Donations

Although Max and Simone get along really well for siblings, they get into fights everyday.  It's natural.  And comical.  

I often have to tell them to clean up their scattered toys.  I usually threaten to give away anything that has not been put away.  They usually will put their treasured toys away.  When they're really tired, their discrimination increases and they assess if toys are worthy for putting away or not.  Simone has gladly given up a Melissa & Doug wooden clock because she was tired of picking up the pieces.  I was tired too and as much as I hate to see a good toy go, I took it to the Goodwill store so that a more appreciative child could enjoy it.  

Despite Max's love for his cars and blocks, he is really adverse to cleaning.  He always tries to claim that he doesn't know how to clean.  Well, he suddenly learns the skill quickly when I tell him I'll donate the toys not in their proper boxes.  

I asked Max what his creation was.
"It's a bed for Grandma and Grandpa!"

One afternoon, Michael and I were working outside when we heard the kids fighting.  I ordered them to start cleaning up their mess in hopes that this project will help them forget whatever their tiff was.  I return to the work outside and after about 5 minutes, Max opens the garage door and yells something about donations.  Michael and I make a lot of noise so we were not convinced we heard Max correctly.  I walked closer to him to hear him and clarify what he said.

"Max, what did you say outside ?"

"Mommy, I want to donate my sister!"