Teen-aged411

I'm back

2012-03-07T22:11:00.000-05:00

i'm welcoming my self back to the world of blogging. Much has happened since I last blogged here, and it will explain the long hiatus. Through out the entire summer and fall, my mother was ill. She would rally and then fall back, all the while getting weaker and weaker. Miraculously, she was able to be released from the rehab/nursing facility she was in to attend her grandson's (my nephew's) bar mitzvah in mid-November. One month later, she passed away in her sleep.
She was 92, but i was still devastated.
It was so hard to say goodbye to my last parent, and it was made doubly hard because my daughter was away and was in the middle of finals. In the Jewish religion, a person must be buried as quickly as possible; within 24 hours. I had to decide what to do-tell my daughter the night before her biggest final of the semester, or wait until she came home the day after the funeral. I thought about what my mother would want me to do. So I waited. When she came home and I told her, she was very upset, but she did understand. She knew why I did it. i have a very mature and wonderful daughter. I have to be thankful that my son, although he is only 14, is such a mature and wonderful young man, He was very close to his grandmother, and even though he was devastated, he was a tremendous help. I know he is still hurting.
Even though it has been almost three months, I miss her every day. Its very hard but I have the best family and friends and I am so thankful. My son is having a great first year as a freshman in high school and am ready to et back in the blogging swing.
Thanks to all of you who have stuck with it here and I will have more stories of whats going on in the world of teenagers, colleges and high school.
XOXOXO

Stressed Out

2011-09-07T15:06:00.000-04:00

The school year has just started and I'm already feeling my stress level increase. No, it's not the school supply shopping that worries me anymore. This year I have a High School Senior to deal with. This time around, it's my daughter. You would think that since I just went through this 2 years ago I would be more calm, but I'm not. The College application process is long and tedious and hard on my nerves as well as hers.
We have our college advisor meeting next week- not our first or our last. Normally, I would reach for an Oreo or the M&M bag, but then I would just be stressed out and feeling fat. Any suggestions?

VMAs-Right or wrong?

2011-08-29T15:39:00.000-04:00

     Now I know this is America and we are all about free speech and all that. But this is an issue separate and apart from that. It has to do with right and wrong. And in my opinion, it was wrong, wrong, wrong for the VMAs to showcase Chris Brown the way they did. The man is a felon. The man beat up a woman so badly that she has cuts on her face. Then, after he supposedly dealt with his "anger issues", the man tears off his shirt and puts a chair through a plate glass wall. So whgat do we do? We spotlight him and have these other idiots in the music industry give him a standing ovation. All but one person-Jay-Z

     My hat's off to Jay-Z for standing up for his friend Rhianna, and for women. While that idiot Kanye West is rattling off about how Bush doesn't like black people, he is jumping up and down with a big smile on his stupid face. Can we now say that Kanye West loves abusers? But I don't expect anything less than that from an ignorant fool like that. The music industry, like the sports industry has sunk to the level that we now glorify thugs, felons and fools. We thinkit's ok to get arrested for carrying unlicensed guns. We think it's ok to beat the crap out of people and then write a song about it and absolve yourslef of any responsibility for your actions. We think its fine to glorify the use of drugs and violence to our children.

     Yet the VMAs and MTV don't really care, when they give us crap to watch like the Jersely Shore and Real World. I'm not even talking about Teen Mom...this show really doesn't glorify pregnancy from what I've seen. My daughter would never want to end up in their predicamnet. But we have created this mini universe of people who are parasites on socirty and really offer nothing to the world and are lauded for it. Oh yes, Chris Brown is a great dancer, yes his songs are catchy. THE MAN BEAT UP A WOMAN!! Does anyone seem to care? I don't think so; after all, it's been a few years already. What's the big deal right?

     How do you all feel about this topic? Please comment and tweet about it!

2011-08-17T16:45:00.000-04:00

    Yes I am back. And I have an interesting question to pose to you all. Right now, I am starting the process of packing up my child for her trip to college. She is a freshman and it is her first time. We are all a little on edge, a little nervous and a little scared. I anticipate it all going well, even though she has about 40 pairs of shoes to find room for. But this is her first time moving away and she is starting a new chapter in her life (that will definitely be the subject of many more posts I am sure!)

    But I was faced with the question of "Well you aren't going to have to do this every year. You won't have to go with her next year." I thought to myself, "Huh? Why wouldn't I?" And people explained to me that she won't need me as much next year, that it will be so much easier for her.   There will be no adjustment period. Blah, blah blah. I said, what does any of that have to do with anything? Why wouldn't I want to go down with her next year, if she wanted me to? I have friends who have a child who will be a senior this year and they are taking her back to school. I didn't think it strange at all. Friends have said to me that I am still thinking of my daughter as a baby. When I talk to them nd tell them of people I know who are still taking their almost graduated children up to school, they scoff and say the parents are too over-protective, and their children will never break free of these "helicoptor-type" parents.

   I don't see it that way (And funny enough, these are parents who wouldn't dream of letting their children walk around NYC and take the subways, something that both my children have bee doing for years now). I don't see it as over-protective-ness or smothering them. I see it as being involved and leting my child know that her parents are there for her and if she wants us we will always be there for her. It's also what makes me comfortable and how I feel.

    What do you all think?

From Child to Parent to Child

2011-08-09T10:19:00.000-04:00

     I've been MIA for the past week.My elderly mother fell and broke her hip and is in the hosptal doing rehap. Remarkably, she is up and walking and we hope to have her fully mobile soon enough. She said to me, that now she is like the child and I am her parent. It is true, that at some point, if you are lucky enough to have a parent who reaches an advanced age, that your role is reveresed; whereas once they worried about you eating right, bundling up against the cold and making sure not to catch a cold, you now assume the poisition of parent to your parent.
     My mother is the best caregiver in the world but is the worst patient. She readily admits it too. She can't take any kind of pain. It is hard for me to see her laying in bed, whereas she was always up and about and verylively. Thankfully her mind is good, and she is still able to complain about the economy, or how bad the food is, and can I bring her potato chips and ice cream. (Hey, she's 92 if she wants it, she's getting it!) She knows that this is a big set back for her. She was living just one month in a n assisted living facility. We had moved her out of her big house becuse we were afraid of this happening there. So it happened where she was surrounded by people.
     I guess the point of this post is that we as mothers (and fathers) are always in some type of caregiver situation. Our children can get older and they think they need us less, but it isn't so; they just need us differently. As our parents age, we assume the role of their caregiver; most elderly pople don't have anyone to advocate for them. All my life my mother has cared for me; I could never give up on her. We just take it in stride and add it to the list of what we as parents know is a never ending job.

