Deciding on a different course of action I visited our local nursery again. I asked for a desert plant. You know, one that is poky and sharp. She showed me one. Not good enough. I explained I needed one that had teeth... something that would reach out and snatch you. I found two that were just right.
When I set out to plant them I started moving the rocks in the front yard. One of the neighbor kids came over and asked what I was doing.
"Moving the rocks so I can plant these new plants."
"Can I help?"
"Sure."
So we pushed aside the rocks and two more kids came over. "What are you guys doing?"
"Planting these plants," the first kid replied.
"Can we help?"
Within 5 minutes I had ten of the neighborhood kids moving rocks, digging holes, and removing dirt.
The only work I did was mediate fighting over the shovels and actually placing the plants in the holes. What would have taken me at least an hour turned into a 30 minute job. It was awesome.
The very kids I was trying to keep out of my yard with the poky plants were the ones helping me plant them! The irony.
During the process I had a couple thoughts. The first was that it was a great neighborhood bonding activity. Second, that it probably wouldn't be the sharp edges keeping the kids off the plants but the knowledge that THEY were the ones who planted them. (A thought I reminded them of once we were done with the job.) Third, this was a great way to get the job done and not be the mean neighbor. (I also gave them popsicles afterwards.)
I had a pretty good laugh over the whole situation. Hopefully, everything works out for the best.
Here's the neighborhood work crew. (They were quite excited to get their picture taken.) :)
6 comments:
That's pretty cool! Lessons learned all around!
A little knowledge goes a long way. I really think that if kids can feel proud of something they have done, they will act more respectful and treat others with more thought!
Way to be an uncranky neighbor!!
Rachel I think that this proves that you are a natural teacher! You ability to empower and influence children is phenomenal. I love the picture of the kids. I hope you get to interact with them more.
Oh cute! That story gave me chills. Very sweet. I am always amazed at the things kids don't get to do at home, all the time, and how willing they are to help. You're right, they definitely will think twice before ruining something they helped create. And how fun they were excited to get their pictures taken.
Also, I cracked up at the beginning when you talked about getting a plant "with teeth" to keep out the errant feet and tires. I never would've thought of that. Very smart.
I love this story! It's right out of the Ensign or Friend or something! Looks like an energetic bunch!
What a great story!! I sense a Sacrament meeting talk in your near future...
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