The Scene: Friday morning, Ethan and Kate are at school and Mike is getting ready to leave for work. Maggie is dancing around jabbering about Dora (the Explorer), boots and a waterfall, which she pronounces “waterBALL!”

The Dialogue:

Mike: I’ve got to go… I’m running late.

Me: Ok, love you! Have a great day. Maggie! Come tell Daddy goodbye, he has to go to work.

Maggie: Eeeeeeek! Catch the baby!!! Catch the baby!!! (trying to get Mike to chase her)

Mike: Daddy will play with you a bunch this weekend, baby. Come give Daddy a hug, I have to go!

Maggie: Upstairs!!! Catch the baby!!!! (completely ignoring that Mike is leaving… denial is NOT just a river in Egypt.)

Mike: See you girls later! Love you!

*door closes*

*Mike drives away*

Maggie (from the stairs): Hey MOM!!!! Hey Mooooom!!!

Me: Yes, Maggie?

Maggie: I think that Daddy went bye-bye.