those that rebel late, like after college or worse yet in their 40s really do it up big time

I like to think I'm doing it late, long, and slow.

Otherwise I haven't done it at all.

But my poor mother. She just wants a hetero-romantic kid who respects the gender binary. And who passes up the odd argument.

Meh, I did my time as a rebel in college. It took the form of Midnight Lilac Raids wherein I and my roommate would wander through town snipping one or two sprigs of blossoms off each lilac hedge lining the alleys we were walking past. Without. Asking. Permission.

Of course many of our fellow college rebels were rebelling with drugs and booze, so you may have a point.

he CARES ABOUT HOW HE LOOKS NOW

is there a love interest around...?

I rebelled in college, then moved cross country. I suppose that's a kind of rebellion.

Also - he CARES ABOUT HOW HE LOOKS NOW.

You're the mother of a tween now. Good luck msbelle!

I have scheduled two doctor visits and am now ready to go teach. I am on fire! Or at least I'm not falling flat on my face -- YET!

Thanks, Andi.

Also, good luck to Mac. Remember, every year, dozens of tweens survive middle school.

There is no girl interest yet, just general fit-in interest.

Also - he CARES ABOUT HOW HE LOOKS NOW. like, almost overnight. he spent time matching things this morning AND fixing his hair. HE NEVER FIXES HIS HAIR.

Aw! That's exciting.

For some reason I was out like a light before the VMAs came on at 8 last night and napped almost 6 hours. Which coincidentally ended up working out great for a late-night booty call whose other participant got into town several hours later than expected. I woke within minutes of his apologetic text all refreshed and ready to go.

I suspect the much-better-than-usual mood I've been in this summer may have a lot to do with sex being a weekly occurrence instead of a semi-annual one. (The unusually comfortable cool weather probably plays a big role too.)

I love when the boys go through caring about how they look phases! Bobby had his first day of college today!!!! He looked quite dapper in a beige and white striped polo and khaki slacks. Alas, his brother is in a slob phase.

eta: Woo! Matt!