Beginning

Me: It's time to get up, babe.
Rachel: Why? I don't want to. (only it sounded more like "Idonwanoo")

But she got up quickly. No exclamation marks this morning. No anger. And there were words, which always makes me happy. Lately we've just heard a lot of the word "no." Not even an impassioned "no." So this is good.

Finished in the bathroom, she got dressed relatively quickly. "It's not my shirt. It's not a girl's shirt. I don't like it." All quietly but clearly spoken. She only had to be reminded a couple of times to stay on task, and did it all herself today. To my comment of "look, Rachel, it's snowy outside," she only replied "It's not for girls. It's stupid."

She quietly mumbled something unintelligible while I brushed her hair, and dutifully ate her pancakes and applesauce. (note: since the bus comes at the unearthly hour of 7:00 or 7:20, depending on the day, I have given up on having her feed herself breakfast on school mornings. My desire to make sure she actually has food in her overcomes my desire to give her autonomy.) She didn't complain about the brushing of her teeth, either. I would have liked a little bit more emotion out of her, but at least she made eye contact and spoke to me. The negative aspect of her language may just have been because she was tired. Or maybe she really doesn't like her red and white striped sweater anymore. It's really hard to tell.

She waited patiently for her bus, and then left without another comment.

I was hoping for a wave from her, but was disappointed. I think she looked at me, though.

I love you, Rachel. I hope your day is as beautiful as you are.