Double-Booked

Well Rose was invited to a birthday party on Saturday.

This little girl has been Rose's friend since they were 3. She has always been a stalwart, faithful champion of Rose's, always played with her when others wouldn't, and tried to interpret her for the confused grownups in her world. They're in the same class this year, thank goodness.

S. was one of two who came for a summer sleepover, and of course attended Rose's pirate party. Rose has been to her birthday parties over the years as well. Also, this little girl's mom has particular insight into Rose's motivations and frustrations.

Still, there are other little girls for S. to befriend, new games to learn, and coolness to try on. Apparently there have been some disappointments on the playground lately. When we discussed this upcoming birthday party, it turned out that Rose wouldn't be able to make it because she had some people coming over for a meeting to talk about new houses.

Digging deeper, the explanation was that the birthday girl had been playing with someone else. Someone "beautiful."

It all worked out. We did make it over to the party for an hour or so, and all of the little girls hugged Rose and tried to include her.

I know we don't know the whole story. I know that it's possible that Rose was insisting that a certain game be played and S. and the beautiful girl were already playing something else. Still. That "beautiful" explanation stings a little.