It’s crazy to think that about this time almost eight years ago, I was nearing the end of my pregnancy with our first child. As new parents, you can never really be prepared for what is to come, but you’re excited and probably a little nervous to move into this next phase of your life.

Our daughter was born two weeks early from her due date — a beautiful, healthy baby with a strong personality.

In the almost eight years that have followed, we have seen our beautiful, healthy baby grow into a strong-willed, talented young lady who is excited to learn new things. Where has our baby gone?

Next thing I know she will be a teenager!

When I asked my daughter, Sophie, what she wanted to do for her birthday this year, she immediately said she wanted to have a sleepover.

We have had parties for our children’s birthdays most years in the past and have invited people over for those, but this will be the first year for a sleepover. In the back of my mind I hoped she would simply want a party that was an hour or two long, but I know this is a big deal for her. She has been planning the details of this for months, all the way down to the activities, the food and the sleeping arrangements.

She seems to be ready, but what about me?

My husband, who works overnights, will be at work, so I will get the opportunity to host five or six other young girls all by myself.

It’s just a comedy waiting to happen.

Luckily, a friend of ours is watching our dog, who can sometimes be a challenge, so we don’t have to worry about him. She also might watch my now 4-year-old son overnight, who undoubtedly would want in on every piece of the action if he were home, too.

That will leave me one child and one dog down, but I will gain five or six more children in return.

I am up for the challenge — I hope. Though not to the same degree, I have the same feelings I had eight years ago. I am excited and nervous.

In the back of my mind, I am reminding myself it is simply a little sleepover.

I will let you know how it goes next week!

Oh, the joys of parenthood and the new life experiences you would never gain otherwise. It sure makes for some variety in life.

 

Sarah Stultz is the managing editor of the Tribune. Her column appears every Tuesday.