Why did the chicken cross the road?

To say I am a chicken would be an understatement. My daughter wants to get her ears pierced. One might think she would be nervous because it is painful; however, I am the one struggling with this new adventure.

This chicken started to cross the road. We went to the mall because that is where one goes when they want to get their ears pierced. My stomach was in knots and my brain was second guessing this decision. Riley is only getting her ears pierced, yet I am acting as if she is participating in a life altering event.

We walked through the mall, holding hands. Eventually, we found the store that has the famous princess teddy bear Riley’s friends have held when they took the leap of faith and had their ears pierced. “Mom, the bear,” squealed Riley.

That dang bear was sitting in the “ear piercing” chair with a smile on its face. It looked so innocent, yet I knew the truth. First, it is earrings, then another piercing, then a tattoo. When does it end? This chicken started to back up and return to the safe side of the road. This chicken was not ready to take a risk. However, my little chick was 100% committed to getting her ears pierced.

Somehow, some way I was going to figure out a way to convince Riley into waiting.

I calmly, yet pleadingly stated, “I don’t think we should do this today.”

“But, I want to. I want the Frozen earrings. Wait, I want the Hello Kitty earrings.” Riley responded.

“Those are pretty. What do you think of the pink flowers? I like the flowers. They will match with everything.” Now I am bartering with her…Unbelievable. This chicken needs to figure out how to get out of the store.

“Fancy! I want the flowers.” Riley agreed.

“Well, here is the deal. I think we should wait a few more days and get your ears pierced after we talk to dad. You can get the pink flowers, as well as hold the princess teddy bear when we come to get your ears pierced. But, I don’t think we should get your ears pierced today.”

As I expected, Riley was not keen on the idea of waiting; however, I worked my magic. This chicken convinced Riley to wait a few more days.

Sometime before Thanksgiving, we are going to cross the road together, chicken and chick. I am going to give Riley the freedom to make a decision for herself. She is going to teach me to let go a little bit.
We haven't crossed the road yet, but we will soon. 

The Green Screen

Dean and a new toy for work, the green screen. Each picture was taken with proper lighting and a green screen in the background. Once the photos were uploaded, all Dean had to do was insert a background of his choice. Riley was his helper and they had fun.