I was running around getting some stuff together for our impromptu camping trip, up in the Northern Wastes of Scotland.
I was quite looking forward to it and had stuffed the car's secret places with copious quantities of beer that the Good Lady knew nothing about.
Oh yes, it was going to be a good one.
As I pulled the last few bits and bobs together from the kitchen, I heard a furious voice yell in the lounge.
ALEXA, PLAY THAT SONG AGAIN?!?!?
I came through and smiled good-naturedly at the Little Lady who was hopping from one foot to another in front of our Amazon Echo device.
She seemed cross.
I am sorry, my video skills have not been enabled for that subject...
ALEXA!?!? ALEXA. PLAY THE SAME SONG YOU PLAYED A MINUTE AGO?!?!
The Little Lady stamped her foot so hard that far on the other side of the globe 
The Good Lady appeared as if by magic.
Darling, please be respectful to Alexa. There is no need to shout at her and we should always be polite.
She said like a hippy from a dream in which the clouds were made of candy floss.
But, Mummy!?!? She isn't doing what I tell her?!?!
She wailed.
That still doesn't mean we should be disrespectful to her.
Said the Good Lady serenely.
The Little Lady caught sight of me at the door.
Daddy, Alexa isn't doing what I want and Mummys says I shouldn't shout at her!
The Good Lady gave me that look. The one that says Let's parent the shit out of this together. Let's show this little one the power of kindness and respect. Let's be Team Family.
I sauntered in, a dish towel in my hand flicking out like a whip to snap at the unit that Alexa sat upon.
What?! She DISOBEYS YOU?!?! ALEXA!! OBEY MY DAUGHTER!
Alexa glowed blue.
I am sorry, I don't...
ALEXA! PLAY THAT SONG AGAIN?!
I yelled.
I'll repeat the song.
She complied.
Some nonsense sung by Shakira started playing from the diminutive little all listening NASA spying device.
The Good Lady stared at me in horror.
I smirked.
The machines must be kept in check, Mummy-Bear. They must be made to OBEY!
I marched out of the room with a swagger that could dry washing.