Feed the Birds

This summer I am considering myself lucky that I have a job nannying for a six-year-old and a nine-year-old. Despite the long days, I relish the opportunity to make money while also soaking up the sun at the pool rather than spending hours sitting in a local shop. So far, it hasn't been terribly challenging finding things to do as they act their age and don't feel they are too old to do certain things like feeding the ducks. Just the other day, they were thrilled that their mom had left out a full bag of old hot dog buns. Their enthusiasm was evident as they bounded out of the house, reminding each other not to feed the greedy sea gulls who would inevitably bully the innocent families of ducks for some crumbs. Minutes later we arrived at the boat ramp in the harbor and they eagerly began tearing the soft white bread into little chunks, beckoning to the Mr. and Mrs. Mallard's relatives. Needless to say, they swiftly swam over, probably having learned the value of free food much like anyone else. I gave credit to both children, who aimed pretty accurately from the edge of the water and watched the bread make it safely to the circles of patient ducks rather than into the beaks of swarming sea gulls. Once our bag was empty, the kids were sad to leave their new friends "Pikachu" and "Quackers", but still talked vibrantly about the birds' loyal stance at their feet in order to collect a bit of bread. With so many children now growing out of Raffi and into the top 40 long before I did, I'm pleased to be spending my summer with two who are still young at heart.