So if having eight children were not difficult enough we have added some new issues to the household that have made it just that little bit more difficult!
I am talking about the teenage years and the toddler years! Yes that’s right. Lucky me gets a teenage daughter who wants me to drive her everywhere but not be seen. All is fine when we are in the “bus” driving around, but as soon as we reach the destination and she observes her friends, out she jumps before I can even come to a full stop! But that isn’t all, oh no, I get a simple “Later” if I’m lucky as she runs off pretending I don’t exist. Ouch.
Then there are the twins. I leave their side – they cry. When I come back they cry – it is almost as though they are getting revenge on me for leaving them in the first place and saying “ha, ha you mean mommy! That will show you who is in charge!”
Are the two stages really any different? I don’t think so. They are both striving for independence, but are not really sure how to get it, or if they really want it. One minute they want me, then they don’t, then they do – just call me the mama yo yo.
The most difficult part for me right now is being able to find the balance between the two. It is hard to go from arguing with a moody teenager, walking into a room with two babies screaming (in stereo), coming to a compromise with the moody teenager, attempting to soothe two babies as they climb all over me fighting for my attention – all within an hour. And let us not forget the five other children running around. Phew! It’s enough to make my head spin some days!
However, in the end, no matter what stage they are at they always come back full circle, ready to begin a new stage. At this point and time though I think I will take what I can get, even if it means a hug and kiss from my teenage daughter as she hides behind her computer making sure no one can see.
What about you – what is your favourite stage?
Until next time,
Chantel, momf8crazymonkeys
Thanks Ircig! Although I am used to the toddler stage by now the whole teenager stage is new for me, but you are so right! It is our job to launch them and be a safe harbor. Hopefully I can do both:)
I can’t believe no one has commented on this – you are my HERO! I appreciate your insightful comment: “They are both striving for independence, but are not really sure how to get it, or if they really want it.” Whether we’re mothering a toddler or a teen, it’s our job to both launch them and be a safe harbour.