Teenagers....

I love teenagers.  

They are fun to talk to, and even more fun to listen to.  My teenage son and I have a pretty awesome relationship.  His friends are at our house constantly, eating our food, using our bathrooms, putting holes in the walls, jumping over my shrubs, tearing up the grass and on and on. 

My neighbor across the street has noticed the constant commotion at our house, which her daughter is part of, as she is the same age as my son.   The neighbor admitted to feeling a little left out because her daughter doesn't want to have the group at her house.  I jokingly told her that she should appreciate that she doesn't have the most damaged house and yard on the street.  After I chuckled about it, I realized that I LOVE IT!!!

I wouldn't trade it for the world.

I asked my son why they are at our house so often instead of spreading the love with all of the parents.  Guess what he said!

"They love our house the best, mom."

I have never felt so proud!  Now don't get me wrong, I don't let them get away with whatever they want.  I have very frank discussions about what behavior is acceptable and what isn't.  I even have to stop what is going on now and then.  But I love having them here.
  
I hope they will always love coming over to our house.  I would rather them grow up under my watch than lurk at the mall or do who knows what in a dark movie theater.

I love teenagers.