Brett: Do you know what kind of mood Mom is in? 

Molly: Not really. Why? 

Brett: I really need a raise in my allowance and I’m waiting for the right time to ask. She’ll be more likely to say “yes” if she’s not feeling too grouchy. 

Molly: I wouldn’t count on this being a good time. She looked a little upset after getting off the phone with Aunt Teri. 

Brett: Why? 

Molly: Aunt Teri has been down in the dumps since Cousin Frank decided to take a job in Cambodia. He’s on cloud nine about this new job, but Aunt Teri is anxious about him moving so far away. 

Brett: I see. Well, I’ve got to think of some way to cheer her up. It’s a lost cause if I ask her while she’s angry, on edge, or depressed. 

Molly: You know that Mom is always happy to hear good news about school. Do you have anything new to report? 

Brett: I hadn’t thought of that. I need [bad word] up with something. 

Molly: Be patient. Wait for the right moment and then strike. I speak from years of experience. 

Brett: Right. Thanks.