A while ago, out and about in my neighborhood, I came upon a young mother simultaneously pushing her kid in a stroller and walking her Irish Setter. The dog was focusing all its energy on separating the bagel from the mom's hand and having moderate success. I remarked in passing that the dog was quite crafty, and we stopped for a few moments to chat. I was gaga over the dog, praising its beauty and ingenuity. When we parted ways, I realized I hadn't mentioned the kid at all. "Oh," I said, out of obligation, "and, um, cute kid too."