Before I left for jazzercise, I warned the kids they needed to get some exercise before going to the theater, and we would be going to the park when I got back. They were welcome to call friends and invite them. They nodded in my general direction and went back to their book/t.v. When I got back, I gave them the five minute warning. They nodded in my general direction and went back to their book on c.d./book in hand. I said it was time to go, and they both threw a fit. Whining, moaning, pouting, yelling, dragging of heels, slamming of doors. I never actually got David into the car. He scootered around the block for half an hour instead.

Rose and I went to the park. Ugh. I knew she needed fresh air and exercise. I even knew she needed Mommy/Rose time, but I didn't need the dirty looks. She did a lackluster round on the monkey bars. We kicked the soccer ball back and forth and she even forgot to be pissy and smiled. Then she remembered. She sat on the play equipment, sort of defeating the purpose. Of course. I gave it half an hour and gave up.

Before dinner, Rose asked if I would take her and some friends to the park after dinner. I said yes without any attitude. Her friend was only free at 7:15, which is almost bedtime. I said yes though I did tell her to practice the cello first, which she did without any attitude. We both nicely invited David who was terribly engrossed in a book on cd about ghost buddies, so he nicely declined. We grabbed our flashlights, the friend, and went to the park in the dark. It was magical. The girls gave each challenges, helped each other, giggled, and played. I walked around the loop. It was all easy and cheerful.

I am still going to insist on gardening/exercise/chores when I say them because I say them, but I am also going to try very hard to bring a friend.