Have you done
your jobs yet?
Have you done your jobs yet?
Have you done your chores?
I shouldn’t have to tell you
The obligation’s yours
Have you had a shower?
Have you washed your hair?
I’m getting tired of yelling
This isn’t very fair
Are these your dirty undies?
Lying on the floor
You’re acting like a baby
I can’t take it any more
Have you brushed your teeth yet?
Have you done a wee?
You won’t be playing cricket
If you keep ignoring me
I’ve had enough of nagging
My voice is going hoarse
If you don’t start to act your age
I’m getting a divorce
“Being at home can be fun, insulating, relaxed, boring or isolating ... depending on how the day is going.”*
School holidays are almost over in my part of the world – six long weeks of noise and squabbling balanced by hot, lazy days at the beach or the pool with lots of daring exploits and laughter. Many of our days were spent at home, basking in simple pleasures like baking, playing games or outdoor pursuits – trying to relax the everyday routines of school-morning bustle and ‘having to be somewhere on time’. However pleasant, I must admit to being relieved that life gets back to normal next week, and I can reclaim some of my own time for writing again!
* From Being Mummy by Anne‑marie Taplin published April 2007