Dear Pat,

Could it be a "breast bud?"  My daughter, age just-9, mentioned to me
that her breasts hurt and that there were hard lumps.  I felt, and sure
enough, although there were lumps under both areolas, not just one.  I
don't remember this from my own puberty, but I checked Erin's book,
"What's Happening To Your Body For Girls" and it seemed to describe what
I was feeling and Erin was experiencing.  Although it seems I should
know these things, it was a surprise to me.  The book said that this
stage of breast development commonly occurs in age range 9-16.  I
certainly hope it is nothing more than normal.
Waiting to hear more.

Diane Dressler, LLLL
Florence, Vermont