Nothing. Absolutely Nothing

It’s pretty customary for me to ask the kids how they’re day went while we’re all eating dinner. On school days, I’ll also ask how school was. Last week, I run the question by Ryan.

“How was school?” I ask.

“Fine,” Ryan responds.

“What did you do today?”

“Well, we made…”, he begins to respond before throwing his hand over his mouth in a clear demonstration that he almost spilled the beans on something important. His eyes are as big as saucers, thinking he's already said too much. From the sound of it, perhaps a Christmas present for mom & dad?

“Why are you covering your mouth?” I ask.

“Cough, cough, cough,” is his reply. “I have a cough.”

Sonya and I look at each other in amusement. I’m more amazed that he was able to conjure up the coughing excuse as quickly as he did.

“What was that you said you did at school today?” I probe.

“Nothing,” he says with unconvincing conviction. “Absolutely nothing. We did nothing at school today.”

“Oh,” I respond. “OK.