Friendship, Facebook and everything in between

2011-08-02T11:38:00.001-04:00

     You know it's funny. One of the first things we do as parents when our children are old enough is to tell them "Don't talk to strangers", and "Never respond to a stranger online." . I really was not too savvy on the interent, and mainly used it to plan my daughter's bat mitzvah. While planning her party, I found this group of women who were also planning their parties, and we would chat and email each other. Several months down the line, we all decided to meet for lunch. Little did I know that this would be the start of friendships with a special group of women, who really are like a family to me. We have met for the past 4 years, formally at lunches, and informally for parties, dinner, concerts and unfortunately funerals. I count on these women like they are my sisters. Because they are.

     When I joined Facebook, about 3-4 years ago, I did so mainly to spy on my kids (yep, I said it!) and to just see what the hype was about, and play games. One night just playing around, I decided to put in the names of people who I went to elementary school with, and up popped familiar names. Little by little, we have found each other; from all over the country, all reuniting. Some of us have known each other from 1st grade. The funny thing is that I noticed that with some of the people, I may have gone through a lot of schooling with them, but we just will never be anything more than "Facebook friends". With others, we have sort of found our way back and rekindled old friendships.  Its a nice feeling, to have found your past, and know that there are so many people to share old memories with.

     I started the discussion yesterday about anorexia not only because of the Today show segment, or because I have a teenaged daughter, but because through Facebook, I found out that one of my oldest friends died of it. She died when she was 34. I had lost touch with her in college, and we didn't have Facebook back then.  A mutual friend whom I found again on Facebook, told me that story. I found an old picture of her and put it up on Facebook. That picture engendered so many comments and brought back so many wonderful memories of our friend and each other. It turned out to be a ccelebration of her life in a way.

     It also made me realize how lucky our children are now. They will never lose touch with their friends. They won't have to wait 30 years to find someone and renew a friendship. And for all the "bad stuff" that Facebook does lead to, if we know our children and keep that parental eye on them, they can use the Internet for its bast possible use.

    How has Facebook and the Internet changed your life? Have you found new friends and old?

The Skinny

2011-08-01T09:30:00.000-04:00

     So here's the deal. As women, many of us are conditioned to think that we aren't ever thin enough. We look in the mirror and we don't see what everyone else sees. When we were little, maybe our mothers told us "you don't really need that extra cookie", or "do you really need that?" Everywhere we go, we are bombarded by the sights of weight loss plans, television commercials and workout videos. We can watch Celebrity Fit Club and The Biggest Loser, and feel comforted that we are not alone. "See-look, she got fat too! It isn't just me!!"

     But now we have a different issue. What about those celebrities who have their babies and are then thin again in 2 or 3 weeks. What's up with them? Are they really human? Look at Giselle, and Gwenyth and Victoria Beckahm. It seems that one day they are pregnant, and the next day, boom, they are back to a size 2. Are they starving themselves? Are they trying to eat healthy? Are they obsessing over their weight and going to the gym for 5 hours a day? Maybe.

     Last week, on the Today show, Dr. Nancy Snyderman went off on a different type of momma drama. The "Mommyrexic" These are women who are so afraid to gain the weight during their pregnancy, that they actually diet while pregnant. Is that sick or what? Now, the controversy has arisen, as Dr. Snyderman sort of "went off" a little during the segment, and called it "an Upper East Side, white girl issue."

     Now, I don't really know how I feel about that. (Disclaimer-I don't live on the Upper East Side.) I do see these women, who teeter around on their high heels, with their little bump and are oh so very proud when they say "Yes, I'm 8 months and I only gained 10 pounds!"  I know that there are doctors who will "help" these women not to gain too much weight while pregnant. But there are also women who are dangerously obese and do not try to get to a healthy weight.  The truth of the matter is we send mixed messages to women. We tell them it is ok to "accept your body" and "show your curves". But then we are bombarded by magazines that do countdown to bikini season and give more ab exercises than there are grains of sand on the beach.

     Anorexia is a very serious issue among the young girls of today. It is a killer for some. My children know a girl in their school who is in 10th grade and is in rehab a second time for anorexia. It is very, very sad to see girls judge their self worth by how skinny they are. But I don't think the problem is only what Dr. Snyderman says. It isn't just an Upper East Side white girl issue. It is a psychological issue regarding control over one's own body Statistics are changing.  This article shows that eating disorders aren't just a "rich white girl thing" anymore. http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/body/eating-disorders-minorities.html. It is a problem that we as parents must be vigilant about.

     How do you all talk to your daughters about food and weight and body image?

     I am including a link to the Today show segment, below.
http://youtu.be/oVrXPfBgxL0

2011-07-29T09:45:00.002-04:00

So I have noticed that the links to the printables don't seem to be working. I will try to correct. For now here are some on-line codes. I was happy to see Tillys-my son loves taht store and 30% is a great deal!! TILLYS Coupon Codes
30% off Red Tag Sale	Expires: Aug 5, 2011
Save 30% off Red Tag Sale items - enter coupon code "SUMMER30"

JCPENNEY Coupon Codes
10% off all furniture and mattress	Expires: Jul 30, 2011
Save 10% off all furniture and mattress orders - enter coupon code "FURNISH"

JUST MY SIZE Coupon Codes
FREE Shipping on $70+ order	Expires: Jul 30, 2011
Get FREE Shipping on order of $70 or more - click through link, discount will be automatically applied in shopping cart

REEBOK SPECIALTY Coupon Codes
40% off Apparel	Expires: Aug 4, 2011
Save 40% off Any Apparel Item with a pair of ZigTechs - enter coupon code "ZIGTECH40

KMART Coupon Codes
15% off Almost Everything	Expires: Jul 30, 2011
Save 15% off Almost Everything - enter coupon code "JULYSALE"

SEARS Coupon Codes
$20 off order over $200	Expires: Jul 30, 2011
Save $20 off order over $200 - enter coupon code "SEARSTWENTY"

JCPENNEY Coupon Codes
$2.99 shipping on any order	Expires: Jul 31, 2011
Get $2.99 shipping on any order - enter coupon code "SHIP299"

