I asked my nine year old what she did at school yesterday and her reply was, “Dodgeball.” Ah June.

My seven year old came home from school with the usual stories of academia including; going to the office for ice to dress various wounds, for Band-Aids for other less severe injuries, to escort friends and other random kids to have their first aid needs met. It was a busy day for all.

She did tell me something that happened that really bothered her.

A friend had written a story and one of her characters who happened to be named Ellie needed air.

Deep breath.

Me: I don’t understand why you are upset Ellie? Is it because the character in the story shares your name?

Ellie: No, it’s because it means I can’t breathe!

Great literature can have so many meanings. I did not get that one.

Me again: Did you read the rest of the story? Maybe she meant you needed to go outside for a breath of fresh air? Or did you just hear the part about a character who has the same name as you needing air and you went right for your puffer?

Ellie: What is a puffer?

Me: Tell me why this bothered you so much.

Ellie: It’s not nice to say people can’t breathe.

Why did I open up this can of worms?

Me: Hanna tell me all about dodgeball.

Hanna: Mom, can we have another sister?

Me: ?

Hanna: How about a baby bro?

I think I need some air.