"Back in Line" with Dr. Mosier: Quiet as a Mouse

The Day my Wife Scared the Pee Out of Me

“Boys, let’s play ‘quiet as a mouse’ and don’t make a sound,” Ellen said in her best mom-voice as Isaiah and Isaac got rowdy in the back of her SUV. “We need to find the right exit to get to Top Golf. Understood?”

“I understand, Mommy,” replied Isaac.

But Isaiah stayed silent.

“Isaiah, do you understand?” she asked again—this time in a tone that could scare the pee out of a full-grown man.

Without missing a beat, Isaiah calmly replied, “I can’t say I understand because you said not to say anything.”

We all laughed so hard that Ellen’s jaw hit the floor.

For fall break, we decided on a simple staycation—just time together with the boys and our newest family member. I do wonder what our neighbors think when they see me at 5 a.m. walking what looks like a horse. His name is Ryder—a one-year-old Great Dane who thinks squirrels are his life’s mission. If he spots one, my best advice? Hold on tight and enjoy the ride.

It’s been years since we’ve had a dog, and training this big guy comes with challenges. Strangely enough, he listens better to the boys than he does to me. Probably because I’m stingy with the treats and they hand them out like Halloween candy.

The boys have unintentionally mastered the concept of positive reinforcement—rewarding behavior to encourage repetition. In fact, that’s how most of us form habits. Every time we complete a task and get a “reward,” our brain releases dopamine, and over time, those actions shape who we become.

Developing healthy habits can be tough, but it’s also deeply rewarding. Getting your health back doesn’t have to be a white-knuckle struggle. It can be fun, fulfilling, and even life-changing. It certainly has been for me—and I hope it is for you too.

Your friend,

Dr. Mosier

P.S. I’m off to buy a new pair of shorts. Turns out, I’m the grown man Ellen scared the pee out of.