SPORTS AUTHORITY Coupon Codes
FREE Shipping on all Backpacks PROMO	Expires: Sep 3, 2011
Get FREE Shipping on all Backpacks - click through link, discount will be automatically applied in shopping cart

GUITAR CENTER Coupon Codes
$10 off $49, $100 off $500+ purchases	Expires: Jul 31, 2011
Save $10 off purchases of $49 or $100 off purchases of $499 or more - enter coupon code "SAVEUP"

SEARS Coupon Codes
15% off Shoes & Fine Jewelry	Expires: Jul 31, 2011
Save 15% off Shoes & Fine Jewelry - enter coupon code "SEARSAUGUST15"

DANSKIN.COM Coupon Codes
30% off Summer 2011 Collection	Expires: Aug 4, 2011
Save 30% off Our Summer 2011 Collection - enter coupon code "SUM11"

BATH AND BODY WORKS Coupon Codes
Get 2011 Summer VIP Bag $20	Expires: Aug 11, 2011
Get 2011 Summer VIP Bag ($75 Value!) $20 with any $30 Purchase - enter coupon code "SUMMERBAG11

ECAMPUS.COM Coupon Codes
$3 off order over $60	Expires: Jul 31, 2011
Save $3 off order over $60 - enter coupon code "COACHELLA"

ECAMPUS.COM Coupon Codes
$4 off order over $80	Expires: Jul 31, 2011
Save $4 off order over $80 - enter coupon code "LOLLAPALOOZA"

CHRISTOPHER & BANKS Coupon Codes
15% off Everything	Expires: Jul 30, 2011
Save 15% off Everything - enter coupon code "JULYBAN

Here we go again-Friday Coupon Roundup!!!

2011-07-29T01:08:00.005-04:00

I hope these work now!

New York & Company Coupons

$50 or $100 New York & Company Coupon
Print coupon for a $50 discount on purchases of $100 or $100 discount on purchases of $200 or more. See coupon for more details. ( July-29-2011 )

$25 New York & Company Coupon ( August-5-2011 )
Print coupon for a $25 discount on purchases in store over $75 . See coupon for more details.

Note : To redeem in store, print and present the coupons at the register

Bath And Body Works Coupons

$10 Bath and Body Works Coupon ( New! July-31-2011 )
Print coupon for a $10 discount on purchases over $30 in store..

Bath and Body Works Coupon - Free Body Care Item
Print coupon for a free signature collection body care item with purchases of $10 or more. ( August-14-2011 )

Bath and Body Works In Store Offer - $20 VIP Bag
In store offer, no coupon necessary. Get a Summer VIP Bag, a $75 value filled with 11 products including a full size shower gel, body lotion and fragrance mist for $20 with purchases of $30 or more. See page for more details... ( August-2-2011 )

Bath & Body Works Coupon - Free Body Lotion
Register and receive a printable coupon by email for a free travel size body lotion with any $5 Purchase.. ( Must Sign Up

Rue 21 Coupons

$20-$40-$60-$80 Rue 21 Coupon ( August-7-2011 )
Print coupon for a $20 discount on $50, $40 discount on $100, $60 discount $150 and $80 discount on purchases of $200 or more, valid at Rue21 stores. See coupon for more details...

20% Rue 21 Coupon ( December-31-2011 )
Print coupon for a 20% discount on your entire purchase, valid at Rue21 stores. See coupon for more details...

20% Rue 21 Coupon ( Must Sign Up )
Join their rue 21 community and they will send you a coupon for a 20% discount in store or online.. Valid at your local Rue 21 stores. See page for more details...

Old Navy Coupons

$5 Old Navy Coupon ( New! August-4-2011 )
Enter your first and last name to print your coupon for a $5 discount on your entire purchase over $25, valid at any Old Navy store in the U.S. See coupon for more details.

Old Navy $4 Deals Promotion - In Store Offer ( July-30-2011 )
Old Navy $4 Deals for the family! Hurry in b4 it ends! No coupon needed.

- Swim for all at $4

- basic graphic tees for adults and kids at $4

- basic tees starting at $4

- shorts starting at $4

Dollar General Coupons

$5 Dollar General Coupon + More
Several printable grocery coupons for dollar general, print coupons for glade, big G cereal, progresso, wisk, and more + a $5 coupon. (July-29-2011 Only)

Dollar General Coupons ( Ongoing )
You can also Print coupons for dollar general here, they take them.

More Dollar General Coupons ( Must Sign Up )
Sign up for Dollar General emails to receive great values and special offers.

Macy's Coupons

15% Macys Coupon - Apparel ( July-31-2011 )
Macys Wow! Pass. Print coupon for a 15% discount on select sale and clearance apparel for kids, juniors and young men. See coupon for more details...

15% Macys Coupon - Home Items ( August-2-2011 )
Macys Wow! Pass. Print coupon for a 15% discount on select home items. See coupon for more details...

$10 Macys Coupon - With Donation ( New! July-31-2011 )
Give $3 and Print a coupon for a $10 discount on in store purchases over $50. See page for more details

Childrens Place Coupons

20%-25% or 30% The Childrens Place Coupon
Print coupons for a 20% discount on $40, 25% discount on $50 or $30% discount on purchases of $60 or more. See coupons for more details.( July-31-2011 )

$5 The Childrens Place Coupon - In Store ( July-31-2011 )
In store offer, no coupon necessary. For every denim item you buy, get a $5 coupon to use on your next in-store purchase. See page for more details...

5% The Childrens Place In Store Offer ( Ongoing )
In store offer, no coupon necessary. Get 5% discount on every purchase, every day when you shop with your place card. See page for more details.

Kohls Coupons

15% Kohls Coupon ( July 29-31-2011 )
Print coupon necessary for a 15% discount on all sale, regular and clearance priced merchandise. See page for more details.

$10 Kohls Cash In Store Offer ( July-31-2011 )
In store offer, no coupon necessary, get $10 kohls cash for every $50 you spend in store on all sale, regular and clearance priced merchandise. See page for more details.

Express Coupons

$25-$50-$75 Express Coupon ( New! )
Print coupon for a $25 discount on $75, $50 discount on $150 or $75 discount on purchases of $250 or more. Valid at express stores in the USA. ( August-1-2011 )

25% Express Coupon - Dresses
Print coupon for a 25% discount on all dresses. Valid at express stores in the USA. ( August-1-2011 )

15% Express Coupon ( August-9-2011 )
Print coupon for a 15% discount on your entire purchase. Valid at express stores in the USA.

