parent-teacher conference

I was talking to Caroline about all the great things she's done so far this summer.  I listed all the new things she's tried or mastered -- all the new foods, the new habits, etc.  The list was delivered in a chipper and eager parent voice.  "...And, kiddo, you even learned to tie your shoes today!  That's so cool!"

She looked at me and smiled and said, "Yes, I've really developed this summer, haven't I?  I have so many new skills and some more achievements ahead."

career options dwindling

Caroline stomped into the living room and threw herself on the couch. I asked what was up.

"I am terrible at writing songs.  I can't even think of good titles.  How will I grow up to be famous if I write junk?!"

exactly what i was going to say

"Look Mom!  That cloud looks just like Estonia!"

aristocratic observation

I cleaned the living room while Caroline was hanging out in the basement.  She came upstairs, looked around and said, "Ah!  I see that you've [airquote] groomed [/airquote] the home while I was gone."