like going anywhere that you cannot come along. Again, I know this is part of growing, the stretching and I also know that God has a great plan for us both. 

Every noise or sound would wake me easily once I fell asleep. We received the message that you missed me and wanted to come home. Emily was trying to convince you to stay. Then you said, "I promised myself." and you decided to stay.  You did it! I did it! 

Not only did you enjoy your first sleep over with a dear friend you mastered something that is very important to do in living for Jesus- you were able to overcome your feelings. You chose to stick with a decision to do something when it was hard and when you did not feel like it. You did it anyway! I am proud of you.  You are such a joy and treasure. The house was too quiet when you were at Emily's but it made me really appreciate the beautiful noise that you add to our life. My precious little girl, I love you!