OK this isn't so much a conversation, but a direct report. Sometimes the responsibilities of being a parent can run up against the responsibilities of being a graduate student. For example, sometimes as a parent you're actually responsible for watching over your child, but as a graduate student you're also expected to attend department functions such as colloquium talks. Over the last five years I have often times overcome this tension by simply taking Isabelle to attend talks with me. I've been under the impression that she mostly colors and snacks during these talks, but the scales have dropped from my eyes after what she said the other day.
"Philosophy talks are boring Dad. Everyone just sits around talking about P"
Her declaration was both true and funny. For those who aren't familiar with academic philosophy, see here for why her statement might get a laugh from philosophers.
