This afternoon when I picked Piper up from school she ran into my arms, buried her face in my neck, and declared today the worst day ever. Ever is a very long time.

“What happened, P?” I asked, kissing her soft little cheek.

“It was Media Center day and I forgot my library book.”

“So they wouldn’t let you check out a new one? I’m sorry that happened to you,” I said.

Then Piper turned on me. “It’s your fault! You should have put my library book in my bag. You should remember it’s Tuesday!”

Oh, really. My sympathies began evaporating. I took a deep breath.

“It’s your library book, honey. You’re responsible for it. And if you forget it at home, then you have to wait for next Tuesday and try again. I’m sorry that you’re upset, but it’s not okay to blame me.” Whew. I didn’t even raise my voice. It probably helped that other parents were watching. Sissy, too.

“Yeah, you’re right,” Piper said, shrugging and skipping off to the car. “A girl’s got to try, you know?”