Anna Banana.

Anna and I talked on the phone a couple of days ago. I must say, it was the first time that we have ever talked that I felt more like I was talking to a friend then talking to my 10-year-old sister. I asked her how her day had been and she replied, "You know what Kelly? It just has not been a very good day!" I asked her why and she proceeded to tell me about forgetting her homework for Social Studies, and something else that happened in math class. She also talked about how she had four tests coming up. I asked her how she prepares for tests and she told me that she "takes notes on her notes." It made me laugh because that is exactly how I study...

While it was a simple conversation, I realized that it is becoming easier to relate to Anna- when she tells me she has had a bad day, particularly relating to school, I can empathize with her since I, too, have had those days. Her barbie dolls have long been put away. She watches The Weather Channel now and longs to become a meteorologist...My heart stopped a little bit when I realized that in a few weeks she will be eleven, an age that no longer grants her "child status." As she continues to grow, I am much looking forward to conversations and forming bonds. She really is a trip.