To Libby Lu hell and back.

Ok. Let's just say that overall, the trip to Libby Lu was entertaining and fun for Maddie.

But not for her mother.

There were several moments where you had to tell yourself that "I love my kid, and this is fun for her." And just wonder to yourself what could happen next.

Case in point:
1. Guest arriving at our house 30 min. late... which dominoed into me picking up other girls late. I hate being late. This is an omen.

2. Being stuck in traffic on the way to the mall isn't fun for the driver, but fun for the party-goers reencacting High School Musical and Hannah Montana episodes. (what should have been a 45 min. drive took and hour and a half because of the construction on the highway.)

3. Arriving late to our Libby Lu "scheduled appointment" was a nearly a disaster since they were booked for the entire day. We were "squeezed-in" for a 1 p.m. and I was given a stern look of utter distain from the platinum blonde behind the counter.

4. After completing their makeovers, Chelsea says "Mrs. Ripple, I don't feel so good" and pukes right there in the store.

5. Deciding to take Chelsea home (after giving her a Younker's bag to barf in for the car) became the longest car ride ever. The poor girl was still getting sick (yet remained glittery). I called the other parents saying that we'd be late since the other girls still needed to eat lunch, it was already 2:30.

6. Although it wasn't Maddie's first choice, we went to Corner Bar in Rockford for lunch. (who wouldn't take a bunch of 8 & 9 year-olds to a bar?) Afterward we strolled around and got some ice-cream. This was pleasant except for the fact that while goofing around, Maddie dropped her bracelet into the river, and retrieved it, so now she's wet and cold.

7. I call it a wrap and take everyone home. Please, no more for Mrs. Ripple.

We finally get home by 5:20. I announce that I'm going to take a nap.
And I didn't wake up until 1:00 a.m. to feed Meg.