Tween Going on Teen

I don't usually have to remind myself that I am young.  I consider myself a fairly hip dresser, if classic, and I claim that being so young when I became a mom was really to my advantage.  In theory, while still young and with it I would better relate to my child.  That and when they get old and move out I will still have some life left in me. . .in theory.  

Recently I took Hannah shopping in search of a gift for a friend's birthday party.  She's at that age where you always wonder "Should I get a toy or a grown up accessory item--like a purse or a necklace, or music."  We opted for the grown up category and found ourselves in a store in the mall devoted to accessories.  And they were very reasonably priced.  Wall to wall, floor to ceiling, the shop was filled with jangly bracelets, brightly colored scarves, hats, flips flops, earrings and more.  Not to mention the cram of teenagers whose chatter competed with the latest Demi Lovato song being played overhead.  

I walk in and start perusing the scarves and bracelets.  I could use some new accessories.  Suddenly Hannah is at my elbow trying on hats and singing along to the music. . . she knows it word for word.  I pause.  Look around.  Huh.  There are some people my age and older in there, so why do I get the feeling I am too old for this shop.  Most of the girls are teenagers, but still, closer to Hannah's age than mine--barely.  

It was the strangest feeling to shop in a store with my daughter where I would buy something off the same rack she might buy something.  And she did.  I bought a scarf and Hannah bought a hat.  She pulls it off better than I could.  

As we walked out I couldn't help but think, I better keep myself in good shape or this could get depressing.  It's bad enough she is trying to steal my shoes already (and almost can) wait until she can wear my clothes!  

I am really not that old--my daughter just has mature taste. (That's my story and I'm sticking to it!)  And even though I am in no rush for her to grow up (I think kids grow up too fast these days) I don't miss the jumble of toys cluttering up her room. . . and think of the money we will save when we share a wardrobe!