Our kids can CLEAN stuff?!?

Indiantown Marina has proven to be a magical realm: we pulled in earlier this week with two children who had perfected the mantra of “I’ll drop my things right where I’m finished with them, thank you very much. In the middle of the hallway? Eh, it won’t bother me.”. A day into our time here, and the second most-asked question I’ve received is “What can I do to help?”. (The number one non-question that ultimately ends in a silent-but-assumed question will of course forever be “I’m hungry..” (What are you going to feed me?))

At first I was so shocked I thought I was on camera, part of the new movie, but as the question persisted I warmed up to the idea of… child labor. SO, so great, child labor. And free! (But I should note that I’m preeetty sure you should only feel that way if it’s involving your own kids.) They have helped wash the boat, inventory the med kit, fold laundry, DO the laundry, put away provisions, make dumpster runs every time I ask without complaint, stow their things and tidy their cabin, and Lily’s assistance on the last major grocery shop today was invaluable. Kids! Not just for feeding anymore!

I’m just hoping that whatever crazy pact they must have made with each other covers at least the next ten years, and doesn’t end with a practical joke played on their parents. Even still, it’d probably be worth it.

We’re toying with the idea of leaving the marina tomorrow, though we still have a fairly hefty list to accomplish before we shove off. It would be nice to clear this first ‘obstacle’ and leave the nest. Having the car and the option to make ‘just one more’ run to West Marine or Publix is hard to pull away from, but I’m ready to get into clear water!

Meanwhile, Alex has lent the kids his hover board to use, so while we figure it all out they are slowly ramping up their own excitement levels. (And ramping down number of knee skin cells.)

Time will tell, and if we can get moving early I’ll report on our next locale soon!