Why Ya Think They Call 'Em "Happy Meals?"

Max bows his head sorrowfully, as if about to pray, "Daddy?" soft as a whisper.

"What?!" I answer, sharply."Paw Paw... Richie-Ryan... Chic-kan nug-gets," referring to my father and two young nephews and a food he likes.

I cover my face so he can't see me smile.

Okay, imagine John Edwards saying to his wife: "Hey, Honey, did you lose weight or do something to your hair? You look GREAT!!"

Or Senator Craig saying to the arresting officer: "Wow, they sure keep these airport bathrooms spotless!"

Max, two years old now, has just gotten caught doing one of his list of a thousand daily things he knows not to do, and is trying to soften up the wrath."Paw Paw... Richie-Ryan... Chic-kan nug-gets." I hear it twenty times a day.

But what can ya do?