Summer school

"Mommy," she asked, "when can I start first grade?"

It's the middle of the summer, Abby. Not anytime soon.

And then I told her to go outside and play. Because that's what we do in the summer. Not school.

"Okay," she answered. "I'm going to take my magazine with me so I can study a little."

I know this insatiable hunger for knowledge is a trait to be admired. But every once in a while, I kind of wish my 5-year-old would chill out.

I guess I'd better get to work on some first grade lesson plans. I don't know how much longer I can hold her off.