Parent 1 - "And who do you want to sit with?"
Child - "Parent 2!"
Parent 2 - "Here's a seat."
Parent 1 - "Would you like a hug?"
Child - "No!"
Parent 1 - "Oh, OK." -- Anon Guest
[AN: Funny story time. When Miss Chaos (youngest spawn) started her first day of Official School, I asked her if she wanted a hug. Her exact words: "Shut up." Kids'll murder you. Heart first.]
Parenting has its rewards, but they're not where you think they are. And whoever's the primary parental rarely gets the recognition they deserve. But you don't raise a kid for the kudos. You raise them because you made a choice to nurture a human being with their own life path and future. To show this tiny little blob who needs all the time how to go forth and help with the needs of others.
There's times when it all seems worth it. And other times when you just have to weather the kid's eccentricities and moods and find a new equilibrium. It's never picture perfect, and that's okay.
Being a good Rennie, I can safely say I at least try to do all of that with Mr Four-years-old. But lately? Lately his favourite is Dad. It shows.
"Good morning Mr Four! Would you like cereal, scrambled eggs, or fried hams for breakfast?"
The inevitable reply: "I want Daddycakes!" Which means pancakes cooked exclusively by Dad.
"Can I make the Daddycakes?" I ask, trying my best charm.
It fails, of course. "NO! They'd be Renniecakes and I want Daddycakes!"
Dad's not had a decent sleep in for a month because of this. I'm sure Mr Four is doing it because it's funny to see Dad shuffling around in sleepy shorts and bunny slippers.
On public transit, I sit by myself because Mr Four wants to sit with Dad and talk about all the things they see. Mr Four will only interact with me when Dad is off on his work, and even then it's a trial.
"May I hold your hand to cross, Mr Four?"
"Ew, that's gross."
Me, fumbling for an excuse, "But I get scared crossing the road and holding your hand helps me feel safe."
A very put-upon Mr Four groans and says, "Fine, but you're being a big baby..."
I daily thank the Powers That Be that Mr Four has never wondered how I get back on my own while he's in Early Learning. I know why he has this attitude. He sees me all the time, every day, and he's bored with it.
I've talked about doing a swap. I go and work whilst Dad does the primary parenting. But I think Dad is enjoying being the favourite a little too much.
[Image (c) Can Stock Photo / olenayemchuk]
If you like my stories, please Check out my blog and Follow me. Or share them with your friends!
[68 remaining prompts] Please don't send any more prompts for now. Thank you.