Timberland Coupons

30% Timberland Coupon - Sale Items
Print the whole page for a 30% discount on all sale items at Timberland stores. See coupon for more details...( August-1-2011 )

10% Printable Timberland Coupon( Must Sign Up )
Print coupon and get a 10% discount on your entire in store purchase. Printed coupon must be presented at time of purchase. See coupon for more details...

Carters Coupons

20% Carters Coupon ( August-3-2011 )
Print coupon for a 20% discount in store on your entire purchase over $40.. See printable coupon for more details.

20% Carters Coupon ( September-7-2011 )
Print coupon for a 20% discount in store on your entire purchase over $40.. See printable coupon for more details.

Aeropostale Coupons

$10 Aeropostale Coupon - Jeans
Print out the coupon for a $10 discount on any pair of jeans, redeemable at any Aeropostale store in the U.S.. See coupon for more details... ( New! July-31-2011 )

Future > Aeropostale Coupons ( Must Sign Up )
You can receive printable coupons for Aeropostale if you sign up, you will be the first to know when they are available

Einstein Bros Bagels Coupons

B1G1 Free Einstein Bros Coupon
Print coupon for a buy one, get one free triple decker club sandwich at participating Einstein Bros locations only. See coupon for more details.( August-24-2011 )

Einstein Bros Coupon - Free Schmear
Print coupon for one free additional tub of schmear with the purchase of a bagel bucket at participating Einstein Bros locations only. See coupon for more details. ( July-31-2011 )

Einstein Bros In store Offer - Free Treat
In store offer, no coupon necessary. Happy Hour Every Day (2:00 pm-close). Get a free fresh baked treat with purchase of any bev

Toys R Us Coupons

20% Toys R Us Coupon - Toys
"Like" them on Facebook and print coupon for a 20% discount on any one regular priced toy item. See coupon for more details..(August-14-2011)

5 Toyss R Us Coupons ( July-30-2011 )
- 50% discount on Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer
- 10% or 15% discount when you buy 2 or 3 Carters Bedding items
- 20% discount on all electric breast pumps
- 20% discount on all monitors
- 20% discount on 3-wheeled jogging and all-terrain strollers

7 Toys R Us Coupons ( July-30-2011 )
- free $30 gift card when you buy a Nintendo 3DS
- free $30 gift card when you buy a Nintendo Wii
- save $10 all character-themed scooter
- B1G1 40% discount on all Xbox 360 andPS3 video games
... and more

$2 Toys R Us Coupon - Huggies Wipes ( August-11-2011 )
Print coupon for a $2 discount on all Huggies Baby Wipes value boxes (320-ct. or higher) See coupon for more details

Lane Bryant Coupons

30% Lane Bryant Coupon ( July-31-2011 )
Print the whole email for a 30% discount on your entire purchase including buy one get one 50% discount on denim at Lane Bryant stores. See coupon for more details...

$25-$50-$75 Lane Bryant Coupon
Print coupon for a $25 discount on $75, $50 discount on $150 and $75 discount on purchases of $225 or more at Lane Bryant stores. See coupon for more details... ( July-31-2011

Ann Taylor Loft Coupons

40% Ann Taylor Loft Coupon ( July-28-2011 )

Print and present the whole page in store for a 40% discount on your full price purchase, valid at any Loft store. See page for more details. (12-6pm)

15% Ann Taylor Loft Coupon ( July-30-2011 )

Print out the whole page for a 15% discount on purchases of $75 or more, valid at any Loft Outlet store. See page for more details.

20% Ann Taylor Loft Coupon ( August-13-2011 )

Print out the whole email for a 20% discount on purchases of $100 or more, valid at any Loft Outlet store. See page for more details..

Ann Taylor Loft Coupons ( Must Sign Up )
Sign up for email updates and receive coupons and more for Ann Taylor Loft stores...

Note : Coupon is valid both at at Ann taylor loft retailers and ann taylor factory stores.. If you have trouble finding a local retailer, go here to find Ann Taylor Loft store locations

J. Jill Coupons

25%-30% J.Jill Coupon ( July-31-2011 )
Print the whole page for a 25% discount on $80 and 30% discount on purchases of $100 or more. See coupon for more details.

15% J.Jill Coupon - Teachers ( December-31-2011 )
In store offer, you don't have to print page, receive 15% discount on regular priced purchases with a valid teachers ID. See page for more details

Quiznos Coupons

4 Quiznos Coupons ( Hot! Limited Prints )
- Free BOGO Sub coupon
- Buy a large sub and get a chip or cookie and drink
- $1 off, or $2 off sub coupon
- Large Meal for only $9.99.

$1- $2 Quiznos Coupon ( August-1-2011 )
Print coupon for a $1 discount on a regular sub or regular salad or $2 discount on a large sub.

Quiznos Coupon - Free Sub ( Must Sign Up )
Once you submit your Free Sub registration you will receive a confirmation email for your personalized printable Quiznos coupon. You will also be able to send your friends a Free Sub at that time

The Sounds of Silence

2011-07-28T10:28:00.000-04:00

     It's the moment when you are having that "discussion" with your chhild that you reach the point where the unthinkable happens-they say or do something that goes beyond the point of no return for you. At that time, I pick myself up and say "That's it. I don't want to talk anymore." And I don't. I walk away and don't answer.
     People have told me that reacting that way is childish on my part, and that it is better to get it all out. I don't agree. People say hurtful things in anger and I am no different. But to keep on going when the situation is escalating can get out of control. For me, it is better to walk away and cool down, than say something that may last within my children or husband's psyche for years. I always say"words mean something."
     My family like to talk. It drives my husband crazy if I don't talk to him. He will keep after me and try to wear me down to talk. I tell him once or twice to leave me alone. If he persists, I just get up and don't answer him. But it isn't really about him, it's about the way I feel. My kids will ususally be ok with me not speaking (not surprising!) and it really doesn't happen that often. After a while things cool down and get back to normal.
     How do you all deal with arguments and do you talk it out or give the silent treatment?

