Today is Madeline's eighth birthday. Last year, we had a pool party which included water balloons.

I remember my eighth birthday. I think it was my first party that included friends. And one of the things I remember was running out the school door, excited to be having a birthday at home. And some authority figure made me come back and walk. Funny, the things you recall.

We went shopping today for Madeline's gift; she had some specific requests which was helpful and informative to last-century grandparents. We must have been in the store an hour (not really) trying to figure out which thing to purchase and trying to imagine how in the world it operated. The clerks were very helpful, as they had purchased the same item as a gift for family members, but this is more advanced than a plastic model car kit or a baseball or even a book.

We have definitely moved beyond our understanding of the cyber world, and she's just eight. What's it going to be like in ten more years? I hope water balloons will be still be appropriate for a hot day, especially if it's your birthday! We love you, Maddy!