Captured!

[Adam in CO]

So, because it's summertime, the kids all hang out late in the neighborhood. My daughter included. One of these other kids, a neighborhood girl, even came to the house last night offering dog walking services and left us her number.

Later, while out and about, our daughter asked this neighbor girl why her brother is so mean. I guess this kid had been calling her "midget" and such. That's a pretty derogatory thing to say to a little person. And the neighbor girl replied that he doesn't like her and had even TP'd her house (and Hummer) twice this year. Funny.

Well, I just got their home phone number from this little girl who wants to walk my dogs! A little reverse phone directory search revealed that they live only 2 blocks over. So, into the Hummer and down the street we go. Right about this time, we pass a few neighborhood boys who scatter when they see us pull up in front of the house. Scared now? Prolly.

The parents are awesome! We really hit it off and talked for a long time. They spent that hour watching for their son but he was hiding out somewhere nearby. We could see all his friends peeking around the corner from time to time. I wish I could say that I never did things like that at 13 years old, but I'd be lying. We were all very understanding of one another. I think everyone is more bothered by the bullying and teasing than we are about the vandalism.

So, this kid's Dad volunteers him for a year of car washing, lawn mowing and snow shoveling! (I hope we have another HUGE winter)

Anyway, just thought I'd fill you guys in. Thank you all (even P and Dei) for all the help.