Experiencing ‘Empty Nest Syndrome’ before the nest is even empty

By: Ms. @NewsWitAttitude

 

So I’m officially “in my feelings.” I’m no longer “mommy” and I’m just that corny old woman who chauffeurs teenagers around town. I’m an ATM, a ‘lame’ who knows absolutely nothing about life, as my kids would try to make me believe…. and the social life I’ve given up for them… I should have possibly been pursuing more, as my friends always encouraged me to do.

What’s worse… is that my life is REALLY soaring – professionally – but in the world according to everyone under the age of 16, I’m just a chunky old lady trying to kill all the fun.

In my days, we called it “cock blocking” and damn right I am. I am a one-woman goalie in a soccer field of horny kids trying desperately to block all pregnancies, STDs and misguided sex-capades from going into the end zone of my damn life.

This world we live in is dangerous, and no matter how many “You can live with HIV if you take this pill” commercials I see, I still don’t want that to become one of my children’s battles.

So while I am —admittedly—the overprotective mom, demanding to meet the parents of my children’s friends (What’s wrong with that?), making them come in before dark and DAMN SURE not allowing them to ride alone in a car with other teen drivers, I’ve slowly pushed my kids away and they are screaming for independence that I just can’t seem to manage to let them have.

As a single mother who’ve had to fight off plenty of old “Creepy Creepersons” when I was a teen (cough cough.. certain family members’ pedophiliac boyfriends), I have always been guarded of who I let around my kids. I’ve rarely introduced them to men I’ve dated and never ever left them alone with anyone because I don’t trust the souls of some folk until they’ve weathered the test of time and my watchful eyes. My motto is that, at least for the first year, you’re not dating that person, you’re dating their representative… and so many people can hide who they are until you give them complete access to your life.

So whatever the case— I can save all my hang-ups for a psychiatrist’s couch— I have somehow become the woman who the kids are treating like the plague.

They’d rather spend time with their friends on the weekend, are not “into” our annual family vacations anymore unless they GRILL me about where it is before they DECIDE it’s considered fun (and don’t have a dime to contribute, I might add) and they close up in their rooms when they’re home with me so I won’t invade their privacy.

So what is this mom to do?

Well honey, I’m going to stop sulking and grab a part of the life I cut off while they were my innocent babies – and no, I don’t regret it because I LIVE by the motto, “BECOMING a mother is NOT hard, BEING a mother IS.”

We are parents, first and foremost, and sacrifice is part of the unconditional love we give, and get, in return. On the flip side, though, maybe NOW I will go out on more dates, maybe NOW I will go on a vacation without them and maybe NOW I’ll close myself up in my room for my own privacy (well, no, I still need to watch those little suckers…ha ha).

Or maybe I’ll just do this — STOP TAKING THINGS SO PERSONAL! They are TEENAGERS and they think they ARE smarter than everyone in the world. I’m not a corny old lady… I’m 40ish, fabulous and Texas fine, and while Stella ain’t trying to totally get her groove back… she might just get her groove on a little bit.

Teens.. bah humbug! It’s just a phase. They still need their Mama…. even if they don’t think they do.

The goal has not changed. I’m here to mold and guide them, lead them in the right direction whether they like it or not, keep them safe, teach them the ways of the world and how to be successful Black men and women.

I’ll just keep standing by closely, with my watchful eye, refreshed after coming back from my SOLO vacation continuing to live the blessed life God has allowed me to provide for my “little stinkers” who are definitely smelling themselves.

Enjoy life parents. Keep doing what you do!

 

 

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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