Tommy opened his eyes and sat up in bed. He stretched his arms high, then stood and walked toward the bathroom — without looking down. Yelp! He had stepped on his dog’s tail. Billy, his two‑month‑old Dalmatian, had been sleeping quietly beside the bed.

Tommy brushed his teeth, washed his face, and took a shower. Water flowed from head to toe. He dried himself with a towel and got dressed: a blue T‑shirt and new pants. The shirt was a little short, so his round tummy peeked out. He slipped on his sneakers without socks. One sneaker had a big hole on the side, and his toe popped through.

Downstairs, his mother was cooking. Her hair was tied up, but not neatly. She turned her head when she heard the sound of footsteps. Tommy’s father was already at the dining table, chewing with his mouth full, watching Tommy run in.

Everyone looked surprised. “Tommy, why did you get up so early?” Mom asked. “Today is Saturday.”

Tommy froze. “Oh! I forgot. Then I’ll go back to bed.”

He turned around — and just then, Billy ran toward him. Thud! Tommy fell down the stairs and landed on the floor.

Dad rushed over. Tommy was okay, but his right knee was bruised.

OathKa April 2, 2012