Let’s see: When I was eleven, we had moved to a little wheat town in eastern Washington the year before. I reached puberty in those years and I did it ungracefully. I still wanted to be the skinny girl in braids and giggles, while my body was going full bore for adulthood. Boys did notice me, but I tended to hit and kick so they kept their distance.
I remember being eleven when I see a photo taken at that time: I see serious girl with a big forehead exposed by pulling the front hair backwards in the latest fashion, rather than wearing bangs that would hide it. I’m wearing a dress my mother made for me: little red checks with a big white eyelet bib in the front, and ties to make a bow in the back. My unhandy seamstress of a mother had enlarged the dress to fit me and I loved it. I never had another little girl dress. (I wouldn’t have fit into it.)

Just teach squirt the skills he needs and comfort him when he gets hurt. That way he’ll make a fine boyfriend some day – one that will be appreciated.

Love, Mom
Marilynne´s last blog ..Ready and Waiting