TODDLER GAMES meet KINDERGARTEN ORIENTATION

My toddler, Mase, has a new favorite game.  It's called, "Wake Up,  Baby! Wake Up!"  This game is best played at around 5:45 a.m., when everyone else is asleep.   It also works during the day, especially when the baby has been sleeping just long enough that he will NOT go back to sleep.

Earlier this month, the game traveled with us to kindergarten orientation.  I could not believe my luck--the baby was asleep for the meeting!  And, I was prepared for my toddler too.  I had toys, books, drawing paper and snacks.

My arsenal lasted a grand total of about five minutes.  Then, Mase spent another five minutes emptying my pockets and purse, searching for more treats. I was OK with his shenanigans until he found a standby feminine product to play with.  Game over.  

But, I was out of ideas and I knew he just couldn't help his impulse to play his favorite game.  "Stay away from the baby."  I threatened in my sternest whisper.

"I no wake up baby--baby needs hat," he replied innocently.   I attempted to put Mase on my lap, but he loudly protested and escaped. "Baby need hat!"  It was too late.  Surprising to my Mase, the baby did not want the hat nor did he want to wake up.  He let us know.

I spent the duration of orientation in the hall, bonding with another mom of a toddler.  Fortunately, my future kindergartner had packed a friend.  I handed her over in an attempt to cheer up my grumpy guy.  The baby stared Cinderella Barbie down, then catapulted her out of his cozy seat.   He was happier after that.

Mase got his energy out.

My 7-year-old came up with her own brilliant toddler-like game.  She and her friend dragged each other with a jump rope. 

 This game did not end well either.  (The school's jump rope broke and I made her replace it with one of her own jump ropes!  Could I be any meaner?!!  Mooah-ha-ha!  Tears and drama ensued the entire weekend.)

The three kindergarten teacher's passed my clan and the other mom on their way out.  One of the teachers commented, "Oh, you two are old pros.  You both think you don't need the orientation because you've already been through this."

I think she was joking.  If not, I have a toddler I would like to lend her for the week.

Grumpy Mom Goal of the Day: Appreciate my always eventful life.