Billy here.
My oldest nephew turned 12 today and I decided to send him a “Happy Birthday” text this morning (He got a personal cell phone for “emergencies” about a month ago. Yes. He is a persuader of the most sinister kind. You just can’t tell the kid “no.”).
Me: Happy Birthday dude!! The BIG 1-2. AWESOME!
Now, his mother (my sister) had told me that his phone is off and in his locker during school so I figured he’d get my note when school got out. Guess we’d better make that supposed to be off because not 30 seconds later … Buzz. Buzz.
My nephew: Thanks Uncle B!!!!! <<<:->>>>>>
(My nephew follows all his texts with that emoticon. A new sort of seal? A far cry form the wax ones of Victorian days passed but, I digress.)
I didn’t respond. What was he doing texting me back and where was he that he was able to do it? Oh well. I hoped he didn’t get (me) in trouble.
So, just a few minutes ago I called the boy. It was 4:30 pm where he was so I figured he’d answer. He did. He was doing his homework. He answered after the first ring with a simple “hi”. Talking on the phone is so much better than homework …
“Hey. Happy Birthday, Millions.” (Millions is his nickname.)
“Thanks Uncle B. I also got your text earlier today.” He was setting me up for “approval” and I fell for it hook, line and sinker.
“Yeah. I thought your mother told me you didn’t have your phone with you when you are in school.”
The boy was shameless! “Oh, yeah. It’s supposed to be in my locker and off. But, I keep it with me and just keep it on vibrate and text in class.”
Now, what in the world am I supposed to say to that? I mean, such off-handed delinquency. Boy, did THAT sound familiar. Reminded me of the time when I was a teenager and Mom and Dad were out of town and, having utter disregard for the “babysitter”, we kept a keg in the fridge in the basement for the entire weekend. That was OK, wasn’t it? I guess my nephew had decided texting during class is OK too!
My response was pathetic. I actually laughed and said, “Hey, tell you what, I’m just going to pretend I didn’t ever hear you say that.”
He laughed too. “OK.” Ahhh, two bonding delinquents. How cute.
“Tell you what, buddy, I’ve gotta run. I just wanted to go ahead and call you now because I’ve got a dinner to go to tonight. You go ahead and finish your homework and have a great birthday evening. Give everyone my best there.”
“OK Uncle B. See ya.”
Now, does any of you think I have actually heard the end of this? The types of trouble texting causes us are just limitless! But, it’s just so much fun, isn’t it? My 12 year-old nephew certainly thinks so. And, I can’t wait to steal his phone for a bit the next time I see him. I have a sneaking suspicion the material in there will find its way here.
You all take care and pray my sister does not kill me the day Millions tells her, “But Uncle B. didn’t think it was a big deal.” No wonder I’m not a parent (or even married)!
– Billy
