My beloved first daughter turned 16 today. We reminisced about the years … well, my husband and I did. The other two kids said memories and I said, ‘and what did daughter do?’ And they both said: she was there. So, you know, teens. I worry about this kid so much; 16 and in her second year at a high school surrounded by kids she doesn’t know and sloooowly making friends and struggling under the weight of 3 AP classes and one junior level science class. But my youngest struggled for 2 years in her school and now is surrounded by friends at all times. I know this one will get there; I just wish I could smooth it over, make ‘it’ easy. What is it? Life, I guess. An author at blog I read (and love: Cup of Jo) just talked about how she lets her kids be upset so they learn self-regulation. And it’s such a good idea! And I want to say I do it! And … I don’t think I do. Hell i struggle with self regulation; I hope my children deal with sadness and hardship (that life inevitably offers) better than their father and I do.

anyway. She’s 16. She’s out to dinner at a DC sushi restaurant with one friend from 3rd grade and one new friend. I just finished my run and I’m writing in my blog. We’re all going to be fine.