playdates

Playdates have been a part of Anna's life for as long as I can remember. I remember getting together with friends and their children long before Anna could walk, or talk, or even really "play". For many years these playdates, while good for the children, were probably more about adult interaction for the moms. Entering this preschool year and age 4 in general, playdates are taking on a whole new form.

Last week Anna invited her friend Taylor over for lunch and to play for the afternoon. The girls chomped up Halloween macaroni, made Halloween puppets and played outside in the sandbox for hours. Really, hours.

Today we brought Anna's "best friend" (or one of, anyway) Ella home with us from preschool to play for the afternoon. The girls played dress up, dolls, tea party, played on the swingset and in the sandbox, painted pumpkins and giggled. Boy, did they giggle.

It's fun to see Anna becoming her own little person - learning social rules, how to navigate frustrations and excitement with friends she has made of her own accord. Playdates often times no longer involve the other parent, and the one hosting is on the outside...there to offer guidance or assistance when needed, but more than anything else acting as a spectator.

Through this process I am learning so much more about our daughter and the woman she will someday become. At times my heart feels as if it is singing, and at others it aches with her as she experiences the social pitfalls that come with friendships too.

Our little girl is growing up...and I am so grateful to be able to experience each moment. I love capturing the giggles and the smiles, and being there to dry the tears when needed. What a fun, fun time this is!