It's the day after the National Day on Writing and I should have something good to say here.
But (yawn) I am so tired.
Waiting for my sweatpants to stop spinning on "rapid refresh" in the dryer because tomorrow is Sweatpants Day during our Red Ribbon Week and I only have one pair of sweatpants at the moment.
Thinking of the full work bag I ambitiously packed, thinking I would have energy after my Daisy troop meeting to attack it (I don't). 
Remembering the moment I felt like crying today when I looked around the classroom at several children who were off- task as I tried to teach a small group in math.
Need to get my kids ready for bed.
Ran out of time for a well-crafted Slice.
Some days, you just show up and that has to be enough. 

Nine is halfway between a newborn and a high school senior, off to college. 
Nine is soccer practice, but still needing me to tie his cleats. 
Nine is knowing obscene language but still snuggling with a stuffed animal at night.
Nine is wanting more freedom but needing boundaries.
Nine is learning to play the recorder and the violin.
Nine is multiplication tables and then fractions.
Nine is wearing shorts and high socks even on chilly days.
Nine is Monopoly and Checkers.
Nine is palate expanders and braces.
Nine is no longer a baby or even a little kid.
Nine is not yet a tween or a teen.
Nine is reading chapter books together. 
Nine is being brave and trying the trapeze.
Nine is letting go but holding on tight, too. 
Nine is a moment in time to cherish.

Happy 9th birthday to the "bear of my heart"- my brave, strong, smart, handsome son Alex.