I attended a LG party today. So many cute 7-8yo's. I met 2 new girls by just talking to their mom/dad and expressing interest in their daughters. Easy peasy.

g13 was there. She is solidly past my normal AoA now but gawd my heart rate goes way up when I see her. If it wasn't creepy, my eyes would never leave her. Every move is a new way to see her. And to hear her with a classmate, her clearly superior wit and way of seeing her world. Hypnotic presence.

Our relationship at this time in her life is mostly hands off. We don't even say hi to each other until well after the first few minutes we meet. She's trained me to be cool that way and not be an old stalker grampa in front of her friends. I don't mind. She needs that space right now and I am really quite happy to give it. I always thought it went unappreciated until today.

When it was time for me to leave, she passed by me and I tapped her lightly on the top of her head and said bye. She stopped, reached for me, gave me a strong hug that lasted several seconds and then told me she loves me. She never tells me that.

I love that girl more than anyone I have ever known. It is my extreme pleasure to watch her 'grow up'. There may come a time when she needs someone and I plan to be sure she knows I am always there for her.