Drop Off

We're in the midst of a drop-off playdate, our very first here. I have left the kids at others' houses in time of childcare need a few times (and much more rarely, vice versa), but this is the first time a child has come here for a pre-arranged, unchaperoned visit.

And it's odd.

The kids were exuberant getting off the bus and almost couldn't bare the time it took for their little school friend to get here. They cheerfully changed clothes while planning all the games they could play.

After a bit of a reluctant start as the friend settled in, the playdate is in full swing. The house is trashed--dolls out, fort built, rock band instruments abandoned, stuffed animals strewn about. But at least the frantic exuberance of those first 15 minutes is over as they jumped off furniture, couldn't settle on a game, and ran from room to room trying everything. Still, though, "what do you want to play now?" erupts every now and then. I think they've changed games a dozen times.

And the twins are gracefully taking turns as the guest plays with one and then the other based on the game at hand. First dolls, then dancing, Star Wars and then fairies, race track and then music. We had talked about being a good host and they are performing the task perfectly. So far.

Lunch is soon, my main role in the whole thing. Macaroni and cheese. Meatballs and vegetables. Fruit and cookies. Otherwise, I'm standing here at the computer, present but not visible, listening but not interacting, making sure no one (and nothing) gets hurt while they have a good time. So far, so good.