You’re dad’s in his car on his way. He’ll be here to pick you up in 10 minutes.

I have never seen a child move more slowly and carefully than my daughter’s friend did this morning.  Her dad rang the buzzer, expecting her to run down the stairs and hop in the car  so he could begin his day.   Quick! Quick!  Places to go people to see!  The nine-year-old sat down on the floor and carefully put on her shoes and socks tying precise loopy knots in each of her sneakers.  Then she decided to use the bathroom.  After that she asked for a plastic bag for her boots.  I watched her deliberate movements, as though she were underwater.   Finally, she went out the door bringing the sleepover to its inevitable conclusion.