Julio wanted to make his mother a really good birthday gift. He thought about it for weeks, considering what would make the perfect present. He eventually decided to make a picture frame out of wood scraps. He worked hard, painting and sanding it himself. The night before her birthday, he was still working on it when his mother called upstairs. "Julio!" she shouted angrily. "What could you possibly be doing that is so important it made you skip your chores? It's your night to empty the dishwasher!"

What did Julio do for his mother's birthday?

Julio made a picture frame out of wood scraps for his mother's birthday.

Step 1: Understanding the situation

Julio wanted to make his mother a special birthday gift and decided to make a picture frame out of wood scraps. However, he was still working on it when his mother called him downstairs, questioning why he had skipped his household chores.

Step 2: Reflecting on the problem
Julio's mother was angry and wanted to know why he had neglected his chores. He needed to explain why he had prioritized making the special gift for her.

Step 3: Communicating with his mother
Julio should explain to his mother that he had been working diligently on a surprise birthday gift for her. He could say something like, "I'm sorry, Mom. I was actually working on something special for your birthday. I wanted to make a picture frame out of wood scraps as a unique and meaningful gift."

Step 4: Describing his effort
Julio should emphasize the effort he put into the gift. He could say, "I have been working hard on it for weeks, painting and sanding it myself. I wanted it to be perfect because you mean so much to me."

Step 5: Expressing regret
Julio should express his regret for neglecting his chores and failing to communicate with his mother about his intentions. He could say, "I apologize for not discussing this with you earlier and for not completing my chores on time. I didn't mean to upset you."

Step 6: Offering a solution
Julio should propose a solution to address his unfinished chores. He could say, "I will finish emptying the dishwasher right away, and after that, I can continue working on the picture frame if that's okay with you. I really want to finish it in time for your birthday tomorrow."

Step 7: Listening to his mother's response
Julio should listen attentively to his mother's response and acknowledge her feelings. He should be prepared to discuss and negotiate a resolution that satisfies both of them.

Step 8: Learning from the situation
In the future, Julio should make sure to communicate with his mother about his plans and responsibilities. By discussing and coordinating with her, he can avoid conflicts and ensure his actions are understood and appreciated.