ExperiMental

We decided to leave the kids alone on New Year. To host their OWN new years eve party. Without adults. There were 13 kids here. Ages: 4,5,6,6,7,9,9,9,12,12,12,14,15 And our "mature" party was about four houses away.
It turned out to be an AWESOME plan. Obviously, I was apprehensive.

Me: "Barak and Eva, keep the food in the kitchen and most importantly, Please Don't let anyone get hurt. Barak, What was the most important thing?"
Barak: "What? I didn't hear that part." (kay- he was looking right at me?)
Me: "Most importantly, Don't let anyone get hurt. Okay."
Barak: "Okay"
...30 seconds later....
Barak, standing at the head of the stairs, swoops up Isaac, flips him upside-down and his holding him -by his feet- over the first stair. slightly wobbly, apparently unaware the stairs are even there
Me: "BARAK! What is the most important thing?!?"
Barak: "What? oh yeah, right. Sorry."

CLassic.
Luckily, the oldest two girls that were here are so responsible. Quick Tip: ALWAYS recruit teenagers to throw your parties.
Once the first family of guests arrived, and the noise level with them, I was SO happy to say goodbye!
Not that the "mature" party was quiet. I'm afraid I'm an obnoxious Karaoke player. (public service announcement) I'm aggressive, competitive and a LOUD singer.
The kids joined us just before the final countdown. From our neighbors balcony they watched all the fireworks in the valley. It was a clear night, despite the recent inversion.

We took a chance, and it paid off. Luck, good planning, providence.
HAPPY NEW YEAR