Midnight: my #1 son strolls down the stairs with his shoes and socks and jacket on and a Monster drink tucked into his pocket.
“What are you doing?”
“It’s hot in my room and I want to sit in the backyard.” Right.
Funny. Does he think I am really that stupid?
“Honey, what are you up to? Looks like you are planning a late night sneak out adventure with your buddies.”
Denial. He leaves and doesn’t return until 8:00 the next morning. He’s almost 17. He is bigger than me. I cannot physically make him stay home. I can threaten all I want. Likely he will just continue to do what he wants.
So, the big ugly tree in the backyard? https://justamomtoday.wordpress.com/2011/08/09/tree-trimming/Guess who gets to spend the day (likely a very tired day after being out all night) chopping it down? I came home to the ugly tree now a short stump, which will be removed this weekend and the branches in organized piles for the fire pit. No yelling, no fighting. He knew he was wrong – he didn’t argue. I got a task done.
Honestly, this isn’t the kind of parent I thought I would be. I probably would have scoffed at this story recounted by another parent in my younger years. But now? Raising teenagers is hard. You compromise and do what you can. All the time working to preserve the relationship while instilling values and boundaries with love.
It is exhausting, but I think we are making it.
just a mom today 
I love it! Chopping that tree down is definitely work… maybe you earned a little more respect… maybe not… but we can hope 🙂