Wilson24-15: Dayna's Birthday

Sunday, May 31, 2015

Dayna's Birthday - Part 2

It took us almost a month, but Dayna had her birthday party this weekend. We aren't big on having a party every year, but we thought ten years old was pretty special. We also aren't big on sleepovers. The combination of sleep deprivation, groups of girls, drama and hurt feelings and relationships is a big reason. We've long made the distinction between overnight friends and after school friends. Overnight friends are the ones who make our girls want to be better people and who strengthen their character and their faith. These are the girls we don't need to worry about the influence they may be having on each other.

Having said all of that, Dayna's sleepover this weekend was a HUGE success. The numbers were limited, and the activities and theme were all Dayna's (with a little guidance.)

She really wanted to have a campout in the backyard. Weather intervened, and we had a "camp-in" in the basement instead. Dayna really wanted to add a "Survivor" theme as well. Each girl was asked to bring a comfort item with them. Those items were quickly confiscated while the girls were off on a scavenger hunt at the neighborhood park.

When the girls returned, they found their items had been taken and could be redeemed with tickets collected throughout the night. Along with comfort, the girls had to earn water (bottles), food (granola bars) and fire (flashlights). They earned tickets with the scavenger hunt, a glow-necklace ring toss, an old-fashioned fishing game (magnetic pole with tickets attached to paper clips), and putting up the tent (without help or written instructions.) What fun!

The menu included hot dogs on the grill, s'mores over tea lights (didn't really work), Jiffy Pop on the stove, and cake and homemade ice cream. They also got to take home a s'more snack mix the next day.

The girls were as good as gold. I turned off the TV about 2:40 am and they were all out. It was a great night!