Life of a Teenager

Two months ago, A.R turned thirteen years old.

I still can't believe we have a teenager in our household.

Yikes!

And for these past few months, we have dealt with minor mood swings, acne and "I want to be alone" moments.

It's difficult for his little brother, who often feels neglected and rejected by his older sibling.

"Mommy, A.R doesn't want to play with me anymore."

"He's a teenager now - he wants his space."

"Why?"

"You'll understand when you're thirteen."

However, it's not the computer games, phone calls, clothes or girls that I'm worried about.

It's the time spent in the bathroom!

Seriously, you'd think I had a daughter!

Do all thirteen year olds take their Ipods or Nintendo DS in the bathroom?

Sitting on the throne for forty-five minutes?

Is this the new teen rebellion?

Hmm, I wonder.

Sigh.

April Fools' Day

April is here.

And you know what the first day can bring.

Our youngest son was quick to act, pulling a few jokes on us in the morning.

We had some good laughs.

So when I asked J.P if he was going to the Yu-Gi-Oh card tournament later, he was excited and said, "Yes!"

"April Fools'!"

Mr. O roared with laughter.

J.P didn't take it so well, and broke down.

What a meltdown!

I guess some kids can't take a joke!

Oops.

Another lesson learned.

I hope he had fun at the tournament!

Incredulous

"What did you say? Did I miss something?"

Mr. O wants to know what all the fuss is about.

The boys burst out in laughter.

"What's so funny?"

J.P turns to his older brother and teases him about his school crush.

"Dude, you're so awkward around her."

"What? I am not!"

"You say funny things to her."

"No, I don't!"

More giggling, and playful nudging.

"I never said I liked her!"

"Uh-huh."

Mr.O and I glance at each other.

It's a conversation we don't hear every day.

Incredulous, I tell you.

And quite hilarious too.