Just thought everyone should know that I recently learned that I’m a direct descendant of a famous Viking, Rollo Hrólfr, the first Duke of Normandy.
Here is my favorite part of his bio:
“The byname ‘Walker’ is usually understood to suggest that Rollo was so physically imposing that he could not be carried by a horse and was obliged to travel on foot.”
Sound like anyone you know?
Me: “Hey! Come here.”
Little Miss Thing, age 8: “Do I have to?”
Me: “Yes, I want to give you a hug.”
LMT: “OK. Sure.”
(she stiffens, arms at her sides)
Me: “What’s wrong, kiddo? Do you not want a hug?”
LMT: “I guess I’m not in the mood.”
Me: “You know, it’s your body. You get to decide who gets to touch you, and when and where. Only your Mom and I and sometimes Doctors get to make any decisions about your body, and that’s only while you’re young. And I promise we don’t do any of that unless it’s absolutely important for your health and safety, like when you’re sick. Otherwise, you are the one and only boss of your body. You don’t have to hug anyone if you don’t want to. Ever.”
LMT: “Not even you and Mama?”
Me: “Nope. Not even me and Mama.”
LMT: “Good! Now I’m in the mood for a giant hug!”
Me: “Yay! How nice! I’m really glad that makes you happy.”
(she makes a grand gesture of swinging her arms wide around to my back)
(hugging)
LMT: “Thanks, sucker!” (runs off giggling)
Me: “That was nice, except for the sucker part.”
(long pause)
Me: “Wait a… Hey! Where’s my wallet!?!?”
LMT: (hysterical giggling from the other room)
FOR SALE: Eleven year old boy, cheap.
Full disclosure – he sings all day about farts and snot. He fights constantly with his sister and tracks in mud. His room looks like a tornado just hit.
Also, he’s very geeky. He loves gaming, dressing like an elf, and digging holes out in the woods for hours.
But he can also be quite charming. And kind, I guess, sometimes. He’s industrious, wicked smart, and incredibly loyal.
Very snuggly.
Beautiful.
Brave.
Nevermind. He’s not for sale.
Very Vocal Viking 