One boy coughs into the air with his mouth wide open, sending all manner of germs into the air for your pleasure.

The 13-year-old comes with a 10-second delay, gets more cranky than an IRS agent and sees nothing wrong with making alien noises in the Sistine Chapel.

And they’re both on a road trip with mom. Because it was her idea.

That’s right. Nobody held a gun to her head, blackmailed her or threatened to cancel her summer vacation.

Barb wanted to do this, load them both up in the Honda for a two-day trip to the coast as a birthday present to her.

Other wives ask for jewelry, cash or a fancy dinner away from the kids. Even a spatula would be better than this. Not her.

My wife wanted to make a memory with the boys, perhaps enjoying a picnic lunch together with the wind rushing against their faces. Or feel the rain spray against them next to the surf.

That’s the big difference between her and me. My wife thinks of others, including the very teen boys who push her to the edge of her sanity. I’m still wondering what’s in it for me.

I predict they will come home, full of stories and memories to share. My wife will be exhausted and cranky, and faces a strong chance of getting sick.

But considering how valuable this simple trip could be for teen boys struggling to find their way, it will be worth it to her.

Now do you see why I am in awe?