General

Two of the most difficult periods along the parenting timeline typically range between the ages of 2-5,
that 2-3 year period of time when behavioral learning can, and often does exhibit as general defiance,
and when puberty begins to ramp up the hormonal imbalance, sometime around 12-14 years old.

With that being said, as I slowly counted to ten just now, trying hard to keep my cool, it dawned on me
that I have a 5 year old and a 14 year old, both determined to give due credit to the statistical analysis
of behavioral learning.

In effect, they are simply being true to the numbers, I guess. Suppose that should make me feel better.

As I take a deep breath, though, close my eyes for the briefest of moments, reaching deep down inside,
urgently searching for some semblance of a rapidly diminishing sense of calm, I know that the sound of
shattered glass coming from the kitchen is only a portent for the rest of the days hijinx.

This doesn’t serve to make me feel better, at all. Not in the least–