Mothers...Everyone Knows One!

We were driving in her 2 year old 1984 Datsun/Nissan Sentra Hatchback, beige in color. I think my older brother had recently acted out against my mom and I remember how upset she was because of it. I asked her why he would do that. She replied that he was rebelling, that it was completely natural and that everyone has to go through it. But it was obvious that even armed with that knowledge, it disturbed her terribly. So I boasted that I would buck the trend. I would never rebel against her.

Fast forward two years and I am packing up my stuff and moving to Florida to live with my dad. 4th grade was a tough year for the two of us. But I grew past that and really as I entered high school we had a metamorphosis in our relationship. That strength that was shared between us has really all but disappeared since my return from New Orleans. It was AWESOME of her to offer her house until I could re-build my depleted savings. But I really have to get the fuck out.

But this time she is the one rebelling. She has had medical tests and procedures in the past few months that have totalled over $30,000 (thank god for good insurance). Rather than heed her doctors advice, (who imparted their demands to me, as well), that she eat right, exercise more, cut out sugars and STOP SMOKING, she behaves as a petulent child, making stupid justifications such as, "Well, if I'm not enjoying myself anymore, whats the point to living?" My answer usually relates to grandchildrens graduations, weddings, etc. That usually just pisses her off.

To her credit, she has worked hard to change her diet, to exercise more, cut out sugars, etc., etc. But she is still smoking. That was one component (though a major one) that her cardiologist insisted on. She thinks since she has made strides in the other areas that she can allow herself this one small vice. At least she smokes outside, I guess.

Today we went to my nephew Colin's 3rd grade graduation, (cue The Incredibles, "It's not a graduation....he's going from the third to the fourth grade", Alan paraphrases). Things were great, even with having to drive through some horrendous traffic with her. You never know what will set her off these days....but traffic can usually be counted on. We drove home after graduation. Situation still good. We decided to go to lunch. Macaroni Grill (note to self....don't ever go to Macaroni Grill with mom again). Ahhhh....music. Yes...the trigger that set her off and made her almost impossible to sit with ("that music is too loud. I won't be able to eat."....yeah, the logic is lost on me, too), was the fact that a speaker in an open-concept restaurant happened to be above the table behind us. Add in a waiter who is mumbling the special. A dash of bad eyesight. A hint of a few expletives (deleted) when I try to calm the situation. That should give you the dysfunctional cocktail I enjoyed with my lasagna.

I'm taking stock of everything now. I am paying down my debts. I am re-building my savings. With the Lord, God Almighty and a few extra thousand dollars, I should be ready to move out by the time she returns from up north.

Don't let this rant paint a picture that I don't love my mother. I do. I don't know anyone who could hate their mother....but I am sure they are out there. I love my mother. I just don't have to like her all the time.

A New Post

I have been less than faithful to this blog. I always have these great ideas to write about but just can't get my sometimes busy/sometimes lazy ass to the computer. I'm trying out a new blog.....gonna name it in a few minutes....thinking http://throw-the-bums-out.blogspot.com

I want to write about the most corrupt of the corrupt in Washington and Austin. If nothing else, maybe I can put some idle time to my political passion. I'm going to try and set up the blog now. If you get the chance...stop in and read it sometime.

Until Next Time...