( It shouldn't be this hard... )

http://i40.tinypic.com/90pw5v.jpg

( It was, sometimes, very easy to get Reid, at nine, to cheer up. And that was, from a dead-point blank expression and closed up posture to downright bouncing. )

As valid an excuse to sneak off to Tyler's or Pogue's place as any.

"...and if you're making a snowman again, this time do keep it away from the driveway, this is the season of emergencies, after all, and I need to be able to head out promptly - are you listening to me, Reid?"