It was getting close to bedtime for James last night. My second grader had grabbed a good book and made himself comfortable on Daddy's side of the bed. (Stories from the "good book," actually.)

It seemed a good time to sneak in for a cuddle, so I slipped in on my side and got ready for the uphill climb. We have one of those "sleep number" beds. Gary would be happy sleeping on a rock, so his side is set at 100 ("You sure it won't go any higher?" he asks me all the time). I prefer a more moderate 45 or 55, so it was a bit of a heave-ho to make it over to James's side.

I smoothly slid one of my arms under the lad's head and the other I placed lightly across his belly. Not lightly enough, it turns out.

"Mom...the lapbar is too tight."