Richman Family Sleepover '08

Every summer, just before the grand kids go back to school, my mom hosts a family sleepover in her backyard. The kids look forward to it all summer and it's fast becoming a favorite family tradition. Of course, it wouldn't be a proper Richman gathering without good food, enough to feed the small militia we call family. And it certainly wouldn't be a Richman family gathering without chocolate cake and my mom's fresh strawberry-rhubarb pie with homemade ice cream. It tastes as good as it looks. Trust me. Around midnight we throw down a huge tarp and let everyone squabble over where is the best place to lay down their sleeping bag. Some of the weaker ones choose to sleep indoors. Only the strong can survive all night outside, braving the elements and the possibility of werewolf attacks under a full August moon. Meet KJ and Matt, best buds. We found them moments before they were about to embark on a great adventure donning dark hooded sweatshirts, head lamps, and wielding flashlights. At about 1:00 am.

Hey guys, where you goin'?

KJ: We're going out DISCOVERING.

Discovering, so we were told, is most successful in the wee early morning hours. So, like any responsible authority figure we sent them merrily on their way. Report from the field: among other very important findings from the remote wilderness of my mom's suburban neighborhood, they brought back...bones (human or animal, the boys could not determine) unearthed from a suspicious vacant lot.
In the morning the kids love to pile all the blankets, pillows, sleeping bags, and mats under the swing...and jump off! It's a simple pleasure; we are but simple people. This is a favorite past-time of mine and I love seeing my nieces and nephews enjoying the same backyard games I did as a youngster.

Introducing...the 2012 U.S. Olympic Swing-Jumping TeamThanks Richman's for yet another great family sleepover!