by Michelle Paszkowski

Created on: April 21, 2009

If ever I need to be reminded that I am raising boys all I need to do is laundry. Things you find in a young boy's pants pockets can frighten, amuse, and cause a chuckle all at the same time. There is no greater sign you're raising a boy than pulling an earthworm out of a back pocket. The great part comes when you realize the worm was not lonely, he had friends to keep him company in that deep dark pocket. The first time i emptied a bug collection from the pockets of my son's dirty laundry I was appalled. It took a few times before I could manage to chuckle at the disgusting display of boyishness. I finally managed to not worry about that, by that time my boys had decided to move on to more disgusting, stomach turning things.

I have two boys, and they are as different as night and day. My older son is quiet, polite, and reserved. Like any boy he enjoys the occasional romp through the mud, but usually he prefers to stay clean. He doesn't yell much, he doesn't break things, and he actually likes to help me cook. We sit quite often and read together, and he loves to sit and draw. He likes fast cars and wild animals, in an " I would like to learn about them " kind of way. I know I can count on him to be polite, watch his manners and make a good impression.

As I said I have TWO boys. My youngest is only six and already has a big circle of friends. He is wild, outgoing and audacious. He talks to everyone. He will hold a long drawn out conversation with anyone who will listen. He doesn't much care to watch what comes out of his mouth and that usually awards him big laughs. He is rough and tough and all boy. He is dirt, and bugs, and boogers. He attracts all the girls quite easily, and will always chase them away quickly with a finger in the nose. He is sweet, and cuddly, but only after his bath. He still believes mom is the prettiest girl in the world, and other girls have cooties. He loves animals, and the bigger the better.

Even though they are so different, they have so much in common. We have raised them to always mind their manners. Adults are answered with yes/no sir/mam. Please and thank you are not in short demand. We have raised them to respect women, and always be a gentleman. They will hold the door for a lady, and always open the car door for me. They really clean up quite well. If I could just get a handle on the bug and booger aspect. A finger in the nose can really cause a stir at a fancy military banquet!

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