It finally happened. We knew this day would come no matter how hard we tried to prevent it. Ryan found the toilet. To a 17 month old, the toilet is simply an over-sized version of the water bowls they use in daycare. To us older folks, we know better than to use the toilet for any purpose other than it’s intended function (with the common exception of a few weddings) but this young man had different plans.

This morning, I got a frantic call from Jenn while I was on my way to ESPN’s headquarters. “Do you know where Ryan’s other shoe is,” an obviously irritated mother asked me,” and ……oh man….Ryan…no!….Ryan….I have to go, Ryan decided to throw his mittens in the toilet.” Strangely, the only thing I could say was to tell her that the temperature was in the 50s and he probably would be okay without gloves. I’m sure this was not very helpful advice but, in my defense, I couldn’t react fast enough…apparently Ryan can though?