I know what you mean Lynn. It is a difficult time to be growing up because there is so much pressure to grow up fast. That makes it a difficult time to be a parent because its a whole different ball game and we as parents have to just go with our gut because the rules keep changing. At the end of the day you have to trust that you have provided a good foundation of values and that your daughter knows that she is loved. She will hit bumps in the road. We can't protect them from life happening. There will be difficult times for our kids to find their way through and around. It will be the foundation and love that will carry them through it.

The teen years have been really difficult for me with my son because when I was 12 my mother was in an accident that left her in a wheelchair. It devistated our family. By the time I was 15 I was basically raising myself because my dad and my syblings had moved out and my mother was in the hospital more than she was home. Living on my own if I wasn't taking care of my mom demanded that I grew up fast so that sometimes I find myself unable to relate to my son's teenage life. I also have no history of being parented during that time in my life so I have no references. Just my gut. I think if I had a girl it would be much different because I made some bad choices in my desperation to be loved and to be part of a family somewhere. I would be much more worried about the things that could happen to a girl than I am about my boy. I do teach him responsibility when it comes to sex and girls but it isn't the same I suspect.

So whether it is new social pressures or old issues from our past confusing us, at the end of the day we just go with our gut because our love will steer us right. You want her to be strong and independant and with your help she will be all of that and more. You love her enough to not let her walk into situation that she shouldn't be in (group dates) and you love her enough to let her take responsibilities (the vacinne). You are doing the best for your daughter. Give yourself a pat on the back and don't worry so much. You will survive the ride. It goes fast. lol.