Laugh
Tears
Pride
Shame
Disarray
Surprise
Top
Bottom
Glass half full
Glass half empty
These are the emotional rollercoasters of adolescence. As a parent who's lived it, I feel like I'm competing for the record in time spent on this exhausting mental merry-go-round.
After years of confusion, sheer exhaustion, relentless research, expert consultations, advice-seeking, and shaking heaven and earth, we're wrapping up year three with modest progress. But let's not get ahead: the deal isn't sealed, the cart isn't before the horse. I'm still safeguarding options like specialized boarding schools for teens in crisis—we scouted them thoroughly in May amid desperation.
One certainty: she gets it now. She knows the steps to avoid extremes, ease fears, earn more freedom, and foster a sweeter, more serene home life. Moods happen—it's normal—but respect for others and household rules is non-negotiable.
As I write, I'm awaiting confirmation of her promotion to 3rd grade. Repeating it wouldn't help; the issue isn't comprehension but motivation—a massive 'baobab' blocking the path.
We've found the chainsaw. Now, we just need an extension cord long enough to reach.
Man (staying polite), if only I'd known...
