A Child of the Times

On occassion, Taylor has informed me that when she grows up that she is going to bike or walk everywhere because it is better for the environment and good exercise for her. She has also revealed that she intends to have a house that is in the ground so that it will stay cooler in summer and warmer in winter; and that she will have plants growing on the roof and she will have two or three exits in case of a fire. The girl is only seven. I won't ask where she comes up with the stuff because we have discussed such things, especially while travelling by car (not bike or by foot). But I am amazed at how she has remembered it, processed it, and added it all to her dreams of her future. Wow! When I was seven, I wasn't worried about getting enough exercise, keeping the environment healthy (what was that?), nor concerned about the temperature of my furture home (I put on or took off a sweater). Interesting. I wonder what her goals will be when she's old enough to drive and when she is old enought to have a home. In the meantime, keep dreaming big!


Weeks later, Mackenzie pops out of her bedroom already dressed for the day. On closer inspection, she's wearing the same thing she had on the day before. "Mommy, I'm helping the earth by wearing the clothes I wore yesterday." I told her that does help because it doesn't make more laundry and use more water. "Are you proud of me?" "Yes." I also had to mention that when I was little and wore clothes two days in a row that I got teased but that if clothes aren't sweaty or muddy or dirty in anyway, then one should be able to wear their clothes again. I just wish she'd do what I'd asked and wear her pj's more than one night. This is where the idea originated from.