Taking Shape

Katie has met her match, and her name is Madeline. I have yet to meet another who can consistently out-negotiate Katie. Though it is Caleb who says he wants to be a lawyer like his mom. Maddie still wants to be a princess ballerina.

In skiing, too, Katie, has produced like-minded off-spring. Maddie and Caleb love it. Maddie, in full-speed tuck position, skis Sundance top to bottom without help at breakneck speed.

"Maybe you should try turning," Katie suggests.

"No, Mommy," Maddie commands. "I like fast."

She also likes fashion and dancing. Maddie designs princess dresses and watches "Project Runway." She loves ballet lessons and continues them on her own until much past her bedtime. She will only listen to "ballet music" no matter how much I try to convince her that Led Zeppelin is inspirational.

Blessed

Kit died this morning. He was more Katie's friend than mine; she knew him longer anyway.

I did what I could to relieve his suffering: lifting him into and out of the car; holding the hamburger to his mouth so he could take a bite, etc. Such actions brought me gratitude and perspective. My suffering was relieved. I don't suspect I did much for Kit's.

Rest in peace, my friend.

I dare you to break in

Attempting to get to the living room at 5 a.m. without waking anyone.

Step one: stuffed squeezable T Rex toy. "ROAR." Pause. No stirring from the kids' room. Phew.

Step two: Leap Frog spelling toy, spells words when pressed. "Can you spell bat?" How do you turn this thing off? "Press the letter that makes the 'b' sound." Off button, WHERE ARE YOU? "Press the letter 'b'." Off. Pause. No stirring. Phew.

Step three: Police car with motion activated siren: "WEE-OO, WEE-OO." For the love. Pause. No stirring.

Safely in the living room on the couch, computer open, homework started: a mild sneeze.

"Mama."

You've got to be kidding me.