GEE WHIZ: Yep, boys will be boys

My daughter explained to her 4-year-old son Owen that unlike the Kroc Center pool, it probably was OK to pee in Lake Coeur d'Alene, especially since there were no public toilets close enough for emergency use.

Owen was unsure but after repeated assurances from Mama he walked into the lake, barely ankle deep, dropped his swimsuit and sprayed the water.

Fast forward a week and picture Grandpa and Owen at the lake, where again Owen heard nature's urgent call. Grandpa reassured Owen and Owen marched down to the lake, ankle deep, and began removing his swimsuit.

Wise old Grandpa quickly called Owen back to shore and explained that it would be best if he went into the water as deep as the waistband of his swimsuit. Owen trotted down into the water, deep enough this time to meet Grandpa's recommendation. Grandpa nodded his approval and Owen promptly pulled down his swimsuit and began to unburden himself. When he realized he could not see what he was doing, he stopped and backed up far enough so he could witness himself spraying the water. About ankle deep, I'd say.

On shore, wise old Grandpa pulled the beach towel over his head with just enough of a peephole to know when Owen finished the job and pulled up his swimsuit. At that time Grandpa could unveil his red face to disapproving beachgoers.

LES McKIM

Coeur d'Alene