Them Good Old Days

2011-07-25T11:46:00.001-04:00

I remember when I was little and my parents would constantly talk about how much better things were "in the old days." Everything was cheaper for sure; movies were a nickel, as were subway rides and hot dogs. Children respected their elderse better (I was told) and the world was a "different place."
I think about that now, as my children are growing and I can also say that I have said to them how much better things were in the good old days. We could playon the street and not worry about strangers kidnapping us- then again we actually played on the street-no video games, no computers!! There was no texting back and forth incessantly-we had one phone and if my parents wanted to make a call, they would yell "get off the phone already!" People in the neighborhood knew who you were and watched out for you. And yes, everything was still cheaper. We had the traveling watermelon truck deliver us ice cold watermelon in the summer,, the rides truck come by and you would climb on and get nauseated for a few thrilling minutes. We played stickball and hopscotch and handball against the wall. If one of the kids got hurt, ew went and got a band aid. No one threatened to sue anyone.
The funny thing is that I hear my kids saying that things were better when they were younger (remember they are 14 and 17). My kids have grown up in the age of technology. If someone sneezes across town, they an say "bless you". Everything is instantaneous. And for many things, there is simply too much information (or TMI, as they call it). Do we really need to know about Lindsay Lohan's 20th arrest, or what Kim Kardashian thinks about anything? (if she does).
The point is, we never know how good we had it, until its gone forever.
My kids have lived through 9/11. Itr was my daugher's first day of school, but she was the afternoon session and it never opened. She walked home through the streets with a wet towel over her face. Both of them have friends who lost parents in the tragedy. And from that terrible day has come a loss of their innocence. People are more suspicious. Life has taken on a wary note-"if you see something say something". Traveling has become a hardship and an ordeal; frightening at times. I fear they will never again know a world without the threat of terrorism. But it isn't only that. Their loss of innocence come from this constant over-exposure to everything in the world. We know that there was the same types of people in the world back in the 1900's than there are now-people killed children and eachother but we as children were protected from hearign about it by our paretns. I think we grew up a little niave. There is very little we can hope to sheild our children from anymore. And frnakly, I thnk it has made our children better and stronger in ways that we don't even know yet. My children can grow up in a world that is much more open than mine was. They have opinions about things I didn't even know existed. I am sad for how much negativity they see and hear, but at the same time, I am encouraged to see them think on their own.

How do you all feel about them good ole days?

More savings-coupon codes for on-line shopping

2011-07-22T21:03:00.000-04:00

Here are a few on line stores that have good codes you can use.

THE LIMITED Coupon Codes
40% off all purchase	Expires: Jul 24, 2011
Save 40% off all purchase - enter coupon code "SAVE40"

MOOSEJAW Coupon Codes
FREE Water Bobble	Expires: Jul 27, 2011
Get FREE Water Bobble with any Pack Over $50 - enter coupon code "BOBBLE"

ESPRIT Coupon Codes
40% off all items	Expires: Jul 26, 2011
Save 40% off all items - enter coupon code "HOTSALE11"

BANANA REPUBLIC Coupon Codes
30% off Women's Styles	Expires: Jul 23, 2011
Save 30% off Women's Styles - enter coupon code "BRSAVE30"

OLD NAVY Coupon Codes
30% off any purchase	Expires: Jul 22, 2011
Save 30% off any purchase - enter coupon code "ONBIG30"

LORD AND TAYLOR Coupon Codes
20% off Clearance	Expires: Jul 24, 2011
Save 20% off Clearance items - enter coupon code "SAVEMORE"

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE Coupon Codes
FREE Signature Tote	Expires: Jul 25, 2011
Get FREE Signature Tote with any Manolo Blahnik purchase - enter coupon code "MANOLO2"

NAUTICA Coupon Codes
FREE Shipping on all orders	Expires: Jul 23, 2011
Get FREE Shipping on all orders - click through link, discount will be automatically applied in shopping cart

BEBE Coupon Codes
$4.95 Shipping on any purchase	Expires: Aug 1, 2011
Pay $4.95 Shipping on any purchase - click through link, discount will be automatically applied in shopping cart

SEARS Coupon Codes
10% off Cooking Appliances, Dishwashers, Washers & Dryers	Expires: Jul 23, 2011
Save 10% off Cooking Appliances, Dishwashers, Washers & Dryers - enter coupon code "HASPECIAL"

SMARTBARGAINS.COM Coupon Codes
FREE Shipping on $100 Designer Brands clothing purchase	Expires: Aug 4, 2011
Get FREE Shipping on $100 Designer Brands clothing purchase - click through link, discount will be automatically applied in shopping cart

SMARTBARGAINS.COM Coupon Codes
10% off Designer Brands clothing	Expires: Aug 4, 2011
Save 10% off Designer Brands clothing - click through link, discount will be automatically applied in shopping cart

SMARTBARGAINS.COM Coupon Codes
10% off any purchase	Expires: Aug 4, 2011
Save 10% off any purchase (new customers) - click through link, discount will be automatically applied in shopping cart

SMARTBARGAINS.COM Coupon Codes
FREE Shipping on $100 purchase	Expires: Aug 4, 2011
Get FREE Shipping on $100 purchase (new customers) - click through link, discount will be automatically applied in shopping cart

KMART Coupon Codes
20% off Baby & Toddler Apparel	Expires: Jul 23, 2011
Save 20% off Baby & Toddler Apparel - enter coupon code "BABYAPP20"

KMART Coupon Codes
$10 off $60 order	Expires: Jul 23, 2011
Save $10 off $60 order - enter coupon code "JULY3SAVINGS"

Friday Savings Roundup

2011-07-22T13:00:00.000-04:00

Since we all love a good bargain, I've decided to make Fridays a coupon gathering day to share with you all. These are the ones I could find from the Web. if you know of any other, please feel free to post and share. Thanks! If the hyper-link doesn't work, just click on the link and copy and paste the pop-up link.

Ruby Tuesday Coupon - Free Burger
Become one of the first 200,000 people to sign up on their Facebook fan page and receive a coupon for a free Ruby Tuesday Signature burger with purchase of 2 beverages. See page for more details

15%-20%-25% Childrens Place Coupon
Print coupon for a 15%, 20%, or 25% discount on your entire purchase at your local children's place store. See coupons for more details

$10 Old Navy Coupon ( July-28-2011 )
Enter your first and last name to print your coupon for a $10 discount on your entire purchase, valid at any Old Navy store in the U.S. See coupon for more details.

20% or 15% Jc Penney Coupon - Home and Luggage
Print coupon for a 20% on home and luggage purchases when you use your JC Penney Rewards Credit Card or 15% discount with any other form of payment. ( New! July-24-2011 )

$10 Jc Penney Coupon ( July 29-30-2011 )
Print coupon for a $10 discount on family apparel, accessories, shoes, jewelry and home purchases of $25 or more or an extra 10% discount on furniture and mattresses.See coupon for more details...

