teen sleepover survival

Last night, DK hosted a sleepover with 4 of her friends to celebrate her 13th birthday.  The theme was Movie Night.  Han & I went to the store and purchased popcorn and movie candy, plus some pizzas they could make themselves. DK’s mom provided the cake and some Hello Kitty plates & cups.

The girls arrived around 2 pm and after some music-playing and chatting, it was presents time. After presents, the girls left for the very conveniently timed Clairemont Family day at our nearby park that included carnival rides, live music, and plenty of opportunity for checking out boys.

During this time, Han & I were sequestered in the studio having a marathon of “The Wire.”  When the girls returned, it ws reported that 2 of them had gotten sick from one of the rides (sad!)  But they cleaned up and were ready for the party to continue.  Han & I basically left them alone, coming out of the studio on occasion to check on them, especially if we heard more unusual shrieking than usual, loud banging, or were outright called to come out.

I have to say, it was tough for me to handle.  I was happy to be in the other room.  When one of us would go out, we’d come back and have to just take a deep breath.

We had ice cream cake at midnight (when it officially became her birthday), and then Han & I went to the bedroom to ride out the rest of the night.  He still checked on them throughout the night, finally going to sleep around 3 am when they had ultimately tired out – after drama, crying, laughing, texting, popcorn & candy-eating and movie-watching.

This morning, Han & I (Han mostly) made blueberry pancakes & bacon.  Then, we headed back to the room to let them get themselves ready for their folks to get them.  At one point, I came out and there was a candy trail from our back door to DK’s room, alternating between mini-candy bars and red vines.  Then, one of the girls asked if I wanted a hug. A bit much to take, but then they cleaned up really well and their parents came to get them one by one.

Overall, DK said she had a good time, and she said she didn’t think she would feel anything but that actually, 13 does feel different.  Indeed.