The Most Fascinating of Creatures

Decidedly the most fascinating of creatures is a 5 year old boy. They are just past that toddler stage and heading toward that big, independent kid stage. Everything they do is an exercise for parents in trying not to have one of two reactions: blowing your top or laughing your head off.

This morning it was trying not to do both. Quite difficult, I must say.

We had just dropped Thad off at work and were on our way to his school. Its Fine Arts Friday and he is jazzed! Driving down Briley parkway I'm just listening to The Fish morning show when Thomas says from the seat behind me, "Mama, what do you think of my silly mustache and beard?"

My first thought is, "Good grief, what do I have to try to get off his face while driving in the next 10 minutes before we get to school?"

To confirm my worst fears I peak in the rear view mirror at his precious face. To my surprise I see nothing. So I say, "I don't see your silliness. What is it, Bud?"

"I made a mustache and beard on my face - with SPIT!"

Here was my difficulty. Do I laugh and encourage this spit-spreading tomfoolery? Do I scold him and squash his creativity? Quickly I came to the conclusion that neither was appropriate so I did both. I chuckled at him, told him how nasty that was and to not do it anymore. Again he surprised me by not offering any protest.

He just said, "Ok, but wasn't that silly?"

"Yes, son. Silly and gross."

Sometimes a boy is just going to do boy things. Apparently spit exploration is one of those things. I thought I would have a reprieve with his sister but she thinks whatever he does is the greatest. God be with me when his outdoor-loving, camping-trip-taking, rock-climbing, fire-building, bug-touching, lizard-loving Eagle Scout daddy finally gets him into scouts!

I have until fall to get prayed up for that. Put me on your prayer lists, please!