Miscellany

I've been actively collecting ideas to post about but clearly my energy for this endeavor has waned over the last year or so. It's probably a combination of having less quiet writing time (that isn't devoted to my academic writing) and experiencing burn out when it comes to the kids. Maybe it's just me (the odds may be higher than "maybe" suggests) but they are at a pretty tough age these days. They have lots of naughty energy. And their naughtiness revolves around actions that I just don't have the patience for: ignoring me and fighting with each other.But I'm guessing you didn't come here to hear me complain. (Although I am conscious that the impression I give y'all on social media is one that is mostly trouble-free and thoroughly enjoyable and that's rather misleading so it's nice to keep the record straight.)As I'm sure many of you know, "kids say the darndest things" and I've been trying to record those brief exchanges because we'll never remember them after. (I got the idea from a friend, Nikki, who posts these hilarious exchanges on the FB, so a hat tip to her.)Lola: I can go potty by myself so you can wait outside and play on your phone.

Ollie calls the blades on a helicopter "the blendy things."

Lola was just reminiscing about camping "in the olden days when she had a play tent."Lola & Ollie: I hate this, this is ugly and stupid.[On a hike; Leppy Rarr Rarr = one of Ollie's alter ego]Papa: What do you think Leppy Rarr Rarr, can you climb over that log?Ollie: I can sit down on it.[On the same hike, maybe a different one]Mama: Ollie do you want to be my hiking buddy now?Ollie: If you walk fast and carry me.Ollie: [In a whiney, but cute voice] My back hurts so bad.Papa: Well, why don't you go lay down and relax.Ollie: No.Papa: What do you think would make it feel better?Ollie: Staying here and playing.Papa: How long did you play in the water at school?Ollie: Until it was time to get out.Ollie: I'm giving this [the rest of his dinner] to you [Papa] because I love you.Mama: Ollie, you're such a smooth talker. I've got your number.Ollie: What is it [his number]?What a smart ass.