Journal, Day 90

This weekend was a flurry of activity. The benefactor schlepped us to a procession of four legged and other creatures, adorned in costume and toted via wagon and other movable devices. We arrived early to stake out a prime location from which to view the festivities. Our benefactor kindly prepared eggs wrapped in tortillas, and procured fresh pastry from a local café with the assistance of the two younger children. The elder children were aghast that the younger children received twisted, cinnamon pastries whilst they merely received still warm croissants. Unable to hide her disdain, the benefactor rolled her eyes at the complaint. Otherwise, twas an exciting and engaging event, especially for our small pooch, who fell asleep on the floor of our moving vehicle on the way back to our abode.
 
That evening, the benefactor escorted the elder children to a film house to view a moving picture about a terrifying clown. The benefactor purchased popped corn and refreshing brewed tea to share, while the elder female balked at eating mere hand snacks. Once in the theater, the benefactor sat between the two, watching the reactions as the story progressed. Gripping his seat, the elder males sat in tense suspension during the entire picture, while the female was an impassive stone. At one point, the elder male looked at the benefactor and questioned why the female was not frightened, to which the benefactor had no response. After, they journeyed home to watch the media box, engaging in the original version of the one they had just viewed at the theater, the children falling asleep.
 
Yesterday, the younger children and the benefactor tackled acquiring groceries and necessities, while the elder children were given a task list for the homestead. After whining incessantly, the younger children agreed to be cooperative in exchange for a refreshing beverage from the general store. Not above bribery, the benefactor was happy to consent. Having gathered their needs for the week, the children and benefactor came home, and the younger children negotiated their services cleaning the moving vehicle in exchange for a cold dessert. Immediately, the benefactor sent them to work, clearing the dirt and residue as best as they were able. Two hours later, they completed the task and were paid as decided in frozen confectionery.
 
Come evening, the younger children were difficult to wrangle for bedtime, leading the benefactor to question if confectionery was a good idea. The elder children only postponed sleep for everyone by continually talking and arguing with their younger siblings. It wasn’t until the benefactor threatened the removal of their nighttime ‘tuck’, that the younger progeny finally settled for the night, and peace, at least, descended upon them all.