Going Green

Now, I must admit. You threw Big Mama for a loop. I started this site to help y'all with personal problems, not cooking problems. But, I must say I am glad to oblige.
Big Mama's 10 Step Greens Recipe
1. Get 4-5 bunches of greens
2. Wash them good. Make sure there is no sand left on them.
3. Check them for brown spots or old pieces.
4. Take off the stems.
5. Stack and roll them up, like you would a burrito
6. Cut them in strips.
7. Get a big pot and fill it, about a third of the way, with water.
8. Add 2 ham hocks, salt, pepper, and a little chicken bouillon
9. Simmer until the meat falls off the bones when you pick at it.
10. Add the greens and cook for about 2hrs.

O.K., onto your visitor.

It seems to me that you are doing a lot to make a good impression already. Any mother should love the effort you put into making her feel special. My advice is to talk to your boyfriend. Don't ask him what his mother is like. He will only tell you how great she is. This is nice, but won't help. Instead try asking him about family traditions and expectations. Do they ask to be excused when they get up from the table? Do they, usually, eat in front of the T.V. ? Are certain conversations considered rude or tacky? These answers should give you a good idea of what to expect. Other than that, honey, just be yourself. You seem like a good catch for any woman's son. If she can't see that, it's her loss.

What do you think she should do? Family let's help!

To Date, Or Just Wait?

"Adolescence is a period of rapid changes. Between the ages of 12 and 17, for example, a parent ages 20 years" - Author Unknown

Well anonymous,

Teenagers can be a handful. They're crawling one minute and dating the next. This seems to be the case for you.

It seems to me that you daughter's behavior is right on time. Yes, she is coming on a bit strong, but she is letting you know she is ready for the next stage in her life. Ready or not, Mom, she is going to push through that cocoon.

So what you need to do is be prepared, have a plan to ease her into the next phase smoothly and armed with essential information to make good choices. Here is what you do:

1. Talk to her about what she wants and why?
2. Discuss your concerns and why they worry you.
3. Find out if she is interested in a specific boy or just boys in general. If she is interested in a specific boy, discuss his personalities and set up a time to meet him.
4. If she does not want you to meet him, formally. Be open to simply observing him and meeting him in an informal manner, i.e. at the basketball game, back to school night. You, probably will find out more about him in his own element, than at your house.
   
5. Allow her to go on a group date. Give her a specific curfew and some ground rules.
6. Take a deep breathe and relax. This time in a teenager's life does not have to be horrific. Many teens survive, responsibly. I have a feeling yours daughter will be just fine.

Love Always,
Big Mama