I was so strictly controlled by my parents in so many ways.

But – then again – they still gave me enough freedom to make my own mistakes.

That’s how I bought up my boys. OK. Do that, then.

Children will NOT listen to parental advice. FACT!

I could’ve listed a thousand rules for them to abide by but they are MY kids :o)

OK, son. You are 17 and you want to spend 3 weeks in Japan. Crack on.

OK, son. You are 16 and want to go out with your besties and get pissed. Crack on.

OK, son. You want to fall head over heels with your first love. Crack on.

The writer’s maxim – SHOW. DON’T TELL.

OK, son. You want to act like a total dickhead and lock yourself in the bathroom. Crack on. (I kicked the door open, btw)

We can guide but NEVER control. They are NOT us. We have our own scars & they have to learn the hard way. By experience.

I’ve never not been there to pick up the pieces. And I’ve never had to say – Told You So.

No but yeah but no but yeah but ….LOL :o)