Anatomy 101

Growing up in a family of nurses I learned many valuable lessons.  I learned that 99.9 degrees is not a fever (Hear that, daycare?  Stop calling me.)  I learned the difference between diarrhea and loose stools (yes, there is a difference and yes, that may be a little gross for some of you).  I also learned the anatomically correct terms for body parts.  

I was reminded of how important that last one was during a deposition a few months back when the witness was discussing her recurring decubutis ulcers (yes, a little gross again...I'm on a roll).  While discussing her most recent ulcer, she stated that it had developed on her "tootie."  Yes, the witness, a sixty-something year old woman, referred to her "girly bits" as a "tootie."  I actually had to stop and think about what she was referring.  

We've made it a point to use anatomically correct terms with the boys as well.  I stand by our decision, but it sure does make for interesting conversation, especially with the boys' incomparable inquisitiveness.  Below are some of my favorites:  

Charlie:  "Mommy, look my penis is huge...oh, wait.  No, it's not.  What happened?"

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Beau:  "Why do girls have bigger nipples than boys?"

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Charlie:  (pointing) "What's this?"
Me:  "That's your scrotum."
Charlie:  "Oh, well, then my scrotum itches."

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Beau:  (In the bathtub with all three boys) "Well, I've got the biggest penis in this tub."

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Beau:  "Mommy, so boys have penises but girls do not, right?"

Me:  "That's right, Beau." 

Beau:  "Well, then what do girls have?"

Me:  "Well, girls have vaginas."

Beau;  "Vagina?!  What's a vagina good for?!"

I'm sure as they grow older (and wiser?) the questions will keep on coming, each one a little more cringe-worthy than the last.  But I'll keep answering them.  What else can I do?