Arthur's Bad News Day

Arthur's Bad News Day

Hey, take a seat, and I'll tell you a story about some really bad news. My name is Arthur Hankins, and the first eight years of my life were nearly perfect-until my parents told me some disturbing news that would change my life forever. But before I tell you the bad news, let me tell you about a typical perfect day in my life so you can see why I'm so upset about everything changing.

Picture this--every morning my mom wakes me up by tickling the bottoms of my feet, making me giggle and starting my day on a happy note. She always takes time to ask, " What did you dream about?" She laughs at the weird dreams and bites her bottom lip when I tell her about the scary ones. By the time I finish talking, I'm wide awake and ready to start my day. And it only gets better.

The smell of hot maple syrup carries me eagerly downstairs, making my mouth water and my stomach growl. For breakfast, Dad always makes these really cool animal-shaped pancakes, sometimes adding chocolate chips or blueberries. They are so delicious that I could eat them for the rest of my life. Dad, Mom, and I talk about the day ahead while we eat, and Dad always pretends to steal a pancake off my plate. “ You don't look so hungry today, Arthur. Let me help you finish this, " he says.

On the drive to school, I choose the music we listen to, and Mom, Dad, and I sing along really loudly. Sometimes, Mom and Dad will get in a competition to see who can make up the goofiest words to the songs, and at other times, Dad pretends to play many different instruments along with the CD-a trombone, guitar, piano, or flute. Mom usually joins in by playing percussion on the steering wheel. Over the years, I've learned to play my imaginary harmonica very well. And the day gets even better! After school, Dad and I kick and toss the ball around until it's time for dinner. When it's raining or snowing, we'll still play outside sometimes, although usually we stay in and draw or put together a puzzle. Dad and I once built a three-dimensional puzzle of the Egyptian pyramids. It took us almost a month, but it was awesome!

I usually help Mom and Dad make dinner, and twice a week I get to choose what we make, such as spaghetti or homemade pizza with extra cheese. Then we eat and tell stories about our day. I never realize how interesting my day really was until I'm telling Mom and Dad about it. I'm a famous geologist telling them about the rocks I found during recess, or I'm a world-renowned artist describing my use of color in art class. After dinner, Mom never forgets about my favorite dessert-a giant chocolate chip cookie with milk, which I drink from a special glass I got when we visited a theme park. It reminds me of the best vacation ever!