I'm glad to say that open marriage and polyamory aren't too far fetched in my daughter's world! We have not officially told her that we have an open marriage and that mommy and daddy sometimes have a boyfriend or girlfriend. But somehow it must be seeping into her soul.

A few months ago I helped chaperone a group of 4th grade Girl Scouts on an overnight stay at our troop leader's home. The group consists of eight wonderful girls who have been together now for at least three years. Never a Girl Scout myself as a child, I was skeptical about the whole scouting thing. Fortunately several people talked me into letting by daughter try it out. Girl Scouts has given my daughter a place that's safe to talk about all sorts of girl stuff that doesn't always include mom. Her troop leader acts as a stellar female role model, answers questions in a non-judgmental fashion and plans really fun activities.

So at this sleepover the girls, the troop leader and I made some yummy tacos, created a craft, talked about important scouting activities, and were almost ready to transition into movie watching.

While the leader and I cleaned up the kitchen, the girls scattered to the basement to play. These girls are 8 and 9 years old and don't play with dolls too often anymore. At one point I sneaked down the stairs to listen to what kind of play was happening. I hear a few of them, my daughter included playing with Barbie dolls, of all things.

Of course, Ken is outnumbered by Barbies at least 4 to 1. It's always the case--the token Ken amongst the many Barbies. The clothing for Barbie is far superior so of course a girl needs more Barbies. But one boy is necessary just to even out the estrogen level.

One key activity of Barbie and Ken play is coupling up and marriage. A dispute amongst the girls ensues...WHICH Barbie gets to marry Ken? My genius daughter doesn't miss a beat and says, Ken can marry all of the Barbies! I was so proud.