I was getting dinner ready and this conversation happened. I am sorry, but I could not stop laughing.

(Table is set. Jax is strapped in and working on his cheerios. Michael is pouring beverages while I wait for the timer to beep and to take dinner out of the oven.)

Jake: "Mom, can I go outside and play?!

Me: "Not right now, dinner will be ready in 2 minutes."

(Timer is now at 1 min 52 seconds)

Jake: "But Mom, I can play outside in 2 minutes"

Me: "What on earth could you play outside in 2 minutes?"

(Timer is now around 1 min 25 seconds)

Jake: "I could draw something with my sidewalk chalk, I could throw my ball up in the air, I could chase Zoey, pick up sticks, get dirty"

Me: "Ok, get your shoes on and when the timer beeps you can come back in"

Jake: "Oh thanks Mom, you're the best!"

(45 seconds left on the timer. Jake goes upstairs, gets his sweatshirt, socks and shoes on. Then grabs a few items, takes a swig of water, and heads downstairs. Beeper goes off and Jake returns.)

Jake: "Mom, I take back that you are the best. I didn't get to go outside and you knew I wasn't going to be able to get everything done in two minutes.

Me: "Well, you tried"

Jake: "You ruined my life"....

Me: I just started laughing

Jake: "It's not funny Mom. When someone ruins your life you will understand what I am going through."

My laughter continues.

Oh the tolls of being a 4 year old.