As the morning light filters in, my little guy stirs, his eyes still heavy with sleep. Yet, instinctively, his arms reach out for a hug. I pull him close, and his sleepy smile could warm the coldest day. “Rise and shine, sweetheart,” I whisper. He lets out a soft purr, reminiscent of a kitten, instead of the usual protests from an eleven-year-old. When I attempt to extract myself from our embrace, he immediately whines, “Noo.”
“Not another hug for you!” I tease, but I can’t resist giving him one last squeeze. “Alright, that’s enough. Time to get up.” I give him a playful shake until he giggles, then I shift into mom mode. “Your clothes are on the floor. Brush your teeth and head downstairs.” With that, I leave him to hope I won’t have to return for a second wake-up call.
Downstairs, my six and nine-year-olds are already dressed, having polished off their breakfasts and engaged in a game of Club Penguin on the computer. Just then, my oldest, still in a daze, wanders into the kitchen and attaches himself to my side. “Mama,” he murmurs.
I can’t help but love these moments, embracing my “needy” side as I lean against him and guide him through his morning routine.
Sometimes, people have the audacity to say, “Oh, you have three boys? You know they’ll leave you one day.” I respond with a knowing smile, “Not if you raise them right.” While I stand by this belief, their comment does sting a bit, because it’s somewhat true. Boys are all about their moms until they find a partner. They are sweet, loving, and full of affection in their younger years, but something changes as they grow older. Not on my watch!
That’s why I’ve dedicated myself to nurturing my boys as “mama’s boys.” Each one has his unique personality, with varying degrees of success. My youngest is a bundle of joy, overflowing with energy and still clinging to his babyish ways while relishing my company—definitely a win! My middle son is spirited and feisty, yet he’s also a little monkey, always wanting to be close to me. That’s another score!
But it’s my oldest who truly surpasses my hopes for a mama’s boy. A sentimental soul, he reminisces about being five while he’s still six, openly sharing his feelings and affection. It’s a total home run!
At times, I worry that I might be spoiling them for future relationships, but only a little. After all, the best men are those who cherish and respect their mothers. Eventually, my mama’s boys will grow up and start families of their own. The thought of that day brings a bittersweet ache, but I know I’ll have to step back and, albeit with some sobs, win over their future partners. What else can I do?
At the end of each day, as my oldest hops off the school bus, he rushes to me with open arms, declaring, “It’s been six hours since I hugged my mommy!” My other boys, ever competitive, jump in for a group hug.
Oh, these boys are going to break my heart.
This article was originally published on Sep. 10, 2012.
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Summary:
This piece reflects on the joys and challenges of raising three boys, emphasizing the bond between mothers and their sons. The author shares personal anecdotes about morning routines, affectionate moments, and the bittersweet realization that boys eventually grow up and seek their own families. Through humor and warmth, the narrative encourages mothers to nurture their relationships with their sons while cherishing the fleeting moments of childhood.