Writers should stick with writing about what they know, and as a mom to two teenagers and an adolescent, I’m an expert at annoying youngsters emerging from childhood and on the cusp of adulthood. My children believe I’m so talented at it I should share my wisdom. So here are twenty-five tips for driving a teenager stark, raving mad: Say Hello. Good Morning. Goodnight. … [Read more...]
Sweet 15: Dealing With a Teenage Special Needs Child
“I hate you. I hate you. I hate you.” I heard my soon to be 15-year-old daughter sing my praises from the back seat of our mini-van as I pulled into our driveway the other day. “Well, you know Liz, I’m not that fond of you right now either.” The car was now safely parked, and I heard the swish of her door open. “I hate you, and that’s all there is to it.” My dear … [Read more...]
Dear Children, it’s Negotiation Time
Lately I have started to sound like a drill sergeant in the morning. I bark out commands: “Brush your teeth.” “Pack your lunch.” “For the love of God, haven’t you put your clothes on yet?” “Don’t forget to put deodorant on. You don’t want to be smelly.” I use a loud voice meant to carry over the sounds of music, kids and the TV news. That I use this voice in between trying … [Read more...]
Enjoying the Here and Now With My 17-Year-Old
About a week before Christmas, my 10-year-old came off the bus and told me he was very sad. When I asked him why, he told me that it was because it was almost Christmas, and that meant that all the things he loved about the holiday season -- the music, parties, and presents -- would soon be over. When I relayed the story back to my mother, she laughed and said, “Wow, he … [Read more...]
So Long it’s Been Good to Know You
I’m a good mother. I’m not a perfect mother. I could easily fill up 100 pages with mistakes I made just this weekend. But unlike the deep bouts of doubt I once had over whether I was a good actor or singer, or the doubts I can have today over whether I’m a good writer, blogger, gardener, or even friend, I don’t have too many over my ability as a mother. Motherhood fits … [Read more...]
