Fan On, Patience off!

By MissT

About my blog

Laying here, fan on, cat curled by my feet like a silent witness to the chaos of motherhood.

I’m wondering — not for the first time — how much longer this parenting malarkey will keep wearing me out.

I thought the toddler years were tough.

I thought the teen years would be the worst. But parenting a 17-year-old who’s learning to drive?

That’s a whole new level of nerve-shredding.

Kai is constantly challenging every instruction like he’s auditioning for Top Gear meets Who’s the Boss?

And tonight?

He crossed a line — got forceful with me when I tried to enforce a boundary. I was calmly trying to speak to him, and he physically removed me from his room.

So, driving?

Off the cards.

Until an apology is issued.

And by the looks of his current attitude, I might be waiting until after the next general election.

At 5ft 10, he’s taller than me now. Stronger too. And yet somehow still thinks the world owes him ease.

But I’ve done everything for the little shit — and yes, I say that with both love and exasperation.

Because sometimes he pushes my boundaries so hard I feel like I might snap.

All I’m trying to do is keep him safe. Teach him life skills. Make sure he doesn’t crash the car — or himself.

But when you’re a single mum, battle-worn and bloody tired, it feels like shouting into a void. No medal. No nap. No bloody gratitude.

And yet… would I change it?

Hell no.

Because the truth is, even when they’re sulking, stomping, or slamming doors, they’re still your baby.

Just with broader shoulders and a deeper voice.So tonight, I’m holding my ground.

Fan on.

Back straight.

Car keys hidden.

He’ll learn. One way or another.

Heaven help me!