Maria is happier with school at the end of the week. One by one her friends have defected to her side. One came up to her and gave her a long apology for siding with the other friends. The games girls play. Only one little one remains off side with her. So we had a chat on the way home about how she felt when the other kids didn't want to be her friend, and how important it is to make sure the last hold-out doesn't feel alone and left out. Fat lot of good that talk did.

When I said to Maria 'who cares what other kids think?' she was shocked. "Daddy, don't be so mean. I care about it very much!"

She told me with a beaming grin she had a good day today.

Perhaps not coincidentally, and though it is raining and overcast, spring is here. The temperature has soared to double figures. For the first time in month the kids don't need jackets on to go outside. The new season has arrived in time for daylight saving this weekend.