Tomorrow I have my chance to be either hero mom or lame-o mom. It's my daughter's eighth birthday, and, like most children, she's been giddy about it for the past three months.

So, my enthusiasm level needs to meet hers or I'm sure to be in the doghouse.

I got really lucky when I asked what her favorite thing to bring in for her birthday would be (within the school district's rules for goodies in the classroom), and she said, "those little blueberry muffins." So easy -- Hannaford and Price Chopper usually have those in their bakery sections daily.

She has soccer in the evening and lit up when I told her we could bring popcicles for her teammates to celebrate her birthday. Once again, very easy (except for the fast melting aspect, which will just mean a dash to the store toward the end of her game).

We haven't gotten her gift yet, but I work two blocks from G. Willikers on Broadway. Get the wrapping paper ready for me over there, guys! I'll be there during lunch break! (The folks who work there make me look so good, with their fancy wrap jobs.)

Somehow it will all come together ... or not. I'll let you know whether I turn out as a hero or heartbreaker.