Time to Go

#SOL16

Day 19

        It was time to leave our house, something that happens at least once almost every single day.  And yet, it always seems to be the most challenging thing I ask my kids to do.

       "Get your shoes and coat.  Time to go to the birthday party!"

       "I don't want to go yet.  In a little bit."  My daughter said this while surrounded by toys on the floor of the living room.  She has an elaborate village set up.  

       "If we don't go now, you will miss the party."  I say this, shocked that she was the one hesitating. My son must not have even heard the shoe and coat request at all, since he is not emerging.  In fact, I still hear the iPad.

       "Evan, get your shoes!"

       Silence, then "I can't find them anywhere."

       I look up, and I see him standing in the kitchen now, holding a new toy.  I guess the theory is if you can't find your shoes, play with whatever you did find.  I tell him to go the usual spots (the bathroom or his bedroom) since they are not by the coat hook where they should be.  It's a miracle.  They are found in his bedroom.

       Keira has her coat on, but it's the wrong one.  I hand her the one more appropriate for the day's weather, and she kind of growls at me.  But, she puts it on... while dropping the other one on the ground.  

       In typical O'Donnell fashion, we were indeed late to the party.  They did get themselves ready all by themselves.  Independence come with a price, it seems: Tardiness.  And irritation.