Friday, November 19th was not your ordinary night for the Murphys. Usually it’s a workshop for Michelle’s CM business, or just a family night. This week we participated in the Salem Library’s “No TV in Salem Week” event. As a result, we spent the night in the Salem Public Library. Isn’t that a trip?

Check-in was between 6:30pm and 7. We got there on time (a feat in and of itself!). Shortly thereafter we proceeded to cart all of our “camping gear” (how many nights are we staying again?) around the library trying to stake out a good spot to camp. Activities started immediately. The theme this year was “Monstrous Fun”. After unloading our stuff by the Salem City Reference Section, the boys got some face painting done: Brendan with a lightning bolt & snake; Lucas with a bat and a spider. It was the first time either had that done. From there to the monster face balloons and monster feet crafts.

At 8pm we were privy to The Tom Question Show. Unfortunately, he doesn’t have a website (perhaps a Slivernet representative should contact him?!). Man, he’s pretty good. Basically, it’s a show that includes daring feats of juggling, lots of comedy, stiltwalking, and amazingly dextrous Chinese yo-yo manipulation. If your in Salem, or have the chance to see him perform — go do it, and take the kids.

9pm brought snack time & raffle. We were big losers. Tons of books given away, we got none.

9:30-10:30 was pajamas & teeth brushing time. More strangeness–brushing your teeth in the library bathroom. Also, pick out a book…or five.

10:30pm - lights out. Well, most of them. Being a library and all, there were many safety lights on.

The night itself was much like camping–hard surface to sleep on (softened for Mom and Dad, curtesy of The Huiskens’ camping pads–thanks guys!) and strange sounds. Woke up a few times and heard “far off” baby crying and someone with their MS 880 STIHL Magnum™ Chain Saw in full form.

Morning brought breakfast (danishes, muffins, juice and hot chocolate) as well as a gentle kicking out.

All in all a good night. Again, very surreal…making it one for the scrapbooks.