Today I was challenged by a three year old. His common phrase to me, “Tata, you need to get me more stuff!” Being his “Tata” (Aunt), I am in the role to provide “stuff” and basically let him do what he wants to do, within reason of course. But with his constant request, it’s as if he knows I don’t like buying new things and insists on testing me. I usually disregard his stuff requests and distract him with playing, running, dancing, and acting like a crazy person. But, today I outsmarted that three year old yet maybe created a monster.
So he wanted a plane. Sure crazy kid, I can dig through the trash and make you a plane! I grabbed the recycle bin, tape, and scissors and started taking my orders from a three year old. Every time I thought I was finished, I was instructed I forgot the front window or the door. He reminded me that no matter what it was, I can make that! A little squint and a little imagination and that plane is a Southwest dream.
The plane led to a truck.
Silly me. I immediately thought when my nephew said “I want stuff!” that it meant it had to be from the store. It turns out I needed to change my thinking, think outside the box, and along with some guidance from a 3 year old make it happen. He spent the rest of the evening carrying the beloved plane around with him and cried when a wheel fell off the truck. No worries, nothing double sided tape can’t fix and no need for freak outs.
A good lesson in life my 3 year old friend.
Thanks.