sort of confused

[cornerofmadness]

There's a neighbor kid Z, who introduced himself to me last week and wouldnt' stop talking to me. He's about 7 -9 I guess. I'm not really a kid person but Z likes me apparently. I also feel rather sorry for him. There's jackshit to do down here other than run around in the pathetic yard. He and another little buddy sit on the front porch of his apartment and play video games all afternoon. (I have suspect Mom won't let them inside to play these but she does have padded chairs out for them. I've never even seen mom)

I've taken to sneaking in the back door so Z doesn't see me (Because I'm the brave little toaster). Today I tried to sit out there and even though I'm obviously talking on the phone Z is trying to talk to me and get my attention 'Watch me Dana, Watch me!' (he's trying to pop a wheelie and mostly just hurting himself). I had to go back inside (to play with the thermostat but he could have thought I was running off on him).

Later as I'm in the tub, someone knocks on my door. I ignore it. It's nearly 9pm and i'm reading in the tub go away. The person is very persistent. Thinking it might be the neighbor I share a wall with coming to say my music is too loud or something I get out get dressed and answer the door. It's Z with a broom. "Dana can I sweep your porch?" yeah knock yourself out, kid. I now have to go abck inside and finish school work.

But I feel bad. Obviously Z wants someone to talk to. I'm not much on kids and I have nothing for him, no snacks or games. The best I could do is sit outside and watch him play. I guess I could but in the past Z has shown a reluctance to let me escape if I encourage him. Then again I feel bad because I know he has to be lonely and the parent (s) is letting video games and tv raise him. Sigh. The urge to slap any parent who parks their kid in front of a tv all day and do nothing else with him is overwhelming