It’s been quite a while since my little ones were actually little. I often find myself reminiscing about their adorable baby smells, chubby cheeks, and those tiny little toes. However, teenagers often get a bad rap. Sure, they can be moody, messy, and sometimes carry an aroma reminiscent of old socks, but they also bring so much joy, laughter, and incredible moments into my life.
Here are 10 reasons why I’m thankful for my teenagers:
- No More Waking the Sleeping Baby
The saying “sleeping like a baby” always puzzled me. Babies rarely sleep through the night, but teenagers? They can sleep through anything! Doorbells, phone calls, or even you shouting at the top of your lungs won’t budge them. - They Keep You Up-to-Date
While I wouldn’t recommend the approach of “cool mom” from Mean Girls, having teens gives you a front-row seat to what’s trendy and relevant. For instance, when Gavin DeGraw opened for Billy Joel, I was the only one who knew his songs—thanks to my teen keeping me in the loop! - Dinner is a Real Experience Again
Gone are the days of rushing through meals while juggling a crying infant. Now, I can enjoy an appetizer, main course, and dessert without feeling like I’m in a race against time. - No More Children’s Shows
I have fond memories of Elmo and Dora, but I certainly don’t miss the constant reruns. Now, I can watch shows that I actually enjoy, free from the repetitive tunes of The Wiggles. - Fewer Germs
When my kids were younger, they seemed to catch every bug going around. Now, as teenagers, they’ve developed stronger immune systems and rarely bring home the latest virus. A welcome relief for any parent! - Brutally Honest Feedback
Teens have a knack for giving honest opinions. Forget the salespeople; when it comes to fashion, their critiques are straightforward—if they say your outfit looks good, you can be sure it truly does! - In-House Tech Wizards
From fixing my computer to teaching me how to use the latest apps, my teens are my go-to tech support, and best of all, they don’t charge a service fee. They’ve even introduced me to fun games like Trivia Crack. - They Can Drive!
While my daughter’s early driving days were nerve-wracking, I now appreciate not having to be the chauffeur. It’s wonderful to have her drive herself to activities, especially during those chilly nights. - Reaching High Places
It’s a strange feeling looking up at your child, but having someone tall around is incredibly convenient, especially for getting things off high shelves. - They Stimulate Your Mind
From discussing current events to sports trivia, my teens keep me sharp. Helping them with homework is a great way to refresh my knowledge and consider new perspectives on various topics.
While the joys of parenting young children are irreplaceable, the experiences shared with older kids are equally fulfilling. I cherish attending shows and movies like The Hunger Games and The Fault in Our Stars with my teens. It’s a unique bond that grows deeper with time, reminiscent of what Rick said in Casablanca: “I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.”
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Summary: Embracing the teenage years brings a unique set of joys and challenges that often outweigh the struggles of early parenting. From tech support to honest opinions, teenagers offer a fresh perspective on life and family dynamics that fosters deeper connections.