fleeced lightning

My dermatologist advised me to stop using dryer sheets awhile ago. Things get a little static-clingy (I'm losing a lot more socks) but are generally less itchy and, as I discovered last night, can also be more fun.

It was about 10:00 and Kim and I had just turned in when Lauren tiptoed into our room. I pretended to be asleep until I heard her whisper, "Mom."

"Yes?'

"I really can't sleep."

"What do you need, Lauren?" I waited for her inevitable request, then heard it whispered somewhere close to my ear.

"Can I snuggle with you?"

"Sure," I heard myself say. "Climb in." She happily hoisted herself onto the bed and wriggled under the covers. I knew what would come next.

"I'm hot," she said, kicking, then struggling. "I just. Need. To take off. My pajamas."

And then I saw it. With each kick of her heels against the sheets, Lauren set off a series of beautiful blue sparks that absolutely electrified her pajamas. It was like something from a sci-fi movie. In the darkened room I could just make out the silhouette of Lauren's jaw dropping.

"Lauren," I said, nearly as impressed as she was, "Do you think you have magic pajamas?"

She could barely manage the answer.

"Yes."