Claire's soccer team played in the tournament finals yesterday afternoon - hours in the sun, what with warm ups and then the game; no score, in 93º heat, at the end, two ten minute overtimes, no score still, then penalty kicks. They lost. Incredibly hard after an amazing game and an amazing season (ranked #1, and the kindest, most inclusive team one can imagine). Cool local groovy popsicles (with flavors like pomegranate tangerine and mango chile, though for the kids it was mostly strawberries 'n cream) brought by some parents, helped, and then we were off to pick up Claire's award for best in show, youth division, at the community photo contest. We stayed for a bit and then went to Claire's favorite restaurant, Akai Hana, where she ordered something new. She has been ordering the same thing for about 7 years, ever since we discovered the place, and last night, she just adventured out into new realms. It's a small thing, but indicative, I think, of a greater sense of confidence and adventure in her. (And last week she mentioned she wants to get a goal in the backyard. And a skateboard.) Good day. She fell asleep in her clothes with her computer at 9:00 and is still sleeping, 15 hours later.