A surreal parenting day...

So Thursday was a day of dichotomous parenting reality for me. In the course of one day, I met my 18 year old son for lunch, in between his college class schedule. Listening to a whole world that has opened up for him (dorms, girls, new friends, etc.). Then at 4:30pm, I scurried across town to meet Paige and Luke for his fun little music class where he gets to run around with other kids, play instruments and dance. From there I drove home to take my near 17 year old daughter (and her entourage of friends) to the piercing / tattoo parlor to get her nose pierced.

Yikes - I know what you're going to say (or have already said) - but I think you'll agree from the picture that it is a cute look for her, and even if it's not one I would pick for my 'little girl' - it's part of my job to *slowwwwwly* let go and let her start making some harmless decisions that make her feel more independent and respected.

And she (as well as Corbin and Kelsey) have earned a lot of respect. They get very good grades, are responsible and unlike so many parents today - I never worry about some of that dark cloth that seems to enshroud the kids of today. In short - they are such great kids... well - kids and adult... ;-)

As for Luke - well, he's still in that 'comfort' area for me. One where I get to know his every waking (and sleeping) move. One where Paige and I get to decide every aspect of his life, even down to what he eats and when he changes his diaper or takes a bath. Ahhhh... it really is such sweet solace to retire to when so much is changing. It serves as a perch from which to watch my other kids getting older - and cherish even more the little moments of a world first experienced.

And as for Kylie - you'll also notice that another big event happened yesterday (and actually could be a very major factor in why she looks so beautiful). She got her braces off yesterday! (and of course instantly looked so much older to me). Sigh...