Making Memories

Since, according to my mother, I was an "old soul" who apparently came out of the womb acting like a 25-year-old, I was never very good at being a kid. I don't really get the whole "play" concept, mainly because I was the shyest child on the planet and lived in the boonies with few chances to play with other kids. That, and as soon as I was able to read, I walked around with my nose in a book 24/7.

Yes friends, I was a seriously big dork from a very early age. Had the glasses and braces (complete with headgear) to boot. I was lovely.

Before I had kids, this wasn't a big deal. Now that I have the Princesses, however, I have to be fun - and creative - and imaginative - and playful. Ugh.

As you can imagine, I'm relying heavily on ideas from family and friends (most of whom have recognized my shortcomings and have taken pity on me). Some ideas I can use now, and some I'm filing away for later.

One great idea I'm filing away comes from my friend Melissa (aka "Superwoman"). Not only does she have the best business mind out there, she also has four kids she adores. Although her time is limited, she finds creative ways to make the most of her time with them. One of her best ideas is the "13th birthday trip" - each of her children gets to take a four-day vacation, to the location of the child's choosing, with Mom and Dad only - no siblings allowed. Melissa's oldest daughter, a talented young actress and singer, chose New York City, and they just got back from a whirlwind trip that included a Broadway show, a big-city haircut and an NBC Studio tour.

I'm so going to steal this idea - I love it. I can't wait to find out where the Princesses will choose to take their trips. Of course, if they were choosing today, there would be no doubt where we'd end up.

Anyone have any other playtime ideas for me? Help a seriously play-challenged lady-in-waiting out - and save the Princesses from a snooze-fest childhood.