$10 Jc Penney Coupon ( August-10-2011 )
Print coupon for a $10 discount on purchases of $50 or more. Says one time use however some jc penney stores will accept it.. According to the comments.

30% Coach Factory Coupon ( New! August-7-2011 )
Print email and bring it to your local Coach factory Store for a 30% discount in store on everything, valid at any Coach Factory store.

More > Coach Factory Outlet Coupons ( Sign Up )
Join their mailing list and you will be the first to know about their latest styles, seasonal updates, store openings and more for Coach Factory stores...

25% Express Coupon - Outerwear
Print coupon for a 25% discount on women's and men's outerwear. Valid at express stores in the USA. ( July-24-2011 )

15% Express Fashion Coupon ( Sign Up )
Enter your e-mail address to sign up for updates and get 15% discount on your next purchase for Express Fashion stores..

$10 Aeropostale Coupon ( New! July-24-2011 )
Print coupon for a $10 discount on purchases of $40 or more, redeemable at any Aeropostale store in the U.S.. See coupon for more details...

Future > Aeropostale Coupons ( Must Sign Up )
You can receive printable coupons for Aeropostale if you sign up, you will be the first to know when they are available

DSW Coupon - Free Tote ( Limited Time Offer )
DSW Rewards Members only, print coupon for a free Anniversary tote with purchases of $39 or more. See coupon for more details...

Smokey Bones BOGO Coupon - Entree
Print coupon for buy one entree, get one entree free.. Valid at your local smokey bones restaurant. ( July 25-28-2011 )

$10 Smokey Bones Coupon ( exp )
Print coupon for a $10 discount on purchases of $20 or more.. Valid at your local smokey bones restaurant.

Smokey Bones Coupon - BBQ Booster Pack
Print and complete form for a Smokey Bones BBQ Booster Pack, feeds 10 and includes 3 meats and 2 large sides. Valid at your local smokey bones restaurant. ( September-5-2011 )

Printable Target Grocery Coupons
New target grocery coupons added, print coupons for biz, nesquick, windex, glade, pledge, grocery and food... ( New Coupons Added )

More Target Coupons ( July-31-2011 )
You can also use these free grocery coupons for target stores, most target stores accept them, they worked for me..

Target Deals & Coupon Matchups ( New! July-17-2011 to July-23-2011 )
See our latest target coupon matchups and deals

$5 Friendly's Coupon ( July-24-2011 )
Print coupon for a $5 discount on purchases of $25 or more. See coupon for more details.

Friendly's BOGO Coupon - 3-Scoop Sundae
Print coupon for a buy one, get one free 3-scoop sundae. See coupon for more details.( July-24-2011 )

20% Macys Coupon ( July-24-2011 )
Macy's Wow Pass! Print coupon for a 20% discount on select sale and clearance apparel for him, her and kids plus fine and fashion jewelry purchases. See coupon for more details...

15% Macys Coupon - Home Items ( July-24-2011 )
Print a coupon for a 15% discount on select sale and clearance home items and 10% discount on select sale and clearance electrics. See page for more details...

$10 Macys Coupon - With Donation ( New! July-31-2011 )
Give $3 and Print a coupon for a $10 discount on in store purchases over $50. See page for more details...

10% Macys Coupon - Jewelry and Watches ( July-31 to August-7-2011 )
Print a coupon for a 10% discount on all sale and clearance fine and fashion jewelry and watches. See page for more details...

More Macys Coupons ( Must Sign Up )
Simply register and find out about special exclusive offers and receive email updates and more...

Macy's is a store that has almost everything for home, bed & bath, men, women, kids, juniors, beauty & fragrance, shoes, handbags & accessories, jewelry & watches, gifts & gifts cards and also a wedding registry. Go to a Macy's store near you.

25% Michaels Coupon ( July-23-2011 )
Print coupon for a 25% discount on your entire purchase, including sale items.

25% Michaels Coupon - For Canadians ( July-22-2011 )
Print coupon for a 25% discount on your entire purchase, including sale items in Canada only.

12 Michaels Coupons ( July-23-2011 )
- 25% discount on your entire purchase, including sale items

- 60% discount on custom framing
- 25% discount on entire purchase wall and tabletop frames...
- 25% discount on discount on Martha stewart Crafts..
- 40% discount on scrapbooks and paper pads
- 40% discount on Jolee's and Sticko stickers
- 40% discount on entire purchase of candles
- 50% discount on any one regular price baking item and more...

60% Michaels Coupon - Custom Framing ( July-22-2011 )
Print coupon for a 60% discount on custom framing.

40% Michaels Coupon - Martha Stewart Crafts ( July-22-2011 )
Print coupon for a 40% discount on Martha stewart Crafts..

15% Michaels Coupon ( July-24-2011, 4 Hours Only! 4pm-8pm )
Print coupon for a 15% discount on your entire purchase, including sale items. Excludes Utah, Paramus and NJ stores.

40% Michaels Coupon ( July 23-29-2011 )
Print coupon for a 40% discount on any one regular price item.

40% Michaels Coupon ( July 24-30-2011 )
Print coupon for a 40% discount on any one regular price item.

More Printable Michaels Coupons ( Must Sign Up )
Simply complete the form an and register to receive special discounts offers & coupons for Michael's Art & Crafts Stores. Read fine print for more details.

Note: Michaels also accepts competitors coupons like joann coupons.

Michaels is a specialty retail store that provides a large assortment of general crafts, home decor items, picture framing materials and services, art and hobby.

25% Abercrombie & Fitch Coupon
Print out the whole page for a 25% discount on Redline items. Valid at Abercrombie and Fitch retail stores in the USA. ( July-26-2011 )

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10% Gap Coupon ( August-1-2011 )
Print coupon for a 10% discount on purchases of $75 or more, valid at Gap Outlet, Gap Outlet Kids & Baby, The Gap Generation and Gap Factory stores in the U.S.

15% Gap Coupon ( October-31-2011 )
Print coupon for a 15% discount on your entire purchase when you use a visa credit card, valid at any Gap Outlet or The Gap Generation in the U.S.

20% Gap Outlet Coupon ( December-31-2011 )
Print coupon for a 20% discount on purchases of $75 or more, valid only at Gap Outlet stores in the U.S.

