Is that really me?

I recently discovered that I have officially become...my mom (to the right) or dad (in certain ways). I sometimes hear myself and think, wow, is that really me? Am I really saying that? Omg, what happened to me?

I don't know when it happened...but one day the words just flew out of my mouth...and before I knew it, I couldn't stop. It went something like this:

"Tyler, please pull your pants up."

"Tyler, can you turn your iPod down? It's too loud, and that's not good for your ears."

"No. I don't want you watching my Beavis and Butthead DVD's, The 40-year-old Virgin, Wedding Crashers or anything else like that. What made you think I'd say yes?"

"You're not staying up that late, even if it is the weekend."

"What kind of music are you listening to??"

"No. You are not getting a tongue ring."

And oh how the list goes on. I used to pride of myself as a parent that could keep a decent balance between my coolness and my Mom-hood. I knew how to pick and choose my battles...yes to longer hair, no video games all day long.

In my defense, saggy pants are one thing...and showing the fully booty of boxers is another. I don't want to be a nag, but I've realized that my recurring requests are the necessary evil of surviving these teen years for both our sakes. Mind you I am tremendously thankful for the fact that drugs, cigarettes, and alcohol are not a problem (I pray this continues.), but it doesn't eliminate all the other things that have to be curbed and all the guidance that is yet to be given (desired or not). I imagine me continuing to say no to many other things...in addition to this recent tongue ring request that apparently Tyler's girlfriend's parents were cool with. I suppose I am conservative in ways I hadn't realized. I guess I'm looking out for my 30 year-old son (17 years from now) who wished he never got the tongue ring.

I often wish I had more friends that had children my son's age so we could share stories or swap ideas. It'd be nice to talk about how I'm being eaten out of house and home, how he's struggling with dependence and independence, and as you know the list goes on. Maybe it's time to join Mom's Cafe. The joy of community...reaching out and connecting with others when you lack the connections you need in your immediate surroundings. Until then, I suppose I'll continue to consult with my elders on their teenage rearing wisdom.

Here's to hoping that his long locks are enough for now!

I suppose for now, I will continue to enjoy the other side of puberty...just like my parents probably did.