Cul de Sac by Richard Thompson for May 31, 2023

Madeline, by now you must be aware of how you should frame compliments to your daughter; Malice … er, no no, I mean Alice!

Alice is doing the right thing here. With her at the center of attention, Petey should feel relieved getting assurance that no one will look at him while he do his Oboe thing.

A town called Alice…

Oh, Alice.

Petey will be okay with not being noticed.

The party dress makes its first appearance! :)

Alice Springs Eternal

Petey might be ok with not having the focus on him – stage fright anyone?

With or without the dress, I’m sure she always gets noticed.

Actually, Mum, you did. I wonder if she’s wearing matching tights or just flats.

Haha! I like how Alice in panel one, and mom in panel two have the exact same pose and look. They are both very excited about the dress.

“That oboe thing-” translation, an opportunity for Alice to be “the center of attention-“ translation, another embarrassing moment for the family.

With any luck, Petey, this will turn in your favor so no one notices you, but either way, some arm chewing may be involved.

Brash, narcissistic Alice crushes big brother Petey’s fragile self-confidence with her enthusiasm for her new party dress, and Madeline’s attempt to intervene is too late, too late! Will Petey even make it to his recital?!

I’m glad that Alice is both appreciative and polite in her excitement. Sincere “thank you”s warm a mom’s heart, and probably the chance to have a moment with a daughter’s “girly” side does too.