15% Gap Outlet Coupon ( February-29-2012 )
Print coupon for a 15% discount on purchases of $75 or more. Valid at any Gap Outlet, Gap Factory Store or The Gap Generation store in the U.S.

15% Gap Outlet Coupon ( Must Sign Up )
Sign up to receive email and get 15% in store coupon on your next purchase at Gap Outlet stores...

Independence Day isn't in July this year

2011-07-20T13:41:00.000-04:00

Ever since last September, most of the talk in our household has revolved around the college search and application process. Writing the essay, waiting for the Common App to come on line so it could be filled out, and making that all-important college list took center stage in my senior's life. We planned out visits to co-ordinate with school and work schedules and had realistic discusions about where did she really want to spend her life for the next four years. We took into consideration that I ws not in favor of having her out on the west coast, and she agreed; in fact, she didn't want to go further than a three hour Amtrak ride or an hour and a half plane ride. (Note to parents of rising seniors-if your child want to attend school in a very cold environment, make that tour during thase cold winter months so your child can see what it will be like when they have to travel then!)
The school my daughter chose was not supposed to be on her list; she went there to cross it off and move on. instead she fell in love and was thrilled to be accepted. All those hours (and dollars) spent studying for and taking those tests paid off-she will be a college girl come this August.
And now it is mid-July and she had one more month at home-the shopping and deciding on the all important room furnishing is upon us. Yes we visited Bed Bath and Beyond, but it did not meet her expectations, so the serach continues. All the while I watch her, preparing for her classes; reading the books they have recommended and choosing her classes with care, thinking "she really is leaving; this is the start of her new life." Yes she will return, but it will never be the same. Wtih each passing month, she will engage in new experiences that I won't be a part of and that she will have to learn to handle by her own self. She is becoming that adult that I wished for her to grow up to be, almost 18 years ago when she was a newborn and I looked at her in her crib. This smart, kind, beautiful young woman who has the world before her, and is ready to jump in. I am thankful she is taking me along for the ride.

The dawning of the Age of....

2011-07-18T22:54:00.000-04:00

Today the NY City Council partnering with corporations such as MTV, Time Warner and Facebook, announced a "cyber bullying summit", to address the on-going issue of social media's impact and responsibility to protect young people. Many teenagers came to this first meeting, which will be available on YouTube, to tell their stories. They spoke of "sexting" (which in case you don't know is sending naked or compromising pictures over a cell phone) and sexually explicit texts, in addition to sending hateful and bullying texts to other people. Many teenagers use Facebook to start groups that promote hate speech. Twitter has also been gaining in popularity. These are the well known media outlets. But are all of you as parents aware of other sites?
Formspring is a site that allows people to say things to others without having to identify who they. There is no way to trace the sender, so people feel free to say whatever hateful things they want. Tumblr is another site that is especially popular with teenage girls. You can post pictures (called reblogging) and other content from the Web and also ask questions anonymously. There is no filter; you can put up whatever type of obscene and pornographic pictures you want, as well as discuss sex and drug use. It is sort of like blogging for teens. When I look at what some of these young people, especially girls, say and do I really wonder if all of our advances are really worth it. I speak to my kids about it and they aren't part of it, however I know many of these young girls who do use these sites and it is appalling what they say and do on these sites.
Are all of you aware of these sites and the influence they have upon children?

You Gotta Have Friends

2011-07-15T16:05:00.000-04:00

Where would we be without our friends? I know my friends were and are an important life-blood to me, in school and once I ventured out into the grown-up world of working and marriage. As my children have grown older, I feel a closeness with my friends that has grown deeper over time. Of course there is my husband, but there is something about a girlfriend that can't be put into words. I thank the social media outlets for bringing me back friends from my early childhood whom I had lost track of, and for finding me some new friends that I cannot live without now. We have build a support network that spans distance; I know my friends are there for me, as I am for them. I am so happy when I see that my children have made special friendships at this stage in their lives; in this age, there is no way to lose touch with each other if you don't want to. Both my children have been at the same school with the same friends since they were 4; they have friends in the neighborhood they have known since they were 3. These are the building blocks of the relationships they will make with the rest of the world as they grow older. I wish them the same good fortune with their friends that I have had with mine.

A Parent's Nightmare

2011-07-14T10:26:00.000-04:00

I write this with tears in my eyes, as I read the story of a little boy, who begged to be allowed to walk home from camp on his own. He was to meet his parents only 5 blocks away, in broad daylight, in one of the busiest neighborhoods. He took a wrong turn and met pure evil.
As parents, our first thuoghts are always with our children; their safety, well-being and happiness. When we hear of another child, especially a little one, losing his life, we think of our own families, and how we would feel if this happened to us. Now my children are older; one is 17 and one is 14. The thoughts and fears don't disappear with age. Maybe I am neurotic, but I still worry. Yes, my daughter went to Europe for 3 weeks with 7 friends, but they knew what to do; always, always stay together, never let anyone buy you anything to eat or drink. Never leave one of your friends alone, even for a minute.
And now in a month and a half she will be off to college, on her own and making her own decisions. I will still worry at night; is she walking by hereself when it's dark? Will she meet someone at a party and "just this once" go alone with him or worse yet in a car? But then I think-if there is one thing I raised both my children with, it is street smarts. Maybe it means they trust people a little less. But I know my daughter. She knows the right thing to do And I know that by letting her go, I amm giving her the greatest gift of all, which is the chance to grow up an independent, free-willed woman, who can make it on her own.
That is what those parents of the little 9 year boy, who begged his mommy to let him walk home for the first time were trying to do-give him the feeling of being grown up. It was just a wrong turn, split second meeting that turned into disaster. It could happen anywhere and to anyone. We just have to hope and pray that we are lucky. Hug your children a little tighter tonight. I know I will.
LOVE

