A Lesson in Pay-Attention Parenting
November 30, 2011
Posted By: Shaunescy
Yesterday I chatted with a dear friend who is out of her mind over her soon-to-be teenage daughter.
Seems our kids grow too fast these days, and as parents, we are diligent about trying to be "on top of it" only to find ourselves suddenly 10 paces behind. It's challenging, and frightening and maddening all at the same time.
As I shared recently how "calm " my parenting life has been, I know without question that I am the rule - not the exception. Yet, I had a funny "lesson in parenting" recently that is worth repeating.
"The Junior" hardly ever goes out, or asks to do anything, even though he has a car and has proven himself worthy of our trust. But last night he went out with his brother to some sort of gaming event. Since he never goes out, he doesn't have a curfew. I usually ask if him if he plans to come home, versus staying the night at his brother's place. Last night, he said he would come home.
I watched a movie and went to bed.
At 1 am I woke up, startled. Was The Junior home? I didn't hear him come in?
I grabbed my phone and stumbled to the kitchen window to see if his car was in the driveway. I didn't see it. I squinted (sans glasses) nope, still nothing.
I punched his number into my phone.
When he answered, I said sternly, "You need to get home. Now."
He mumbled something.
"WHAT?" I said, hotly, "You better get your butt home NOW!"
"I'M IN MY ROOM!" He said.
"What?" I said, feebly.
"MOM. I'M IN MY ROOM!" He practically yelled.
I walked down the hall, opened his bedroom door, and sure enough - there he was. In his room, tucked safely into bed.
"Oh. Sorry, honey. I didn't see your car in the driveway." I mumbled, sheepishly. Embarrassed.
I stumbled back to my room, with a stupid smile on my face. I was worried, for nothing.
{Note to self: Next time place glasses on face before going to check and "see" if son's car is in the driveway!}
I count my parental blessings for another day - and leave you with some lovely sunset shots from southwest Montana.
Katie Walters is the author of An Authentic Life , where she quips about life with Sexy Hubby, and "The Junior."
