Out of my peer group, I am pretty sure that I have the oldest child. I have older siblings who have teenagers now, but no friends. For those of you stuck in lthe deserts of ittle-kid land (full of weeping and wailing and sticky mystery goo on EVERYTHING), I'm here to tell you there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I have crossed through the Valley of Despair and I have reached the Promised Land on the other side. I recently discovered how to get Andrei to help with anything around the house. Anything.
Setting: Anywhere, but usually at home. Characters: Me, the boy
Doing something that I usually care to avoid, such as mowing the grass, doing the dishes, taking out the trash, carrying groceries up 2 flights of stairs (why is my kitchen on the TOP floor of my house!?), folding laundry, vacuuming, etc.
Me: Oh no! I have this terrible job that I clearly do not want to do. Oh well. I'm the mom in this family. I guess I have to suck it up and do it, even though it may be physically strenuous or simply disgusting. That's because good moms take care of their families. I sure wish I had some help with this job, though. Too bad your father isn't home.
The Boy: You shouldn't have to do that gross job, Nana. Let me do it for you.
Me: No. You are my sweet child. I would never ask you to help me do this horrible thing. Please, continue going about with your daily agenda of running around and making too much noise.
The Boy: No. I want to help.
Me: Well, I guess if you really want to. But you don't have to. It's your choice.
The Boy: I absolutely insist. You will not do this job. I will do it for you.
Me: I would never allow you to do a job this distasteful on your own. How about you lend me a hand and we'll complete it together.
The Boy: Why, thank you! You are so kind.
Me: No, child. You are the kind one. I'm so lucky to have someone around who will lend me a hand. Would you care to take a break from this job now? You've been working for 2 entire minutes and must be exhausted.
The Boy: Are you tired?
Me: Nope. I'm fine. I'll probably just keep doing this until it gets done.
The Boy: Then I'll keep working until the job is done, too.
Me: Wow! Thanks! You are really growing up!
End Scene.
I'm trying EVER so hard not to abuse my new found power. I'm also trying to remember to be grateful for this stage that this will most likely only last for 2-3 years (if I'm LUCKY). Andrei is now in the short span of time between little kid and teenager- big kid: children who are old enough to actually be of assistance while still being willing to contribute. I'm telling you. PROMISED LAND.
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