“Congratulations!” a relative, who shall remain nameless, exclaimed at my baby shower. “You’re having a girl, right?”
“No, actually, we found out after the invitations were sent; we’re having a boy!”
“Oh,” she replied, disappointment palpable. “I’m so sorry.”
(That was my first pregnancy. I can only imagine her reaction when she learned two years later that my husband and I were welcoming a second boy.)
Many moms of all boys have faced similar comments, and while it hurt at the time, I’ve learned to embrace the joys of my household. I still hear that same relative ask, “Are you trying for a girl?” even now that my youngest son is 9.5 years old. I mean, does it look like I’m trying? After nearly a decade, wouldn’t I have more to show for it if that were the case?
While I sometimes daydream about daughters and the unique experiences they might bring, that accounts for just about 1% of my thoughts. The other 99%? I’m proud to be part of the “Moms of All Boys” club! Here are my top six reasons why having only sons is fantastic:
- Grossness is Relative
I never have to worry about being the most disgusting person in the house. Whether I’m lounging in my dirty workout gear or avoiding a laundry basket full of socks that smell like a landfill, there’s always someone in my home who is far more revolting than I am. - Height Advantage
As a vertically challenged individual (shoutout to Parks and Recreation for that term), I’ve accepted that my boys will soon outgrow me. But rather than mourning that fact, I celebrate it! No more climbing on kitchen chairs to reach the top shelf for snacks, and those upper branches of the Christmas tree will finally be decorated properly. - Less Drama Over Pop Culture
My boys couldn’t care less about pop bands or celebrity gossip. In fact, when Zayn left One Direction, I’m not sure my sons even noticed. It’s refreshing not to deal with the drama and excitement around teen idols. - No Long Lines for Fairytale Encounters
I’ve never had to endure a three-hour wait to meet a Disney princess. While my kids enjoyed Frozen, they had no interest in meeting Anna and Elsa at Disney World, and I couldn’t be happier about it. Instead of waiting, I could enjoy more rides, like Space Mountain, during that time. - New Interests and Connections
My 11-year-old has developed a passion for cars and design. I would never have appreciated the classic BMW 2002’s beauty if it weren’t for him. Now I follow Instagram accounts dedicated to iconic cars, which has allowed me to bond with my sons over shared interests. Who knows? Maybe I’ll even drive a classic BMW one day! - Shared Sense of Humor
Having a sense of humor that aligns with a 12-year-old boy means I fit right in with my sons. We connect over old SNL sketches and silly jokes, making for a household filled with laughter. With a plethora of ridiculous podcasts I enjoy, I feel equipped for the teenage years that lie ahead.
In an alternate universe, there’s a version of me raising daughters and sharing tales about the joys of motherhood with girls. That version probably enjoys uninterrupted sleep and has a personal chef. But the me that exists in this reality? I’m knee-deep in smelly socks, surrounded by stunning cars on my Instagram feed, and armed with a ready supply of fart jokes. And I wouldn’t change a thing.
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In summary, having only sons comes with its unique perks. From avoiding the stress of pop culture drama to finding humor in everyday situations, the journey of motherhood with boys is filled with unexpected joys.