Here I was trying to manage Mika and Emi. It was a beautiful warm day. Mika clearly was interested in her own activities on her schedule. When I wanted them to eat, she didn't. No big thing, I say. So, I fed Emi and tried to keep in touch with Mika who continued to enjoyed the outside court yard. I would go back and forth checking on her. Eventually, she came in and ate.
After a little Sesame Street, it was time for baths. Emi was enthusiastic about it, but Mika was not at the moment. No big thing. She continued to occupy herself downstairs. Every once in a while, I would check verbally. And then, nothing!
Wow! I went from one floor to the next, crying out, "Mika Louise". But nothing. I checked the down stairs bathroom, the upstairs bedrooms, with "Mika Louise". But nothing. I then checked the courtyard and the back area. But nothing! And then, panic!
I involved the local police, fearing somehow that she got out to the court yard and decided to take a walk. I recalled my parents relating the horrendous ordeal of my aunt who was caring for me after our move to a new house when I was two. I was missing only to be found walking the entire two miles to my older home with a hammer in the hands. No one could figure out how I did it when the many streets to be crossed etc.
The local police responded promptly and to my chagrin, they walked with me into the house only to find Mika walking calmly down the stairs. She never even questioned why these people were present!
The bottom line is that I flunked a major test of child care. I am always impressed how my wife handles both children, but I am aware that there are times when she will ask me to watch one while she attends to the other. It is tough business to care for little ones.
The experience was traumatic for all involved, including my daughter, son-in-law, and my wife. I surely will never be quite the same! Fortunately, it is only a story with a happy ending.
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