Makin' Us All Scream!

The music starts softly. It can barely be heard. Slowly, the music grows louder and louder. My children and I can no longer ignore the song that keeps coming closer and closer to our house. Finally, I see it. The local ice cream truck making its daily trip past my house. On a walk a few weeks ago, I finally figured out why I always hear the ice cream truck. The ice cream truck owner is a neighbor. They live right around the corner from us.

So daily, in addition to the music being played by the ice cream truck, you can also hear this conversation (with tears).

Mom, you never let us buy ice cream.

Sorry, Ry. Ice cream trucks charge a lot for their ice cream.

It's not fair. The neighbor kids always get to buy some. Why don't we?

Their mommy works. They have more money.

You've never let us buy any (Here come the tears).

You are right. If I do it once. You will want it every day. They drive by every night. You will beg every night. You will cry every night.

So I was worn down tonight by a smart five year old. Tonight, we found a compromise that includes a sticker chart and piano practicing. We'll soon be hanging out with the neighbors at the ice cream truck in front of my house if my son starts practicing his piano. Great, this new plan will cost me money and probably make me gain ice cream weight. But, at least there will be more piano practicing and less tears. Hopefully.