Wednesday, 3 January 2018

Power Outlets

This particular post is literally my LIVE documentation of ASid’s hosting of today’s “hangout” which is still in session.

Right now, I have 5 teenage boys (including ASid) in my living room. All of them are 16 years of age. Literally, the first thing they requested was for our Wi-Fi password and then, they all looked for power outlets for their multiple devices including laptops. We are still waiting on 5 more -  3 girls and 2 boys. Once they all arrive, ASid will order pizza and then, they will watch the movie.

So far, I have had ASid say the following gems:

"Spill that drink on the floor and you are banned forever from my home!"

"There is no democracy here. It is a totalitarian regime."

ASid has been super assertive and maybe a tad harsh. But maybe it is for the best?! They are his friends after all.

***

The first girl arrived. And predictably, a couple of minutes later, the doorbell rang and it was her mom checking in! This always happens when a girl comes over for the first time to our home. Parents typically want to make sure there is adult supervision. I assured the mom that I will be there the whole time and she should not worry. The mom left reassured.

The poor girl is alone amidst 5 boys who are in their own world. I had to remind ASid to get her jacket and he was like "Mom, can you get her jacket?! Thanks!!"

I had to make a mental note on this one for a serious chat with ASid for a later time.

***

Thank God the second girl arrived a few minutes later. This one told the boys off! She also got them to get their feet and their bags off the couch. Good for her! She also remarked on their antisocial behaviour.

Then, a few minutes later, the third and the last girl arrived. She actually had a short conversation with me and stated that we have a nice home.

Really?! Thank you!!

***

When the Pizza was delivered, I was calling for my teen child. Everyone heard me except him. It is interesting how that works out, eh?! Even when everyone tried to get the dude's attention, he was oblivious.

So much for the recently mentioned hosting skills! When ASid is in the middle of it all, he is lost in it all. It is kind of good and bad.

***

They finally watched the 2 hour movie. The other 9 teens had to read the subtitles as none of them know the language it was made in. I was impressed that they were willing to spend time watching a movie one of their friends recommended instead of doing something else interesting with a day off!

Maybe they all miss being at school together?! Unlikely!!

***

At this point in time, 5 hours later, half the teens have left the building. Apparently, half of them have already watched the movie and they chose to watch it again! A couple of them explained to me that it was just an excuse to get together!

So, they all miss being together.

It was cute how most of them, boys and girls alike, huddled on our couch while they watched the movie. There was a good sense of belonging, familiarity and safety.

***

Highlight of the day was:

A boy and a girl did some baking and brought some treats over. The boy's cookies were absolutely delicious and he took great pride in his baking.

How wonderful is that?!

***

I am glad that I let ASid host for no good reasons. I'd rather he is home than wandering around somewhere. I am alright even if all the power outlets in our home are taken over by a bunch of teenagers. It is all worth the time and effort.
 

No comments:

Post a Comment