Tag Archives: parenting teens

A letter to my 13 year old

bookA letter to my 13 year old,   (The one with the big feet, who sleeps alot, and eats all the food)

Really Kid,  I did the Eighth Grade once and yes middle school was one of the worst times in my life (most people would agree with me on that one)  ..  It does not bring me great joy to sit here with you  for 3-4 hours every night listening to you complain  ..  as we reviewing 8th grade Science, English, and Algebra u forgot .. It sucked the 1st time I did it 30 years ago (especially the Algebra.)

Trust me,  I would much rather be sitting in front of the TV watching Scandal when it airs with a glass of wine. Rather then hearing all Olivia Pope spoilers the next day at work, because I missed the live finale,  due to reviewing for a 8th grade test on the Bill of Rights.

So STOP fighting me and realize I am sitting here for YOUR  benefit. I take no joy out of these many hours of trying to keep you on track and focused.  Sometimes it is like herding cats try to get you to focus.

Also your middle school…  is no different with Jocks and the better then everyone else kids, then any other middle school.  Every kid in your school is scared, lonely, and feels misunderstood even the popular kids.   I had the same drama when  I was in middle school 30 years ago.  Middle school kids are the same kids for the last 50 years  (just different clothes) with all have the same problems just  a different decade.  They will continue to be the same type middle schoolers for the next 30 years

FYI  I had the same basic number of friends that you have now  and the same social standing…We just wore “those” weird 80’s clothes and had BIG hair.

News Flash: I have been to middle school  and I would prefer never to do Middle School again.

When I encourage you to try new things (because I am “pushy”) it is because the more things you try in life.. the better life will be.  Life is about experiences and connections to others.  You might even like said “new thing”, But that would mean MOM  was right.   I know,  I know nothing. (insert eye roll)

You are a Good Kid, my job as a parent is to parent..  I never want you to fail but know you will &  that too is an experience,  just once is ok,  don’t want to make a habit of failing. So I will to guide you when you go off the rails and give you hugs every day whether you want them or not.

You are my child, my love, and my joy
Signed,
Your Difficult “I Don’t get it” Mother.

It is official I am now My Mother.. Ok Mom I get it