Mystery Diagnosis

Let's play a little game. I am going to describe two different scenarios of behaviors that can be readily observed around my home and you see if you can identify the appropriate diagnosis.

Scenario #1: It's April. The sun is shining. My kids are itching for adventure. That's when this happens below. Before I know it they are in the lake - I mean IN THE LAKE - fully immersed. It's like a baptism of sorts for the childhood soul.

Now, take a good look at these kids. I mean, they are practically

foaming at the mouth

(or is that just dirty lake water??).

Look at the reckless abandon with which the throw themselves into the water.

Feel the JOY . . .

the LOVE . . .

the WILD ABANDON . . .

the sheer bliss of just being a kid.

They are happy, exhilerated . . .DIRTY.



It's time for a shower.

So, what's your diagnosis?
(Answer: Spring Fever)

Scenario #2:

Now, take a careful look at this kid.

This one may be a little more difficult to correctly diagnose, so I will walk yout through.

Notice: the hair (that's a faux hawk gone bad)

the slouch against the porch post

the Ipod in his hands (you almost missed that didnt' you?)

the slight grimace in his expression

the way he looks at you as if to say, "What are you lookin' at?!"

Have you got it figured out??

(Answer: adolescence)

That's right. We have an adolescent among us.

He can go from sullen to smiles in a matter of minutes and with now real reason or explanation.


It's a good thing we love him so much!