Father’s Little Helpers

In support of the adage, “Good help is hard to find,” I think I’ve found my hired hands, and they do a great job. The kids have always been interested in power tools, and who and blame them? There is something fascinating about a tool powered by gas or electricity, it does all, or at least most, of the work for you. Though this is often the provenance of boys of all ages, A has a distinct engineering streak in her, and all machines are of interest to her.

Last week N indicated that he’d like to try mowing the lawn, and not only was he incredibly cute doing it, but he really did a nice job. Very conscientious and thorough, I was very impressed. Not only is it a good way to entertain him, but it actually helps me out a lot, because I can go and weed-whack while he mows, within reason.

Not wanting to exclude A, I asked her if she was interested, and she jumped at the opportunity and also did a great job, though you really see how differently their minds works. N is very precise and methodical, following the lines and making neat rows. A, on the other hand, is all over the place. She starts off in a straight line, but is soon veering of at all sorts of curves and angles. It’s hilarious to watch, and not the most efficient method, but she is thorough and thoughtful about whatever task she undertakes. That’s just the sort of person she is.

In the end, the kids like it enough to almost be at odds over who gets to mow. How cool is that for a dad? Now if I could only get them to be that way over making supper.

Until the next time, thanks for reading.