Attention economy
We have an attention economy in our house.
The attention we all want is Kendra's.
"Mama, look!" Theo will say, demanding one-on-one attention on his latest dance, lip-sync, costume or performance.
Ben will barge in with a question. "Mama! Can I..." [usually associated with gaining access to a specific piece of technology]
"Mama!" Addie will holler, showcasing her latest illustrated work of art and storytelling.
But Rosie is the primary advertiser. "Mama!" she'll declare.
"Hi mama," she'll chirp, and cheerily climb onto her lap.
"Mama?" she'll call, looking for Kendra from around a corner.
"Mama!" she'll exclaim, worried if there's no response.
"Mamaaaa," she'll wail, if it turns out Kendra's out and she's stuck with dad, who just won't do.
Kendra graciously grants this coveted attention to each of her demanding devotees. Mere listening is not enough, they require eye contact. "Look at me?" Theo will say, whenever we attempt passive "mm-hmms." He needs engagement, and will be appeased by nothing…
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