The family is gathered around the kitchen, engaged in various activities. Hubby and I are having a conversation while Boy chimes-in, sharing his input. Teen strides into this scene, exclaiming that we "need to see this." Hubby and I look-up, wondering what has her excited enough to: a) leave her room - quickly b) bring the computer & c) interrupt our conversation because she is usually so polite!
Teen proceeds to pull-up and begin playing a video. Hubby & Boy watch the video while Youngest and I work on dinner. There is some conversation about the video and the (much loved) band who recently released an album and apparently a video. In one simple act, she has everyone's attention.
Great. Now, if the world really runs on karma - why do I know so many variations of the next scene?
1. Knock gently, then enter Teen's room. Announce presence, just to be sure.
2. Watch the book cover (computer screen, sketch pad etc) for signs that my presence has been noted.
3. Upon hearing the grunted "huh?" respond with request, question, or interesting tidbit to share.
4. Wait a moment....insist child put down the phone (headphones, IM window) then repeat step 3.
5. Receive large eye roll or WTH look from Teen as she tears herself away to hear the conversation originating in step 3.
6. Share tidbit, haltingly, because now you aren't too pleased with your reception.
OR
Forget all of the above steps and everytime you want to tell said teen anything, you call her out of her room or away from the computer and insist she give her full attention to you before you start. (must say Hubby is a master at this) It drives her bonkers, but cracks me up. This does fall under legal torture techniques - right?
