Thankful for Cats and Bacon

The kids love Saturday mornings because that’s the day dad goes out early and gets them bacon, egg and cheese sandwiches. Saturday mornings are special to me because on most days, I leave the house before dawn and I love being able to have breakfast with the kids. While they were munching on their sandwiches I said “Since we just celebrated Thanksgiving I want to go around the table and hear what you’re thankful for.”

They looked up at me as if to say, “Are you kidding me mom?” (They are all getting very, very Jersey!) I started off by saying I was thankful that my kids were happy and healthy. Paul rolled his eyes. Maxwell said, “I’m thankful that the Chargers beat the Giants. In your face dad!” He ran up to the head of the table and did an obnoxious touchdown dance.

“How about you Natalie?” I asked. “I’m thankful for candy and Daisy the dog.” Daisy the dog is Paul's best friends new dog. She was clearly using the moment to lobby for a Christmas gift.

Paul was next and I tensed up thinking he might say something about ultimate fighting or candy as well. He looked up and imitated me, “I’m thankful for my happy family.” Meanwhile, Paulina was busy picking the eggs out of her sandwich. “Last night, at my school, my teacher said I was a good girl…” she launched into an imaginary story where she went to school with Maxwell and Natalie. She was so not answering the question.

Aidan was literally at the edge of his seat waiting for his turn. “How about you Aidan, what are you thankful for?” Clear as day he yelled, “Cats and bacon!” He looked up triumphantly, waiting for us to break into spontaneous applause. I think he had mentally prepared himself as we went around the room to astonish and impress us with his answer. By that time, I was the only one paying attention. “Good job buddy! Cats and bacon! Nice!”