Parenthood 101: Oh, (insert child's name here), LOOK AT THIS!

.....This Hotel Has a Mini-Fridge!!!!!!

It's that time of year again.  Time for everyone you know to make some sort of original comment about how the stores have begun stocking Christmas decorations before Halloween decorations are put away. Time to hear them complain about how Sam's Club has gone full-fledged Christmas already - FULL-FLEDGED!  Time to read dozens of Tweets and Facebook Statuses that all wonder whether next year we will see Christmas trees next to the Back-To-School supplies. Oh, the OUTRAGE!

As a new parent, I have been given the opportunity to rid the world of these types of statements (albeit clever and original), one Roach child at a time   -  using a skill that I was recently reminded of by my mom, on a trip to Patti's Settlement.  I don't recommend making a special trip to Patti's Settlement unless you have someone with you who has perfected this special skill  - and my mom is truly an expert. 

To Sell Excitement: 

- To influence your children, family, or friends to have fun in ordinary, commonplace, or lame situations by seeming genuinely thrilled yourself

- Usually occurs on car trips, family vacations, holidays, or special outings.

- Intensifies if child seems to be having an unmemorable time

Examples***:

• LOOK!  A New York license plate!
• Wow!!- The World's Largest McDonald's in the World! I don't believe it!
• This hotel has a mini-fridge!!! 
• Did you see the pool is ON THE ROOF?!!
• Wow, Look  - they sell chocolate pie here! mmmmm
• Did you see that?? It says 'The Largest McDonald's in the World'! NO WAY!
• Look at all the Christmas decorations in this place!! WOW!
• Someone is getting married in that gazebo! How Neat!
• They have go-karts here!
• You can adjust the water pressure in the shower!
• That exit had an A&W Root Beer Stand!
• NO WAY is that the World's Largest McDonald's!

So Nora, be prepared to be amazed by automatic hand dryers, zoos that have monkey exhibits, holographic billboards, buildings with valet parking, and - especially -  Christmas decorations in October.  

***all inspired by Mom