Living with a 12-year-old girl often feels like navigating a rollercoaster ride with a pint-sized version of the Hulk. One moment, my sweet girl is belting out tunes in the shower; the next, she’s a whirlwind of sass, eye rolls, and dramatic tears—all before breakfast. As her moods swing, I find myself shifting from the supportive cheerleader to the “I mean business” parent, and occasionally, the “I totally get it” mom.
Even amidst the emotional chaos, we sometimes find ourselves in sync, sharing smiles, hugs, and the occasional eye roll. In many ways, we mirror each other—she’s on the brink of adolescence, while I’m navigating the complexities of my 40s, both of us unsure of what ‘grown up’ really means. Here are 10 delightful ways that this mom in her 40s is just like her tween daughter:
1. Skinny Jeans Standoff
We both rock skinny jeans, but are we sure they’re suitable for each other? My stylish pair is chic, while hers might as well have been painted on. Did she just call my jeans tight?
2. Pimple Problems
We both battle breakouts that leave us less than glamorous. It seems that hormones don’t discriminate—they’re just at different life stages!
3. Nail Polish Raiders
We love raiding each other’s nail polish collections. Whether it’s the chit-chat, the music, or a soothing hand massage, painting our nails together is pure bonding bliss. Current favorite? Sugarplum from Forever 21, a steal at $2.99!
4. Unwanted Hair Growth
Discovering new hair in unexpected places is a rite of passage for both of us. She can wax her fuzz, but I might need to start looking into electrolysis.
5. Love for YA Novels
Our tastes in books align—action-packed, fantasy-filled stories with a hint of romance. Who doesn’t love a tale of a girl who breaks free and saves the world? Movie night, here we come!
6. Creative Cursing
We both have a knack for dropping words like “freakin’” and “crap” a little too frequently. What was once my clever way of avoiding cursing now sounds quite different coming from her. Either we both need to chill or double down on the sass—what a dilemma!
7. Crushing on TV Heartthrobs
Our taste in heartthrobs is surprisingly similar. We both swoon over the guys from Nashville (Deacon for me, Gunnar for her!). When did she learn that “hot” doesn’t just refer to the weather? And is that show really appropriate for her?
8. Running is Torture
We both share a strong dislike for running. Remembering how much I dreaded gym class makes me sympathize with her. Who needs sore muscles when we can just get matching Converse instead?
9. Friendship Insecurities
Friendships can be tough at any age. I still worry about fitting in and feeling left out, just like her. Thankfully, I can guide her through the ups and downs—experience does count for something!
10. Dream Chasers
We inspire each other to follow our passions. My daughter shines as a singer in her school band, and I’m her biggest supporter. Recently, I even got to live out my dream of performing with other moms at a school fundraiser! She might have cringed a bit, but she cheered me on like the superstar she is.
Parenting a tween can be a wild ride, but finding those sweet moments of connection makes it all worthwhile—even if my jeans are a little too snug. For more insights into the journey of home insemination, check out this link.
In summary, navigating life with a 12-year-old is a blend of eye rolls, shared interests, and mutual support through the trials of adolescence and midlife. Embrace the chaos and enjoy those fleeting moments of togetherness!