April 16, 2010

The Art of Manipulation

I keep losing my days.

And when I say losing, what I really mean is:

When did I get so danged busy?

I feel like I work and work and work, and then before I know it,

Another week has passed.

The kicker is, it's not even MY stuff I'm doing.

I have ONE KID in school this year, and every day,

He's supposed to be somewhere,

Doing something.

And has your school mastered the art of manipulation?

Mine sure has.

It starts innocently enough.

Reminders about a "Book Fair Next Week!" come home.

Then he brings me a list of the books he has pre-selected.

Then he brings my a price sheet of the books he has pre-selected.

Then he brings home an envelope for the money that coordinates with the price sheet of the books he has pre-selected.

Add in to that what I'm sure are school-wide announcements about the book fair,

And I get a kid who is convinced that if he doesn't get his pre-selected copy of the American Presidents for $34.99 that his whole kindergarten experience is ruined and I must not love him.

I am telling you truthfully that I have had the following conversation at least four times this week: 

"No. You can't get a book.... We can go to the library and borrow those books.... No.... Because we have to buy groceries.... Because you have to eat.... I know you already ate today, BUT WHAT ABOUT TOMORROW?... No... I SAID NO..... Please stop talking to me."

Curse you book fair and your subtle manipulations.