August 27, 2010

White Dog hopped up next to Michael and was instantly ready to help when he asked for assistance with his physical science homework. This semester he is taking mainstream classes and for the first time is learning to deal with independent assignments and homework being sent home from school. So far he has been very diligent and we were glad to be there to help.

White Dog read the assignment over Michael's shoulder and gave me the "you better take this one, mom" look as she crossed over and jumped up on the arm of my chair. Michael explained that he had to interview an old person about scientific advancements that happened during that person's lifetime and how it affected everyday life. "Great," I said quickly trying to think of an "old" person we could call. White Dog tapped me on the shoulder, "He means you!" she stage whispered, chortling.

In the interest of advancing education I became an "old" person and we discussed man's advances into space and discoveries in micro-circuitry that allowed laptop computers and cell phones and smart appliances. We talked about how inventions for space travel had been adapted for life on earth in terms of better insulation and materials technology. We listed forward leaps that have created medical procedures that are routine today but were unheard of just 20 years ago.

Michael carefully took notes as we talked (and even double checked some spelling). White Dog listened raptly to the exchange. When he had a full sheet of notes, he said he thought that was enough. He reread his list and shook his head. "What?" I asked, preparing to offer more explanation. "It's just that nothing was invented before you were alive," he said in awe.

White Dog had to hop down and go behind her chair so that I would not hear her laughing.