Guilt Tripping

[Amid my 4-year-old brother's chants of "Don't move! Don't move!"]

 

7-year-old brother: Can I move to California with you?

Me: Well, no. Because I'm going to be in school, and who would help you with your homework and take you to school and get you dressed...

7-year-old brother: You.

Me: I don't think that's a good idea. But remember how we bought that webcam today so that you can still see me and talk to me, right? And that will be so cool.

7-year-old brother: No. It's not the same. I want to go with you.

My mother [to the 7-year-old]: But don't you think I'd miss you if you move to California?

7-year-old brother: You can use the webcam.