opposites

Both Lyn and Dan had a chance to be probates (prefects-to-be on probation) this year. Lyn was horrified when she was informed her name was on the list. Dan was full of excitement when he broke the news to us.

Halfway through probation, Lyn had to make a choice as to attend a librarian workshop or an English workshop where probates were asked to attend. She has always wanted to be a librarian. So she decided to follow her heart. She met a discipline teacher and informed her she wanted to pull out from probation. After she pulled out, the news came that probates don't have to attend the workshop. (I was frustrated.)

Dan is extra eager to do his duty. He took the dad's watch so that he would know when he has to be on duty. He would tell me of the prefects' meeting and ask me to remind him to attend the meeting. Just last week, he insisted that he needed a haircut (which was not even an inch long). He wanted to be an exemplary student I guess. (Usually I let his hair grow till either a prefect or teacher warn him a few times.) He washed his shoes without being told. When he forgot to wash them, he polished them with shoewhite.

When Lyn was a prefect in primary school, she used to be so stressed that her little notebook did not contain any names and she didn't know how to put anybody's name down. (I used to suggest to her faults that she can look out for.) Dan proudly showed us his notebook yesterday with quite a few names. He said there must be at least a name a week. He has learnt the trick to catch errant students the fast way. Just park himself close to the boys' toilet; when a student runs (which they love to but are not allowed to) across the court; that's it!!!! Tangkap basah! (I think they learn all these from the police force; hiding behind trees and bushes with their speed traps).

He came home yesterday with great excitement. The installation is on Monday and he is on the list. He needs blue shirts by then. (I wonder if he heard correctly; shouldn't they be given at least a week or so to get the shirts?) Today, he reminded me about the shirts again. So went off to get them so that he would not be stressed on Monday for not wearing the blue shirt.

I know Lyn is much happier not being a probate now. She is more relaxed. Though I regret it very much that she misses out on leadership training and the extra points for her extra curriculur activities. I will respect the decision she has made and give her all my support for all the other things that she commits and enjoys in school.

Two kids from the same parents but total opposites!!!