Laptops, Lung Cancer -- Life With 3 Teens

on December 24, 2009 at 7:13 AM

Photo by RAZmom88

It's hard enough raising one teen -- but three?! Welcome to RAZmom88's wild and wonderful life. Each Thursday she shares what drama or joy she encountered this week.

What Santa Brings Teenagers

Everyone's been home for Christmas break this week, including James, my 18 year old son Ryan's friend from college.

Christmas presents? Well, this very nice laptop I am using right now was our big family gift. Andrea, 18, and Zack,15, each asked for one, but we could only afford one, so everyone has to share. That's okay with me, I can be more aware of their online activities.

Zack also asked for tights and shoes for track. I knew I would get the wrong things so I bought him a $100 gift card. Andrea's big gift was a Chi Flat Iron -- a $100 hair straightener. They both got pretty much everything they asked for ... I hope.

Ryan wanted a coffee pot, so I got him one, and also the new Bible he asked for. I also got James a few things he wanted: some books and basketball shorts.

He'll also receive a full stocking just like my own kids.

Stocking are a big tradition at our home. Santa fills them on Christmas Eve and then hangs them on the bed post of each child. This is the tradition that Ryan shared with James to make James want to be part of our Christmas. I cannot wait to see James on Christmas morning. It's almost like having a 5 year old in the house again.

A Bittersweet Holiday

My father has been diagnosed with lung cancer. This could possibly be his last Christmas with us. So as we run around preparing for Christmas, we have this in the back of our mind. Tears fill my eyes every time I think about it. 2010 may be a rough year for our family. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers.

Merry Christmas to all of you. Remember to enjoy this time with your family.

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What's on your teen's wish list this year? Will he or she be getting it?

Previous journals:

Too Young for Love?

Abusive Homes, Faith

Shopping and Sleeping Arrangements

About the author Cynthia Dermody

is The Stir's Managing Editor who has trophies in her home for her skills at the Irish Jig. She makes cupcakes with as many fattening ingredients as possible, doesn't comb her hair for months at a time, and was probably a faerie in a former life.