This is the Piper’s favorite drink: steeped Orange Spice Tea with one dollop of honey, one ice cube, and a dash of apple juice. She’s been fighting a cold lately so she orders even more “spicy tea.” Why wouldn’t a girl who’s spicy herself love a little hot toddy with a kick? It suits her. Piper, too, is a zesty blend.

A big part of Piper’s spiciness is her ability to get everyone to do what she wants.  This afternoon I was praising Piper’s dad because he’d spent the afternoon meeting her every need. “You have a good daddy, Piper,” I said. “He helped you get ready for ballet and took you to class.”

“Uh huh,” Piper agreed.

“He picked you up from school and made you a snack.”

“Uh huh.”

“He’s making dinner and cleaning out your lunch box.”

“Uh huh. Yep. He’s a good daddy because he does everything I tell him to.  Now, can I have some tea?”