Oh, God, she’s 10, and all I can think about is soon she’s going to be 14. I’m taking deep breaths.
Some pictures of my tough, determined, brilliant, serious, silly, buttkicking not-so-little girl from the past year:
First day with the bo staff in traditional weapons class.
Getting her high green belt in taekwondo.
Rock climbing in the Dells on Father's Day.
Getting ready to boogie board at the beach.
At the Renaissance Faire.
School picnic at the beginning of 4th grade.
In full Ravenclaw gear, as we were leaving to see Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
Happy birthday, honey. I’m sure it will be a terrific year.
The Unfocused Life 
I remember the day she was born. It’s gone so fast! Happy birthday to UG!
It’s gone way too fast. AJ next.
Why must you bring up 14? There is no 14. Do you hear me? NO FOURTEEN! Ten is good, though. I like ten. Then again, I’ve like every age Dusty has been but that say more for the kid than the age itself. She’s not a combatant like some children I know.
You’re right. I was delirious. Ignore me. THERE IS NO FOURTEEN.
Ten is when things really start to change. I was startled that I only got a decade of little girl, and then straight on to teen.
Jeanne – Are you trying to give me a pre-emptive heart attack?
“be prepared…that’s the boy scout’s marching song…”
Aww…belated birthday wishes to the girl!
Indeed! And Ravenclaw to boot, brilliant!
These are the days….