I dole out chocs at the end of my piano lessons - Roses, Heroes, that sort of thing. This is simply my way of saying thanks to the kids for the entertainment they provide. I mention the cost because of the significance to what follows. I buy in whatever costs less than £3 - the closer to £2 the better. I keep my eye on the supermarket offers, is what I am talking about here. No way will I pay more than £3 under any circumstances.
Now, I do Child Adoration big time. I love the kids I teach. Harry is particularly special. He is 11 and still in Primary school, just. Said school decided to put on a summer concert, and sent around a letter to parents inviting any of their progeny who learn to play an instrument to play a solo. Harry elected so to do.
Having elected to participate, said Harry fixed me with The Eyes and uttered, "You are coming to listen, aren't you?" No contest. "Of course I am."
So, I cadged a lift with Mum and sat through The Concert. Actually, it was rather lovely. Great to see little children with the confidence to stand up in front of an audience and strut their stuff. Their reception will have done much to build their confidence in the future.
On the way home, we approached a shop and I wanted to treat Harry, so I told Mum to stop for a minute. "Come with me", I told Harry. We entered the shop and approached the choc stand.
"What is your fav treat?" I asked.
"Ummmmmmm"
"Ok" said I. "I am really proud of you. Tell you what. Have two of your favourites."
Two different choc bars appeared in H's hands as if by magic.
Now, I had forgotten temporarily that H is: highly intelligent (we are talking Gary-level brains here); up for the main chance.
I had given him time to think. Big mistake.
"Tell you what," I intoned. "I am really, really pround of you. Take a third treat."
The little bugger reached up to the top shelf and picked up a box of Roses, costing £5.
Yes, of course I stumped up.
