"Because you're sweet and lovely, girl, I love you "

Kendall is amazing.

She dances, sings, performs skits, and can throw out an insult faster and meaner than a 10th grade cheerleader. For example:

While waiting in line at the local super market:

"WOW! Mom - your hair is turning really, REALLY dark brown. Here. At the top. And I see gray hairs, too. I like all the pretty colors on your hair, mom. Except, I don't."

While organizing her old clothes to give away:

"Mom, where are all of these going?" "Well, honey, you've grown out of them so we're going to give them to a friend of mine." Silence. More silence. I glance over to see her staring at me, slack jawed and wide eyed. "YOU. HAVE. FRIENDS?"

I hope she's saving for my therapy.

"Whose broad stripes and bright stars"

We had a very entertaining Independence Day.

Unfortunately, we lost someone very dear to us that day. Our blender, Blendy. He was a good blender. He made excellent smoothies and fantastic cocktails. I will always remember the time when he and I first attempted a Hollandaise sauce. What a mess! *sniff* He would not have wanted us to be sad, though. He went out on his own terms, with a cocktail in his pitcher and a fire in his base. We will miss you, Blendy.

"Until your haircut looks its best"

Ryleigh finally got the haircut she has been waiting for.

She has been telling everyone that she had it cut by a professional.

As opposed to my amateur status, I guess.

"Inevitably, the first day of school came"

Wednesday was the first day of school for Ryleigh and Zack. Ryleigh started 4th grade.
Zack started Kindergarten.

After our orientation morning, I asked him if he wanted me to stay for a while. He said, "Why?" I said, "Well, I don't know. I just thought that I would stay if you wanted me too." Pause. "Mom. I need for you to go so that I can teach all my new kids how to behave."