Eighteen

Some things I love and appreciate about the Girl

153  My first grader, who was placed in a reading support program this year, has soared up the reading chart.  She has always done things on her own time schedule, and this is just another example of how she conquers the world, but not until she decides she is ready.
154   I was able to put aside my own ego about the reading support program.  That was hard for me as a mom, a teacher, a passionate reader, and a certified reading specialist.
155   She is so tender and gentle with her sister. 
156   She makes up, writes and sings her own songs.  Including music on her Paper Jams guitar.
157   She has grown out of the super-antagonistic phase, passing that particular torch on to those better able to carry it.  (My sympathies go out to the next batch of mamas surviving that stage)
158   Her unquestionable, irrepressible fashion sense
159   Her love of all things nature.
160   Her zest for life.  And the energy to live it like a six-year old.
161   Her amazingly mature sense of humor, including the ability to crack a joke that takes the Daddy and I a second to catch the wit.
162   And her uncontrollable laughter at those things uniquely funny to a child.
163   Her desire to learn.
164   How much she enjoys attending and participating at church.
165   Her ability and confidence to reach out to make new friends.
166   Her sensitivity and empathy.
167   Her desire to be close to me.
168   And her willingness to stretch her wings and reach for independence.
169   Her hugs and kisses.
170   The way she snuggles up close in her sleep.