Monday, May 5, 2014

Fine @ 9

Happy birthday to our nifty, nature-loving 9-year-old!! Today you begin your last single-digit year, and it is sure to be a good one! So who are you today? What has changed since last year? Well...

Your appetite for books has become voracious. You read from the first minute you wake up until we insist on Lights Out. We actually had to add "no books at the table" to our dining rules. Whether non-fiction, fiction, poetry, comics... if it has words, you want to know what it says. I've loved sharing some of my favorite childhood books with you (Island of the Blue Dolphins, From The Mixed Up Files..., Misty of Chincoteague), and watching them become your favorites to read and re-read. And you've started reading this blog and the stories that make up your life. It is fun to share those moments and remember such special times.

And now you are extending your love of words to writing as well. Daddy and I delight in the short stories you write, as they are amusing and sweet. You are so imaginative! Even when the plot might be (in your words) "inappropriate" (such as the alternative death of the Big Bad Wolf, Goldilocks' new job, or moldy bras) they are very entertaining. You've even posted a couple of times to the blog, which of course thrills your father. He loves your guest posts!

Your interest in books and writing has also made for a fun year at school. Your teacher, Ms. Manikad, has fueled that fire with extra reading and writing opportunities. You have made us very proud with your efforts in the third grade! You continue to be a role model to your peers and a quiet leader in class. "When Greta talks, everyone listens because she speaks when she has something important to say!" Ms. Manikad told us. We look forward to that quiet confidence continuing to develop. You were great in the chorus of the school musical, and enjoyed performing.

You are so responsible. From taking care of your beloved Mittens to taking care of your braces, you accept the related duties with little complaint. And the results are amazing: Mittens is super-sized and very friendly and loving, and your bite and smile are lining up.

You are at an age where you are beginning to want more privacy and independence. Tuck ins are now a little chat and a kiss goodnight, with you reading for another half hour after. Some nights we read poetry together or sing, but the "routine" is definitely over. Just like you've been washing your own hair for the last year, you can put yourself to bed!

You also have less tolerance for your brother! You know how to bicker like nobody's business, and ban him from your room frequently. That said, you also play very well together, made-up games like cat warriors or sugar bats. And to his delight, you now play the Wii with him. You say you don't like it, but I hear you laugh together. And you make an awesome teammate in kickball!

I just know that 9 will be super fine, my darling Greta. Happy, happy birthday to you!

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