The Kids Don't Like It When I Do This. And, They Let Me Know.

We've had an exceptionally hot and humid Summer. Not only have we had a multitude of heatwaves, the humidity levels have been through the roof. It's the type of humidity that will make paper feel like fabric. Because of that, we've had to rely on our air conditioners more than usual. Around the clock. I can count on one hand how many times we've been able to open the windows this Summer.

Even though our air conditioners are new, Energy Efficient, and we rotate which ones we use throughout the day, our electric bill has doubled. I'm certain our electric bill would be much higher, however, we've taken a few steps to maximize the usage of our air conditioners.

The biggest money saver has been keeping the home office door shut during the day. When the air conditioner is on, the home office gets cold.

Really. Really. Cold. 

If I keep the door shut during the day, our entire home cools off with only one of the air conditioners on low or medium.

That's what I've been doing.

I'll spend about an hour at my desk in the early morning. Then, I grab my Chrome Book, shut the home office door, and head to the kitchen table.

Every once in a while, something comes up and I need to utilize the main laptop on my desk. When that happens, I sneak into the home office and shut the door.

At this point, I need to remind you that I never close myself off from our kids when Lisa isn't home.

And yes, that includes when I'm in the bathroom to shower or...

The only exception has been this Summer when I've had to sneak into the home office for 5-10 minutes when the air conditioner is on.

Last week, I had to run into the home office for a few minutes to upload some photos. I was in there for less than 10 minutes.

I heard the familiar sound of Willa poking the mini wooden chair in the living room against the end table. I knew what she was up to. I also knew that Lobo was with her.

Before getting up and heading back into the kitchen, I grabbed my camera.

When I opened the door, this is what I discovered.

Refer to the photo at the top of this blog column.

Willa had tipped over the mini wooden chair. Grabbed the rustic doll that was sitting on top of the chair. Ripped some of her hair out.

Then, Willa ran into the kitchen. Lobo was right behind her. I managed to capture his squishy, wiggly bum running away from the scene.

Yep. This is what happens when there is a door or gate separating the kids and myself. It doesn't matter if it's only for 5 or 10 minutes. They don't like that.

And, they let me know.