It Happened at our House

Ah yes, April Fools' Day. That day when every school-aged child discovers the license to stretch, bend or reinvent the truth for a full twenty-four hours with no likely penalty. Certainly the excitement of pulling off the bluff, “Your shoe’s untied”; “No, it’s not. April Fools” dwindles for some, but for others it only ramps up as years go by.

Perhaps you have a person in your family who has the ability to bring a lighthearted moment or quick quip to any situation. These are the dearly beloved in our midst chosen to teach us one of life’s greatest lessons, to be able to laugh at ourselves.

Last April Fools' Day, my seven, six, and four year old grandchildren were having a grand day partaking in the usual repartee with their friends. Later that day at dinner, along with their three-year old brother and parents, they commented that Dad, the usual jokester of the family, had not made any April Fools' jokes all day. (In fact, he had forgotten that it was April Fools' Day), but he commented, “I don’t really get into that type of thing.”

They continued their dinner and when it was complete, Dad announced, “Everyone into the living room, we are going to have a family meeting.” When everyone was seated, he began. “Since we think eating healthy is a good idea and since Mom doesn’t eat dairy products anyway, I have decided to expand on the idea and we are going to become vegetarians!”

Immediately the kids were teaming with questions. What was a vegetarian? Dad explained that they would not be eating meat any longer. They also would not be eating any sugar, only vegetables and maybe some fruit.

Their seven-year old daughter asked, “What about birthday parties and when we have families over for bar-b-ques? To which Dad replied, “We are only going to do things with other vegetarian families.” Her eyes grew big as saucers!

Her six year old brother asked, “Is bacon meat?” “Yes,” Dad replied, “No more bacon.” His mouth dropped open in shock. The four and two year olds could sit still no longer, they were visibly shaken and in disbelief exclaimed, “No salami, no cake!” The oldest were in shock, “Our friends!”

To which Dad responded, of course, “April Fools” and they all had a hearty laugh.

Proverbs 15:17, “Better is a dinner of herbs where love is…”

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We'd love to hear from you! Do you have a funny April Fools' joke that has happened in YOUR family? Post it in the comment section below.