Isn't it funny when you have kids and your whole life seems to be consumed with the responsibility of making sure that they grow up to be successful, or at least don't injure themselves or break things? Especially with boys (can I get an amen from the boy mom's and dad's out there?!).

It's become even more apparent to me now that it's summer and the boys are here when I leave for work in the morning. Last week, when I left home I had to tell my son not to start anything on fire, or to leave knives on the floor where someone could step on them.

I often have to laugh and say, "Can you imagine what other people would think if they could hear this conversation we are having right now?" You can't make this stuff up!

Here are just a few things I have said to my boys that I never in my pre-child life (BC I call it) would have imagined I would be saying, and some of these happen repeatedly.

1. What is that growing on your bedroom floor?

2. It's literally right in front of you...right there...you're so close!

3. How many years do you think it will be before you clean your room without being asked?

4. Why is there packing tape stuck to the back of my car?

5. Do I look like a maid to you? Pick up that (fill in the blank)!

6. I'm not sure why they call it a "pair" of underwear when there aren't actually two. That's a great question!

7. How did my good kitchen scissors end up covered in gorilla glue?

8. That (fill in the blank) is not a toy!

9. What in god's name smells so BAD in here?

10. No, you cannot go to the grocery store in your underwear!

It definitely keeps life interesting and these boys are both the most wonderful and challenging part of my life. I never could have imagined how difficult this job would be. All I can do is hope and pray that I am giving them enough of what they need to be successful when they go out on their own into this scary, amazing adult-size world.

I wish I had kept a journal of more of the hilarious exchanges we have had over the last 14 years. But, even if I don't remember the specific wording, I remember how these conversations make me feel. When we are all frustrated, it can go a long way to diffuse a situation if we pause to realize how funny the things can be that come out of my mouth (or theirs).

So many memories we've made, and so many things I say now that I wouldn't have imagined saying 20 years ago.

Especially this one, which I say often.

"It's my job as your mom to guide you and keep you safe. And to love you no matter what. Hopefully, someday you will thank me."

Until that day, I will keep saying the things I need to say to teach them as much as I can.

And we'll keep on laughing.