We do have curbside recycling in Chestertown, but those of us in the bookmaking trade tend to accumulate far more paper waste than is allowed under the strict definitions of “residential pickup.” And so we drive a few miles out of town to the Nicholson Transfer Station to throw our bits of paper trimmings into one bin and our cardboard boxes into another.
Alden and Kato often come with me to the dump, but usually they sit cheerfully in their car seats listening to Body Movin’ while I do the dirty work. Not so yesterday, when Alden declared herself ready to offer some assistance.
At first, I was incredulous. Alden is so small and the pile of boxes was so big.
But slowly and surely, box by box, Alden took care of business.
She was proud of herself at the end of it all, and rightly so, but my mind immediately jumped to the obvious next question: what other mundane or otherwise unpleasant household tasks might she be persuaded to perform, thus providing me more time to lie on my back and watch televised sporting events?
Her height (or lack thereof) makes doing dishes a nonviable option at present, and it’s probably not legal to allow her to operate the lawnmower. But I’m sure I’ll stumble on the right set of chores if I keep on thinking.
Suggestions are welcome.
Going to the dump with Dad! A time honored tradition for those of us from Kent County! I remember riding with my Dad when I was little. It’s a fascinating place.
On getting a 2 year old to do chores…Haven’t unlocked the key to that yet.
i started shoveling snow when i was no higher than the knee on a grasshopper…, she could also be in charge of walking iggy, provided you get her a saddle.
I intentionally used a lower cabinet for canned goods so the boys could put them away when they were toddlers.
Oh – and bringing Dad a beer.
Never too young for that one.
Ming: If we can adjust your suggestion to say, “Bring Dad a Chipotle,” then I think we have a plan. But then, I guess, I’d need to teach Alden how to drive to Annapolis. One step at a time, I suppose.
I’m not so sure that dishes are out of the question. Calli’s new favorite activity is dragging a chair over to the kitchen sink so she can climb up in search of dishsoap bubbles.
It’s so cute it has actually motivated me to hand wash some dishes once in a while instead of leaving them for my husband.
WILL NOT WORK FOR CUTE.
I’m thinking that establishment of an “Alden Draws” regular is in order… Also, laundry sorting (post-, not pre-).