Harry Potter - The Wonder Years

2011-07-12T11:30:00.000-04:00

Did your teenagers literally grow up with Harry Potter, mine did, particularly my son. He was 7 years old when the first film debuted in 2001( the book was published in 1997). Harry was supposed to be 11 years old when the series began. In the final movie installment premiering this week-The Deathly Hallows: Part 2 his age is 17. How many of you have wonderful memories of watching the movies as they came out one by one. Im sure like me, it began as a family outing- since the movies had something for everyone. Almost all of the movies premiered right around my son's birthday, making it extra special. Eventually, as both Harry and my son aged, the movie dynamic changed. I remember when I took my son and a few of his friends to one of the installments where I was politely informed that I should sit on the other side of the theatre at least 5 rows away--and then, finally, my son informed me there was no need for me to "go with" at all.--I could catch it on DVD. Harry and his friends Hermoine and Ron were not the only ones growing up. Beyond the movies and most importantly-there were the books. My son was not interested in reading until he read, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. Like most of his friends, he could not put it down and anxiously awaited and devoured all of the sequels. . In between installments he read many other novels- because Harry had given him the taste for a really good book. Thank you Harry! ( and of course JK Rowling). A lot has happened to Harry and his Hogwart friends in the last 10 years. Likewise, I'm sure many of our children who are now solidly in their teen years have experienced trials and tribulations. Hopefully they have encountered way more Hagrids than Voldemorts in their lives.
One final note, My daughter who is 2 years younger than my son--wasn't as crazed with Harry and has found her addiction in the Twilight Series--personally--I like Harry!
Do you have a favorite Harry Potter moment in your teenagers life?

Teenage Boys- No Good Deed Goes Unpunished

2011-07-12T10:19:00.000-04:00

Since sonny boy has yet to find a "summer" job, I've requested that he pitch in with the stuff that just needs to get done. He's vacuumed, done laundry, addressed the Cable TV issues. Last week, I asked him to please do a good deed and pick up his grandfather and bring him to our house for dinner. A 45 min. round trip journey. Ok- it was slightly raining, but he has had his license for quite some time. Did I mention-like many teenage boys--he's not the most cautious driver. He couldn't blast the radio on his way back home with Grandpa so they chatted. It was pretty much stop and go traffic on the highway, as it usually is. Well, I don't know about you, but I've told my kids since before they could even think about driving, that one of the most important rules of the road is to keep a reasonable distance from the car in front of you--give yourself room. Long story short, he didn't, and he rear ended the car in front of him. Grandpa had moments before told him he was following too closely, but I guess 65+ yrs. of driving experience had no influence. Thankfully, everyone was OK and the guy he hit wasn't much older than him and had no damage. The car my son was driving is 13 yrs. old and has 150K mileage. Did I mention the bent hood, which would cost probably 3X more to fix than what the car is worth. It's really no wonder teenage boys' insurance costs are so high. Hey, anyone need a car for parts?

When in Rome? Not quite....

2011-07-08T23:33:00.000-04:00

tonight my kids and I had a very interesting and enlightening discussion about peer pressure. to give a little background, we live in a big city and my kids go to a private school but have friends from all walks of life. we are not rich by ANY stretch of the imagination (can you say coupons?) Anyway, there are several kids in the neighborhood who are 13 and 14 years old, who don't go to school with my children, who have gotten a reputation for drinking and smoking pot. Yes 13 and 14 yrs old. They are friends with some of my son's classmates, but not him. They glorify the drinking and smoking and of course are the "popular" kids, because they are dangerous.
My 17 year old made the observation that you don't have to drink and smoke to be popular;but you do have to be social and not spend your time bashing those kids. Why waste your time on losers? she questioned. My son,, just listened and took it all in. It will be a new experience for him as a high school freshman dealing with upperclass students at parties,and just goig to these types of parties in general.
How have all of you dealt with the situation of peer pressure with young teens?

Summer Job Search- a little late

2011-07-07T16:20:00.000-04:00

My son is looking for work. It's a new concept for him. Having just come home from several weeks of foreign travel he was a little late in the summer employment game. He never applied for internships because he was supposed to work at a sleepaway camp, until he and all of his friends changed their minds. There really is not much around. He's been hitting the local retail locations to no avail. I've asked everyone I know and many that I do not. It seems that because of the bad economy the push down factor is hurting his chances. Adults are taking jobs that used to belong to college grads and those grads are taking the college kids'jobs. Since I dont want him sleeping all day and partying all night I've made many TO DO lists for him. So far, so good. Next week he will be driving his grandparents to their Dr.s appointments. If that doesn't make him search harder, nothing will. Did I mention, he is eating me out of house and home.

And away we go!

2011-07-07T10:19:00.000-04:00

There we were, waiting for 7 am to strike. All the checkmarks are in place and then boom....out went the internet. Frantically, she shut down the computer again and again. Finally, at 6:59 back on it went and at the stroke of 7, she hit the send button. All classes were accepted and we have a schedule. Freshman year is set!
Back when I went to college, I remember waiting on line after line at the gym, hoping that by the time I got to the front of the line, the class wouldn't be filled, and then running around trying to find where the line is for the other classes I wantred. Now in this computer age, push a button and its done. I would prefer, of course, that it not be at & in the morning but that beats the 4am time if I lived on the west coast!
How have your child's experiences been with registration?

Next week...roommate notification.....

Fourth of July and shopping

2011-07-01T15:06:00.000-04:00

So naturally as the mother of a teenage daughter, all roads lead to shopping. But as I have been trolling the net, quite a few nice sales have popped up that I figured I could share with you.

My daughter's personal favorite store, Urban Outfitters is running a big blowout sale online now. Free shipping over $60. Lots of cute tops, skirts and dresses. I even checked it out for the boys, and they have some really nice hoodies and v neck tees.

J. Crew has their factory store open every weekend. Right now prices, while still a little high-ish are starting to come down. I always liked them for their tanks; really cute and super soft and comfy. Tip-their regular store is running their final sale now, and you can pick up some real good buys. The only proble with J. Crew is their shipping charge. If you can pool together with a few other people, than it is definitely worth it.

Banana Republic is running 40% off their sale. Yippee, cause mom like it too. Love Banana, especially when it is on sale!

My daughter found this line of inexpensive makeup called ELF. Very very cheap and looks pretty good. They are online at http://www.eyeslipsface.com/
Have a safe and happy 4th and please post if you have any other good 4th sales

Summer vacation

2011-06-30T22:38:00.000-04:00

So it is a monumental summer; one child will be off to college and the other will be entering high school. I don't know how I will feel about my first baby leaving; scared for her,as the world is so much different now than when I went away, yet so excited to have her embark on her new life. How did you all feel when your first child left for the first time.
Since my 14yr old will be in the same school for high school as he was in middle school; it isn't that much of a change, but with new kids coming in, there will be a change in dynamics. A core group of the "popular" kids are the ones who smoke and drink and run around all hours of the night. My child doesn't do that; not that he's such a perfect child (ha!), but he isn't about that. At least not yet! I guess we will find out together.