Daphne -- Speaking As the Mom of a Teenager...
I don't usually post here because my younger son is 10 and that makes me an OLD MOM!
But I just had to chime in to reassure you, Daphne! My older son is now 13 1/2, and motherhood continues to become more enriching and more fun every day. I think Alex is a pretty typical suburban teen, from what I've seen observing his many buddies. And he is just a continuing world of fun for his parents. Right now he's at sleepaway camp in NC, and the difference in maturity that his letters home reflect (last summer's letters vs. this year's) is amazing. My husband and I are getting SUCH a kick out of this newest stage in his development.
Now, it's true that Alex is just BARELY a teen, I'll grant you, and he's our first. But I don't think we will feel different about this as he (and his witty little brother) get older. We're just not worried about their being OMIGOSH teenagers. Our expectation is that ALMOST
every day we'll find something new, amazing and happy about raising our boys. I guess that sounds kind of sappy, but honestly so far that's really been our reaction to parenthood. They are wonderful kids.
So new mommies, IMHO you girls have lots to look forward to!
Kathy S.
(Mother of 2 great boys and one great male dog
)