0 They'll Always Look the Same to Us

Did you see any of the "Mom" commercials during the Olympics -- the ones that said something like "This is how their moms see them" and then would show all the athletes as little children?

There were various versions but the message was, no matter how big and strong they are, their moms still see them as their baby boys or girls. I think it was P&G that ran these spots and I guess they were thanking the moms who had used their products over the years and hoped they would continue to do so. (Wife teared up every time she saw one).

And you know, I guess they are onto something but it doesn't just apply to moms. Last night I called to make reservations at a trout fishing resort in North Arkansas where I am going, along with my sons, in early April. I told the lady on the phone that I would be "bringing my two boys" with me to fish for a couple of days, then began to discuss the type of accommodations we might need.

"How old are the children?" she asked.

"Uhhh . . . . . twenty-four and seventeen," I replied sheepishly, realizing my truthfulness had probably just cost me any kind of discount.

I heard her snicker on the other end of the line as she confirmed the booking.

Even if it had been ten years from now, when my sons would be 27 and 34, I would have still said I would be "bringing my boys."

And if I were taking my daughter, I would probably have told her I would be "bringing my little girl" (who is 21).

So you are right, P&G. The moms and dads just don't see them much differently.