Mommy Goes Back to Work

Emma was four years old. She was not yet old enough to go to school, so she stayed at home with Mommy. Every day after breakfast, Emma helped Mommy wash the dishes. Then they walked the dog. After lunch, Mommy read Emma a book before naptime. That was Emma’s favorite part of the day.

But now Mommy was going back to work. “Don’t you have work to do here at home?” asked Emma.

“Yes,” said Mommy. “But Grandpa will help do the chores and take care of you while I’m at work. I’ll be home when you wake up from your nap.”

On Mommy’s first day at work, Emma woke up early to say good-bye. She looked out the window and waved at Mommy. Mommy waved back and got in a yellow taxi. She drove away.

“What should we do first?” Grandpa asked.

“Let’s eat breakfast,” Emma said. Grandpa went into the kitchen and cooked eggs and bacon. Mommy usually just made cereal. Emma loved eggs.

“What’s next?” asked Grandpa.

“Now we do the dishes,” Emma said. Grandpa washed, and Emma dried. There were more pots and pans to wash after the big breakfast, but Emma didn’t mind.

After the dishes were clean, Grandpa and Emma took the dog for a walk. They played at the park together. Instead of going home for lunch, Grandpa bought Emma a sandwich at the food truck. Emma liked eating outside in the sunshine.

When they got home from the park, it was time for Emma’s nap. Grandpa tucked Emma into her bed. “Aren’t you going to read me a story?” Emma asked. She missed Mommy. She felt like she would cry if Grandpa didn’t read her a book.

“Sure!” Grandpa said. “Which book do you like best?”

Emma handed Grandpa her favorite book. As he read, she felt sleepy. The day was full of changes, but many of them were nice. She couldn’t wait to tell Mommy all about it when she woke up.