The Difference Between 10 and 44

Madeleine lost a tooth today! The occasion was long-awaited and marked by a trip to the nurse's office for a little tiny envelope, hearty congratulations, and the relief of not having to deal with a molar hanging by a thread and flailing in the breeze anymore. I was greeted at aftercare this afternoon by my daughter running toward me with a huge smile on her face, a hug and the wonderful news!

That's the difference between 10-year-olds and 44-year-olds. When 10-year-olds lose a tooth, it is a glorious event! When 44-year-olds lose a tooth, it is highly depressing, expensive, and something that always seems to need explaining, a disclaimer, a few stitches and a Vicodin or two.

And just when you can use the Tooth Fairy the most, you understand with complete certainty that she is one of the biggest lies ever told. And you don't even get a measly quarter for your troubles.